Derby Clothes Swap is the perfect opportunity to spice up your summer wardrobe on a budget

An event that helps people save money while making friends is set to delight shoppers in Derby.

The International Women’s Day (IWD) Derby Clothes Swap returns for its spring edition at Dubrek Studios on Saturday, May 18, 2024.

The Bridge Street location 10 minutes’ away from Derby city centre is easily accessible and doubles up as a café and community space where people can also make new friends.

Visitors can expect a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with drinks and snacks available to purchase at Dubrek’s café bar.

There will also be a performance from the Rebel Women’s Choir, a collective of local singers who sing at community events.

The history behind International Women’s Day Derby Clothes Swap

The clothes swap journey started in 2017 when IWD Trustee Amanda Skrytek suggested the idea.

Since then clothes swapping has taken place across Derby, in community centres, music venues and the Derby Polish Club.

The event occurs twice a year and the spring edition is set to take place in the coming weeks.

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Amanda said: “Dubrek cheerfully provides us with this space at no cost.

“They share our vision to support the local community in bringing people together for a good cause.

“Through a suggested optional entry donation of £2 per individual or family, the clothes swaps generate a small amount which covers the minimal running costs of the swap such as stationery and storage materials.

“The remainder goes directly back into funding the following year's IWD festival, and related events.”

Organisers are keen to make the event as inclusive as possible.

Amanda added: “Not everyone has the means to find an entry donation or has any swaps to bring, and this is fine too, we don’t want anyone to feel this is a barrier to coming along.”

Benefits of clothes swapping

The clothes swaps are run by volunteers and are a way of fostering community spirit.

Amanda said: “The swaps bring women and girls together to connect and reduce isolation, minimise what goes into landfill, slow down the fast fashion process, and help people in what feels like an unending era of austerity, hardship and increasing poverty.

“Many of the garments donated at our swaps reflect the rich diversity of Derby and its blend of cultures and nationalities.

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“We hope there is something for everyone at our event, all sizes, all shapes and all styles.”

What started off as a straightforward clothes swap has evolved over the years to become a time for people to make new connections and potentially seek guidance and help.

It is now a means of connecting and signposting people to local services and organisations in a safe women’s space.

Future plans include creating a platform for aspiring women and girl musicians, spoken word artists and rappers to perform to a supportive audience.

Advance booking of tickets is not required, just a small cash donation if you are able.

Cash donations are welcome throughout the day too.

If you would like to donate clothes but are unable to attend on the day contact the organisers on their Facebook page by clicking here.

The International Women’s Day Derby Clothes Swap will be taking place on Saturday, May 18, 2024, running from 12pm till 3pm.

Address: Dubrek Studios, 67 Bridge Street, Derby DE1 3LB