Host a Clothes-Swap Party

Let’s face it, around 40 percent of the contents of every girl’s closet is more or less unused. Perhaps you had been optimistic with the size of some pants you bought and find wearing them uncomfortable. And because they don’t fit, they don’t make you feel great. Or maybe that headscarf seemed like a good idea at the time but now it seems like a different head that chose it.

Alternatively, you might just be plain bored with the sight of everything you can see in your closet. That’s why, although the idea of a clothes-swap party might seem a little childish, as long as you are on a budget its benefits are timeless. After all, new eyes on old clothes can give them a far greater life span. And you get to enjoy the bonus of a cheap night in with the girls, too. So invite as many girlfriends as you can muster together in the comfort of your own home and get going.

Top Tip!
Don’t risk a friendship over an old shirt—in other words, only invite friends you know are going to play fair in terms of swapping clothes of equal value. If you feel you’re being offered an unfair trade, you can always say no.

Checklist…
What you will need for your clothes-swap party:

1. A minimum of four people is best, and if you are different sizes, remember it is not just clothes that cost money—bring along your accessories too.
2. Drinks. A fundamental requirement of any good party.
3. An empty house—a clothes-swap party is no place for boyfriends, husbands or parents. All in attendance must have the same interests at heart.
4. Clothes. Try to all bring a reasonable amount—say one bagful each. Remember if you don’t see anything you like you don’t have to swap.

Reprinted from A Girl's Guide to Money, by Laura Brady with permission from Ulysses Press and Axis Publishing Ltd.