How To Be A Sustainable Shopper This Black Friday 2020

By Nicole Gresen

11.18.2020

Black Friday- it’s the time of year when many of us are keeping our eyes peeled for a bargain. And with 2020 being a tough year for countless individuals and families, it’s understandable that the temptation of big sales and discounts may be at an all time high. However, there are plenty of ways to go about it in a more sustainable and responsible manner to avoid overconsumption. We’ve done our research to help you plan accordingly for a mindful Black Friday experience!

Before diving into the various deals on your feed, here are some questions to ask yourself:

Is this an impulsive purchase?

Have you been searching for this item or did the pressure of Black Friday get to you?

Do I actually need it?

Is this an unnecessary want or a need?

How much use will I get out of this product?

You don’t want to spend money on something that will end up hidden in the back of your closet.

Am I only buying this item because it’s on sale?

And is the sale even worth it?

Is the retailer I’m purchasing from ethical?

There are plenty of sustainable and ethical retailers to shop from as the industry pushes away from fast fashion. Check out our list below to discover some amazing, mindful brands.

Can I purchase this product second-hand or from a small business instead?

Second-hand shopping reduces over-production and the need for new labor and resources. Consider heading to your favorite thrift shop or local boutique instead.

Now that you’ve established your intentions, check out some of our favorite sustainable brands to shop this Black Friday 2020! Be sure to revisit this page next week for further updates.

renttherunway_124966573_1582453131926212_8717708511809527346_n.jpg — Rent The Runway

Looking for an outfit for an event but worried you’ll never wear it again? Rent The Runway is a service that allows shoppers to rent clothing with the overall goal of reducing clothing waste.
Last year’s Black Friday offer was 40% off everything so we’re predicting some great offers this year.

thredup_122893927_292800305081960_770653535032638774_n.jpg — 2. Thred Up

Thred Up is the world’s largest online thrift store! Their mission is to prolong the life of clothing and decrease the need for new clothing production. You can shop your favorite brands at high quality, all while practicing sustainability.
They are currently offering up to 50% off on your first order and have just added new mark downs from $4 up.

lacausaclothing_125191175_205623810916863_6126406116710621506_n.jpg — 3. LaCausa

This brand has it all: comfort, style and ethical production. LaCausa’s focus is being transparent to their customers. You’re going to be hooked!
They are having their biggest Black Friday sale yet:
15% off orders over $75, 20% off orders over $150, 25% off orders over $250, 35% off orders over $500

organic basics — 4. Organic Basics

The perfect place to find your wardrobe essentials. Aside from sustainable materials and ethical production, Organic Basics even has a Low Impact Website.
Last year their Black Friday sale was up to 30% off sustainable intimates and sets, so keep your eyes peeled!
Currently they are offering 20% off mens and womens packs.

made.trade_118599110_750446072386308_3033556427381071360_n.jpg — 5. Made Trade

Made Trade believes in being “ethically elevated”. This year, through November 30th, they have created the Black Friday Fund. You can chose to donate 10% of your order to provide food for families in need!

outerknown_117569917_2711975835744021_3211948193913406244_n.jpg — 6. Outerknown

Outerknown is a Fair Trade Certified brand that uses organic, recycled and regenerated fibers. Their S.E.A jeans are guaranteed for life to reduce the waste that is being dumped into the ocean.
Check out their website now for 60% off past season favorites in their warehouse sale!

Not comfortable shopping on Black Friday?

A lot of your favorite brands may have decided to take part in the Green Friday initiative. Green Friday encourages people to make a positive impact on our environment, instead of supporting fast fashion and over production.

Here are some ways you can take part: