All posts by BlackerFriday.com

Hi! My name is Witold (pronounced "vee-told") and I am the founder of BlackerFriday.com. After many years working in corporate america, I decided it was time to take a break to pursue my real passion — helping people save money. Ever since I was a little boy selling pencils in the playground to my kindergarden friends, later collecting aluminum cans from all my neighbors in elementary school to support my baseball card addiction, eventually becoming an eBay Power Seller in my older years to support my college education, I had an eye for spotting deals. I’ve taken what I have learned over the years and built Blacker Friday to bring you the best Black Friday rumors, predictions, and news website. Fortunately I'm not alone in this - We have a great team of dedicated folks helping make this site possible. If you would like to connect with me you can do so on my Linkedin page, on our site’s Facebook page, or write me an email. Thanks for checking us out and I look forward to hearing from you!

What to Expect at Marshalls’ After Christmas Sale in 2024

2 Comments

Updated on Friday, December 6, 2024: Black Friday may kick off the holiday shopping season, but it’s the days following Christmas when some of the best deals emerge. Retailers across the board work to clear out unsold inventory to make way for fresh merchandise in the new year. But what about Marshalls? With their everyday discounts of up to 60% off original retail prices, can you still expect an After Christmas Sale?

Will Marshalls Have an After Christmas Sale in 2024?

The short answer is yes, Marshalls is expected to host an After Christmas Sale in 2024. While it may not be as expansive or widely advertised as the sales at larger department stores, it’s a great opportunity to snag even deeper discounts on certain categories.

Typically, Marshalls focuses its post-Christmas markdowns on holiday-related merchandise and seasonal items, such as:

  • Christmas decorations
  • Wrapping paper and gift bags
  • Seasonal candles and home decor

Expect these items to be marked down even further than their already reduced prices. In addition to holiday-themed goods, you’ll likely see winter clothing and accessories starting to hit the clearance racks. Think coats, scarves, gloves, and sweaters.

When Will the Sale Start?

Marshalls’ After Christmas Sale is likely to begin around December 28, 2024, just a couple of days after the holiday. However, the exact timing may vary depending on your local store. Clearance sections tend to expand gradually as stores reassess their inventory after Christmas, so the best deals may not all appear at once.

Some of the same deals may also be available at marshalls.com. Keep an eye out for clearance updates on their website starting in the last week of December.

Tips for Shopping Marshalls’ After Christmas Sale

To make the most of Marshalls’ After Christmas Sale, here are a few strategies to keep in mind:

1. Shop Early

While Marshalls frequently restocks inventory, the best deals—especially on seasonal items like Christmas decor—tend to sell out quickly. Try to shop as soon as the sale begins, whether you’re visiting a store or browsing online.

2. Check the Clearance Section Regularly

Marshalls doesn’t announce its After Christmas Sale with much fanfare. Instead, markdowns are added gradually, and clearance sections can grow over several days. Make a habit of checking back both in-store and online to see what new deals pop up.

3. Look for Free Shipping Offers Online

Marshalls occasionally offers free shipping promotions on its website, particularly during major sales events. Keep an eye on their homepage for any active promo codes. While Marshalls doesn’t typically provide sitewide coupons, free shipping can still save you a few extra dollars if you’re shopping online.

4. Scope Out Winter Clothing Deals

Post-Christmas is the perfect time to stock up on winter essentials. As stores begin transitioning to spring collections, you’ll find markdowns on coats, sweaters, boots, and other cold-weather staples.

How to Save Even More at Marshalls

Marshalls rarely offers traditional discounts or coupons, but there are still a few ways to maximize your savings during the After Christmas Sale and beyond:

1. Sign Up for the TJX Rewards Credit Card

If you frequently shop at Marshalls or its sister stores—TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, Sierra, and Homesense—the TJX Rewards Credit Card can be a worthwhile investment. Here’s what you’ll get:

  • 10% off your first purchase made with the card upon approval.
  • 5 points for every $1 spent at any TJX store or online. (Every 1,000 points earns you a $10 rewards certificate.)

Points can accumulate quickly, especially during the holiday season when you’re doing a lot of shopping. Just keep in mind that this is a store credit card, so it’s best to pay off your balance each month to avoid high-interest fees.

2. Check for New Arrivals

Marshalls is known for its frequent inventory turnover, meaning new items arrive in stores almost daily. This applies to clearance sections as well, where you might find fresh markdowns even after the sale has started.

3. Compare with TJ Maxx and HomeGoods

Since Marshalls is part of the same family as TJ Maxx and HomeGoods, you’ll often find similar deals across all three stores. If you can’t find what you’re looking for at Marshalls, it’s worth checking the other two retailers for additional clearance items.

The Bottom Line

Marshalls’ After Christmas Sale in 2024 is a low-key yet rewarding event for shoppers looking to score additional discounts on seasonal items and winter essentials. While it may not feature the large-scale promotions of traditional department stores, it’s a great opportunity to find Christmas decor, gift wrap, and winter apparel at even deeper discounts than usual.

Whether you prefer to shop in-store or online, make sure to act quickly—clearance deals are available while supplies last, and the best finds tend to disappear fast. If you’re a regular Marshalls shopper, signing up for the TJX Rewards Credit Card can sweeten the deal by earning you rewards for your purchases.

With the holiday rush behind us, Marshalls offers a relaxed way to save as you wrap up your holiday shopping or prepare for the new year. Happy hunting!

Comments

What are you looking to buy at Marshalls once Christmas passes this year? Let us know in the comments below.

What to Expect at Lush’s Boxing Day 2024 Sale

2 Comments

Updated on Friday, December 6, 2024: Lush’s Boxing Day Sale is one of the most anticipated events for fans of their handmade cosmetics and bath products. Taking place on December 26th, this sale is the only time of the year that Lush offers any kind of discounts, making it a must-shop event for those who love their signature bath bombs, soaps, and seasonal collections.

If you’re a regular Lush shopper or simply someone curious about what’s in store for this year’s sale, here’s what to expect, when it’s happening, and how you can make the most of the deals.

When Will the Sale Start?

Lush’s Boxing Day Sale is expected to kick off on December 26, 2024 at 6:00 AM PST / 9:00 AM EST online at lushusa.com in the United States. However, it’s worth noting that last year the sale started about an hour earlier than scheduled, so it’s a good idea to check their site a bit ahead of time to avoid missing out.

For those shopping in-store, the sale will begin as soon as locations open their doors. Some stores may even open an hour earlier than usual, but this will vary by location, so it’s worth confirming your local store’s hours ahead of time.

What Kind of Discounts Can You Expect?

The Lush Boxing Day Sale typically offers 50% off select items, primarily from their holiday collection. This includes products from their Halloween and Christmas lines, which are often fan favorites. Popular seasonal scents like Snow Fairy, Golden Wonder, and Yog Nog are expected to make an appearance, alongside limited-edition bath bombs, bubble bars, shower gels, and gift sets.

In some cases, the sale may also include products that are nearing their expiration dates or items that are being discontinued, but this isn’t guaranteed and varies by location. These additional markdowns are more commonly seen in stores rather than online.

In previous years, certain countries have offered variations of the sale, such as “Buy One, Get One Free” on selected items rather than flat discounts. However, in the United States, the standard deal has been 50% off, and this is likely what we’ll see again in 2024.

Why Is the Boxing Day Sale So Popular?

Lush’s Boxing Day Sale has built a reputation for being a big deal because it’s the only sale Lush offers all year long. Unlike other retailers that host discounts during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or seasonal clearances, Lush sticks to this one event, which focuses primarily on their holiday-themed products.

For fans of Lush, it’s a chance to stock up on their limited-edition seasonal favorites at a fraction of the price. It’s also an opportunity to try out products that might be new or unfamiliar without paying full price.

Tips for Shopping the Lush Boxing Day Sale

The Boxing Day Sale is hugely popular, which means that products often sell out fast—sometimes within minutes. Here are a few tips to help you maximize your chances of snagging the best deals:

  1. Shop Early: Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, the earlier you can access the sale, the better. Online shoppers should be ready before the official start time, as products can go live early, as they did last year.
  2. Have a Game Plan: Browse Lush’s holiday collection ahead of time and make a list of the items you want. This will help you check out quickly, especially since sale items tend to disappear from carts if they sell out while you’re still browsing.
  3. Refresh the Website: If something you wanted is out of stock online, don’t lose hope. Last year, some items were restocked throughout the day, so it’s worth refreshing the site periodically to see if they come back in stock.
  4. Set a Budget: With discounts as tempting as 50% off, it’s easy to go overboard. Set a spending limit to avoid regretting any impulse buys.
  5. Understand the Limits: Each online order is limited to 60 items in total, with a maximum of 20 units of the same item. Keep these limits in mind while shopping.
  6. No In-Store Pickups: Be aware that Lush’s usual “Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store” and “Endless Aisle” services are not available during the sale. All purchases will need to be made either fully online or in-store.

What’s Usually Included in the Sale?

While the exact list of sale items won’t be announced until closer to the event—typically on Christmas Eve—you can expect most of the discounted products to come from Lush’s holiday collection. This usually includes:

  • Bath Bombs: Look out for festive favorites like Shoot for the Stars, Snow Fairy, and Luxury Lush Pud.
  • Bubble Bars: Seasonal options like Candy Cane and Polar Bear Plunge are popular picks.
  • Shower Gels: Limited-edition scents such as Yog Nog, Rose Jam, and the iconic Snow Fairy tend to be featured.
  • Gift Sets: Holiday-themed gift sets are typically included in the sale, making them an excellent value for those who love variety.
  • Soaps: Seasonal soaps like Baked Alaska and Golden Pear are often part of the sale lineup.

Additionally, some stores may include items that are being discontinued or have shorter shelf lives, but this is not guaranteed and varies from location to location.

How Long Will the Sale Last?

Lush’s Boxing Day Sale is strictly while supplies last, and popular items often sell out within hours—or even minutes—after the sale begins. That said, in recent years, inventory levels have allowed the sale to stretch over a few days, both online and in stores.

Once stock is gone, though, that’s it for the year. If you miss out on the items you wanted, you’ll have to wait until the next holiday season to see them again.

Regional Variations

It’s worth noting that the Lush Boxing Day Sale can vary depending on where you’re shopping. Some countries may offer in-store deals only, while others might have both online and in-store options. Additionally, the specific products and discounts available can differ between regions.

In the United States, Lush typically runs the sale both online and in boutiques, with consistent pricing nationwide. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your local store or Lush’s website for the most accurate details closer to the event.

Last Year’s Sale Items

History

See below for Lush’s last few years of sale history. It’ll help you get a better idea of the types of deals they typically run in the days after Christmas and into the new year.

Here’s a look at the normally very busy Lush store located in downtown Düsseldorf, Germany. Photo by Witold Sadowski.

Comments

What are some of your favorite Lush products? Let us know in the comments below.

Will Louis Vuitton Have an After-Christmas Sale in 2024?

1 Comment

Updated on Friday, December 6, 2024: If you’re wondering whether Louis Vuitton, one of the world’s most coveted luxury brands, offers post-holiday discounts, the short answer is simple: No, they don’t. Louis Vuitton is part of an elite group of high-end fashion houses, including Chanel, Hermès, and Tiffany & Co., that never host sales. This includes Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Boxing Day, and the days following Christmas.

Why is this the case? The brand’s pricing strategy is deliberate, ensuring that Louis Vuitton products retain their value and exclusivity. For a luxury house like Louis Vuitton, discounts can dilute the brand’s prestige. So, if you’re waiting for markdowns to pick up a new bag or accessory, you’ll be waiting indefinitely.

Can You Find Louis Vuitton on Sale Anywhere?

Yes, you can find Louis Vuitton items at discounted prices—but only in the resale market. Pre-owned Louis Vuitton handbags and accessories are widely available through consignment shops, online marketplaces, and resale platforms. A quick online search will turn up a range of options, with prices starting around $500 for smaller, older monogram bags and climbing to $4,000 or more for larger, like-new models from recent collections.

While this is an option, buying pre-owned Louis Vuitton comes with risks. Unlike a used car, which comes with service records and a history report, the authenticity of secondhand luxury goods can be harder to verify. Counterfeit bags are a significant issue in the luxury resale market, and even seemingly reputable platforms can be duped. Documents like certificates of authenticity and receipts can also be falsified, making it challenging to ensure you’re buying the real thing.

If you’re not an expert in authenticating Louis Vuitton items, it might not be worth the risk of spending thousands of dollars on a counterfeit product.

What About Third-Party Louis Vuitton Resellers?

You’ve probably come across advertisements online for third-party Louis Vuitton resellers offering discounts that seem too good to be true—20%, 30%, or even 50% off. These deals are indeed too good to be true. Such items are often counterfeit or “gray market” goods, and buying them isn’t just risky—it undermines the integrity of the brand.

Louis Vuitton does not authorize any independent resellers worldwide. The only legitimate places to purchase Louis Vuitton products are through their own official stores or website. Some department stores, such as Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bloomingdale’s, house Louis Vuitton boutiques within their stores, but these boutiques are operated directly by Louis Vuitton and adhere to the brand’s strict pricing policies.

Be cautious of online platforms claiming to sell new Louis Vuitton bags at discounted prices. Many of these sites trade in counterfeits, and it’s virtually impossible to know the quality or authenticity of what you’re getting.

Does Louis Vuitton Have Outlet Stores?

No, Louis Vuitton does not operate any outlet stores. There aren’t any in Paris, Dubai, New York, or anywhere else in the world.

Luxury outlet stores exist for many premium brands, such as Gucci or Prada, but Louis Vuitton takes a different approach. Rather than risk cheapening its image by selling last season’s inventory at reduced prices, the brand opts to protect its exclusivity.

What Happens to Unsold Louis Vuitton Inventory?

One of the most surprising facts about Louis Vuitton is what happens to their unsold inventory. Unlike other brands that move older products to outlet stores, Louis Vuitton reportedly destroys any unsold items. This practice ensures that their products don’t end up being discounted, which could diminish the brand’s prestige and exclusivity.

By destroying unsold inventory, Louis Vuitton maintains tight control over its supply and demand. And while this might sound wasteful, there’s a financial incentive behind it. Since Louis Vuitton imports its goods to the United States from France, they can recover duties, taxes, and fees on unsold merchandise under Section 19 USC § 1313 of U.S. Customs law. These fees, which can range from 16% to 60% of the product’s value, are substantial, especially for items made with high-quality, luxury materials.

Is a Louis Vuitton Purchase Worth It?

Whether or not buying a Louis Vuitton handbag is worth it depends entirely on your personal priorities and financial situation. On one hand, Louis Vuitton is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, timeless designs, and high-quality materials. Owning a Louis Vuitton bag is often seen as a status symbol and a long-term investment in luxury fashion.

For those who can comfortably afford the splurge, it might feel like a no-brainer. A Louis Vuitton bag can last decades if properly cared for, and many of the brand’s styles remain in fashion year after year.

On the other hand, not everyone can justify spending several thousand dollars on a handbag or accessory. If buying a Louis Vuitton piece would require taking on debt, draining your savings, or sacrificing other financial priorities, it’s worth reevaluating whether the purchase aligns with your goals.

If you’re looking for high-quality handbags at a lower price point, there are plenty of premium brands, such as Tory Burch, Coach, or Michael Kors, that offer stylish, well-made options at a fraction of the cost of Louis Vuitton.

The Takeaway

In summary, Louis Vuitton does not offer discounts, host sales, or operate outlet stores—during the holidays or at any other time of the year. The brand’s commitment to maintaining its exclusivity and luxury status means that new items are always sold at full price, and unsold inventory is destroyed rather than discounted.

If you’re set on owning a Louis Vuitton piece but want to save money, the pre-owned market is your best option. Just be sure to exercise caution and research the platform you’re buying from to ensure authenticity. For many, however, the only way to buy Louis Vuitton with absolute confidence is directly through their official boutiques or website.

At the end of the day, whether or not a Louis Vuitton purchase is worth it depends on your priorities. For some, it’s a dream worth fulfilling. For others, it’s simply not practical. Either way, the decision is yours to make—and whichever path you choose, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to finding a handbag that’s perfect for you.

Questions & Comments

Let us know what you think about all of this. Would you want Louis Vuitton to offer discounts and rebates on their products? Or do you agree with their policy of no offers ever as a way of maintaining the brand’s image and appeal? Leave your comments below.