"Higher Clothing Prices Are Officially Here," says the headline. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics' latest inflation report showed an uptick in apparel prices since the imposition of huge tariffs on goods coming in from Asian countries.

When times are tough and life’s got you down, they say it’s best to spend quality time with like-minded people. Friends, family and coworkers. It’s good for your mental health and theirs too. Winners all around.

Men and clothing swaps just don't go together.  Or, does it?

My favorite season of the year is fall.  It's the season of color changes, activities that the season brings, like pumpkins, apples, festivals, fire pits and, of course, a change of clothing! When thinking about the best day to have the next swap my first thought the first day of fall. That's September, 20th this year! So, it's no coincidence that's the date of our next swap at the Bowl-A-Vard.

Ellie's clothing swap in Boone County Museum of historic Belvidere Illinois was a success with lots of people brining bags of clothing swap.  In addition to ladies' clothing, this swap included men's clothes and other items.  

I recommend getting help tidying up your closets with Marie Kondo.

I was recently in Italy, which is known worldwide as the source of high end quality clothing. Guccio Gucci and Mario Prada got their start there over a 100 years ago, and Florence, Rome and Milan produce quality (and expensive) clothes to this day.

Can buying new clothes start with boredom? 

The Ladies Fashion Swap & Sip not only provides us with neat clothes and fun, but it helps save the planet!

There's more to the Ladies Fashion Swap & Sip than clothes.

So, we at the Ladies Fashion Swap & Sip often say we would like people to bring  "business casual clothing?"  What does this mean, you might ask.  Well, this is how Google defines it:  "It's neat, but not overly formal. You should aim for a clean, put-together, and workplace-appropriate look, without needing a full suit or heels. Usually, business casual means skipping the tie, leaving the jeans at home, and grabbing a button-down, blouse, chinos, or dress shoes."

Let's get you prepared for the clothing swap. Each event will have some basic instructions on the event post.  You can refer to our instructions page  on the website for more detailed information.