Not a saucy comedy at Swanage’s theatre but a practical way to update your wardrobe for free, the clothes swap event is being organised by the local environment group Sustainable Swanage.
The ‘Don’t Ditch It’ event, from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm on Saturday 15th July 2023 in the Community Room at The Mowlem, is to exchange clothing that’s no longer worn for something more useful.
A similar event in Swanage in January 2023 was so successful that the team wanted to do it again
Repair, repurpose and exchange
The trend to repair, repurpose and exchange goods is growing, partly as a result of the cost of living crisis but also as it’s seen as a better, more environmentally friendly approach to living.
Anyone who wants to take part, needs to drop off clean, good condition clothing between 9.30 am to 10 am in exchange for a token. There’s one token for every item dropped off, up to a limit of 10 items.
Clothing for women, men and children is welcome but no shoes are accepted.
Then everyone’s invited to come back at 10.30 am to exchange a token for an item that is new to them.
Good quality, clean clothing required – no shoes!
Learn how to hand sew repairs
There’s also an opportunity from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm to learn how to hand sew repairs and/or embellish garments and make those clothes last for longer. Needles and thread are provided along with tea and coffee.
A similar clothes swap and repair event took place in Swanage in January 2023 and was so successful that it was decided to hold a summer event.
Taking the time to repair well-loved clothing
“It’s all too easy and often cheaper to replace things”
Sarah Spurling from Sustainable Swanage, is encouraging people to come along and get involved. She said:
“The aim is to reduce waste – it’s all too easy and often cheaper to replace things that aren’t perfect or just need a small repair. We’re also losing some of the skills that we need to mend things.
“So our clothing events are all about reducing ‘fast’ fashion and refreshing your wardrobe by swapping clothes instead. We’re also offering people advice on how to repair their items, while hopefully passing on some new skills too!”
Further information
- More about the Don’t Ditch It clothing event
