27 Feb Slay Your OOTD Through Cagayan de Oro City’s Ukay-Ukay
Source: Pam Mejia
“Pasok mga Suki! Presyong Divisoria P10 P10 P20 P30 at iba pa”- a trending skit on social media which was participated by millions of netizens across the nation.
Despite the differences between Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, we can’t deny the fact that as Filipinos we all share a common trait inside us. This makes us revel so much in styling and expressing ourselves through clothing and artifacts.
And, whether you are from Manila, Cebu, Davao or Cagayan de Oro City there is only one place to rely on getting OOTDs at a much affordable price: UKAY-UKAY!
According to thingsasian.com, ukay-ukay basically means “gouging in a pile of run down clothes”, the word is derived from the Filipino phrase “halukay” which means “digging” or “to make a mess” through a pile of pre-loved clothing, bags, shoes, and other pre-owned stuff.
Pro Tip: We all know ukay-ukay items don’t always come in flawless condition. There would always be a missing button, a tear, or a damage to the item. But if it’s something you can fix at home, you should purchase them. If not, put them back.
And if your the type who thinks that you can’t strut the runway wearing ukay-ukay, think again! As we introduce to you- Pam Mejia, a fashionista who broke the internet with her fabulous OOTDs.
It all started when Pam was 13 years old and her mom would go to Cogon every weekends for some ukay-ukay, rummaging, eyeing only for the best and affordable garment. Pam admitted that she always hated the heat and noise but still chose to stay because she realized how much pleasure her mom feels when finding beautiful garments.
Source: Pam Mejia
Top – PhP 2.00 (5 for PhP10.00)
Square Pants – PhP20.00
Summer Hat – forgot the price but still from ukay-ukay
Source: Pam Mejia
Leather Jacket – PhP25.00
Top – PhP5.00
Shoes – PhP60.00
Source: Pam Mejia
Top – PhP15.00
Skirt – PhP15.00
Bag – PhP100.00
Source: Pam Mejia
Lace Top – PhP15.00
Source: Pam Mejia
Heinz Top – PhP5.00
When Pam reached 15, she started shopping for ukay-ukays on her own.
“I could still remember I only had a hundred (PhP100) back then. I really enjoyed it (ukay-ukay). I was able to buy 10 ukay-ukay shirts and blouses that time. When I reached home, my mom was amazed with the things I have bought and I told her I only paid a hundred,” Pam said.
Pro Tip: When purchasing ukay-ukay garments always make sure to disinfect them to get rid of its odd smell and to keep them clean.
From then on, Pam started to feel great satisfaction in purchasing rare finds in a pile of used clothes and even tried selling some of it to her circle of friends. Amazingly, Pam would always get compliments from her everyday outfits and bragged that she got it from affordable ukay-ukay.
Source: Pam Mejia
Top – PhP10.00
Shorts – PhP45.00
Source: Pam Mejia
Top – PhP20.00
Source: Pam Mejia
Top – PhP35.00
Source: Pam Mejia
H&M pullover – forgot the price but still bought from ukay-ukay
Source: Pam Mejia
Top – PhP5.00
When asked where she usually buys her ukay-ukay treasures, Pam mentioned that she has been a familiar customer in JABAR Ukay-ukay and other thrift clothing stores near JABAR.
Moreover, Pam aslo admitted that it takes a lot of time and patience to finally find a perfect garment in a pile of clothes. But if you are the type of person who prioritizes needs over wants, you will surely learn how to spend more time without compromising for quality and price.
Pam also gleefully shares “As a student, it’s very important for us to be thrifty. We don’t have to ignore our needs just to get what we want. It’s not bad to lure over luxury or any expensive things, but if you still can’t have it, you can always go for the cheaper one, just make sure that it’s something you can use and something you can benefit from.”
Pro Tip: Dress modestly, with decency and propriety! Be modest about yourself. It’s not just about the way you dress but it is also about you. Be confident in who you really are.
Article by: Ison Dona Chavez
Photos by: Pam Mejia
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