There’s nothing I love more than a good bargain… I mean who doesn’t love nabbing something they’ve had their eye on for an absolute steal? With that in mind, it probably goes without saying that Black Friday and Cyber Monday are two of the most anticipated dates in my shopping calendar, especially when it comes to Christmas shopping. So rather than battle the crowds in the QVB and Pitt Street Mall trying to track down some thoughtful gifts for loved ones, I find it much easier (and faster) to shop from the comfort of my own home (and preferably in pyjamas!).
Sales can be overwhelming at the best of times, and Black Friday is no exception. So to help you get the most out of the sales – particularly for those of you planning to use Black Friday as an opportunity to knock a few things off your Christmas shopping list – I’ve pulled together a guide on the best places to shop, as well as some gift giving ideas for your loved ones.
BEAUTY LOVERS AT HEART
Christmas time always brings out the best in beauty, and there’s been some incredible festive launches that I personally would love to get my hands on. I’ve picked out some of my favourites; from skincare (you can’t go past Emma Hardie Amazing Face), to indulgent (and sparkly) nail lacquers, and a multi-purpose palette from Hourglass that’s a minimalist’s dream. I love the idea of splurging on one really nice product, or getting a seasonal set – the latter of which always come up as good value for money come the holidays.
UNWIND A LITTLE
There’s nothing I love more than a truly relaxing evening at home, but it’s a luxury that I seldom seem to make time for. In saying that, there’s a few simple ways that I unwind; by throwing on a cosy pair of pyjamas (I totally have my eye on these from Three J NYC) or running myself a hot bath, and lighting a couple of candles. Christmas may fall in the middle of summer here in the Southern Hemisphere, but that doesn’t stop me from burning candles – I usually find something a little fresh with citrus notes is the perfect vibe.
A BOOK YOU CAN LOSE YOURSELF IN
Books make such a fantastic gift for a loved one, as you can really tailor the purchase towards their interests. I find that cook books, fashion-related reads, travel guides (I love the Wallpaper series) and nice meaty novels are typically your best bet (though I usually tend to grab a non-fiction political or economics read for my dad!). If you don’t want to go don’t the book route, I think that beautiful stationery is a great alternative; I’m personally partial to anything blush pink or marble-coated at the moment, but I’ve seen some incredible florals and banana leaf-covered notebooks and 2017 diaries that would make a lovely gift, as would basically anything from Smythson’s stationery range.
FOR THE HOME
This is quite possibly one of my favourite types of gifts to give (and receive), as the possibilities are endless and there’s something that will cater to all tastes. Any kind of serving platter is unlikely to go amiss during the festive season, and I don’t think that you can ever have too much glassware or too many vases tucked away in your cabinets. Anthropologie and West Elm are two of my absolute favourites when it comes to homewares, plus they both have a really beautiful selection of festive baubles and Christmas decorations, so much so that I’ve already picked up a few special ornaments to dress our tree with this year.
For something a little more personalised, you could opt for a print – framed or unframed – and I find I can’t go past Minted when I’m on the hunt for some new artwork PLUS you can get up to 20% off with the code BF2016. I just pulled the trigger on a couple new prints to hang in our living room (this one, and this one), but I think that the foil-stamped star sign prints by Annie Clark make a really beautiful gift.
PURSES, POUCHES & CLUTCHES
I feel like you can’t go wrong with a sleek and minimal looking pouch; it’s the type of purchase that can do double duty as a clutch for going out, or for those essentials you want to keep secure in your bag for on the daily. Everlane’s just recently launched a new range of SLG’s (small leather goods) in poppy red, blush pink and black which makes for a great starting point, alternatively I feel like Comme de Garcon’s leather zip up pouch is a good go-to classic that’ll withstand the test of time. Wallets can be a little trickier to purchase, as styles differ from brand to brand but I feel like this is a really thoughtful option if you know that your loved one is in need of a wallet refresh (and it’s one I’m banking for Luke as he’s in dire need of a new one!). I love a little bit of & Other Stories for clutch bags – they currently have up to 50% off – ASOS is also a great spot to find a quirky clutch (plus you can get 20% off with code GOGOGO)
A LITTLE BIT OF SPARKLE
Finally, I love giving loved ones a beautiful piece of jewellery. A statement pair of earrings is always a winner, as is a really fine necklace, or simple belcher chain bracelet. For fine jewellery, I’ve been all over Mejuri lately (helps that they have up to 20% off at the moment!), and when it comes to a statement earring, I usually can’t go past Kate Spade for something that’s youthful, fun, and incredibly versatile.
And before I go, I wanted to round up some of the Black Friday sales that I’ll be browsing (if you haven’t already stumbled across them through my gift ideas above, that is!).
Shopbop – Up to 25% off with the code ‘GOBIG16’
Nordstrom – An extra 20% off sale items
The Outnet – Up to 90% off (yes, you read that correctly!)
ASOS – 20% off with code ‘GOGOGO’
Urban Outfitters – Buy one, get on 50% off for all apparel
Barneys NY – Up to 40% off Designer collections
Neiman Marcus – Up to 40% off plus free shipping
Happy shopping! x
