Toronto: Swapping for one-of-a-kind finds

The thrill of hunting for one-of-a-kind gems is only part of the allure of vintage shopping. When we source style inspiration in reclaimed garments, our ecological footprint is reduced and as an eco-conscious country, many Canadians wear vintage pieces as if they were badges of honor. Stop any Toronto trendster on the street and ask what they are wearing, chances are they will snobbishly respond, “It’s vintage.” It’s most adorable!

Just last month, said trendsters were spotted at 69 Vintage By the Pound (1234 Bloor St., West, 416-516-1234, 69vintage.blogspot.com) in the midst of the Cowgirl Clothing Swap, an event that allows you to trade in pre-loved clothing for something that’s new to you. Here’s how it works:

With each item you bring you receive a blue ticket that entitles you to swap for one of the other items that have been dropped off at the event. If your piece is considered to be vintage, you get a purple ticket, which entitles you to swap for something sold at the store. Each swapper may exchange a maximum of five items, though you can buy more by the pound. At the end of the night, everyone left with satisfied smiles and a hoard of stylish finds. Here is the best part: the ladies at the store will happily perform alterations to your purchases with the on-site sewing machine. This was eco-friendly, maximum shopping fun with a zero-dollar price tag. Be sure to catch the store’s pre-Halloween swap on October 23.

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