ONE of the country’s fastest-growing fashion crazes is coming to Wirral this week as women try to update their festive wardrobe in times of austerity.

Birkenhead’s Williamson Art Gallery and Museum will host the 'swishing' event on Thursday, December 5, when women from all walks of life will be able to pick up that sparkly new top or dress for the party season.

Swishing involves bringing along an unwanted item of clothing like that dress you have grown out of or that outfit that you no longer like, and swapping it for another one brought along by another member of the public.

Jo McGuire, the Williamson's development officer, said: "December is a great time to swish with the onset of the annual female dilemma approaching of what to wear for those Christmas parties.

"Swishing is a popular and cost effective way to up cycle your wardrobe, exchanging hardly worn items for another at no cost – all the thrill of retail therapy without the credit card bills."

To take part, people have to pay £5 – which includes a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie – and make a commitment to bring at least one item of clothing to swap.

There will also be an auction and a raffle, with all proceeds going to the mayor’s charity, in what promises to be an evening filled with festive fun.

'Swishers' will also be available to get a preview of the new stock at the shop, Gallery 14, which is being re-launched on December 6.

Cllr Chris Meaden, Wirral Council cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: "All the goods on sale at Gallery 14 have been designed and produced by local artists, so the items would make unique and extremely special Christmas gifts.

"The shop and the 'swishing' event are just two examples of how Wirral’s flagship museum and gallery is finding different ways to engage with local people are bring them in to see what the Williamson has to offer."

The swishing event runs between 6pm and 8pm on December 5, while the re-launch event of Gallery 14 takes place between 4pm and 7pm on Friday, December 6.

Items to be swapped should be taken to the Williamson by Wednesday, December 4.

For more information, visit facebook.com/willliamsonartgallery or call 0151 652 4177.