Ukay-ukay – means ‘to dig,’ because folks would dig into a pile of clothes for that hidden gem of a find! In a country where the prices of gasoline, flour, oil, diapers, milk and other basic needs are skyrocketing, an average Pinoy is left with only a few pesos in the pocket to buy for basic things for himself like shoes, bags and clothing. Ukay-ukay has become a popular shopping spot. This makes you realize that your precious pesos were actually worth something. Gone are the days when second-hand shopping was a no-no:)

Being style-conscious also means spending a lot on your wardrobe, but the allure of vintage shopping is that the clothes are ridiculously cheap. Wearing ukay-ukay has practical and stylistic advantages too. At Philippine vintage stores, also known as ukay-ukay, I have never paid anything more than P150 may it be a bag, a pair of jeans shoes or other rare (but cheap) fashion finds. The ukay-ukay has grown from just clothing to bags, shoes and even curtains, blankets, comforters, office equipment, toys and sporting goods.

Surprisingly, at the ukay-ukay shop there are also affluent-looking individuals and even fashionistas who also sweat their butts out looking for that perfect fashion find. But when you go shopping, look casual and discreet—most ukays are in dodgy locations so it’s best to blend with the crowd.

GET THAT UKAY-UKAY FASHION!

Looking for that PERFECT clothing in an ukay-ukay is a test of one’s patience. Some people might feel weird about the idea of wearing secondhand clothing, but there’s something timeless and ethereal about ukay-ukay. If you live in a style-conscious city, this guarantees that you won’t look like everybody else. Pretty much items found in ukay-ukay stores are one-of-a-kind pieces. Here is a list of the ukay-ukay stores I’ve visited:

• Baguio (there are a lot around the city, it is locally known as WAGWAGAN)
-Hilltop
-Baguio City Market
-Bayanihan
-Session Road

• Bambang

• Harrison Plaza

• Cubao (near Ali Mall)

• Makati Cinema Square

• Ortigas (across Robinson’s Galleria)

There is fun in ukay-ukay. It is a journey that should be enjoyed in bits and pieces. But then an ukay-ukay shopper must always be vigilant. Just as you are busy browsing through the pile of treasures, who knows someone might also be busily browsing through your bags. So it is best to go hands-free—an oversized sling bag is perfect. Not only can you put your other purchases inside but it also lets you scour the racks with ease. Okay sa ukay-ukay! Happy shopping!