By Charlotte Hope-Shannon
Black Friday, a period in the retail calendar that is often met with unease by the most conscious shoppers. And understandably so, as discount events such as Black Friday or Cyber Monday have reached new, uncontrollable shopping heights over the years.
Indeed, these events reflect the larger issues of consumerism that has noticeably overwhelmed our society, promoting overconsumption and non-sustainable habits.
The question is however, can Black Friday be sustainable?
Notably, whilst there’s much to improve in the way these traditional shopping events are promoted, there is good reason to participate. And, whilst Black Friday may appear as the complete antithesis of sustainable shopping, it can be navigated in a strategically responsible way.
Whilst we are not suggesting you splurge endlessly on numerous Black Friday deals; we are recommending some ideas to help make your Black Friday purchases count for the long term. For both you and the environment.
Below we have curated a mindful shopping guide with items that are perfect for your capsule wardrobe or that will last a lifetime!
1. Timepieces
Nordgreen are a sustainable, luxury timepiece brand, rich in environmental and philanthropic efforts. With a focus on connecting traditional Nordic character, with enduring environmental goals, Nordgreen are working towards offsetting their carbon emissions.
Nordgreen’s watches are made from responsibly sourced materials, with customer experience and a commitment to the planet at the centre of their industry story. This is the perfect Black Friday brand. And, with every purchase made you can help support one of their three social and environmental causes!
For Her
Our favourite from Nordgreen is The Native which redefines the meaning of classic. From black leather straps to rose gold mesh, through to a silver link bracelet style, this is the perfect long-term, all-rounder for any occasion. Simple in style, but sophisticated in character The Unika is a new favourite since its launch just a few days ago, it has an original but minimalist touch that, in our eyes, make it very special.
For Him
If you would like to surprise your hubby or lover, The Philosopher watch has a two-piece dial and asymmetric second hand, creating a truly unique design. From gold to silver, rose gold to gun metal, this watch is the perfect addition to any men’s accessory wardrobe. Plus, it’s the perfect long term, sustainable luxury purchase!
2. Capsule Wardrobe
Black Friday is the perfect occasion to stock up on your capsule wardrobe must haves! From the perfect winter coat, to the classic white shirt, now is the time to invest in seasonal staples that will last you for years to come.
The White Shirt
A classic white shirt is a must have in any capsule wardrobe and one of the most versatile pieces known in fashion. Tuck it into some neutral separates for an effortlessly casual vibe, or layer it under a jumper and blazer combo for those colder winter days.
From crisp, sharp collars to balloon sleeves, the choices are endless. Why not choose a classic tailored style for daytime and more Avant Garde style for evening? A white shirt is a must!
The Winter Coat
A good quality winter coat that is both sustainable and worth the money is always hard to come by. Now is the perfect example of when Black Friday is a good sustainable investment. We all need a statement winter coat that will see us through the years and all weathers, with quality and grace.
From belted, tailored trench coats, to long-line hooded parkers, now is the time to invest in your forever coat!
The Blazer
Blazers are the easiest go-to piece to have in your capsule wardrobe and can be layered both in the daytime and evening for an added bit of warmth. Worn alone and belted as a dress in the evening or layered under a long coat for a put together, sartorial vibe, blazers are essentials! And they stand the test of time if invested in wisely.
I personally love a good tailored blazer and find it’s the easiest outfit solution if you have no idea what to wear!
The Standout Dress
Admittingly, we have all fallen victim to a dress or two. I know I certainly have! Whether it’s a last-minute purchase for an event or a summer holiday with the girls, dresses tend to make for easy, non-sustainable purchases. And, they always end up sitting in the back of our wardrobes after just one wear!
With Black Friday bringing a wealth of deals, why not find your perfect standout dress that’s versatile for any occasion. Try something classic with a bit of flair, in colours that suit your complexion to ensure you wear it time and time again.
Wear with heels or knee-high boots for a vintage, bohemian feel or a trainer and denim jacket for a casual day time look. The possibilities are endless if you invest sustainably.
3. Accessories
With a capsule wardrobe comes classic accessories. From the everyday black crossbody bag to the classic white trainer, it’s important to invest in staples that can be shared and enjoyed through all seasons and all occasions.
The Black Bag
A black bag is the most versatile accessory you can own. Worn cross bodied in the daytime or over the shoulder in the evening, a good quality black bag is an essential, forever staple. If purchased and looked after correctly, the perfect black bag can last a lifetime.
The White Trainers
As trainers have grown in popularity over the years, it’s become apparent that a standard, classic white shoe is a must throughout the seasons. And, as comfort often outshines style, trainers are now not only reserved for the weekends.
Dress down a formal, tailored two-piece suit or a sparkly dress in the evenings, or simply pair with your favourite denim jeans.
Boots
From Chelsea boots and combat boots through to knee-high boots and heeled boots, we all have our favourite style! Versatile in form, most boots are trans-seasonal and can complement all items of clothing. Now more than ever, it’s important to invest in items we truly love and so, finding the perfect boot is essential for any capsule wardrobe!
Belts
Belts are often underrated but can elevate any outfit in an instant. Synch in the waist of a dress or a loose-fitting coat, or add some flair to a pair of jeans. Belts are one of the easiest, and most sustainable pieces you can own.
4. Jewellery
Jewellery is innately personal and can hold special meaning in every unique piece. That’s why, when making a purchase it’s important to consider ‘where, when and how’ these pieces fit into your current collection.
Finding the perfect pair of everyday earrings or a sentimental necklace can be difficult. However, Black Friday is the perfect opportunity to invest in specially curated and excellently crafted pieces that you can eventually pass down the generations for years to come.
With Intention Comes Empowerment
Whilst Black Friday shopping can be overwhelming, it can also be empowering. It’s important to lead with a sustainable eye and focus on making long term and carefully curated purchases. This way, your spending is more beneficial to both you and the environment.
Making a purchase with intent is empowering and this, I feel, is what Black Friday should be all about. Shopping with a strategic purpose, is shopping for a better environmental future.
Rather than be consumed with retail extravagance, focus on creating your capsule wardrobe or finding that special, long term gift for your friends and family. Yes, Black Friday shopping can be sustainable if approached correctly and mindfully. And don’t be fooled by overzealous marketing – remember your empowered intention!
What are your thoughts on Black Friday shopping? What will you be investing in this year? Let us know in the comments below or join the conversation over on our Instagram Page!
Charlotte Hope-Shannon
Charlotte is a freelance writer from the UK. With a strong interest in literature, she is passionate about offering an openminded, diverse and critically conscious perspective on fashion, culture & the arts.
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This article may contain some affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase, KeiSei Magazine receives a small percentage of the sale price, or some brands may have paid a small fee to be featured. We only recommend brands that match our sustainable and ethical criteria and that we truly believe in.
