Black Friday Style: Shop Smart, Skip the Stress, and Buy What You’ll Actually Wear

Black Friday is coming — and while the deals may be loud, your approach doesn’t have to be. This year, let’s shop with intention, clarity, and confidence. No impulse hauls. No “it was on sale” regrets. Just pieces that earn their place in your wardrobe.

This guide will help you shop smarter, save time, and choose items that support your style — not sabotage it.

1. Make Your Needs + Wants List Before You Shop

The best Black Friday shopper is a prepared shopper.

Before you click “add to cart,” take a moment to list:

• What your wardrobe needs

• What you’re wanting to add

• Any big-ticket items worth grabbing at a discount

This keeps you focused and prevents distractions from flashy sales that don’t align with your goals.

Pro Tip: Needs should always come before wants. Wants are the fun additions after the essentials are covered.

2. Have Your Gift List Ready to Go

Holiday gifting becomes much easier when you plan ahead.

Write down:

• Who you’re shopping for

• Gift ideas

• A target budget

This eliminates last-minute scrambling and reduces the risk of panic-purchases you regret later.

3. Restock Your Everyday Essentials

Black Friday is the perfect time to refill your staple items:

• Skincare

• Makeup

• Haircare

• Everyday tees

• Bras, underwear, socks

These are things you’ll use anyway — so why not restock at a discount?

4. Skip the Crowds — Shop Online Instead

One of the top Black Friday shopping tips for midlife women: avoid the chaos.

Online shopping offers:

• Larger size ranges

• More color options

• Online-exclusive items

• Better return windows

• No crowds, no parking nightmares

Stay home, stay cozy, and shop at your own pace.

5. A Good Price Doesn’t Make It Flatter You

It doesn’t matter how big the discount is — if it doesn’t:

• Fit well

• Flatter you

• Harmonize with your coloring

• Work with your lifestyle

…it’s not a deal. It’s a future donation pile item.

Buy with intention, not adrenaline.

6. Use Your Color Palette While You Shop

This is where smart Black Friday shopping becomes stylist-level.

Before buying anything, ask:

• Is this in my best colors?

• Will this shade brighten my face?

• Does this color coordinate with my wardrobe?

Your color palette is your personal filter. Use it to narrow options and avoid pieces that will never feel quite right.

Keep your digital palette open on your phone while browsing — it keeps you focused and confident. Get yours here!

7. Think Strategically: Where Will You Wear It?

Every successful purchase has a purpose.

Ask yourself:

• When will I wear this?

• What will I pair it with?

• Does it work for my lifestyle — not the one I used to have?

• Can I create at least two outfits with it?

If you struggle to answer these, skip the deal.

Black Friday Doesn’t Have to Be Overwhelming

With a clear plan, your color palette, and a smart wardrobe-building mindset, Black Friday becomes empowering instead of stressful.

This is your chance to elevate your closet with pieces that feel good, look incredible, and support who you are now.

And as a little holiday gift, here are some of our favorite Black Friday Deals, enjoy. And keep checking back, as we will add new options as they are announced.

Gail Scott

Gail Scott is Creative Director for Style and Beauty. She is a makeup expert and personal stylist. If you would like professional advice with Gail, please sign up for her exclusive 2-hour 1:1 session. Or schedule a 15 minute Style Chat with Gail to ask your questions.