Swap parties: a whole new look for free

Firstly, I would like to say Happy New Year! Let’s hope 2012 is a good one! I’ve resolved to be more organised this year and come up with more proactive ways to promote sustainable fashion. I have, therefore, decided to try and organise a swap party as it is a great way to update your look. These parties involve getting together with friends and exchanging clothes you no longer wear.

WikiHow have a great guide on how to run swap parties (also known as swishing parties) and this video explains how such parties can help the environment:   

You can organise a party just among friends or advertise more widely and encourage everyone to bring as many clothes as they can. It is probably best to divide the space in which you are hosting your party into sections based on price range and size so that items of similar quality and value can be swapped.

It’s a great idea to offer nibbles at your party such as cupcakes and canapés. Watch this space for news on how my swap party plans are coming along!   

Cupcakes!

Sustainable Fashion Cardiff Favourites

Hello and welcome to my blog! Your one stop shop for sustainable fashion in Cardiff.

For my first post, I thought I would give an overview of my favourite places and events in Cardiff for sustainable and vintage fashion.

Northcote Lane Market, Milgi, City Road

On the first Sunday of the month, Milgi hosts a vintage fair in the space above their quirky vegetarian eatery and bar.  It’s a great opportunity to hunt for second hand clothes and jewellery, as well as arts and crafts made from recycled materials.   Milgi also do a great Sunday nut roast from midday until 6pm so you can boost your energy before bargain hunting.  The next market will be on 6 November from 6pm.

Milgi also have a fab art club on the second Monday of the month where participants have the opportunity to make art from recycled materials.  The next art club is on 14 November.  It costs £5 which includes all materials and a yummy curry!

Find out more at: http://www.milgilounge.com/

Fairday and Movienight, 10 Feet Tall, Church Street

On the first Saturday of the month, this trendy bar holds a vintage fair during the day and shows a film in the evening.  Past classics include The King and I and Breakfast at Tiffany’s.  The next event is on 3 December.

Find out more by visitng FairDay and MovieNight on Facebook

Judy’s Affordable Vintage Fair

This big vintage fair, selling a huge array of vintage clothes and jewellery, also serves up tasty tea and cake, and comes to Cardiff every couple of months.  The next fair is tbc.

Find out more at: http://www.vintagefair.co.uk/

Oxfam Boutique, St Mary’s Street

This is one of only a handful in the country and offers a great range of unique, sustainable pieces including Fairtrade jewellery and accessories.

Hobo’s Vintage Clothing, High Street Arcade

Hobo’s is a quirky little shop nestled in High street Arcade specialising in 1960s and 70s clothing .  Although it is small it is packed-out with stylish clothes and accessories.  Particularly good for summer dresses and winter jumpers.

To find out more visit Hobo’s Cardiff on Facebook

Prefab, Albany Road

This charity shop with a difference offers a good selection of 1950s garments.  You can shop here with a clear conscience as all the proceeds go to the Cardiff YMCA Housing Association.

Zolibeau

This is a great ethical company offering local workshops teaching people how to make clothes from recycled materials.  Lessons can be tailored to your individual needs and abilities, whether you just fancy a one hour session or a weekly course.  They also offer their services for special occassions such as birthday parties.

To find out more visit: http://www.zolibeau.com/

Or type in Zolibeau to Facebook