I’ve probably already said it before and maybe more than once, but I love ukay (or thrift shopping as it’s called in other countries). What is believed to have started in Baguio in the 1980s (called wagwagan, named after the way one would dust off a piece of clothing), ukay-ukay, derived from the word halukay or rummaging, is so commonplace now. You’d find it so easy to find one wherever in the country you are. There are, of course, the more popular ones — the ones in Baguio, Anonas, Tagaytay and Makati Cinema Square. The ones you’ll find in small neighborhoods are just as filled with interesting pieces, though.
Now, I understand the qualms and uneasiness when it comes to using secondhand clothing. But I’d honestly pick the laborious task of disinfecting thrifted clothing than adding to the waste fast fashion — and fashion in general — is producing. Here are some of the reasons why I ukay, and why I think you should, too.
It’s cheap
It’s a treasure trove
It’s eco-friendly
Textile waste is no joke, and how we are lured into following every trend and buying every new thing that comes out doesn’t help. Supporting sustainable fashion is great, of course, but the choices are still limited and costly. So here’s the cheaper solution. Try to eliminate the waste by recycling clothes — look good while you’re at it, too.
I’ve vowed to wear only thrifted clothes — except for underwear because I don’t think I’ll be at peace with that — and I hope you can consider trying to add more thrifted clothing to your wardrobe, too.
