Imagine walking through a bustling high street and being invited to swap your outfit on the spot. It may sound unconventional, but that spontaneous spirit is exactly how CLOSWAP—the UK’s leading peer-to-peer clothing exchange app was born. Founded by three students with a passion for sustainable fashion, CLOSWAP is now revolutionising how Britons refresh their wardrobes while reducing fashion waste.
A New Era of Sustainable Fashion
Dubbed the “Tinder for Clothes,” CLOSWAP allows users to swipe, match, and swap fashion items directly with others. What started as a university experiment—where hundreds of students exchanged clothes at an impromptu event has since evolved into a thriving platform with over 20,000 users and ambitious expansion plans.
“At CLOSWAP, we believe the speed, affordability, and convenience of fast fashion should be matched by swapping,” says co-founder Maria Remy. “That’s why we created the app and host in-person events. It’s fast, fun, and free plus, it fosters a real-life community where fashion lovers can upgrade their wardrobes without spending a penny. The currency? It’s already in your closet.”
Many people in the UK wear a piece of clothing just a handful of times before deciding to part with it. CLOSWAP is changing this trend by making fashion circular and accessible to all. By extending the lifespan of garments through swapping, users can enjoy a constantly evolving wardrobe without contributing to the wastefulness of fast fashion.
Expanding Across the UK
CLOSWAP is set to scale further, with plans to expand into major cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Birmingham. These live swap events featuring music, interactive activities, and a vibrant atmosphere, create a dynamic shopping alternative. Additionally, the app enhances the experience with gamification elements such as Karma Points, rewarding users for frequent swapping and community engagement.
Beyond physical events, CLOSWAP’s digital presence continues to grow. The app’s intuitive interface ensures users can browse, connect, and exchange items effortlessly. With each swap, CLOSWAP moves closer to making second-hand fashion mainstream, shifting perceptions about pre-owned clothing and encouraging mindful consumption.
Recognised for Innovation in Circular Fashion
Having won the 2024 Mayor of London’s Entrepreneurship Award for Creative Industries, CLOSWAP has solidified its place as a leader in circular fashion. The recognition highlights the brand’s impact on reshaping how people shop and interact with fashion sustainably. As a Resolution Fellow and participant in multiple startup accelerators, the team is now raising its seed round under the SEIS advanced assurance scheme.
CLOSWAP’s success lies in its ability to blend sustainability with accessibility. The platform empowers users to rethink their shopping habits while embracing a more eco-conscious lifestyle. By making swapping a seamless and rewarding experience, CLOSWAP is demonstrating that looking good and making sustainable choices can go hand in hand.
With the rising demand for ethical fashion alternatives, CLOSWAP is poised to become the go-to solution for wardrobe refreshes without financial or environmental costs. By fostering a community-driven approach, the brand is not only reducing waste but also reimagining fashion as an interactive, social experience.
As CLOSWAP continues to expand, it is redefining the future of fashion one swap at a time.
