Wazzup Pilipinas!
Almost everyone would like to always look their best even after waking up (woke up like this). We love going out in our best OOTD or Outfit Of The Day even if it means spending a fortune.
But in Baguio city, similarly in Metro Manila,there is another attraction that has gained popularity, and it is called bought in UK or Ukay-Ukay, or SM as others would call it, short for Segunda Mano (Second Hand).
They say the best choices are in Baguio especially when it comes to jackets, hoodies and coats fit for the cold season. You'll surely find a wide assortment of previously owned but branded clothes, shoes, bags, jeans, shorts and other stuff that came from many countries.
Who said thrift-shopping is gross? It may be if you fear possible germ infestation (if there is indeed something like it). Though some stuff are still in great condition, and even have tags intact, it is advisable to have them washed before wearing. We couldn't say the items for sale there are hygienic since they've also been passing from one customer to the next, and some may have tried wearing them to see if they fit. Yuck? That is the risk you have to take if you insist on buying cheap pre-owned products.
Ukay-ukay should never be an excuse for splurge shopping. We should just buy when we really need to. It takes a bit more effort but buying less will help us evaluate which clothes have the most versatility.
These items are also useful if you just plan to wear them once or a few times like for an event or costume party, or just for everyday wear at home or Friday (wash day)clothes at work.
Though there have been reports of smuggled ukay-ukay, that is already beyond our control. The government should pursue stricter entry and customs obligations in the country. But since we are a country composed of a multitude ofvislands, there are just several ways of illegal entry especially when they are matched with corrupt individuals aiming to earn extra from the unauthorized transactions.
You can definitely look good already with just a few pesos since prices are way below what you see in malls or even online shopping, and if you seek diligently or come across a fresh batch of clothes, you would surely encounter great finds at very cheap prices.