Here’s a fun idea for a practical and social evening: weed out your closet of clothes and accessories that don’t fit anymore, that you’re tired of, or that you bought but just never wear. Bring your discarded items and a bottle of wine to an appointed hostess’s apartment and pile everything on the floor or sofa. Then, go shopping, or swapping! I’ve been doing this with friends for years in New York City—about once a season. The guests have an evening of exploring different styles, making silly pairings, and enjoying each other’s company. Usually we’d make an effort to include new friends in order to expand both our social circle and our pool of potential fashion finds. Ours were very informal; we’d take what we wanted, squirrel it away to a *safe* area (always put the shoes you came with in a *safe* area), and the clothes left behind at the end of the evening would go to charity. According to my friend Anja, New York closet space is at such a premium, that we actually needed these events to clear some space for any new items.

Friday night my friend Lauren here in Amsterdam hosted a clothing swap where I met people who’ve done the same thing in places as far flung as Hawaii & Belgrade. Of course, the method varies. The parties can be limited to only women, a tightly knit social group, or it could encompass an entire community. A woman I know in New York was awarded a grant in order to throw a giant swap–complete with rented space, hired seamstresses, and sessions on how to put your personal stamp on a t-shirt. I love this personalization idea, making an ordinary item unique. For example last year I came across an orange 100% cashmere sweater that no one wanted. The neckline looked dowdy and was too tight for comfort. But the material, so soft! I grabbed some scissors and cut out the icky neck, leaving a generous opening that slides off the shoulder ala “Flashdance”. Instant 80’s look which served me all winter.

My favorite swaps are the really inclusive ones, with all sizes, styles, and both genders. Guys can have great t-shirts and other items for gals, and some men can really pull off women’s hip huggers. I’ve seen it happen. And all that diversity breeds inspiration. Pair off your friend’s skirt with a shirt of your own and maybe a new scarf and now you have something “new” to wear tomorrow! Perhaps the most pleasurable part of the experience, though, is seeing one of your items transformed on someone else. For whatever reason, it wasn’t right for you anymore–but you still get to enjoy it vicariously whenever you see your friend wearing it. Just don’t be jealous if she—or he—looks better in it than you did. -Jill Woodward