I’ve been writing about Black Friday for years, so believe me when I say there’s a right way to shop and a surefire way to feel overwhelmed.
One of the best ways to shop smarter is to come prepared. Don’t make the rookie mistake of ignoring the sales until your inbox is flooded with promotional emails from brands you haven’t shopped from in months.
Instead, it’s time to get organised. Start by bookmarking your favourite brands (I have a handy list of the top brands worth watching here) and curating your wishlists ahead of time.
And what should you be adding to your basket, you ask? That’s where I come in. I’m taking a closer look at what shoppers are already buying and which items are predicted to sell out fast this year, so you can get ahead of the rush.
What’s already trending (and selling fast)
To get a better idea of what shoppers should have on their radar this Black Friday, I asked The Iconic’s head of style, Nicole Adolphe, which fashion trends and categories she expects to be particularly popular. And her predictions are already giving me plenty of ideas.
“With Black Friday arriving just as we head into summer, I expect shoppers will be looking to refresh their wardrobes with pieces that feel current but are easy to wear. Summer dresses, matching sets, relaxed tailoring and lightweight separates will be high on the shopping list, particularly styles that can transition from everyday dressing to summer events and holidays,” she tells WHO.
Accessories are another category worth keeping an eye on, particularly if you’re looking for an easy way to refresh your wardrobe without spending a fortune.
“Ballet flats, sneakerinas, oversized sunglasses and statement jewellery are continuing to have a moment. They’re an easy way to update an outfit without having to invest in a completely new wardrobe. I’d also keep an eye on emerging trends like lace detailing, fringe and playful prints, which can add a fresh, fashion-forward feel to even the simplest outfits. When it comes to colour, shades of blue, aqua, butter yellow and red are ones to watch heading into summer.”
And if you have a calendar full of weddings, parties and festive celebrations coming up, now could be the time to get ahead of your occasionwear shopping, too.
“Think statement dresses, elevated separates and accessories that can take an outfit from day to night,” Nicole adds. “Black Friday is the perfect opportunity to get ahead of your summer social calendar and invest in a few standout pieces you’ll be excited to wear.”
Corine Linen Mini Dress
$149 at The Iconic
The Alex Sunglasses
approx. $200 at Jimmy Fairly
LJC Unwind Summer Shorts
$85 at Lorna Jane
Unforgettable Style Strapless Maxi Dress
$139 at Fortunate One
Celeb-loved buys to watch
When it comes to Black Friday shopping, celebrity beauty favourites are always a good place to start. Hailey Bieber’s go-to lip liner, Make Up For Ever’s Artist Color Pencil in Anywhere Caffeine, is one to have on your radar if you’re looking to recreate her signature pout.
Meanwhile, Kendall Jenner’s love for L’Oréal Paris Panorama Mascara proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve a celebrity-approved beauty look.
If skincare is more your thing, Sydney Sweeney’s go-to Laneige Water Bank moisturiser is worth adding to your wishlist, while Margot Robbie’s love of Aesop facial mists offers a little everyday luxury.
For those looking to invest in something a little more substantial, the CurrentBody Skin Series 3 LED Light Therapy Mask, loved by Kaley Cuoco, is worth keeping an eye on for potential Black Friday discounts.
Top tips for shopping smarter this Black Friday
If there’s one thing I’ve learnt from years of covering Black Friday, it’s that a little preparation goes a long way. Before the sales kick off, take stock of your wardrobe, identify the pieces you’re missing and think about any upcoming events you need to shop for. That way, you’ll have a clearer idea of what you’re looking for and be less likely to get swept up in the excitement of a good deal.
Nicole also recommends getting your wishlist organised ahead of time. From saving your favourite pieces and brands to creating Wishlist Boards for different occasions, there are plenty of ways to keep track of the items you’re eyeing before the discounts drop.
“One of my favourite shopping rules is to think about cost per wear,” Nicole adds. “If you can picture yourself wearing something regularly and styling it with pieces you already own, chances are it’s going to be a much better buy than an impulse purchase.”
