Swap Meet

In the end, Fang had to work this weekend and we didn't go to Vermont. I was rather bummed and spent most of Saturday stewing about it. I was sick of being trapped in a gray concrete jungle and had dearly wanted to spend a few days away enjoying good company, bucolic nature and a break from the stress of everyday life.

Fortunately, I did have a back up plan. The owner of a salon I frequent in Chelsea was hosting a clothing swap meet in her salon. The premise was simple--bring in clothing, jewelry and accessories you no longer wear. Peruse the items that others have brought in. Take what you like and the rest is donated to charity.

When I arrived, there was wine and hors d'oeurves and many chic, delightful women. It was a classic girl's outing. We tried on clothes, drank and flattered one another about our choices. In the end, I donated five jackets, four skirts, 16 blouses, several pieces of jewelry, three purses, two pairs of shoes and eight pairs of pants. I came away with much less, but they were good gets: a Club Monaco turtleneck, a Michael Kors cashmere sweater, an Armani cashmere wrap sweater, a silk Theory blouse and a fantastic Mac & Jac blue patterned car coat. I also picked up a vintage turquoise ring and silver cuff.

It certainly made up for what could have been a lost weekend.