Do you have a small budget that you want to make the most of for Black Friday but you’re too overwhelmed by all the “deals” that you’re stuck trying to figure out what to shop for and where?
Love it or hate, Black Friday is the perfect time to get the best deals on your capsule wardrobe staples. But the idea that there are going to be sales and deals everywhere is overwhelming. Especially if you’re trying to stick to a budget and find some high-quality stuff, you need to know how to prepare yourself and make a game plan.
Maybe you know what you like at different stores, but really don’t want to go down a rabbit hole and waste like 15 hours online the day after Thanksgiving browsing the internet while you watch TV because you can’t make a decision.
I’m fairly certain that you’re a low key and chill person like me, so shopping Black Friday in real life is out of the question. Can I get an Amen?
Here’s the beauty of being an introvert. Retailers know that you’re apt to buy more online anyhow, so they’re more than willing to cut you a deal for shopping from the comfort of your own home.
Maybe you’ve noticed that the “dealz” window keeps expanding every year and that everything you need can be ordered online. My view is to stay away from mob crowds and shop this Black Friday like a pro.
If you live in the U.S. this is what it looks like. Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, (Sunday where everyone chills the freak out), Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday (which marks 4 weeks till Christmas Day)!
AGGGGGHHHHH – way too much to think about.
That’s why I’m here to help you! Let’s dive into the tips.
1.) Utilize people like me who’ve already created a list for you
First of all, there are loads of bloggers, and even retailers who have created curated gift guides and shopping lists for you. Try some of those out for inspiration. get my guide.
If you want a starter list with resource links and style tips, be sure to download my free guide 29 Classic Items Every Woman Should Own
This guide will give you a good idea of where to invest this Black Friday.
Ok, now that you have your guide and an idea of what you want, it’s time to start really zeroing in on what you want.
2.) Create a list ahead of time
In my online style class, Simple Style, I teach my students how to create their ideal capsule wardrobe and give them an exact list of items that they need to build it out.
But idea is that you need to have a list of items you know you need and want for sure.
Use Pinterest to save items that you think you want. Go to a brands website and start searching for things you need like a new winter coat, a leather jacket, a new handbag or whatever.
Pin everything from that brand on a board titled “Gap Picks” for example.
You can also create shopping lists within Amazon. And most brands offer some sort of “favorites” if you’re a logged in user. So start saving up your likes on the brand’s website as well by creating a user account and adding all your payment info ahead of time.
You can pre-load items in your shopping cart, but some brands will kick you off and delete your items. So make sure you’re pinning exactly what you want and adding it to your cart.
This also helps you get a ball-park idea of how much you might spend.
3.) Search for coupons, App coupons, & discount codes
Apps like:
- e bates
- retail me not
- yowza
- snip snap
Are all great if you need to shop at big box or conventional retail outlets.
For smaller brands that may not have codes or coupons floating about see if they offer a sign-up discount.
Most brands will offer some sort of sign-up incentive for you to join their email list. Something like 10% off your first order. If you’ve never shopped with that brand, be sure to sign up, grab that discount code, and be ready to stack discount if allowed.
And if you’re an Amazon Prime member, be sure to check out lighting deals and Prime Early Access.
If you are the email list of brands you know you want to shop at, keep your eyes peeled for early access to their Black Friday sales!
4.) Buy things that you know you can return!!
So important. The last thing you want is to purchase impulsively and end up being stuck with regret purchases. Even if that happens – you can sell on Postmark or The Real Real – so don’t worry.
5.) Buy try on sizes!
You have to add into your budget try on sizes. (It’s my personal belief that in the future, almost all brands will offer a free try-on box shipped to your door) we’re not there yet but will be soon I hope!
However, you really have to make sure that if you’re going to go through the hassle of clicking “purchase” that you aren’t disappointed when your items come and they don’t fit! I know it sucks, but talk to your spouse or partner about this beforehand! Bonus tip – use your travel rewards card because the more you spend the more points you get. Even if you end up returning things, it still counts! I think…I hope…
6.) Research sizing, materials, reviews
To that end, make sure you do your research about sizing before you buy a certain item. What the reviews of the product? Favorable? Middle of the road?
Make sure you understand if the garment truly fits your Style Manifesto.
7.) Shop smaller brands
Boutique brands to keep your eyes on:
- Imogene + Willie
- Nisolo
- Kindred Black
- The Real Real
- Mille
- Rouje
- Able
- Jesse Kamm
- Amour Vert
- Sezanne
I would also take this time to load up on your favorite beauty products, and furniture if that’s your thing!
8.) Make offers
Big tip is to make offers on eBay, Facebook marketplace, and Poshmark
9.) Focus on big-ticket items & forever pieces
I for one am focused on buying winter wardrobe staples that I need, like new winter boots, nice pajamas, cashmere sweaters. Maybe you need a new watch, that statement jewelry item, new glasses or sunglass, or a winter coat or forever handbag item!
Focus on the things you need to fill in your winter capsule wardrobe and maybe even spring wardrobe. Make sure these items fit your personal style, work with what you have now and if you still haven’t grabbed your guide, don’t forget to do that!
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