FAQ
Is money ever exchanged?
There is no money involved. In fact, receiving or giving money for items is against our terms. On Communitique, we believe in the circular economy, giving from what we have generously and knowing that someone else will gift to us down the road. Instead of dumping your clothes for free at a big thrift store, why not save your community members from having to go rebuy your item by gifting it to them directly? It’s much more rewarding.
Do I have to swap items or can I just give or just receive items?
You may choose to only give away items, to only request and receive items, or to swap with users. When an item is requested, a chat will only open between two users if the gifter accepts the request. When someone requests your item, you can choose to look at their virtual closet and see if they have an item you’d like to request a swap for. Having items in your virtual closet to swap may encourage the gifter to choose you to share their item with over other requestees.
Why is clothes swapping good for the environment?
The fashion industry, particularly “fast fashion” brands, mass produces items using unsustainable and toxic materials, then ships these items around the world. After a very short lifespan, the majority of these items end up in landfills. According to the World Bank, the fashion industry is responsible for around 10% of annual global carbon emissions, more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined. By swapping clothes and accessories instead of buying new, you can reduce the need for new item production, and keep items in circulation longer, without the items accumulating more significant travel.
What else can I do to have a more sustainable fashion impact?
Prioritize second-hand clothing. Repair or alter older items. Look for creative ways to update or restyle pre-loved items. When you do buy new, take the time to do some research and prioritize local and sustainable fashion brands.
What state do my items have to be in to share on Communitique?
We ask that all users be upfront and honest about the state of their pre-loved items. Someone else may still have a use for your very worn items, but if there is a hole to be mended, please include this in the description. Some users love to alter and mend clothing, but not all can. Please gift recently washed clothing items only. Your old underwear belongs in the trash, not on our platform.
How does swapping take place?
It is up to you and your Communitique friend! All swapping on our app takes place locally to avoid added emission coming from further shipping. You join Communitique within a specific city and can change your city at any time if you travel or move in your account settings. Use our chat function to coordinate with your fellow community member about where to meet up or drop off items.
What are Communitique's recommendations about safety?
Your safety is your own responsibility, but our platform allows you to communicate without exchanging personal numbers or other social media accounts. We recommend meeting in public local places such as coffee shops, libraries, or parks. After an exchange, you are able to leave reviews on an individual’s page for other Communitique members to view. Like any online-based platform, be mindful about the personal information you share. You can block and report another Communitique user if needed at any time.
How does Communitique help me navigate questions about size/fit?
When users upload an item, they will select a size and add a description. After you request an item and a chat is opened between you two, you are welcome to ask the gifter more questions about the fit of the item.
How do I search for gender-specific clothing?
You don’t. A cool shirt is a cool shirt. Communitique believes that all clothing types can be for all people and we want to empower you to explore. Fashion should be a way for anyone to express themselves comfortably and creatively. As a global community, we celebrate the diversity of fashion that exists. For this reason, we do not separate items by gender or sex. If it fits your body and personality, feel free to request the item and chat with the gifter. This is an opt-in, community-first social platform aimed at supporting our fellow local community members through body-positive and inclusive fashion, and supporting our global community through sustainable practices. If you prefer negative and non-inclusive spaces, we invite you to opt out.
What tips do you have for getting the most out of Communitique?
This platform is community-driven. You will get the most out of the platform if you are active. Upload items, respond to requests in a timely manner, and share with your friends! As your Communitique hub grows, there will be more for you to give and receive.
What does the name Communitique mean to you? Why is it called that?
Communitique is a local boutique operated and supplied by your local community. We are closing the loop on fashion and facilitating a sustainable model for mini circular economies all around the globe.