Clothes Line, originally uploaded by academichic.
We’ve written frequently on this blog about the power of clothes to change moods and alter one’s self-perception and self-presentation. This past Saturday, I was privileged to be a part of offering that opportunity — and much more — to women in my city.
For the past few months, I have been helping to organize a one-day event that provided a free “shopping” experience for women in need from the area. We gathered donations of new and gently used clothing and accessories, set up a mini “store” in my church’s basement (complete with changing areas, spot-lit accessory walls, and garments arranged by size and color), and provided refreshments and “personal shoppers” for the women who came.
Many of our guests were refugees, and many spoke little or no English. But, cliche as it may seem, language is really superfluous when it comes to two women — an American volunteer and a Ethiopian refugee — celebrating the perfect fit of a pair of jeans.
When we began organizing donations for the event, I was a little worried that we would be drowning in piles of bad puff paint sweatshirts, elastic-waisted pastel pants, and shapeless floral dresses. And while, indeed, we had our fair share of Cosby sweaters and denim jumpers, we also had some donations of beautiful clothes and accessories: designer bags, terrific jeans, well-tailored suits, classic dresses. People gave generously, and it was delightful to see a small Somalian grandmother, wrapped in a bright scarf and carrying a tan Dooney & Bourke purse that she chose because she loved it, not because she knew what the D&B stood for. Even some of the donated items that made me scratch my head found good homes. A teenage refugee girl latched onto the fire engine red feather boa, preening in front of the mirror and showing it off to her friends. She went home with it still wrapped around her neck, and every time one of the volunteers would compliment her, she glowed even more brightly.
In the end, we had over one hundred women come through our “store,” each leaving with a large, stuffed shopping bag. Frankly, it was an exhausting endeavor in both preparation and execution. But this was so much more than cleaning out our closets or simply giving away clothes. It was our hope that by transforming piles of clothes into an event — taking women individually through a “store” created just for them, finding a dress that fit them beautifully or a handbag that they thought was pretty — would dignify them, enabling these women to walk away with clothes that not only satisfied basic needs, but looked fantastic on them too.
I have to admit that I had a giggle about the Cosby sweaters. I know exactly what you mean. But funning aside, that’s an absolutely fantastic. The way things were designed looked so professional – I thought it was a actual department store until I read on. A woman finding something that really suits her, can be transformative. Or even if it’s a fun thing, like the young girl and the feather boa. In doing that for them, giving them that experience, is, I think, a very special gift indeed.
That is so wonderful- the women who came through probally felt so happy and special.
As someone who came from a low income family, I know how it is to not FEEL pretty, always shopping at thrift stores and relying on hand outs. Now, my family is doing a lot better and we can afford a lot of so called “normal” things. But I know the thrill when you find something fantastic and you can actually afford it- so lovely.
BTW, you set up the store SO nicely- it looked like a department store!
Wow! That is so nice to see. It’s great that these women are getting some good clothes but it’s also really nice that your church set it up so nicely. It really looks like a store, not like a clothing drive, which must have enhanced the experience for all the ‘shoppers’.
I’m already part of a clothing swap in my neighborhood. After reading this post, I am definitely inspired to take it to a larger level thorough my alumni networking groups.
That’s a fabulous service for women in need and the dignity of the experience is very important. There’s an organization kinda like that in Chicago, Bottomless Closet, that provides professional clothing for women in a boutique setting along with job training.
This is SO WONDERFUL. I’m actually a little choked-up after reading this. It really touched me.
It made me smile to read this post. What an amazing idea! I have to echo the above commenters who said the set up of the store is extremely professional and just like a department store! I’m sure the kindess and fashion that was bestowed on these women made them feel so good. Bravo!
What a wonderful experience for all involved! Congrats to your church on a job well done!
i choked up a little too!
i think setting up the clothes like a “real” store makes ALL the difference.
I only recently found this blog and already I look forward to seeing new posts every day. This was such a great thing you all did and it’s inspiring me to try to figure out how to do something similar – thanks!
Wonderful idea and execution. The world needs more fashion like this.
What a wonderful thing to do!
Great cause, and I agree that your makeshift store looks like a real dept. store!
Awesome work! Glad to hear there were some real finds amidst all the donations!
Brilliant!
How can I sign up for the clothing give away,, I need winter clothing and my daughter needs winter clothing.
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