Shopping in an open-air market has been the norm for many Kenyans as a number of people thrift their clothes in markets such as Gikomba and Toi Market.
In as much as it is slowly becoming the norm, the thrift process can be a little hectic because clothes are put in bulk and one has to sift through in order to get something appealing.
The sun can also be a little bit nerve-wracking.
Although not every problem can be sorted out, here are a few tips on how shopping in an open-air market can be done more comfortably;
Dress simple
First, if you are a lady, it is good to ensure that you wear a spaghetti top and a skirt. The top and skirt makes trying out outfits easier.
Wear sandals as well in case you want to try out shoes. It is easy to remove sandals and fit any type of shoes you would like.
For the men a t-shirt and fitting jeans or a short could make it easy to fit clothes. Remember that open-air markets rarely have fitting rooms hence, it is good to organise yourself prior to the visit to avoid disappointment.
Most thrift clothes are bargainable, therefore, do not wear expensive clothes as they would give the impression that you are loaded. Simple outfits make negotiating prices a little bit easier.
Carrier Bags
With the ban of plastic bags, it is advisable to make sure you have a carrier bag as it saves you from buying another one, hence, saving you some money.
Even better, you can carry a backpack so that your hands are free and able to choose from a variety of items. A bag is also good for security purposes.
Trustworthy friends
Why not turn this shopping spree into a day out with your gang. The more the merrier right? It is very important to shop at an open-air market with trustworthy friends.
This is because you are able to get a second opinion on what looks good on you and also extra eyes are good for those blind spots - you know the stain on that shirt, or that hole in that pair of discounted jeans.
It also helps to get good deals especially when you buy as a group of people.
Get cash
Before embarking, you have to get some doh! 5K should be enough for some killer outfits. Luckily, you can withdraw money from Co-op Kwa Jirani agents who are located nearly everywhere.
You can request the agent to give you the money in smaller denominations of 200,100 and 50 bob notes as you head into the market.
If you are paranoid and don’t like to put your eggs in one basket, you can split your notes in different pockets.
Also, the small notes make it easier to complete quick sales.
Don’t buy anything wet
Wet shoes or clothes are a No! No! Don’t get fooled by the seller that it is just a little water that will dry out fine. The wetness makes the colours darker and doesn’t give you a true representation of the goods which may fade out when dry. It could be that they are just wet by coincidence but it is better safe than sorry.
Go early
Go as early as you can when the bales are still being opened. This will help you get more appealing clothes as not so many people will have had time to choose from the bale.
The six are tips that could be helpful next time you decide to visit an open-air market and obviously before wearing anything you’ve bought there, it is advisable to wash thoroughly.
