It’s time for a little spring cleaning, which means ridding your desk, room and especially closet of any unwanted items. But before you throw clothes away, I suggest throwing a swap party with your girlfriends first. That way everyone can gain something new while getting rid of the old. Remember the good old saying, “One person’s trash may be another person’s treasure?” Same goes for clothes. If everyone brings a couple of items, everyone is likely to find at least one that they like and that fits. So, here’s how to prepare for the big swap:
1) Make piles. Throw clothes into a pile for the swap party, a pile to sell to a thrift store and a pile to give away to charity.
2) Put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Think about whose going to be at the party. What are their size, shape and style? If something just doesn’t work for you, it could easily work for someone else. But don’t bring something that no one will like or be able to fit in to.
3) Toss it. Some items will be harder to toss then others. You think, “Well, I’ll lose weight this year and wear it in a couple of months,” or “This still smells like my ex-ex-boyfriend, and…” No matter what the excuse, if you haven’t worn it in a year or so, toss it. The truth is, even if you do lose weight, in another year it won’t be in style any more. And the memory of that ex-ex- should really start fading into the past.
4) Have a swap plan. Although everyone’s bringing multiple items, there will likely be a few that everyone wants. So, make sure to figure out a way to settle the debate before the swapping begins. Decide to toss a coin or draw straws; just make the rules clear before the games begin! You don’t want your party to end in disappointment.
5) Offer crucial items. Don’t forget to have full length mirrors and changing rooms at the party. Some of the guests may be uncomfortable changing in front of others.
6) Have party food. Refreshments and snacks are always a good way to get the party rolling, but you don’t want anything that’ll stuff your guests before trying on clothes. So, stick to lighter snacks.
Happy swapping! And comment to let me know how things went.
