Is the economy killing you? Yeah? (Join the club. I can’t even afford mixers for my vodka anymore.) Don’t wanna spend money on cute clothes if you can help it? Well, rally up your girls and organize a clothing swap party. They’re fun AND you end up walking home with tons of new clothes-for free! Here is how it works:

Get together with a group of your favorite ladies – especially those with wardrobes you would kill for. Tell everyone to bring clothes to the party that they don’t wear anymore. Assign each girl to a spot on the floor where she will pile up all the goodies she brought with her.

Each girl will take turns going around the circle and holding up one of the items she brought with her. Whoever wants it can raise their hands. If more than one girl wants it, settle the score through a trivia game…or a drinking game… whichever you choose.

Fabulous idea, I know.

Keep in mind, these rules are just the beginning. You can jazz up the clothing swap party in whichever way you desire. Like these fun additions:

• Drinks! Drinks are fun (duh), whether alcoholic or not. Of course I would opt for alcohol, but any sort of fun, fruity beverage will add to this soiree.
• Food. For as much fun as drinks are, nothing beats chowing down with your girlfriends. Nachos, Tacos, Sushi, Pizza… whatever. The better the snacks, the more fun the party.
• Music. All of these gorgeous models run around their photo shoots trying on clothes to the rhythm of a great song. So why shouldn’t you do the same? Make a cool playlist for your party and do a little runway walking with your new duds.

The clothing swap party really is the perfect event. Not only do you spend the night with your best friends (eating, drinking and hanging out), but you all leave with (free!) new clothes…and a nice buzz. Definitely the most appealing option for this depressing economy.

[Photo from: Blinman.com]