Got stuff in your closet you no longer wear? You could donate or dump it. Or you could swap it for something you will wear.

In today's tough economy, clothing swaps are an increasingly popular way to expand your wardrobe without expanding your credit-card balance. (There's even a website, www.clothingswaps.com, with tips and information about swaps nationwide.)

In the Twin Cities, there have been at least a couple of large, public swaps held during the past year. But this Saturday, the mother of all local swaps will be taking place in Minneapolis at the Grain Belt Bottling House. Called Alter/Nation, it's the brainchild of Angie Arner, president/founder of CounterCouture, a local clothing brand that takes fashion's ultimate wasteful white elephants -- bridesmaid dresses -- and transforms them into cocktail dresses. (Bridesmaid gowns that are just too ugly to reappear on the cocktail circuit can still be "upcycled" into linings, accessories and "kitschy little promotional pieces," Arner said.)

While other industries are going green, the rag trade has lagged behind, Arner said.

Alter/Nation "aims to counter the wasteful habits of the apparel industry through the creative re-use of an existing clothing surplus."

But helping clothes change hands is only part of the mission for Alter/Nation. It's not just a green event, but also a fashion event, sponsored by Spring MNfashion Week, as well as a DIY event. Those who attend will have an array of opportunities to do hands-on clothing enhancement. If you know your way around a sewing machine, you can alter your finds "live." Local designers, image experts and sewing assistants will be on hand to help you make simple alterations and embellishments.

Star Tribune, Star Tribune
A 'before' bridesmaid dress

"We're here to help people change the way they put clothing on their bodies," Arner said.

There'll also be a hair, makeup and photo booth, so you can flaunt your fashion finds, a style show and a DJ, plus appetizers from Red Stag Supper Club and, for the legal-age crowd, cocktails by Phillips Prairie Organic Vodka.

Organizers are asking those who plan to attend to RSVP at www.facebook.com/countercouture, but you can show up the day of the event with clothes in hand. There's also an early drop-off this Thursday evening (Earth Day), where you can preview the merchandise and pick up vouchers to be used at the event.

Kim Palmer • 612-673-4784