Swapping is the new shopping as local women hunt for clothing bargains

Seattle freelance writer Victoria Story isn't afraid to bare almost all in periodic clothing exchanges with friends from her contra dance community. "We call them naked lady parties," she says of the occasional gatherings she attends to swap clothes with other women.

While the chance to hook up with pals was the initial lure for Story, the acquisition of fresh clothing is now just as appealing. And Liz Banse, a conservation and public health communications expert who organizes swaps at least once a year, describes another strong motivator -- the chance for the perfect score.

"The idea has caught on... which only increases the chances for a find," says Banse, who on her last swap got "a mother lode of nice clothes from fresh faces and their closets."

With a dozen years of swapping under her belt, Banse has a few tips for setting up shop. "Send a mass email or Evite to all your friends and encourage them to invite their friends so there are new folks and clothes of all sizes in the mix," she says. "Weekend mornings work best with a little socializing beforehand and some brunch items, because shopping makes you hungry."

As people arrive, Banse has them lay out their clothes in sections, such as casual tops on one chair and skirts on a sofa. Once most everyone has assembled, she lays down whatever "rules" apply, one being her "make sure it looks good on you" decree.

"Something may look cool when you pick it up, but that doesn't mean it suits you in terms of actual fit, color or style," she says. "Secondly, it might be perfect for someone else, so let them take it home. Besides, there will always be forthright women in the crowd who will let you know if something is not quite right."

Is there etiquette on what to bring? Most definitely, says Jenny Hayes, co-author of the blog Yard Sale Bloodbath, where she and a friend have produced the aptly titled "Forbidden List."

"Even though I write about yard sales and related subjects, I figured swaps were fair game," says Hayes. "The list is inspired by stuff brought to previous swaps that would fall under the bad and ugly categories." Hayes' no-go roll-call includes a caveat for all garments to be in good condition, meaning no stains, fading, holes, pet hair or mystery fuzz.

When the party is over, donate the leftovers. Banse suggests women's shelters, YMCA Dress for Success or wherever the host prefers. The host should take responsibility for dropping off the clothing or arranging a pick-up.

In addition to new attire, camaraderie and community give-backs, there's another bonus, says Kristin Hyde, a public affairs consultant on sustainable food issues who's always on the lookout for thrifty, earth-friendly and fun ways to live.

"It's hard to say what the best part is -- the score of 'new to me' clothes that I got for free, laughing with a friend when we realized I would now be sleeping in her pajamas, or the good feelings that come when I donate unchosen clothes to Goodwill. Compared to the usual shopping headaches over traffic, and guilt over spending $180 on a pair of jeans, clothing swaps just make you feel good all around."

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