Hunting for Imported Second-hand Bras at Senen Market: A Thrifting Ritual for Housewives That Never Quiets Down

Jakarta – Thrifting or purchasing second-hand clothing at Senen Market in Central Jakarta has proven to attract shoppers seeking not merely various types of outerwear such as shirts, skirts and trousers, but also imported used undergarments, particularly bras, which are sold at low prices and considered to possess superior quality.

This activity is undertaken by individuals such as Feni, aged 42, whose hands were observed deftly sorting through piles of imported second-hand bras at one of the market’s shops on Tuesday (10 March 2026).

She examined multiple discounted used bras priced at Rp15,000 per item.

Whilst conversing with other housewives gathered around the heaps of second-hand bras, Feni repeatedly remarked, “Usually they’re good quality ones, where are they? Where are they, are they all gone?” she said softly.

Unable to locate items matching her criteria, Feni then enquired of the shop assistant.

“Have you run out of thin-cushioned ones?” Feni asked.

“There are some, but they’re a different price, ma’am. These are thin-cushioned too,” the assistant replied.

Feni then examined the items the assistant had indicated, selecting a pale yellow second-hand bra and continuing to browse lace-style bras.

“Today I actually came to thrift for shirts at Senen Market. But I made time to thrift underwear as well. I frequently purchase second-hand bras because they’re durable,” she explained.

“These are imported, even though the bras are used. You can wear them for more than two years and the elastic still remains tight. Meanwhile, newly purchased bras often lose their elasticity quickly according to my experience,” Feni stated.

A resident of Rangkasbitung, Banten, Feni had previously sold clothing at Senen Market, which is why she has long been aware that various types of second-hand undergarments are also sold at the market.

If she does not locate desired items at one shop, Feni typically moves between other shops that also stock second-hand undergarments.