With all the new fall fashions hitting the stores, you might be tempted to go on a big shopping spree. But before you blast your budget, try getting some friends together and hosting a clothing swap — you’ll get a whole new look for free. Follow these steps for a thrifty and fashion-forward great time.

Sort. Separate into groups: tops, bottoms, jackets, etc. Some people like the pile-on-the-floor method, but some won’t feel comfortable with a big grab-fest. Better yet if you can arrange them on racks or hangers. Grabbers are going to grab anyway; shy people won’t feel put off.

Friends with skills. Who has a sewing machine for simple alterations? Who can do basic repairs? Sew buttons? Take up hems? Enlist their help. Have some hemming tape on hand and a basic sewing kit. Even if alterations can’t be done on the spot, a talented sewer will be able to tell whether it’ll be worth the time and effort to have that beautiful skirt that’s one size too big taken in.

Play stylist. If you know a professional stylist or designer, all the better. If not, find that person whose style everyone admires and compliments. Ask that person to be the “swap stylist.” Your stylist can encourage swappees to try things they maybe wouldn’t otherwise, or wear things in a new way.

Tags off. If you’re swapping that designer sweater that Aunt Mildred gave you last Christmas because green just isn’t your color or that “what a mistake” designer dress you spent way too much on, make sure the store and price tags are off. This isn’t a competition, and no one should feel bad because they brought in their skirts from the Gap. If you really feel something is too expensive for a swap, try consigning it or putting it up on eBay. But the satisfaction of seeing someone wear well what you couldn’t just won’t be there.

Privacy. A separate room with a dressing room and a full-length mirror would be best, but if that’s not possible, then borrow or buy a cheap mirror and put a curtain on a suspension rod and cordon off an area of the room or a hallway.

Food. Make sure to have food, whether you provide or ask attendees to bring. And eat first! This will emphasize the social aspects of the gathering, and give time for people who don’t know each other to get acquainted and feel more comfortable.

Danielle Beurteaux is New York-based writer who writes about finance, thrifty ideas and green living. Visit www.deals.com for online deals, sales and coupons.