Swap Meet

Expanding on the Lolita Swap Meet that began in 2011, the Anime North Swap Meet is an event that gives attendees who are interested in Japanese street fashion an opportunity to swap their items or acquire new ones. Attendees will be able to sell, buy, and trade clothing and fashion accessories. It's also a great opportunity to learn about and have access to all the interesting Harajuku street styles you’ve seen on the web!

The Anime North Swap Meet will take place on Friday May 24 from 7:00pm to 10:30pm, in Hall F at the Toronto Congress Centre (TCC).

General Information

Do you have too many clothes but no opportunity to sell them? Do you need a bit of cash or more space in your closet? If so, there will be tables available for rent, either individually or as a group.

Perhaps you only have a couple of items you'd like to get rid of. Or perhaps you don't want to sell your items, but just want to swap them? People with only one or two items who are looking to trade with each other are also welcome.

Finally, you don't need to be a seller or a swapper to participate — we’ll need plenty of buyers too! If you have an interest in a Harajuku style or just want to spice up your wardrobe, this event is what you’ve been waiting for! We will have a variety of items, from expensive, authentic brands from Japan to some great, affordable finds! You can expect to discover something that’s right for you. Sellers will be equipped to help you with whatever style you’re looking to get into!

If you plan to attend this event, please remember:

• The temperature inside the Swap Meet can become uncomfortably high. We'll do our best with the AC, but it's often not enough. You should dress light, drink water, and be ready to sweat a bit.

• The Swap Meet can be very crowded early in the night. We prefer that you are shopping inside, not waiting outside so we allow a lot of people in at once. If you are uncomfortable with tight crowds, then we recommend that you start shopping later in the night. The later you arrive, the less people there will likely be.

• All items sold at the Swap Meet are considered to be "used" and "as-is". Please be aware and shop smart. Look carefully before you buy. Always talk to the sellers and ask questions first. Only buy something if you are sure it is what you think it is.

This year the Swap Meet will be happening alongside the Nominoichi event. We are changing our location, which will hopefully get more people out to this event.

Sellers & Swappers FAQ

What type of styles will be at the Swap Meet?

This event is for Japanese street fashion, such as lolita, visual kei, decora, gyaru, cyber, otome, mori girl, dolly kei, fairy kei and seifuku as well as their substyles. In addition, we're extending a warm welcome to Steampunk fashion lovers.

What about this insert another Japanese street style?

Yes, that is also acceptable.

Are traditional Japanese clothing items acceptable?

Of course, as long as they are not cosplay items.

What type of items will be at this Swap Meet?

This event is for Japanese street fashion styles (and steampunk). You will see clothing items like dresses, skirts, tops, bottoms, accessories and headwear. You'll find a mix of brand name items from Japan and off-brand items as well.

What other items would be acceptable?

Kigurumis, sleepwear, slippers, small plushies, key chains, wallets, purses, handmade clothing, yukatas and kimonos.

What items are NOT acceptable?

Make up, home décor, toiletries, crafting supplies, as well any items like games, anime, or manga — those items belong in the Nominoichi.

What if the item is damaged?

If the item looks like it’s been overworn, torn, stained to the point where it is unwearable, please consider leaving it out of the fashion swap. A good way to answer this is asking yourself why you are selling the item. If the answer is because you wouldn’t wear it because of the damage, chances are no one else will buy it either. If it has minor damage, make sure you point it out to the person who is buying it.

Can I sell my cosplay items?

No. However, the Nominoichi is the place to sell cosplay items.

Can I swap my regular/normal daywear like t-shirts and jeans?

No. This event is specifically Japanese street styles. These items do not necessarily have to come from Japan, but they must fit into a category of street style.

Can I bring my clothing in a bag to swap with people?

If you have a small number of items that will fit in a small plastic bag, and you are not selling anything, then that is acceptable. As long as you are only trading items, you will not have to pay a seller fee. However, if we see attendees who are bringing large bags or suitcases full of items to be sold or traded without registering for a table, you will be asked to leave the event.

So I can swap my items?

Yes you can, but please be aware that from past events, more people are interested in selling items rather that trading. Not every seller will want to trade with you.

Table Registration Information

Who can reserve a table?

Anyone with an Anime North Badge (Day, Weekend, or Pre-registered) is welcome to reserve a table. You may also reserve a table as a group. If you have a Dealers, Crafters Corner, or Exhibitor badge, you are welcome to come in as a buyer. However, you are not allowed to participate as a seller and cannot enter the room before we open.

Can I reserve a table as a group?

Yes, you may have group of up to 3 people. We’d advise you to do this so you will have a chance to browse other people’s items and swap with them as well. You must register everyone in the group, otherwise they will not be let in. If you are registering as a group, please make sure that you have everyone’s information before sending the email. Each email will count as one table.

How much is a table?

Tables are $15 each and are paid for at the event. You are only allowed one table per person/per group. Tables are limited and will be given on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, please only register if you are sure that you will attend this event.

Can I register for more than one table?

No. One table per person/group.

How big are the tables?

They are six feet long by two and a half feet wide. (6' x 2.5')

How many chairs will each table have?

Each table has two (2) chairs.

If I am part of a group of sellers do we each pay $15?

No. The fee is $15 per table not per seller. It will be collected at the Swap Meet. You will not be admitted into the hall until you pay that $15.

If I reserve a table, do I need to know all of the members in my group now?

Yes. You must send information for each member of the group in the email.

Does signing up for the Swap Meet include an Anime North membership?

No. The Swap Meet is a part of the Anime North convention. To buy or sell, you must purchase a membership separately.

Can my family or friends, help me set up my table without buying a membership?

No. The Swap Meet is held inside the Anime North convention. For anyone to get into the room, you must first show your badge.

What is the minimum age to reserve a table?

You must be at least 14 years of age by May 24th, 2013.

As a seller, what should I consider bringing?

Bring all the items you wish to sell, and perhaps some boxes or stands to showcase your items. It is also a good idea to bring a bit of cash to make change and plastic bags for people to carry the items they bought.

Will we be able to pay any other way beside cash?

Probably not. You could try using the PayPal app on a smartphone if both the buyer and seller agree. However, this is done at your own discretion, and is not a requirement.

How to Register

Their will be a registration fee of $15 to be paid at the door. Each email will count as one table reservation, so please make sure you have everyone in your group included in your email.

Registration will begin April 14th, 2013 at 8:00pm . Any reservations sent prior to that date will not be accepted and will be deleted.

Please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it with the subject line TABLE RESERVATION

Please be sure to include all the following information:

• Your Name as it will appear on your Anime North Badge
• Your Email address
• Your Telephone Number
• A list of all styles of clothing that you will be selling (name as many as you can)

If there are other members in your group, you must include the above information for each person.

Finally, if you have any other questions, please check out the Swap Meet Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/events/353766981395255/ or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

We hope to see you at Anime North Swap Meet 2013!