Female bonhomie over attire

Are you one of those people who have a closet that’s bursting at the seams and yet have nothing to wear? If yes, it’s probably a sign that it’s time to declutter and do away with that nice silk top you feel doesn’t flatter you anymore or that pair of jeans that has become one size smaller.

This Women’s Day, you could do something different and make your way to the Conscious Closet Party, being organised by Shenomics. A clothes-swapping event, the goal of the evening is not merely to help extend the life of each garment, but also provide a space for women from various walks of life to network and build their contacts.

“There’s a whole clothes swapping culture in America, that I’m trying to bring here to Bengaluru, since it seems to be a cosmopolitan city that is open to outlandish ideas,” begins 24-year-old Misha Rahman, a Boston University graduate from Atlanta. In Bengaluru for a six-month stint at the organisation, Misha is originally a Bangladeshi and is enjoying the similarities between India and her own country.

Telling us about what to expect at the party, Misha says, “Each person is expected to bring a minimum of two items to swap. It can be anything from clothes, to jewellery to shoes to bags. We urge people to bring things that are in good condition or very lightly used, but we won’t be policing it,” says Misha, adding, “Apart from the swapping, it’s also a way for women to meet others like themselves, strike up friendships, business deals and partnerships.” And what happens to the pieces that are left unswapped at the end of the event? “Those will be sold and the proceeds will go towards Educate Girls, a charity we work with,” informs Misha.

While the concept of donning used clothes may need a little getting used to here in Bengaluru, Bhavana Toor, the founder of the organisation, feels that it helps promote a greener way of life. “We believe in conscious living and this is a fun way to live consciously and responsibly. It also helps foster strong bonds and sisterhood among the women who will be attending,” she explains.

Loreto Maimoni who is planning on attending the event feels that it’s a very interesting concept. “I’m quite open to the idea. It will be nice to exchange articles with people who have similar tastes as mine. I myself have a bunch of unused clothes that are really nice. I don’t have the heart to throw them away.

This is definitely a nice way to empty some space in my closet,” says the advertising professional. So this International Women’s Day get over your reservations, share the love and exchange both clothes and dialogues at Yogistaan in Indiranagar.