Nifty Thrifts

Stories on the Sunday thrift shop by Tammie, a Cubao adventure, and Instagram thrift finds.

For the dream

Inspired by a TV series loosely based on Sophia Amoruso's book Girlboss, I thought of saving up for a long-term dream business, kickstarting it with the thrift shop. I was also in a KonMari phase, so to speak, and decluttering at that time seemed best.

Sunday Thrift Shop by: Tammie began as a personal project during my quarter-life, three years ago. Because I enjoyed the creative process of conceptualizing album themes; taking product photographs and editing, I updated the shop the following year with curated thrift finds, preloved pieces, and newly imported items. All of these were mostly sold through travel agency officemates and Facebook friends.

Eventually, I'm hoping to expand the shop with curated merchandise: from fashion finds to home decor to artsy things.

In search of Vintage things

Cubao at its prime dates back to the late 50s to 80s, comparable to CBDs Makati-BGC. Now it is a thriving leisure and entertainment hub known for the Araneta event venues, farmer's market, and Cubao eXpo.

It was in February 2020 that I first explored Cubao with my mom and auntie. We went to the farmer's market to buy our merienda and try traditional Filipino bread variants, although these were paired with Tim Horton's coffee hahaha, and purchased ingredients from an authentic Chinese store, a few meters away from the bakeries.

In the late afternoon, we visited Cubao X where you'll find antique and vintage home decor pieces or the Segunda manos; ukay-ukay or thrift/preloved clothing and accessories; and hipster shops and hang out places. Most of the stores and some restaurants were open then but later learned that it's equally popular for the night scene, ala Poblacion.

backdrop: collage of old movie posters

vintage things

Thrift stories & tips: my favorite IG shop

My thrift journey began with an influence, my enabler of a sister. She'd often consult me for clothes, bags, and accessories found on Instagram shops, saving these in her collections and photo roll. It was from her that I learned about existing thrift and vintage shops, including JMLT Vintage which became a favorite.

Here are TIPS on how to efficiently thrift shop:

1. Click the hashtag indicated in the bio for available items (e.g.#jmltavailable).

2. Check the highlights to know FAQs and shop updates.

3. Know your style & size. Look at the product description for notes on the product's condition (e.g. damages) and reason for pricing.

4. Browse through the collection first, go back to the pieces you really liked, take a screenshot or save and then contemplate on your selected pieces. Make sure you have a budget, know the available shipping options; and if your preferred payment method is available for an easier transaction.

5. Only comment Mine/M when you're ready to purchase and have filled out your order form.

I am very satisfied with my shopping experience with JMTL Vintage. They're reliable with their offered collections, transparent in placing product descriptions, and efficient in responding to order placements. As the shop is located in Cebu City, parcels are delivered via JRS express.

~ follow @jmltvintage on Instagram for collection updates.~

Totally Tubular! extra content

Where to download desktop wallpapers like these? Go to Designlovefest.

Need a vibin' playlist? Check this out!

Looking for Uplifting Instagram Accounts to follow? Read my blog post.

leaving you with lotsa~