Updated on Monday, November 10, 2025: If you’re hoping to snag deals from American Apparel this Black Friday, then I’m sorry to report, it’s unlikely that we’ll see a sale from the brand in 2025. Over the past few years, American Apparel has not participated in the Black Friday rush, and based on current expectations, this year looks to be no different.
Why No Black Friday Sale?
American Apparel’s absence from Black Friday isn’t entirely surprising if you’ve followed the brand in recent years. Historically, the company has opted out of participating in large-scale holiday discount events, including Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
There could be several reasons for this decision:
- Focus on Everyday Pricing: American Apparel has shifted its business model to focus on consistent, fair pricing throughout the year rather than deep discounts during specific events.
- Sustainability Goals: As a brand that often promotes sustainable and ethical production, American Apparel may choose to avoid the high-consumption culture typically associated with Black Friday.
- Inventory Management: Unlike larger retailers with diverse product lines, American Apparel’s offerings tend to be more curated, making them less likely to hold excess stock that would require deep discounting.
Instead of chasing the Black Friday hype, American Apparel focuses on delivering quality basics and essentials at reasonable prices all year long.
Alternatives to American Apparel
If you were hoping to score basics and essentials at a discount this Black Friday, but American Apparel won’t be offering deals, there are several alternative brands and retailers to consider. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Uniqlo
Known for its affordable, high-quality basics, Uniqlo is a great alternative to American Apparel. During Black Friday, Uniqlo typically offers discounts on essentials like t-shirts, sweatshirts, and outerwear.
2. Everlane
Everlane shares a similar ethos to American Apparel, with a focus on ethical and sustainable production. While their discounts during Black Friday tend to be modest, you can still find select items on sale, including popular styles like their denim and sweaters.
3. H&M
For those looking for budget-friendly options, H&M often runs significant Black Friday promotions. You’ll find a variety of basics and trendy pieces at reduced prices.
4. ASOS
ASOS is a great option for finding discounted American Apparel-like styles. Their Black Friday sale often includes deals on t-shirts, hoodies, and loungewear from a range of brands.
5. Gildan
It’s worth noting that Gildan, which owns American Apparel, offers its own line of affordable basics. Gildan products are widely available during Black Friday at retailers like Walmart and Amazon, and you can often find discounts on similar styles.
Why American Apparel’s Approach Stands Out
In an era where nearly every retailer participates in Black Friday sales, American Apparel’s decision to sit out can seem unusual. However, it’s also consistent with the brand’s long-standing identity.
1. Quality Over Quantity
American Apparel has always marketed itself as a brand focused on high-quality, made-in-the-USA basics. Their minimalist approach to fashion appeals to those who value well-made, durable clothing over fast fashion trends.
2. Sustainability and Ethics
The brand’s emphasis on ethical labor practices and sustainable production aligns with a growing movement in the fashion industry. By avoiding the overconsumption often associated with Black Friday, American Apparel reinforces its commitment to responsible retailing.
3. A Curated Product Line
Unlike large retailers with hundreds of product categories, American Apparel’s catalog is more focused. With a core lineup of items like t-shirts, hoodies, leggings, and underwear, the brand doesn’t rely on deep discounting to clear out inventory.
What to Keep in Mind
If you were hoping for a Black Friday deal from American Apparel, it’s understandable to feel disappointed. However, it’s also important to consider the broader context of the brand’s business strategy. By focusing on consistent pricing and ethical production, American Apparel offers an alternative to the frenzy of holiday shopping.
That said, there are plenty of ways to save if you’re flexible. Whether it’s exploring clearance sections, signing up for email alerts, or looking at third-party retailers, you can still find opportunities to buy American Apparel products at a discount.
Additionally, alternatives like Uniqlo, Everlane, and H&M offer similar styles and often participate in Black Friday sales. If scoring a deal is your main priority, these brands are worth checking out.
Black Friday Ad History
How does American Apparel’s Black Friday sale compare to the deals from last year? How about two or three years ago? Follow the links below to view their full ad history all the way back to 2014.
- 2024: No sale this year.
- 2023: No sale this year.
- 2022: No sale this year.
- 2021: Page 1.
- 2020: Page 1.
- 2019: Page 1.
- 2018: Page 1.
- 2017: Page 1 and 2.
- 2016: Page 1.
- 2015: Page 1.
- 2014: Page 1, 2 and 3.
Questions & Comments
What are you buying at American Apparel this Thanksgiving weekend? Let us know in the comments below.
