It’s considered en vogue to be green—recycling, re-purposing, composting, alternative energy sources—all “buzz words” encompassing social responsibility and positive change.  Even if you’ve managed to skirt the movement—perhaps the recycling doesn’t always make it to the curb, the word “composting”  sounds like a new way to tag friends on Facebook, and alternative energy sources are simply not in the budget—Grow Berlin Green spearheads a fashionable option to being green, that comes with zero investment, and very little time.  And the added bonus of new clothing items!

The 1st Annual Swap it Out Clothing Circulation Day is being held at The Globe in Berlin (in the second floor gallery area), on Tuesday September 27th from noon to 7p.m.   If you wish to bring items, the deadline for registration is Thursday September 22nd

The concept behind the swap is simple—take the unused, unworn, or items that no longer fit from your personal closet, and bring them to the swap to exchange for pieces that aren’t new, but are new to you.  It’s similar to the concept behind a consignment shop, but in this case there is no waiting to see if the items sell before a payment is made, or instead–being paid pennies on the retail dollar originally invested.  At the swap, items of equal quality are exchanged.  It’s a win-win situation–closets get cleaned out, and new merchandise replaces the vacancies—at no additional cost.

Items for the swap include men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, shoes, and accessories.  Choose pieces that would normally be consigned, lent to a friend, or even donated.  It’s key that all items must be freshly laundered, on hangers (if applicable), and in very good condition.  Treat this as an experience amongst friends–neighbors and community members will be in attendance—respect them by bringing quality items that are not ripped, stained, or are in other ways unwearable, (broken zippers, missing buttons, etc.)

Worried there won’t be anything at the swap that you would want?  Invite friends to participate, encourage them to be part of the swap.  It makes a difference in the community, and provides piece of mind at home—less clutter equals a more peaceful existence.

This is a community-oriented event, meaning that even if you do not donate items, you can still attend the swap.  A minimal fee per item will be assessed to those who shop outright without donating items.

To register for the event by Thursday September 22nd, contact Debbi Colley by phone at 410.629.1538 or 443.856.9309, or by email growberlingreen@hotmail.com and register as a participant.  Drop-off locations and further details will be discussed upon registration. 

Additional information: here