Fashionistas, I’m hosting my First Clothing Swap!

Dearest readers, you heard correctly. On August 23rd at the South Dakota Goodwill location, I’ll be hosting my very first Clothing Swap as the new DCGF  and I am SUPER excited about it!

As you know, I love attending Clothing Swaps (see previous post). I think they’re great for benefiting the environment, perfect for minimizing clutter in the home, and incredible for building a new wardrobe without spending unnecessary funds. Throughout my life, I’ve actually held countless swaps across the city.

Previous Clothing Swap finds

To prep for the inaugural DCGF Swap and Shop , I’d like to share some of my own personal tips for swapping smart.

1. ) No one wants unfashionable or unwearable items. We all know that bringing damaged items to a clothing swap is a big no-no, but never have I ever seen anyone follow the rule to only bring fashionable items that other people would actually want. Oftentimes when I am digging through heaps of clothing, I find random promotional shirts from company picnics, single socks, and heavily-worn bras. None of these items will work in a cute outfit and chances are that if you don’t want these items, no one else will want them either. Please, leave them at home, use them in a craft project…..or something.

One of my fav. finds, a vintage maxi dress!

2.) Dress to undress. When you want a piece of clothing, it’s important to try it on- even if it’s free. Wearing layers upon layers of clothing to a swap inhibits swift movements, and causes you constantly guess if clothing will  fit. Whenever I go to swaps, I wear leggings and a tank top under my outfit so that I can quickly undress (without becoming naked), try on clothes, and continue swapping. By dressing in a way that let’s you try on clothing easier, you come out of swaps with items you KNOW will fit and look flattering. This tactic also keeps you from taking too much at a swap, leaving your closet clean. 🙂 Dress like you’re going on a power-shopping trip to Goodwill!

Another one of my favorite finds, a phonograph printed blouse

3.) Look at the labels. I do this at Goodwill and at swaps. You never know when that one thing looks like it could be from Forever 21, is actually from Marc Jacobs, or Free People. I recommend while swapping,  pay attention to the labels. Although it might be a bit time consuming, it’s totally worth it when you find a designer dud that everyone else has picked over. Another thing I have noticed at swaps is that designer and premium names are not the first ones to get picked up. Since people do not think first to look at labels, these items get lost in swap piles and buried quite deep.

Clothing Swap finds: Zara top, Mango dress, and bib necklace

4.) Go through what you grab. At some of the first swaps I attended, I would take heaps of cool looking threads, because it was all free. When I arrived home, I realized that half of the clothing either did not fit or was damaged…which left me super disappointed. My trick at swaps now is to go through everything that I have grabbed when I think I am done swapping. I try things on, inspect items for damage, and then throw unwanted items back into the swap pile. With this method, I come home with clothing that I actually want and I do not deprive other swappers of all the good items. Seriously, take only what you want. Share the love!

To purchase a ticket (a suggested $5 donation), register now! All leftover clothing will be donated to Goodwill.

I can’t wait to see you at the swap and PLEASE, invite all your friends —  I’d love to meet some of my fellow fashionistas.! <3