Ukay pro’s POV: The ups and downs of ukay-ukay shopping

If you’re a thrift queen (or king!), you already know that ukay-ukay is a treasure trove of stylish finds.

But let’s be real – it’s not always rainbows and vintage Levi’s.

Here’s the ultimate listicle of the highs and lows of ukay-ukay shopping, written by yours truly, a self-proclaimed fashionista!

Darren Espanto tries some old clothes during his ukay-ukay trip in Baguio City. (Darren Espanto/IG)

Ups:

  1. Budget-Friendly Chic 💸
    – Who needs designer price tags when you can score trendy pieces for the price of a fancy latte? Ukay-ukay lets you slay on a budget!
  2. One-of-a-Kind Finds 👗
    – Say goodbye to twinning disasters! You’ll discover unique, vintage, and even branded gems that no one else has. #MainCharacterEnergy
  3. Sustainability Goals ♻️
    – Shopping secondhand is a win for Mother Earth! Less waste, more style – now that’s what we call conscious fashion.
  4. Throwback Vibes ✨
    – Love retro styles? Ukay-ukay is the ultimate time machine. Hello, ‘90s baby tees and ‘80s blazers!
  5. DIY Opportunities 🧵
    – Found a quirky piece? Upcycle it! Get creative and transform it into your next fashion masterpiece.

Downs:

Actress Beauty Gonzales shares her “finds” from “ukay-ukay” in Benguet. (Photo courtesy of Gonzales’ IG)
  1. The Hunt is Real 🧐
    – Finding that perfect piece takes patience and serious digging. Be ready to sift through mountains of clothing!
  2. Wear and Tear Warning ⚠️
    – Some items may come with a little “history” (aka stains, rips, or funky smells). Inspect before you buy!
  3. Size Struggles 📏
    – Forget standard sizing – it’s all about trial and error. Always be ready to mix and match sizes creatively.
  4. Overwhelming Options 😵
    – Too many choices can be stressful. Pro tip: go in with a game plan to avoid impulse buys you’ll regret later.
  5. No Returns, Babe 🙅‍♀️
    – Once you buy it, it’s yours forever! So think twice before snagging that questionable leopard-print jumpsuit.

Whether you’re a thrift newbie or a seasoned ukay pro, these ups and downs are all part of the experience. Happy thrifting, fashionistas! 💖