Swap shop in fashion again in Ayrshire

Feb 6 2009 by Lisa Boyle

FASHIONISTAS all over Ayrshire are getting involved in the latest craze.

Frock swapping parties see people off-loading the clothes and accessories they no longer want and exchanging them for fancy new outfits.

As the old saying goes, one man’s trash is another’s treasure.

And the Hansel Foundation is organising a frock swapping party later this month.

Sheila McLean from the foundation explained: “The concept is simple.

“You offer your loved, but no longer wanted, fashion items and swap them for something else that takes your fancy.

“You get the buzz of a trip to the shops without costing the earth and it’s a perfect way to pass on clothes that are cluttering up your wardrobe.

“You can swap a maximum of five items – clothing, jewellery, scarves, handbags, shoes, boots.

“All need to be of a good quality. Bring items you love but don’t or can’t wear any more that you’d like to pass on to a good home – and help raise funds for Hansel.”

And as an extra incentive, anyone who registers for the party will be in with a chance of winning a £1600 dress – an exact replica of one featured in the Bond film Casino Royale.

Jenny Packham, who designed the famous dress, has created the replica and donated it to the Hansel Foundation.

The party is at the Princess Royal Suite at Ayr Racecourse on Thursday, February 26, at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £15 and include a glass of wine on arrival.

Clothes should be clean, ironed and on hangers.

These should be dropped off at Hansel from week beginning February 16 between 9am and 5pm.

Places are limited so anyone interested should register very soon by contacting Maggie Magee at Hansel Fundraising on 01563 831427 or emailmaggie.magee@hansel.org.uk