Let’s face it – Filipinos are naturally bargain hunters. We love it when we feel like we’ve combed through each bazaar stall, leaving with the contentment of nabbing the best deals. I’ve been to so many bazaars so I really do think that I’ve gathered enough shopping tips that I’d love to share with you!
1. Walk slow and don’t be overwhelmed
Yes, I’ve been to A LOT of bazaars so I try my best not to be overwhelmed by the hundreds of stalls that offer similar fashionable items. I simply start at the left or rightmost end and follow a sort of snake trail. If you do this, you don’t buy stuff right away. Go through your options so when you trim it down, you’ll end up with something you really like. (And at the best price! You’ll avoid post-shopping guilt and regret too!)
2. Close your eyes cause… they accept credit cards!
Don’t you just hate it when you’re about to pay then you notice; you have no more cash. Ugh. You look for the nearest ATM in the bazaar area only to find out the line is insanely long or worse: out of service. I love how bazaar organizers are tailoring their payment terms to suit the lifestyle of its visitors – AKA the generation that doesn’t carry a lot of cash around.
3. There’s no turning back so if you like it, buy it!
Some brands only sell at bazaars and even if they mainly sell online, some items are exclusive for that bazaar weekend only. So if you already see that dress you’ve been wanting since forever and no other stall offers it, go for it! Treat yourself! There is nothing more haunting than a piece you didn’t buy. (And eventually seeing it on someone else).
4. No to plastic please!
Help save the environment and reduce your eco-footprint by doing simple things like lessening your use of plastic. When heading to a bazaar, don’t forget to pack an eco-bag or two to put in your purchases.
5. Invest in pieces that are stylish, not trendy. (And you can save money by buying off-season items)
You’ll be looking through hundreds of stalls and it will be a mix of low to high priced pieces – good judgement takes practice. Here’s a good rule of thumb: if the price is reasonable enough, how many times do you think you’ll wear the piece? Is it versatile enough to wear whenever, or is it just for this season? If it’s a classic or a staple that’s priced slightly higher than the other pieces, don’t think twice because you know you’ll be holding onto it for years to come.
Extra tip: It’s also the best time to buy summer pieces cos for sure, prices will surely go up during April/May bazaars.
Yuki Tansengco
So those are my top 5 picks when going bazaar shopping in Metro Manila! Lastly, have a checklist whenever you head to a bazaar (so you also discipline yourself.) Beach towel? Sunnies? Do you really need another pair of denim shorts? Yaaaas.
SUN Supersale Bazaar | 11AM to 9pM on Feb 19-21 in World Trade Ceter
I’m heading to one of the biggest bazaars in Metro Manila this weekend – the Supersale Bazaar! They’re the brilliant minds behind the longest running fashion bazaar series in the metro, bringing you their 24th event since it launched in 2009. You’ll be shopping through more than 100 brands under one roof and up to 90% discounts – plus exclusive items only available in the bazaar.
Style Cat x AMS Clothing
AMS Clothing and I are collaborating and we prepared new styles exclusively for this weekend! Think: Crop tops, choker pieces, jumpsuits, etc – so come visit us booth! I’ll also be selling some of my pre-loved pieces. 🙂
BrewFest MNL
Brewfest MNL will also be at the SuperSale event – a beer garden that will surely be a feast for your eyes, ears and tastebuds with live entertainment, awesome artisan food stalls and of course, local craft brews.
Don’t forget to follow them on Instagram via @supersalebazaar and Like the official Facebook page. See you there this weekend!
XO,
Style Cat
Choker: AMS Clothing
Jumpsuit: Suite Blanco
Personalized necklace: Sweet Side Jewellery
Watch: Nixon
Shoes: Zalora
(Photos by Janina Vela)