Back to School Chic - The Style Swap Meet

Every December, my organization does a “sustainability” swap where colleagues bring in items they want to trade in for other items. I picked up a cubic-zirc necklace and matching earring set and when I wore it the next week, more than a few people complimented me on it.

There’s a new trend sweeping the nation, just in time for back to school, called “The Style Swap.” Tips for planning a Style Swap · Get some friends together; agree on a place to meet – someone’s house.

· Send out an Evite to all your girlfriends – tell them to bring items from their closet they don’t wear or want anymore.

· Bring items with price tags still on them that haven’t been worn but have been there for years (you know we all have at least one of those).

· Create a spreadsheet and send it around to everyone asking them to make a “wish list” of things they’re looking for. A wide black belt, flats in size 9, a pair of skinny jeans.

· Sweaters, jeans, purses, hats, shoes, accessories, coats and more – all of these make great swap items.

· Bring some racks for hanging items or tables so swappers can feel like they’re boutique shopping.

· If you’re going back to school and want to try this out with your friends, make sure your parents know what you’re planning on swapping – or make it a mother-daughter party. Moms swap with moms, kids swap with kids.

· Make a party out of it – have snacks and drinks or ask everyone to bring their special dish.

Style Swaps are an economical, fun and an environmentally friendly way of outfitting your closet for the fall season and beginning of the school year.

For more information about the Style Swap, check out this video from TODAY Show style editor, Bobbie Thomas giving her recommendations for a successful swap: http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/31238969#31238969

Interested in the swap but can’t have a party, Swap Style is an online style swap community where you can view thousands of items and view swapper profiles.

Here's an outfit made from three pieces found at SwapStyle.com:

One last tip, if you wouldn’t wear it, chances are someone else wouldn’t either – try not to pass on items that aren’t wearable anymore. Learn more about what to bring from StyleSwap.net.

For more D.C. Style tips, subscribe to receive articles from D.C. Style Examiner or follow me on Twitter: www.twitter.com/districtcouture

Free Counter