They say that recessions stimulate creativity and judging by all the innovative ways of acquiring new stuff without actually spending that's been going on, I'd say that's a fair analysis. Thanks to Freecycle.com, I now routinely offload my old Vogues, Elles and Allures (albeit with all the best editorials torn out) to someone who doesn't mind the out-of-date info. I get more space, she gets free mags and I don't have to lug the goods further than my front door.
Next came the swap sites and events that have captured the imaginations of fashion lovers far and wide. Whatsmineisyours.com continues to flourish while swishing events combine swapping with socialising. Result? Everyone's a winner baby! The latest development is even better, combining an element of surprise with the caring sharing aspect of the blogging community. Key fashion bloggers have started this trend which involves despatching carefully selected gems from their wardrobes to blog buddies in exchange for more treasures in return.
The Stylish Wanderer, Isabel from Hipster Musings, Tavi from Style Rookie and Arabelle from Fashion Pirates have been exchanging packages all over the shop, making me feel in turns jealous (where's my package?) and intrigued.
So what's in it for the rest of us? As onlookers, we're not left out. We get to ooh and aah at the clothes and then see the fruits of the recipients' styling labours - handy for re-thinking and re-styling our own wardrobes. Who knows what could follow? Perhaps the blogosphere will influence celeb-land with Lily Allen sending packages to Paris Hilton or Karl swapping last season's Chrome Hearts rings for one of Alber's bow ties? Now there's something I'd like to see...
