Struggling to find a cheap way to renew your wardrobe, create space in your full to overflowing garage and help the environment? Swapping is the most fun you can have whilst recycling.

Picture your wardrobe; do you have clothing with tags still on them, or that you'll never wear? Or books you won't read again? Well, wouldn't it better to give these unloved items to a new home? And perhaps pick up something for yourself? Well, that's what I thought when I decided to turn my recent Hen's Night into a Swap Party.

The Swap Party Is On!

The invitation announced, "Another girl's trash is another's treasure," and asked guests to bring unwanted clothing, accessories, books, magazines, unopened beauty products, etc. And boy, did they follow the instructions to the letter - there were all these things and more (including two weird-looking lamps!).

Some of my friends were nervous about the idea; "what if I bring something too good to swap?" I replied, "Don't bring anything that you want to keep. Consider it like giving to charity." Another was stressed, worrying that her stuff wasn't good enough. I said, "bring anything and everything. It's all appreciated and someone may love it." (cue: the lamps, which were snapped up quickly).

From trash to treasure

On the night of the swap, the girls carted in box-loads of 'swappable' goods and assembled it on my lounge room floor, making it look like a trash and treasure market. Even before the event officially started, there were a few sneaky swaps, which I turned a blind eye too (I didn't feel game to say 'give it back'). Everyone was so excited, eagerly eyeing things off, but there was one item that most of us coveted - a Guess handbag. So to be fair, we drew names out of a hat to decide on its new owner. The winning girl was so delighted; it was like she'd forgotten the bag wasn't new, and may have the usual second hand flaws, like broken zips or lipstick stains.

Personally, I swapped my stuff for barely-worn gym gear. My friend's gym obsession may have failed, but I'm still reaping the benefits. I also grabbed some unique-looking jewellery that I wear all the time. So the morale of this story is if you want a "new" wardrobe or other fashion pieces without paying a cent, host or attend a Swap Party.

There are some specialised websites which give suggestions about how to organise a successful Swap party. Have a look in the net to be inspired. Swapping is the most fun you can have whilst recycling. Try it and Swap 'Til You Drop!

For more fashion ideas check out the green and eco friendly businesses in the fashion and clothing section.

Written by Melina Byrne