It seems that every year, Black Friday creeps out a little farther. Like the Christmas decorations that begin to appear before Halloween, it seems that Black Friday has become more of a concept than an actual event. There are many places on the internet to find exhaustive lists of these sales, but I thought I would focus on a few of my favorites – these are the sales that have me hovering over the ‘checkout’ button.
End Clothing – 20% off sitewide. The selection at END seems to get a little better every year, and the prices are hard to beat due to the fact that they automatically deduct VAT. Add on this sale and there are many great deals to be had. Some things I’m eyeing:
- Jamieson’s of Shetland: some real-deal, made in Scotland shetland sweaters, under $100. Sizes are going fast. Also, be sure to check out Howlin’ for a more youthful take on these styles.
- Levi’s Vintage Clothing: I’m about ten years late to liking Levi’s, but I’ve finally come around. I’m considering getting their classic 1947 jeans in one wash rinse, which (as far as I know) isn’t made anymore.
- Fracap: I’ve become a bit obsessed with vintage-style hiking boots (more on that soon), and END has an amazing selection of Fracap Made-in-Italy hikers for under $200! This brand is hard to find but offers a great value, especially at this price. They also have a great offering from Danner if your tastes are a bit more American.
Private White VC – 20% off your order. Ok, this isn’t technically a Black Friday sale, but it’s still probably the best sitewide price you’ll get all year. My favorite outerwear brand has effectively banished almost all sales, but they recently created a referral program – with this link you can get 20% off of your order. There’s also 30% off a few select styles, so be sure to check there first. All of their outerwear is exceptional, but here are some of my picks:
- The Permanent Style Donegal coat: Dearly expensive, but what a stunner.
- The peacoat: one of the best on the market.
- The moleskin bomber: a great alternative to the more expensive suede bomber.
Todd Snyder – 25% off $200+, 30% off $300+with code ‘BLACKFRIDAYNOW’. Todd Snyder is another brand I’ve regrettably slept on, but no longer. Todd Snyder has worked for many of the classic American brands like Ralph Lauren, GAP, and J. Crew, and the last of which he was responsible for creating many of the great J. Crew collaborations. That same aesthetic and collaborative nature can be seen at his own brand, where the selection goes far beyond his own label. Some of my favorites:
- Paraboot: Todd Snyder has some great options from the French footwear brand, my favorite being the two styles of the Avoriaz (classic, buffalo). I told you I was on a hiking boot kick, and I’m not joking. The Avoriaz is probably my favorite, and the 30% off makes it cheaper than anywhere else.
- Private White VC: Another sneaky way to get the best outerwear at discount. All of these styles are exclusive to Todd Snyder, and the designs are really something. The best by far is the painfully expensive/beautiful family coat, which I’m doing my best to ignore but keep coming back to.
- There’s also Crockett & Jones, Drake’s, and more. Be sure to check out the TS branded stuff as well, as there are some great pieces.
J. Crew – 50-60% off. Much has been written about the demise of America’s greatest mall brand, but they’re not dead yet. Overall, they’re still a solid place for some classic pieces, especially at these prices.
- Mechanic jacket: for $100, this is pretty tough to beat. Field jackets are super easy to wear and this one has a great design and is solidly built. A no-brainer if you’re still looking for something like this.
- Wallace & Barnes: this collection generally represents some of the best pieces from each season, in terms of quality and design.
- Fair Isle sweaters: I would steer clear of the J. Crew cashmere, but their other knitwear is solid. Their selection of Fair Isle sweaters is tasteful – the kind of thing you could wear for that upcoming ugly sweater party but actually wear again.