Every Chic Item From Zara, COS and H&M I’m Adding to My Basket Ahead of Black Friday

As a shopping editor, Black Friday is my Super Bowl. The countdown begins weeks in advance: tabs open, wish lists organised, hopes quietly pinned on whether my favourite wool coat will finally plummet in price. After years of covering the chaos, I’ve learned that success comes down to preparation. Knowing which brands to monitor (and which items to prioritise) will make navigating the chaos infinitely smoother.

For me, the holy trinity of Black Friday shopping is Zara, H&M and COS. Between them, they cover every corner of my wardrobe: timeless staples, elevated basics and the occasional trend-led piece that still feels grown-up. Through my daily scrolls, I’ve learned to spot the unicorns—the perfectly cut trousers, the premium-feel knits, the coats that could easily pass for designer. From COS’s beautifully structured wool coats and cashmere knits to H&M and Zara’s consistently strong denim and outerwear, my winter wishlist has been quietly building over the past few months, waiting for this exact moment.

As for the pieces I’m crossing my fingers for? H&M’s expensive-looking mohair jumper is at the top of the list, closely followed by Zara’s sell-out reversible jacket and COS’s dreamy pure cashmere knit. But that’s just the beginning.

Whilst my own shopping list is intentionally tight this year—I’m prioritising fewer, better investment pieces—I’ve still done the legwork. Below, I’ve covered all bases and pulled together the Zara, H&M and COS finds that are genuinely worth snapping up in the Black Friday sales.

Shop My Black Friday Wishlist

ZARA

Knit Cardigan With Ruffle Trims

Chic and slightly whimsical, this wool-blend cardigan with ruffle detailing adds instant polish to jeans or tailoring.

ZARA

Zw Collection Pinstripe Trousers With Wool

These are the kind of trousers that instantly smarten up a jumper and trouser look.

This mohair-blend knit with a slight funnel-neck is the definition of an “expensive-looking basic”. You’ll style it on repeat with jeans, slip skirts and everything in between.

H&M

Square-Toe Ballet Flats

Already selling out fast, the square toe instantly makes ballet flats feel fresh and directional.

A chunky cable knit is non-negotiable for winter, and this one nails that heritage-meets-trendy sweet spot.

ZARA

Leather Mini City Bag

Structured and compact, this mini city bag looks far more expensive than it is. It's polished enough for the office, but still small enough to take out in the evening.

COS

Chunky Cashmere Crew-Neck Jumper

This is a true forever knit—chunky cashmere, a clean crew neckline and a relaxed fit that feels elevated rather than slouchy.

This jacket has that boxy, throw-on cut that instantly updates a simple jeans-and-jumper combo.

COS

Chunky Funnel-Neck Wool Jumper

The best-selling funnel-neck jumper is now available in cream, and is already selling fast.

H&M

Bootcut Regular Jeans

Bootcut jeans are officially back, and this style offers a leg-lengthening silhouette. They’ll sit just as well over loafers as they do ankle boots.

ZARA

100% Wool Check Coat Zw Collection Limited Edition

Finding an 100% wool coat for under £250 is not easy. This is the kind of outerwear that does all the talking, even over the simplest knit and jeans.

COS

Wool-Blend Barrel-Leg Trousers

Barrel-leg trousers are the cool alternative to classic tailoring, and COS does them particularly well. This pair adds subtle volume without overwhelming your frame, making them surprisingly easy to style.

The duffle-inspired details give this jacket a nostalgic, preppy feel, but the cut keeps it modern.

COS

Alpaca Merino Wool High-Neck Cardigan

Half cardigan, half chic jacket, this high-neck knit is the definition of refined layering. The alpaca–merino blend gives it a soft, lofty handle that feels decidedly premium.

ZARA

Zw Collection Wool Blend Jacket

Team this with jeans for daytime and over a slip dress for low-effort evening polish.

Roomy enough for your laptop and daily essentials, this tote is the practical piece that still looks pulled-together.

ZARA

Wide Sleeve Knit Jumper

This looks so cosy. The wide sleeves give this jumper a subtle statement shape without tipping into impractical.

These sleek suede riding boots are a timeless winter staple that pair perfectly with everything from leggings to midi dresses.

COS

Merino Wool High-Neck Top

The ultimate winter layer that will prepare you for the upcoming sub-zero temperatures.