Wishlist Now And Save Yourself from Black Friday Regret

First things first, start with the pieces you already have your eye on. That bag you've been thinking about since fashion week, the coat you keep coming back to, or the boots you've almost bought on several occasions. If you've wanted something for months, chances are you won't regret buying it for less.

Bags are a particularly good place to start. They were the standout category on Lyst during last year's Black Friday shopping period, with sales up 13% year-on-year. Coach was a firm favorite, so if you've been eyeing a Tabby, consider this your reminder to add it to your wishlist.

It's also worth thinking beyond your usual shopping habits. Search for your favorite pieces on Lyst, compare similar styles across different brands and price points, and don't be afraid to wishlist something a little ambitious. There's no harm in dreaming.

Ideally, before the words Black Friday Sale start appearing in every subject line in your inbox.

Give yourself a little time to browse without the pressure of a countdown clock. Save the things that catch your eye on Lyst, then come back to your wishlist a few days later. Still thinking about that jacket? Keep it. Completely forgotten why you saved those shoes? You know what to do.

And don't wait until Black Friday itself to start paying attention. Last year's Lyst data showed shopping picking up earlier in the week, so it's worth having your favorites saved before the offers start rolling in.

A little price research doesn't hurt, either. With Lyst, you can compare offers from different retailers, which is particularly useful when everyone seems to be promising the best deal.

Nobody needs another impulse purchase gathering dust at the back of their wardrobe.

Having a wishlist means you can go into Black Friday with something resembling a plan. Rather than getting distracted by every discount, you can focus on the pieces you actually want.

There's also the small matter of finding the best price. The same bag might be available from several retailers, sometimes at very different prices. Lyst lets you compare your options in one place, and price-drop alerts mean you'll know when something you've saved gets cheaper.

And it turns out patience really can pay off. During last year's Cyber Week, 77% of saved items that shoppers went on to buy were on sale.

I'm not against a spontaneous purchase. Some of my favorite wardrobe additions have been happy accidents. But there's a particular satisfaction in finally buying something you've been thinking about for months, especially when you know you've got a good deal.