Black Friday is so overrated. I know – I’m one of the world’s worst shopaholics and I don’t shop on Black Friday. My high school girlfriends and I used to, but we went more for something to do than for the supposedly amazing sales. We would get together for coffee and saunter over to the mall in the late morning. I’ll admit that the late start was mostly because of me…I’ve never been a morning person.
In my experience, the Black Friday sales are never anything to write home about. If you’re in the market for a 7000 inch flat screen TV, maybe it’s worth it. But for clothing? Don’t bother.
I am much more of a Cyber Monday gal myself, but I’ll get to that in my next post.
The Colorful Details:
Vest J.Crew Factory // Shirt J.Crew // Jeans Macy’s (old) // Boots DSW (old) // Photography by Katie McLean
Yesterday, I spent my “Black Friday” in a neon orange vest, white jeans (gasp!) and a chambray shirt. The weather was perfect for a stroll outside, so my friend Katie and I headed to downtown Lowell to pay a visit to our friend Ani, the owner of Humanity Boutique in Lowell. That brings me to my next order of business: Small Business Saturday!
While today is specifically dedicated to small businesses, I am all about small businesses all year long. You may think I’m biased because I work for two boutiques in downtown Andover, but I’ve actually always been a loyal local shopper! There’s nothing like grabbing an iced coffee with your best friend and wandering in and out of cute boutiques where the employees know you and remember your last purchase. Ok, well that part is good and bad. 😉
I decided I’d round up some of my favorite small shops in downtown Andover, MA because that is where I spend 90% of my time. But don’t forget that small businesses in every town keep communities thriving! Show your support to hardworking local folks this season instead of ordering everything on Amazon. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the experience!
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Chic Consignment: I can’t even tell you how many amazing, unique finds I’ve gotten here over the years. Chic is a high end yet affordable consignment shop right on Main Street. Some of my favorite purchases over the years include a pair of sparkly Tory Burch flats, a silk Equipment top, and a sequin All Saints crop top, just to name a few. It’s always a fun treasure hunt experience here.
Irresistibles: Ok, so I work here. But I promise I’m not plugging it for that reason. Working here actually opened my eyes to some of the awesome lines carried in this store. I get most of my Vineyard Vines apparel here, I got my favorite quilted Joules jacket here last winter, and my most complimented monogrammed clutch is from here as well!
dresscode: Yup, I also work here as the social media gal, but I’ve known the owner, Amy, for years. She is one of the coolest, chicest people you’ll ever meet, and her mission is to make every shopper feel like family. It works! My favorite Citizens of Humanity boyfriend jeans were on the summer sale rack here for $30…I know.
Izzy’s: Izzy’s has always been an Andover staple. Whether you want a trendy top, a tailored pair of jeans or a fresh new pair of Frye boots, they’ve got you covered here. The best part is they always give me their honest opinions about how everything looks. That is crucial!
Bobbles and Lace: I’ve spent more money than I’d care to disclose at Bobbles this fall. They have the perfect youthful, trendy tops, dresses, shoes and jewelry for your night out. In fact, two upcoming blog posts feature items from the Andover store. Stay tuned!
SoleAmour: Need some chic shoes and accessories? SoleAmour has everything from heels and boots to flats and flip flops. This summer I got a pair of Sam Edelman espadrilles on sale for crazy cheap. I also got my life-changing Yosi Samra flats here.
Don’t forget to refuel at Ultimate Perk, Perfecto’s and La Rosa while you’re downtown. Three of my favorites! Fashion + food? I’m always in.
Colorfully Yours,
Haley
