Ukay-ukay shopping was something we planned to do together for the longest time, pre-ukay-ukay era, when it was still taboo. The thrill of discovering that one unique designer piece amidst of what seemed to be worn-out pambahay clothes was simply exhilarating in itself, especially if you stumbled upon a vintage Anna Sui or a DVF (Diane Von Furstenberg), or let me just please add this - an original, vintage Willy Wonka shirt, along the way. However, procrastinators we were, one of us always had a petty excuse.. and so, we never got around to do it, until today.
To further “immerse” ourselves in the ukay-ukay experience, we decided to take the LRTII train. So armed with a couple of bucks (Tip#1: bring loose change) we trudged our way to “UK” in the smoldering heat of the afternoon (Tip#2: wear comfortable, breathable clothes). As soon as we descended from the train stop, we were greeted by our first ukay store (behind the Samurai kiosk), a preview of what was yet to come, which we nonchalantly skipped, as there was bigger fish to fry...
Our ukay-ukay haven was nestled somewhere between Anson’s Supermarket and St. Joseph’s church, a three-meter entrance camouflaged with vendors selling pre-paid cards and all sorts of accessories (Tip#3: it’s the entrance after the ATM teller — how convenient for the frequent shopper!). And then we were welcomed by the familiar 7-storey building filled with all sorts of ukay-ukay — clothes, bags, shoes, toys, waiting to be unearthed and “saved” (Tip#4: patience is a much needed virtue; with the right pace and a keen eye, you just might come across a hidden treasure).
Our Recommendations:
First Floor:
Janco Surplus – Trendy tops (long-sleeves, night-out), casual dresses, pants, funky scarves, Lucky Star: Palacio d’ Fashion – Bags and shoes (ballet flats and platform shoes!)
Third Floor:
Shatin Thrift Shop – Trendy long-sleeved tops, studded/braided belts
Bethel Dry Goods Center – Trendy long-sleeved tops, knit sweaters, casual blazers, skirts, cocktail dresses
*Christmas decors (export overruns) can also be found on this floor
Fifth Floor:
Store – Pre-selected designer tops and dresses (Banana Republic, Max & Co., Anna Sui)
New arrivals are on first Saturdays of the month.
*Stores open daily, from 8:30 am to 8:30 pm.
Prices (New Arrival)
Tops – P120-150
Skirts – P120
Dresses – P150
Bags – P250
Shoes – P360
Belts – P80
*Best time to go for New Arrivals are on the 15th and 30th of the month
*Prices drop every week, and can go for as low as 3 pieces for P100.00!
Tired and sticky but somewhat satisfied, we headed back to the Anonas Station, with our treasures disguised in cheap plastic bags. (Tip#5: don't forget to buy Lysol on your way back - for that heavy-duty-ukay-washing ;-) )
Friday, October 12, 2007
Ukay Paradiso
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3 comments:
Ukay clothes are vintage clothes - or pretty much, used items. It's seldom you find items that are in perfect shape. Clothes and bags may have loose threads and ripped edges, while shoes may look fine outside but the insoles are worn out. Well it can be worth its price... yet at times, with a little mending and refurbishing, it can be worth much much more than that. Vintage pieces after all, surpass fashion trends. So if you do go ukay shopping, look for these one of a kind items. Anonas has a lot of interesting stores and is probably the best place to go to in Manila, but nothing beats good old Baguio ukay paradiso. Best ukay find in Anonas: black (with a hint of gold stripes) "genie" pants which are ultra comfortable and so fashionable!
When it comes to prices, ukay is the best way to go if you want to find a cheap alternative to spruce up your wardrobe. It's a good place to find one of a kind pieces that are uniquely your own for a small amount of money. Of course, it entails a lot of patience and a keen eye to spot a good find. And practice makes perfect. My favorite find so far, a printed silk skirt with rhinestones versatile enough to wear for day or night. Its absolutely a great find!...
Finally, always remember no matter how cheap they may be, be careful about choosing your items make sure the rips and stains can still be salvageable. Be a smart buyer! =)
I have been to Anonas for some time now, and I have to say, the clothes are not as fashionable as they used to be. However, there are still more fashionable clothes than lounge clothes. You just have to be inspired and positive, and of course, patient in your search. I always make sure I go to ukay inspired and excited, with the feeling I may find something fabulous. And sure enough, I do find something at the end of the day. My best find: a vintage navy chiffon dress with matching belt. Great for cocktail parties and weddings.
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