How to Prepare for Black Friday Like a Fashion Insider

One of the smartest moves you can make ahead of Black Friday is to curate a wishlist. Start by browsing your favorite brands and stores, and hit the heart icon to save items that catch your eye. Whether it’s a pair of perfectly tailored trousers, a statement coat, or a luxury handbag, adding them to your Lyst wishlist will allow us to track these products for you. This means you’ll be instantly alerted if and when any of your picks go on sale. Plus, having everything in one place makes it easier to prioritize once the sales hit — no more endless scrolling through thousands of products.

"When it comes to sales, patience is my silver bullet,” says one of our editors. “I keep a growing wishlist that captures everything from long-term wants to wardrobe essentials and pieces that fill existing gaps. Throughout the year, I bookmark the high-end items I’ve been coveting, then set sale alerts so I can catch the very first price drop before sizes disappear. Waiting until Cyber Monday is a rookie mistake — by then, the best pieces are long gone. Right now, my focus is on party season: I want looks that feel special enough for a night out but versatile enough to rewear for future occasions, making each purchase both satisfying and strategic.” — Munashe Ashlyn, Social Media Executive

Lyst Tip: Include a mix of investment pieces and seasonal staples in good-quality materials. Think about these timeless essentials that can anchor your wardrobe for years, like a sleek blazer or leather boots, alongside a few trendy additions to keep your look current.

There’s nothing worse than missing out on a deal from a brand you love. Following your favorite labels ensures you stay in the loop whenever they drop a sale or restock a coveted piece. By following brands on Lyst, you’ll receive real-time updates when they discount key items, so you’ll never miss an opportunity to save. Whether it’s high-end designers or those go-to everyday brands, keeping them on your radar will make your Black Friday shopping more efficient and rewarding.

“I’m personally a stickler for following my favorite labels — it’s the only way to stay in the loop when they restock or discount something I’ve been eyeing,” says another editor. “I have a few brands where I know the silhouettes fit me well and I trust the quality, so this Black Friday will be about restocking those essentials and finding new iterations of much-loved wardrobe staples — but at a better price point.” — Toby Standing, Menswear Editor

Lyst Tip: Don’t just focus on the big names. Explore contemporary designers and niche brands that might fly under the radar — Black Friday is the perfect time to discover new pieces at unbeatable prices.

A little prep work before Black Friday can make all the difference. Start by checking size guides and reviews for the brands you’re eyeing — sizing can vary, and knowing your fit helps you avoid returns later. Take note of each retailer’s return policy and shipping fees, too, as these can change during sale periods. And if you’re shopping internationally, double-check any taxes or duties that might apply before you checkout.

“For me, doing the groundwork ahead of time is key. It’s not just about finding the best deal — it’s about buying smarter. Understanding fit, delivery times, and return options means I can focus on pieces that truly deserve a spot in my wardrobe.” — Morgane Speed, Senior Fashion Editor

Lyst Tip: Make a list of your favorite retailers’ return policies, shipping fees, and any taxes that may apply. This way, when Black Friday arrives, you’ll be fully prepared and can focus on securing those must-have items without the stress of unexpected costs.

Lyst members unlock exclusive deals and early access, so make sure you’re turning on notifications. Once you’ve saved your wishlist, you’ll be notified the moment those items drop in price. This feature is your secret weapon on Black Friday — by staying one step ahead of the sales, you’ll have a better chance of securing your must-haves before they sell out.

“I never shop Black Friday without notifications on. It’s the simplest way to stay ahead of everyone else — those early alerts often mean I can grab the pieces I want before they disappear in my size. It’s like having a personal sale assistant working in the background while I go about my day.” — Reece Evans, Senior Visual Designer

Lyst Tip: Be selective with your notifications — customize them so you’re only alerted about discounts that truly matter to you. Smart shopping isn’t luck; it’s strategy. Lyst’s intuitive tools turn wishlisting into an art form, with features like My Sizes ensuring you only see pieces that fit perfectly. No guesswork, no stock heartbreak — just a curated feed of ready-to-wear favorites tailored to you.

Don’t feel pressured to buy just because it’s Black Friday — embracing the ‘joy of missing out’ can be a smart move. Sales happen year-round, and paying full price for something you truly love often means it’ll last longer in your wardrobe. Focus on timeless, well-fitting pieces that align with your style, and remember: your wardrobe doesn’t need to be built in a single sale.

“Black Friday can be overwhelming for investment shoppers like me, but there are ways to cheat the system. Not succumbing to the pressure of purchasing for the sake of it is a virtue. I shop year-round, so I stay mindful when selecting sale pieces that truly fit my aesthetic and won’t feel out of place in my styling arsenal. Putting thought behind every purchase is crucial — especially when the price tag’s high. The aim is to build cohesive, timeless looks so each buy earns its place in my capsule wardrobe. Ask yourself if what you’re browsing feels inherently you, and how it fits within what you already own. Be purposeful when buying — not in haste to satisfy a fleeting trend.” — Flora Devenport, Fashion Writer

Lyst Tip: Take your time to evaluate whether the items you’re eyeing truly fit into your wardrobe and personal style. When you buy with intention, you’ll end up with pieces you’ll wear and love for years.