Why Black Friday and Cyber Monday Are Not Worth the Hype

It’s that time of year again—our phones are buzzing with one thing: Black Friday.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I LOVE a bargain just like everyone else. But let’s be honest: Black Friday sales aren’t what they used to be. They’re bad for fashion and worse for the planet.

What’s the Deal with Black Friday?

Isn’t it time we ask ourselves what Black Friday and Cyber Monday are really about? I mean, does anyone truly know where they came from? The truth is, it depends on where you are in the world.

In Australia, the term originally referred to the devastating 1938 Victorian bushfires that claimed 71 lives, which then morphed into a “shopping day.” Meanwhile, in Philadelphia, the term dates back to the 1960s when police officers used "Black Friday" to describe the chaos caused by large crowds rushing to stores for Christmas shopping. Think traffic jams and overcrowded sidewalks!

One day, I was in high school, saying my prayers with the ash cross drawn on my forehead (Catholic school things), and the next, I was bombarded with ads for “the biggest sale of the year.” Talk about confusing! It wasn’t until this year that I really learned the truth.

You're Being Played

This US phenomenon has spread across the globe, with so-called “finance bros” taking advantage of us consumers. Their main goal? To fill our carts with unmissable deals on nonsense we don’t need. Let’s be real: that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will be back next month with the exact same deal.

This event encourages waste, promotes overconsumption, and fuels our discount addiction. It’s just another way for big businesses to diminish the art of fashion—the cost and time that goes into handcrafting. We’re fed the fear of missing out, driving our need to spend money just because it’s on sale. But if you zoom out, you’ll see that almost every brand is ALWAYS having a sale. So let’s stand up for our money and our rights and say no more!

Think about it: if these companies can sell sale items this often and still earn a profit, doesn’t it make you question why they’re sold at full price in the first place? It’s all about money; they don’t care about you.

What Can You Do?

Stop before you shop. Shift your mindset to become a conscious consumer. Before you reach for your card, ask yourself these questions:

• Do I already own something similar?

• Am I just wanting this because it’s on sale?

• How long will this last?

• Will I really wear this?

  
  

You’ll find that the thrill of the bargain often leads the way. Take control, and your wallet will thank you.

The Joy of Conscious Shopping

Let’s talk about the joy of conscious shopping. Imagine walking into a store and feeling a sense of peace instead of panic. You’re not racing against the clock or the crowd. You’re making choices that align with your values.

When you choose to shop consciously, you’re not just buying a product; you’re investing in a story. Each piece you select has a narrative—one that reflects your commitment to ethical and sustainable fashion.

Embracing Slow Fashion

Slow fashion is more than just a trend; it’s a movement. It’s about quality over quantity. It’s about supporting artisans and brands that prioritize craftsmanship over mass production.

When you invest in a beautifully crafted crochet bag or accessory, you’re not just adding to your wardrobe. You’re supporting a sustainable future. You’re saying no to fast fashion and yes to pieces that will last.

The Power of Intention

So, what’s the takeaway? Shop consciously, buy with intention. When you make mindful choices, you’re not just benefiting yourself; you’re contributing to a larger cause.

Let’s ditch the chaos of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Instead, let’s celebrate the beauty of thoughtful consumption. Let’s uplift brands that align with our values.

In the end, it’s not just about the sale; it’s about the impact we make. So, the next time you’re tempted by a flashy sale, remember: you have the power to choose differently.

Let’s embrace a future where fashion is sustainable, ethical, and oh-so-stylish. Together, we can make a difference, one conscious choice at a time.

Shop consciously, buy with intention.