So many clothes, yet so little to wear? With most of us more cash-strapped than ever - isn't it time you threw a clothes swap party? It's easy when you know how - just follow these steps for a swell swish...

Bring but don't buy - tips for throwing a swishing party...

1. Set the date and send out some pretty invites. Mine were designed by Anna Spencer at Raspberry Kisses but you can make your own - just visit the CO+K projects section for inspiration.

2. If you're having the party at home - borrow a clothes rail and get a little boudoir-feel going on with drapes and fairy lights. Steer clear of the candles though, you want to bag free clothes not burn them!

3. When the guests arrive, greet and receive their donations of unwanted clothes with enthusiasm. If you see something you like - keep your eye on it! Place clothes on the rail and start the party. Put on some tunes and let everyone browse to their heart's content. If they want to try stuff on, that's fine too. Don't be shy!

4. I've heard of parties before where a horn sounds/whistle blows/someone shouts to indicate the start of the swish. We decided to be diplomatic as there were just a few of us - we wrote names on paper and picked them out of a (donated) hat. This way people get to pick stuff they want as if they were in a little lucky dip boutique - if they exist.

5. Make sure everyone gets a go and then... it's a free for all! Everyone can grab whatever they want to take home with them.

6. Hooray! You held your first swish and hopefully you now have lots of new-old clothes to enjoy without having to spend your hard-earned cash in a shop where no one knows your name.

No frills, no fuss - tips to make swishing work for you...

First things first - try stuff on! You don't want to be sad if the skirt doesn't fit once you get it home. If it's not right for you, it might work for someone else.

Accessories can really make or break an outfit. Why not choose a few and jazz up something that needs an injection of colour with a hat or a little sparkly belt?

Try something new - you can also look at customising anything you bag so bear that in mind when you're making friends with the sewing machine.

So, what are you waiting for? Why not throw a swap this weekend and remember - one woman's trash is another woman's treasure.

Check out Clare's blog for more awesome ideas.