Pride Clothing Swap In Toms River To Help People Explore Styles

TOMS RIVER, NJ — A Toms River woman is hosting a free clothing swap Friday night to celebrate Pride Month and help those who want to explore clothing styles.

Cassie Provinzano, 21, an education major at Kean University, said she loves fashion and loves events that bring people together at little or no cost.

"Being part of the queer community has always been an important part of my life," Provinzano said. She said she realized not everyone feels comfortable exploring clothing styles in stores.

"Recently, I was thinking about Pride and realized that a clothing swap would be a perfect event to invite those who are interested in exploring gender-affirming clothing in a safe space without needing to spend money to do so," she said.

The free clothing swap is set for 7 p.m. Friday at 34 Sea Breeze Road in the Silver Bay Harbor Association, which is in the Silverton section of Toms River.

"This no-cost, pop-up boutique event is OPEN TO EVERYONE and offers community members and allies a chance to give their once-cherished garments a new life while trying out and trying on new styles," she said.

Along with being a great way to give clothes a second life, the free event makes clothing more sustainable by keeping it out of landfills.

Clothing donations are not required but are greatly encouraged, so bring items you no longer use.

"The greater variety of sizes and styles we have, the more people we will be able to benefit," Provinzano said. "Anything from your wardrobe might be exactly what someone else is looking for."

The event is open to all ages and genders and attendees are urged to bring a bag for any clothing they wish to take home.

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