As an avid shopper and admirer of fashion, I make it a point to visit various retail stores on a regular basis – whether to window shop or purchase an actual item. I am a true fan of shops such as Mango, Zara and Topshop which never fail to update styles and influence modern takes on classic looks.
However, I am still a student limited by my weekly allowance constraint. Recently, I felt the need to start saving up my money for future use. Realizing that each item I purchased from one of my favorite stores never fell below two thousand Pesos, I decided to challenge myself and see how well I could maximize my budget while continuing to satisfy the growth of my personal style.
I have actually long admired young Filipino designers that have gained popularity through various bazaars and exhibits. Sadly, these were very seasonal and those that are already established were quite pricey as well. Recently, one designer I had gotten to know quite well (from frequenting the Fort bazaars) told me about this new place at the Podium where she was planning to put up a shop. Once this new wing on the fourth level of the mall opened, I immediately checked it out. To my surprise and amazement, all my favorite bazaar labels were available with all the latest styles and with the comfort of a fitting room! Brands like Gaupo, Wisdom by Gail Angeles and V by Vanessa were all right next to one another.
There are many benefits that come with purchasing products from such stores. For one thing, you support the growing industry and the young Filipino talents behind it. In addition, clothing sizes and lengths can be customized to fit your preference. Prices are reasonable and come up to be just a fraction of a dress from an international retailer. Furthermore, it is highly unlikely that you can bump into another person wearing the exact same outfit since these designers produce only about five pieces of each design. Quality is surprisingly good as well. Truly, this to me is a perfect alternative or “substitute” to purchasing pricier dresses from bigger retailers. Wearing dresses from V, which average from
Php 800 to 1250, make me equally happy and allow me to explore a variety of takes on fashion, while making sure I stick to my budget. In this case, I am still able to shop while being able to putting away some money in the bank.
Shopping in the new Markati Palazzo Wing allows me to satisfy my desire for clothing and updating my looks, while sticking to what my allowance can afford. My happiness or “level of utility” (in more technical terms) remains constant, although the goods I purchase are now different. Everyone should check this place out for it isn’t just for the fashion forward. Indeed, this is a hub of new ideas and growing talent which speaks well of the Filipino and where we are headed.
- Karissa Herrera
Photos from http://leaflens.multiply.com & http://cinemapicadizo.multiply.com
