Back in 2018, Zara, quite unexpectedly, entered into the realm of the big Black Friday sale for the first time. Unlike many retailers that continue to do Black Friday for two weeks, Zara’s sale was quite abruptly called Friday 23, and it offered 20% off selected items. It set a precedent that we had, up until that point, thought was impossible. This is a retailer that reluctantly goes into sale even at the most traditional times of the year, so it was weird and exciting that it took part in the Black Friday parade.

Since 2018, Black Friday and Cyber Monday have become a far greater presence in the world of discounting and peak retail moments. And yes, although the occasion normally marks the moment your inbox is flooded with offers of half-price paddle boards, clothes steamers, or air fryers, it is quite a good time to consider investment purchases of the wardrobe variety. So will Zara be doing Black Friday in 2022? It’s highly likely. For the past few years, Zara has taken part in the annual Black Friday shopping event, but it is always very short-lived. So you may find in 2022 that the discounts are only available for one day as a flash-sale opportunity. However, last year, the brand did also offer Cyber Monday reductions, so it’s worth checking back in.

Zara has become increasingly premium over the years, and despite there still being a more affordable offering in stores and online, it is the most considered and elevated pieces that the team at Who What Wear are usually most interested in. We’re talking about the real-leather jackets, the more expensive handbags, the best wool coats, and fine knits or perfect-fit tailoring. When it comes to sensible sale shopping, it’s all about pinpointing classic, long-lasting items over trend-driven throwaway pieces. A camel coat, a great pair of jeans, or an oversized shirt, for example, could always be considered a wise purchase if the fabrics are good and the cut suits you. 

Zara does a mean range of black ankle boots. This Western style feels right for now, but as an investment purchase, this is the kind of style that comes back into fashion time and again.

If you can’t stretch to a real shearling jacket, this style has all of the hallmarks of one and looks convincingly premium. 

This kind of draped jersey dress is timeless and works for lots of different body types. 

A classic black blazer will never be a bad idea.

A perfect pair of tailored trousers you can dress in a million ways.

The kind of neat and sophisticated handbag that belies its price tag.

I love this chic co-ord shirt and skirt for the office.

This silhouette is elegant and not tied to a trend or decade—it just works.

This stunner of a coat is great for anyone who likes an oversize coat to layer knits under.

Sometimes, the simpler the boot, the better.

This retro-look dress reminds me of a ’70s style I own (and love) that is now full of holes and falling apart.

This jeans shape is now a mainstay of Zara’s collection and for good reason.

This is the perfect French-girl blazer.

Bretons forever!

This is precisely the kind of classic, useful number I want to see on sale for Black Friday. It is water- and wind-protected, apparently!

Next: The Very Best New Blazers From H&M, Mango, and J.Crew