Sweater Season: chic and unique

One of the things I like about fall is wearing cozy sweaters. This chic sweater with a unique design was from Maggie’s Clothing exchange. It has a velvet turtle neck and a bit of bling on one sleeve. The detail with diagonal trim of lace and velvet makes it chic and unique.

I paired it with these pants, also from Maggie’s Clothing exchange. I like the trim with silver studs along the side seams.

New faux suede booties are perfect for dry autumn days. My canvas backpack is also pre-loved.

Something old, something new:

My corduroy cap is several years old and my faux suede booties are new.

My first time attending a Clothing Exchange Party was in Seattle which my daughter Jean hosted. It was a lot of fun! Since then, my friend Maggie has hosted three fashionable and fun Clothing Exchange Parties!

Here’s Jean’s list to help anyone who wants to host a party:

• Guests, don’t forget to RSVP (that means reply with a yes or a no) so your host can prepare accordingly.
• Bring as little or as much as you want to get rid of, but don’t worry if you’re taking more than you bring. Others will probably bring more than they take. It all evens out.
• Swap gently worn items only and leave items with holes or stains at home.
• Shoes, purses, belts, hats, and costume jewelry are also great to swap (plus, with the exception of shoes, accessories will fit almost anyone).
• Don’t fight over the goods! Remember that you wouldn’t have had any of the items if you hadn’t been invited. And you won’t get invited back it you don’t play fair.
• Gather up and try on a few pieces at a time. Keep what you like, and return the rest promptly so others can discover them.
• Wear something that’s easy to slip in and out of and make sure you have on decent underwear. I wear boy shorts and a full-coverage bra so I don’t feel quite so undressed.
• Hosts, set aside a bathroom or bedroom for shy guests. Not everyone is comfortable changing in a group environment.
• If you host a co-ed clothing exchange (I’ve been to one), it’s best to set men’s stuff up in one room and women’s in another. Most people don’t want to sort through clothes they won’t wear. Plus, I’m not aware of too many people who want to try on clothes in mixed company.
• Thank your host by bringing a bottle of wine or offering to drop off the leftover clothes at a donation center for her.

Have you ever hosted or attended a Clothing Exchange Party?