Shopping is exercise in itself, but Black Friday is a whole other ball game. Running from sale to sale, carrying armloads of shopping bags, and elbowing rival customers out of the way to reach this season’s most covetable must-have items is all the cardio and weight training you need. That said, sweatpants just look lazy in a shopping mall setting. The biggest shopping day of the year calls for a carefully considered outfit. Take it from the pros…
Top it Off
In most states on Black Friday, you’ll find yourself freezing on the curb of a department store in the wee hours of the morning, then sweating as soon as you’re inside. So leave your winter coat in the car, and wear layers that can effortlessly be peeled off. Start with a fitted, cotton-blend, long-sleeved shirt that will provide subtle warmth, but will wick away sweat and allow the sleeves to be rolled up in the heat of the shopping moment.
Now, layer on a plaid flannel or chambray button-down. Not only will you avoid the dreaded static hair head caused by pulling a sweater on and off over your head when trying on clothes, but a button-down can also be easily tied around your waist when you need to shed a layer. Finally, top off your look with a knitted cardigan. Cardigans are on trend, so a drape-y waterfall silhouette or a chunky batwing style is the perfect blend of fashion and function. More importantly, you won’t have to worry about lugging around a down-filled puffer jacket.
Bottom Basics
What you wear on your lower half is just as important. Instead of sweatpants, which can look sloppy, opt for “jeggings”, which are far more stylish and no less comfortable. Boyfriend jeans can be slipped in and out of with ease in the fitting room. Or try harem pants on for size. They feel like your favorite sweats and are just as stretchy, but look fashion-forward and are available in a variety of prints and patterns. If sneakers are your go-to shoes, a slip-on style will sidestep the need to retie your laces time and again. Not to mention, chic ballet flats or leather loafers will do the rest of your outfit justice.
It’s in the Bag
Last but not least, your bag can make or break your shopping experience. Leave the satchel at home, and sling a crossbody bag over your outfit. This will leave your hands free to dig for deals and carry more bags.
Now that you have the perfect ensemble—flexible but not frumpy, comfortable but not careless—you can beat the crowds in more ways than one.
