closet swap

on saturday, fashionista's market is bringing the first ever closet swap to the islands. here's the 411 if you happened to miss the sundance channel's big ideas for a small planet episode which featured something similar earlier this summer (preview a clip from the swap-o-rama-rama on youtube):

a closet swap is a fashion exchange via the cathartic, if emotionally draining, purging of your closet which allows you to do a little "shopping" from the cast off goodies brought in by other like minded ladies. if you're prone to wax poetic about the memories embedded in that never worn mini that was such a steal three years ago, ask a friend willing to dish out some tough love to help you get through the process.

leftovers will be donated to the leeward domestic abuse shelter so open your heart as well as your closet since unclaimed items will be going to a good cause. in addition to clothing, the shelter's wish list includes new underwear, keiki/baby items (educational games, arts & crafts, diapers, baby wipes, car seats), slippers, personal care products (shampoo, toothpaste, brushes, etc), towels, journals and phone cards.

a few ground rules:

• clothing, handbags, shoes, jewelry in good condition are welcome, however if it's been relegated to the back of your closet desperately waiting for a repair (or a battle with the stain stick) it's best to leave it at home

• girls only (sorry fellas)

• be generous since you only get to take home as much as you donate to the stash

• wear your best unmentionable (or a leotard à la the hardcore sample sale pros) if you plan on trying on clothes in the communal dressing room

the event will also feature tee deconstruction 101 with designer allisonizu of reincarnation, massages by elements spa, mini-makeovers by flaunt, hair styling by ulupono academy, and a cookie decorating workshop.

admission not only gets you in the door for all the fun but also includes lunch, a goody bag, raffle prizes, and, of course, sample sale shopping! here's a hint of what to expect in today's star-bulletin.

details, details, details:

• when: sat, aug 18th
• schedule: 9a to 10a - registration & dropoff, 10a to 12p - fun, 12p to 2p - swap!
• where: japanese cultural center
• tix: $25 online pre-sale, $30 at the door