Sports fans have championship games; the Refinery29 Shopping team has Black Friday. Instead of studying player stats, we compare prices, test products, and scrutinize anonymous shopping data to get in shape for the biggest sale event of the year. And now it's game day, baby. Let's kick it off with the best Black Friday deals — according to what you, Refinery29 readers, are shopping the most.
Every month, we recap the 29 top-bought products of the last thirty days (like gift-worthy blob seal pillows and multi-functional pens). But, for November, this will be a special Black Friday best sellers edition. Each of the carefully culled products on this list, aside from being a most wanted reader-favorite, is on super sale. Highlights include the world's most recognizable vacuum, the internet's favorite sunscreen, the most buzz-worthy sex toy of the year, and a bunch of others that may (or may not) surprise you. Parse your way through this data-drive collection containing what you and your crew consider to be the most wanted Black Friday and Cyber Monday markdowns worth scoring.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
30% Off Lululemon Wunder Under High-Rise Tight 28" Full-On Luxtreme
It's not an official R29-reader bestsellers list without the addition of a Lululemon legging. This year, the activewear retailer's Black Friday specials are some of the best we've seen yet, including this TK% off Wunder Tight.
Lululemon Wunder Under High-Rise Tight 28"Full-On Luxtreme, $, available at Lululemon
20% Off In Good Taste Advent Calendar
Promo Code: BLACKFRIDAY
The top-bought unique advent calendar from our holiday roundup is now on sale for 20% off (in addition to the rest of the reader-favorite wine retailer's site) — it's the perfect time to score the best seller for a December countdown filled with 24 mini bottles of wine. What could be better?
In Good Taste Advent Calendar, $, available at In Good Taste
$200 Off Therabody Theragun PRO
The love for Therabody's top-of-the-line fitness gadgets will never stop, especially when the retailer takes up to $300 off its best-selling massage guns.
R29 readers' favorite destination for elevated yet sincere sex toys, Maude, VERY rarely has a sale — and its current 20%-off promotion on orders of $75+ is one of the best we've seen to date. We'd recommend cashing in on a bundle that gives you all of its best sellers in one: from its often-sold-out vibe to its MVP-award-winning lube and its compostable personal wipes.
The luxury beauty brand, Oribe, does not roll out sales often, but whenever it does, we're always at the scene. For a limited time, the retailer's cult-favorite fanbase can rejoice and take 20% off Liter-sized shampoos and conditioners.
What can we say, these cordless hi-tech stick vacuums can be found, not only at plenty of online retailers but also in the hearts of anyone who has ever picked one up. Right now, you can find some impressive Dyson sales at Dyson or Amazon, however, we think this Walmart deal is the one to beat.
Dyson V8 Fluffy Cordless Vacuum, $, available at Walmart
20% Off Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen
Promo Code: CYBER2021
Another adored beauty brand, Supergoop!, is making hearts flutter by taking 20% off its fan-favorite SPFs for a limited time. If you're not hip to the retailer, Supergoop!'s collection of virtually invisible and oh-so protective sun creams have kept complexions sunburn-free for over 15 years.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40, $, available at Supergoop!
20% Off Dame Aer
We love Ella Paradis for its seemingly never-ending collection of sex toys, but also for its amazing prices. Although a sale is not necessarily a rare occurrence over at the retailer, miss Paradis is going all out for Black Friday with up to 85% off a wide selection of worthwhile goodies.
The MVP-award-winning robe that feels as close to being swaddled in a literal cloud as you're likely to ever get, naturally, is a shoo-in for most wanted Black Friday deal material. The giftable best seller is currently on sale for 20% off as part of Parachute's sitewide event in an array of cozy cotton-gauze colorways.
Parachute Cloud Cotton Robe, $, available at Parachute
74% Off Wayfair Sleep Cooling Memory Foam Support Pillow
Calling all hot sleepers: this critically-acclaimed cooling memory foam pillow has over 18,000 reviews, a 4.5 out of 5-star rating, and a 74% off price tag at Wayfair right now. Enough said.
Wayfair Sleep Encased Cooling Shredded Memory Foam Medium Support Pillow, $, available at Wayfair
20% Off Glossier Special #3 The Weekend Set
Glossier's entire rose-tinted site is 20% off and everything from the beloved brow gel to its festive holiday sets are up for grabs. IYKYK, the brand's fans are quick to snap up the best deals on the best products, so make your way over before quick before inventory runs dry.
Quince 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase, $, available at Quince
$100 Off Our Place The Home Cook Duo
The talk of the sustainable-cookware-town, Our Place, is handing out deals on its internet-famous kitchen essentials like there's no tomorrow. What first started as just $46 off the Always Pan, has now transformed into $100 of the Home Cook Duo, $40 off the Perfect Pot, $125 off the Fully Prepped Bundle, more.
Our Place Home Cook Duo, $, available at Our Place
68% Off Better Love Bunny Vibe
Promo Code: BLACK
We love Ella Paradis for its seemingly never-ending collection of sex toys, but also for its amazing prices. Although a sale is not necessarily a rare occurrence over at the retailer, miss Paradis is going all out for Black Friday with up to 85% off a wide selection of worthwhile goodies.
Better Love Better Love Bunny Vibe, $, available at Ella Paradis
True & Co. True Body Lift Bra
This buttery-soft support bra is a new addition to Nordstrom's site and our very own top-bought charts. It's an impressive 50% off for Black Friday and, like many Nordstrom buys at the moment, is worth cashing in on.
True & Co True Body Lift Bra, $, available at Nordstrom
15% Off Maison Margiela Replica By The Fireplace Eau de Toilette Fragrance
This unisex perfume was a recent runaway reader-favorite from our coverage of Nordstrom's best early Black Friday deals. The cozy-yet-sumptuous scent features woody notes with hints of chestnut, pink pepper, and clove.
Maison Margiela Replica By the Fireplace Eau de Toilette Fragrance, $, available at Nordstrom
10% Off Saatva Classic Mattress
Saatva's Classic Mattress may not be the most price-slashed product on this list, but it is, and always will be, a bonafide R29-reader favorite cushion. Plus, get an extra 5% off when you spend $2,750!
A top-bought product that really doesn't need too much context — other than we have a feeling it just may end up being the best-selling gift of 2021. *Adds to cart*
MerryXD Chubby Blob Seal Pillow, $, available at Amazon
25% Off Zella Studio Lite High Waist Pocket 7/8 Leggings
If Nordstrom throws a sale without some solid Zella activewear deals, then we don't want it. Lucky for us, these highly-coveted leggings are going for 25% off and are still available in a myriad of colorways.
Amazon Echo Dot (3rd Gen) with Sengled Bluetooth Color Bulb, $, available at Amazon
20% Off Brooklinen Super-Plush Robe
If there were ever a robe to rival Parachute's, it would be Brooklinen's Super Plush Robe. Its inspo comes straight from the luxurious feel of the brand's Turkish cotton towels and is made with an oversized, relaxed fit so you can snuggle up with no problem. Score it for 20% off in one of the classic, muted hues, or nab a limited edition colorful print for a little more pizzazz.
Brooklinen Super-Plush Robe, $, available at Brooklinen
48% Off Laurel Foundry Modern Farmhouse State Line Velvet Executive Chair
Wayfair is an oasis of discounted office chairs and on Black Friday the deals get even crazier. This executive chair is a top seller amongst our audience AND Wayfair customers according to its 3,000+ reviews and 4.5 out of 5-star rating.
Comfy Butts say: "Beautiful chair. The chair is not only comfortable but the perfect addition to our home office. Nice fabric color and quality — it was also fairly easy to assemble."
Laurel Foundry Modern Farmhouse State Line Velvet Executive Chair, $, available at Wayfair
30% Off Girlfriend Collective FLOAT Leggings
Although Girlfriend Collective's recycled & recyclable FLOAT leggings were built for exercise, fans of the brand are known to eat, sleep, and do whatever they please in their favorite pair(s). If you're going to shop the retailer's sale, we suggest clicking some of these r29-reader-favorite leggings into your cart so you can experience that soft, next-to-nothing fabric — or, add a few new colors to your growing collection.
Just last month, Jenni Kayne's expensive, but long-lasting Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan made its way into many readers' closets after one of our Freelance Writers gave it her stamp of approval. We have a feeling its relaxed fit, supple cashmere fabric, and multiple earthy colorways have something to do with it. Score it while it's at one of the lowest prices we've ever seen.
Jenni Kayne Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan, $, available at Jenni Kayne
30% Off Farmacy Green Clean Balm
Promo Code: FRIYAY30
Farmacy Beauty's skin-care products are both reader and editor favorites for their clean ingredients, sensitive-skin-friendly formulas, and result-driven benefits. But, the Black Friday best seller worth spotlighting is the brand's top-rated Green Clean Balm. Crafted with sunflower, ginger root oils, and papaya extracts, the product effortlessly melts away makeup and helps retexturize skin, leaving behind a soft complexion and fresh-smelling finish.
When it comes to bedding, we definitely make a beeline toward Brooklinen, Parachute, and Pact — but, recently, Cozy Earth's Oprah-approved bamboo sheet set has our full attention. If there was ever a time to try a new set of highly-coveted sheets for a whopping 40% off, it would be now.
Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set, $, available at Cozy Earth
30% Off Casper Wave Hybrid Mattress
Casper is a household name for a reason — its mattresses continue to lull customers to sleep and keep them asleep with their thoughtfully-made cushions. R29-readers have taken a special liking to the Wave Hybrid mattress that, according to one review, is "perfect for lightweight hot side sleepers."
With so many different vibrators, “personal massagers”, oils, and other sex-enhancing goods floating around the internet, it can be hard for a toy-curious person to discover (or even understand) exactly what might float their particular boat. A good place to start is the female-founded pleasure brand Maude, which has won over legions of loyal devotees (a number of Refinery29 readers among them) who love its accessible soft-touch vibes, woodsy massage candles, and luxurious bath products — and there’s never been a better time to check out the hype.
To mark Black Friday, Maude is offering 20% off all orders over $75. Just fill your cart to your heart’s content, use the promo code BLACKFRIDAY20, and enjoy your next solo or not-so-solo session. Even before plugging in the code, you can save big on Maude’s products by purchasing one of the retailer’s ready-made kits or bundles. There’s the bestselling vibrator and massager duo, for instance, or the Tub Kit, which has everything you need for a perfectly pleasurable bath.
The deal only lasts through November 28, so head to Maude’s online HQ right now to satisfy your needs — or, if you want get inspired, scroll down for some of Refinery29’s favorite customer-approved goodies. And if you can’t stop shopping once you’ve checked out the sexy selection, Refinery29 has you covered with the best of the best Black Friday deals across fashion, beauty, home, and electronics all weekend long.
With Maude’s bundled Vibe and Drop duo, you don’t have to choose between the brand’s best-selling vibe and all-body massager. Both products are discreet, rechargeable, and waterproof. Use one after the other, or try them both at the same time — Maude’s reviewers say this pair is a match made in heaven.
Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars and 14 reviews
Reviewers say: “Does anyone else use both at the same time? Me? Just me? Good LAWD just go for it. My new favorite duo.” —Angelica, Maude Reviewer
Treat yourself (or a loved one) to everything needed for a great solo session and easy clean-up: Maude’s soft-touch vibrator, organic lube, and hypoallergenic wipes. These products are small and sleek enough for easy travel, too.
Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars and 12 reviews
Reviewers say: “This was my first vibrator and none that I’ve bought since have lived up to how amazing it is. It showed up on my ads a while back and I decided to give it a try, and my God, what a great choice that was. I’ve since recommended it to all of my friends and it’s now a common topic of discussion of how much we all love this vibrator. The lube is fantastic and will be reordered, and the towels are great for quick cleanup. I cannot speak highly enough about this brand. It was a great find!” —Sammy, Maude Reviewer
Whether you’re sharing a luxurious bath with a partner or just enjoying a little quality time with yourself, Maude’s bundle of salts and coconut milk bath mixture has all the essentials you’ll need to calm down, soften your skin, and upgrade your next soak in the tub.
Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 19 reviews
Reviewers say: “I’ve been looking for more natural/high-quality products to use in my baths and these really hit the mark. Just a few simple ingredients in both of these. The Soak smells AMAZING (I much prefer a woodsy/earthy scent over floral/fruity) and the Bath makes my skin feel so soft and smooth. I’m absolutely loving these for ‘me’ time and am looking forward to trying Maude’s other products for time with my partner.” —Aline, Maude Reviewer
Can’t decide between Maude’s massage candles? Get the best of all three worlds with two different fragrances and one unscented candle. Thanks to the oil’s low melting point, it requires no cooling: Just blow out the candle, and enjoy ASAP.
Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars and 21 reviews
Reviewers say: “Burning the flame adds a sexy fear factor to intimacy. My partner and I were super into it!” —Sofia, Maude Reviewer
Finding the perfect lube can feel like an impossible task, especially if you have sensitive skin, want to avoid sticky residue, and don’t want to spend a small fortune. Thankfully, Maude’s organic, lightly scented lubricant will leave you feeling amazing, both during and after sex.
Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars and 190 reviews
Reviewers say: “Feels amazing for both parties. It’s not sticky at all, it smells good, and even tastes good. Perfect formula for sensitive skin! Highly recommend!” —Andrea, Maude Reviewer
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Welcome toMoney Diarieswhere we are tackling the ever-present taboo that is money. We’re asking real people how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we’re tracking every last dollar.
Today: a communications coordinator who makes $67,000 per year and spends some of her money this week on martinis.
Occupation: Communications Coordinator Industry: Communications Age: 30 Location: Queens, NY Salary: $67,000 Net Worth: $127,000 (Liquid savings: $30,000; Roth IRA: $40,000; Traditional IRA: $1,400 (rolled over from previous job); old 401(k): $9,000; brokerage account: $26,000; current 401(k): $21,000) Debt: 0 Paycheck Amount (1x/week): $867 (Only my subway benefit and taxes come out of this. My workplace has free health insurance and I don’t contribute anything to their retirement plan because it sucks. I contribute to a taxable brokerage account and Roth IRA on my own instead.) Pronouns: She/her
Monthly Expenses Rent: $1,050 Gym: $300 Phone: $60 iCloud Storage: $.99 Internet: $26.67 Electric: ~$23 (gas is included) Metrocard: $127 (taken out of my paycheck pre-tax) Savings: $1,000 goes into my brokerage account each month, or if it’s the beginning of the year, my Roth. I’m debating trying to save for an eventual down payment. I’m not sure buying in NYC is worth it unless I’m a millionaire… Streaming Services: I use my friends’ accounts
Was there an expectation for you to attend higher education? Did you participate in any form of higher education? If yes, how did you pay for it?
Absolutely. Where I grew up, you were a loser if you didn’t go, so I felt pressured by my peers and my parents to go even though I wasn’t ready. I wish I went to community college for my first two years instead so I could’ve saved money, but at the time I thought community college meant you were a failure. I wish someone had sat me down and said it’s okay if you walk a different path and figure yourself out first.
Growing up, what kind of conversations did you have about money? Did your parent/guardian(s) educate you about finances?
None. We never wanted for anything so it was never discussed.
What was your first job and why did you get it?
Babysitting neighborhood kids.
Did you worry about money growing up?
Never.
Do you worry about money now?
All the time.
At what age did you become financially responsible for yourself and do you have a financial safety net?
After I finished grad school at 23 or 24. However, I had tons of student debt and couldn’t afford to move out on my own. I decided I would move out once I paid off all my debt. I owed $70,000. I paid off $50,000 by myself and my parents handled the parent-plus loans, which were $20,000. A month shy of my 28th birthday, I moved out.
Do you or have you ever received passive or inherited income? If yes, please explain.
No.
Day One
9:30 a.m. — It’s Monday, but I have today off. I have a phone interview this morning with a recruiter and a dentist appointment. I’m so excited because this role would be fully remote. My roommate is still asleep, so I quietly make a breakfast of eggs, sausage, an English muffin (toasted with butter), and coffee. I use the last of the eggs, English muffins, and milk, which is fine because I’m going grocery shopping today. I sit at the table and watch an episode of The Chair on my phone with earbuds in.
12 p.m. — The call went great (I think). I’m excited to speak with more people at the company about the role. It’s a brand new position they created, which I think comes with more pressure, but I am so ready to not commute every day.
12:30 p.m. — I am feeling the energy and walk to the grocery store for a big haul. I haven’t been grocery shopping in a month. I’ve been going out a lot and doing Hello Fresh, which I’m still doing, but I also need some basic things. I buy eggs, a big thing of salt, a big thing of pepper, olive oil, English muffins, frozen pizza, bread, oat milk, whole wheat pasta, apples, tortilla chips, baby carrots, string beans, chicken, waffles, a large bag of mozzarella cheese, and two boxes of frozen garlic bread. I spend way more than I mean to, but now I’ll be good for a while, especially with Hello Fresh. $90.55
2 p.m. — I decide to eat the frozen pizza for lunch before meeting up later with my friend/former love interest, J. I assume we’ll do dinner, so I save a slice of the pizza I made for a different time. I’m so excited to see him. I developed feelings for him during the panni, and it was a whole thing. I’m not sure what I feel for him now. This will be the first time I’m seeing him in a while since I moved. He also moved, but he got his own place instead of having roommates.
3:45 p.m. — Dentist! This is my first time going to the dentist in three years. I used to go twice a year, but ever since getting shitty dental insurance that not many places take, I haven’t gone. Time to suck it up and do it. The dentist is great and I have a small cavity so I’m going back next week for a filling. This visit is covered, but next week it’ll be $50.
4:50 p.m. — Home! I didn’t think I was there for that long, but it’s been over an hour. I notice an email from a recruiter at a major firm asking if I would be interested in an opportunity. I agree to chat with her about it tomorrow. I also text J. He says he has a full bar but no mixers, so I pick up a thing of lemonade. I put everything in my bike’s basket and ride over to his new place. Last week, I told my therapist I was going to see J. and he said, “Are you going to do drugs and fuck him?” I said of course not. Everything has changed now. $3.50
6 p.m. — I arrive at his new place and before I enter, I know this is a place I would never pay to live in. It’s so depressing. It might literally be a cave, but then again, it’s all his with no roommates. I pour myself vodka mixed with the lemonade. I ask him about everything in his life, but he’s not forthcoming and barely asks me anything. I don’t know why he’s being awkward. He says he doesn’t want to do dinner. Then he asks if I want to do mushrooms. My therapist was right. I don’t know what to say. It catches me off-guard. I just say yes. Things start getting a bit frisky and I think, Why did I come here? I don’t want to just get high and sit around with him anymore. I guess I thought we would be real friends now, but it kind of seems like he just wants to do drugs and fuck me. I stop things from progressing and eventually leave.
10 p.m. — I’m home. I take out my phone to text J. that I arrived safely, but then I remember he never asked me to text him when I got home. I’m glad I didn’t hook up with him, but the whole thing left a bad taste in my mouth. I don’t feel like he respects me as a person.
Daily Total: $94.05
Day Two
6:45 — Tuesday. Alarm goes off. I get up right away. Bathroom, brush teeth, get dressed, pack my lunch for the day, which is a turkey and swiss cheese sandwich, an apple, baby carrots, and tortilla chips. I also take that last pizza slice for breakfast. Out the door by 7:20. My office called us all back in full time in 2020 as soon as they were legally allowed.
8 a.m. — I arrive and I’m already depressed. I find it hard to stay motivated when there’s no upward mobility. Many of my coworkers are unvaccinated and a few had COVID and management didn’t tell us. I only found out through the grapevine later. What I really want to do is write my book full-time.
12:30 p.m. — Lunch. I put my turkey and swiss in the toaster oven and eat at my desk. I rarely take lunch anymore. I’m too lazy to leave the office.
3:30 p.m. — I have a chat with the recruiter about that job.
4 p.m. — Done for the day. As I’m leaving, I run into a coworker who asks if I want a sandwich. I say yes and he hands me a giant sandwich. I thank him and know what I’m eating for lunch tomorrow.
4:50 p.m. — I arrive home. I say hi to my roommate, A. I technically have two roommates but the other one, T., has been away since before I moved in. However, he’s coming back tomorrow. I prep my Hello Fresh meal quickly before my call with my therapist.
5:30 p.m. — Call with my therapist. I tell him about what happened with J. and he says I told you so. I Venmo him $20 for the copay. $20
6:20 p.m. — Cook the rest of my Hello Fresh meal which is salmon and potatoes with a tasty sauce. I finish The Chair while eating.
11 p.m. — I’m going to some off-site locations tomorrow and am being picked up at my apartment at 8:30, so I can sleep in. I’m still upset about what happened with J., so I opt to take out my frustrations with a morning run since now I have the time.
Daily Total: $20
Day Three
6:45 a.m. — Wednesday. Alarm. No way do I wanna run.
7 a.m. — I can’t fall back asleep. Okay, I’ll run.
7:50 — Back at my place. I’m sweaty, but feel a bit better. I don’t bother showering.
10 a.m. — My coworker drops me off at the train and I continue reading a book on my Kindle, All Girls. I’m not super into it and it doesn’t have a plot, but a character in the book has apple cider donuts and now I’m CRAVING apple cider donuts. I wonder if Dunkin’ has them, then try to convince myself that, no, I don’t need it. I’m really trying to not spend unnecessary money.
11 a.m. — As I walk into my building, I pass my boss who says she left a surprise for me on my desk. Omg, I hope it’s an apple cider donut. What are the chances it’ll be an apple cider donut? Please be an apple cider donut. I get to my desk and see that it’s a special brownie that she made. My boss is the only redeeming factor of this job. If she weren’t the best, I think I would’ve quit ages ago.
12 p.m. — I heat half the sandwich, which is chicken parm. It hits the spot.
12:30 p.m. — I’m so exhausted from traveling around this morning. I notice I was charged for my next week’s Hello Fresh. I usually get charged Tuesday or Wednesday and then the box arrives Saturday or Sunday. I get two meals per box, but because I’m a single person and there are two servings, it’s usually four meals. I look and see that next week’s box is actually going up in price. I guess my promo is finally coming to an end. I’ll need to decide if $60 a week for two meals is worth it. $51.96
2:27 p.m. — I get a text from my younger brother, who lives upstate, asking if he can stay the night Friday. I say I’ll ask my roomies, but it should be fine. It’s times like these I wish I had my own place.
5 p.m. — I arrive home to a quiet house. When I see A., I ask if T. came back. He says he doesn’t know. I assume T. hasn’t arrived yet. I’m still depressed about J., my job situation, and where I’m at in life generally. I also doubt I can write a book. I need comfort food. For dinner, I cook three chicken pieces. I roll them in egg yolk and breadcrumbs and put them in the frying pan. I only eat one of these chicken pieces. The main meal is the mountain of pasta I make, which I cover with cheese.
7:30 p.m. — T. arrives. Because I moved in when he wasn’t here, we catch up and spend the next few hours rearranging the apartment. He has serious ideas about interior design. I don’t care where we put anything. I’m also very conflict-avoidant so I agree to anything.
8:30 p.m. — After we’re done figuring things out, I retreat to my room and watch an episode of Maid. I’ve never been that poor or a single mother, but somehow I relate to it so much. Later, I brush, floss, wash my face, then bed.
Daily Total: $51.96
Day Four
6:45 a.m. — Alarm. I get up and go to the bathroom, then get dressed, pack a bag for the gym, and out the door by 7:20.
8 a.m. — Try to do book writing.
12 p.m. — Eat the other half of the sandwich. I also have an apple.
1:15 p.m. — Get an email from the recruiter saying I’m scheduled for an interview with the director next week. I’ve been on so many Zoom interviews while in the office, I have it down to a science.
3:30 p.m. — My phone rings. It’s a different recruiter for a different job that I had applied to. This job is temporary, but honestly, I’ll do anything to get out of this place. She asks my price and I say $90-$100,000. She says $90,000 is their top, but I think that’s low considering the work is basically three jobs. She sends me an email asking if I can send her my resume in a Word doc and a link to their Linkedin posting. I say I can email her later tonight. I check the Linkedin posting and it says the range is actually up to $110,000… interesting.
4 p.m. — Quitting time. I head directly to the gym instead of going home first because I know if I go home, I won’t want to come back out. I do two sessions a week. I’m considering quitting the gym because, one) it’s expensive, and two) it’s getting cold, and now that I live far away, I don’t know if I’ll want to walk in the freezing cold. Also, if I quit my job, I def won’t be able to afford it. I may have a small crush on someone there though, which may be the only reason I haven’t quit yet.
6 p.m. — Done with gym! Some people are getting together at a nearby bar. I know I’m trying to save money, but I’m feeling super low and I don’t feel like going home yet so I head over. I order a margarita. I’m starving, but know I have the other half of my Hello Fresh meal at home. The bar turns out to be the pick-me-up I needed. A friend says that they’re going back to school to completely change industries. This fills me with hope. While I know becoming a novelist isn’t practical, or even probable, I’m happy I’m not the only 30-year-old considering a major life change. $12.98
8:30 p.m. — I leave early because I’m tired from the gym and life in general. I’m so proud of myself for only ordering one drink. I walk home past where I used to live and I’m regretting going to see J. I was doing so well before I saw him. He has thrown off my whole week. I get home to a quiet house, though I can hear both roomies in their rooms. I reheat Hello Fresh and watch Only Murders in the Building.
10 p.m. — Take a shower and brush/floss teeth. I get ready for bed. I send the recruiter my info and scroll the internet until it’s time to sleep.
Daily Total: $12.98
Day Five
6:45 a.m. — Ugh. I can do it. I can do it! I do all the morning things and then pack lunch. I don’t have enough cold cuts for a turkey sandwich, so I do PB&J instead. I usually have PB&J sandwiches every day for lunch because I’m poor. Well, maybe not poor poor, but I don’t think I’m considered middle class in NYC. Lunch in NYC is expensive and if I got into the habit of doing that, it would add up quickly. I also pack baby carrots, chips, and an apple.
8 a.m. — Arrive at work. I decide to use T-Mobile Tuesday’s promo to get a dollar off a Dunkin’ drink. I’m feeling basic so I get an iced pumpkin spice latte. I also see that Friday is get a free donut with your drink. I ask the lady if I can have one. She says it’s only with the Dunkin’ app. I don’t have the Dunkin’ app. I say never mind and go to pay for my drink. As I turn to leave, she says, “Which one do you want?” At first, I’m confused, then I realize she means a donut! Omg! I pick a pumpkin one because the apple cider one looks a little sad and thank her profusely. Score! $3.34
12 p.m. — I eat the lunch I made and it’s… gross. I don’t like this new jelly. Oh well.
2 p.m. — I’m bored and ask my boss if she needs anything. She says no, but suggests we call it a day soon and go get a drink. I immediately think, oh no, I’ve been found out. She’s noticed my poor performance and knows I want to quit. This is going to be “the talk.”
3 p.m. — We go to a posh bar, which has a martini happy hour — $10 per martini, which is a steal considering their other drinks range from $16-$18 bucks. I get their signature one and my boss gets a sweet one. The outing isn’t what I expected, she doesn’t talk to me about work at all. Instead, we talk about our childhood traumas and I tell her things I’ve not discussed with anyone. Once we are liquored up, I say how I’m sorry I’ve been “out of it” at work. She says I’m fine and she hasn’t noticed anything. Phew. The martini hits hard and I don’t have another because I don’t want to be too drunk for when my brother arrives. His girlfriend is driving him down and we are all going to go out for dinner.
5 p.m. — I pay the tab because I told my boss back in August I wanted to take her out for her birthday, but it just never happened, so this is on me. With tip, it’s $37.66. I go to the bathroom and when I come back I find she has made friends with the guy next to us. She says he’s bought us all mini espresso martinis. Wow! I cannot say no. I truly admire her ability to make friends anywhere. I’m way too shy and awkward to do that. $37.66
7 p.m. — They’re here! They manage to find a spot on my street. They say they like the area and we catch up a bit at dinner. I get the crunchy fish tacos, my brother’s girlfriend gets the veggie tacos, and he gets an appetizer sampler. We don’t get drinks. The tab comes out to around $55. He pays.
9 p.m. — They are both excited to see my new apartment. I take them up and give them the grand tour. They say I did well. I am really proud of my place (I just wish it could be all mine!). I set him up on the floor at the foot of my bed. I use my yoga mat and take the cushions from the couch for padding. He wants to have an early night to prepare for tomorrow’s travels. We watch the first episode of Squid Game. He’s already seen the whole thing, but this is my first time! Lights out by 10.
Daily Total: $41
Day Six
6 a.m. — My brother’s alarm goes off. He gets up and gets ready quickly. We return the cushions to the couch, he thanks me for letting him stay, and I see him off and then go back to bed.
10 a.m. — I finally get up and make a breakfast of eggs with swiss cheese melted in it, a waffle with butter, and coffee with milk and sugar. I watch an episode of Only Murders while eating.
12 p.m. — I sit down to do some writing. It’s hard because I’m such a perfectionist that I spend way too much time writing and rewriting a single sentence. I check to see how many words I have thus far — 3,200. Only…57,800 to go…
2 p.m. — I need to return my library book. The library is apparently closed on the weekends and their outside return machine isn’t working. I head to the Dollar Store and get a sponge and one of those wire-bristle things. $6.29
4 p.m. — I get home and see my Hello Fresh box arrived. I bring it up and spend the next hour or so looking on Amazon for my costume materials. I find some good stuff and place an order. $45.59
6 p.m. — I’m starving, so I cook a dinner of roasted carrots and string beans and a few remaining tortellinis I have from last week. I also heat up a piece of the breaded chicken I made the other night. Wow, I put way too much salt on the veggies. I can’t even finish them! I also have a glass of wine. I realize I never heard from the recruiter I had an interview with on Monday and get sad. I decide to finally set up my Switch and play Animal Crossing. I saw the new updates and I’m pretty excited about it. But before I do that, I wash my dishes and take out the trash.
8 p.m. — The Switch takes forever to set up because it hasn’t been charged in a while. I talk to my mom on the phone. I tell her I’m setting up my Switch and she remarks on how she wished she had one. Her birthday is coming up and I ask if she wants one. If she can get me a Switch for my 30th, I can get her one for her 65th. After I hang up, I take a shower. I decide to do a real skin care routine tonight. I use Pixi Glow Tonic, then Sum 37 waterfull skin refresher, then Moistfull collagen eye cream, then Moistfull collagen emulsion. Do I know what tonic and skin refresher do? No. Does my skin feel different after using them? No. Do I continue to use it anyway? Yes.
Daily Total: $51.88
Day Seven
9 a.m. — I get up and get ready for the gym. I don’t eat breakfast.
10 a.m. — Gym! My love interest isn’t here today.
12:30 p.m. — I get home and I’m hungry. I make a latte with my Keurig and toast an English muffin with peanut butter. I vacuum the apartment and my room. I also continue playing Animal Crossing.
2:30 p.m. — I decide to make Hello Fresh sweet potato and poblano quesadillas for a late lunch. It takes way longer than it should. I watch two more episodes of Only Murders and also decide to make some popcorn. I douse it in butter, which is the only way to eat popcorn. I also continue reading All Girls. I read about a book a week and set a goal on Goodreads to read 50 books this year. All Girls will be my 42nd. Next, I have One Last Stop.
7 p.m. — I open my book’s file on my laptop and have another glass of wine. I made a resolution to at least open the word document once per day, even if I don’t write anything, I have to engage with it somehow. Sometimes I think this whole book writing thing is stupid and I’m stupid. But then I remind myself I’m writing the book I want to read. As I listen to the Christmas music my roommate puts on in the shower, I’m glad I’m not alone. I think I am going to be okay. Even if these other jobs don’t work out, I’ll continue playing the game until one does and I’ll work on my own personal projects in between. That’s all I can do, and I think it’s enough.
Daily Total: $0
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Thomas and I began working through our holiday gift lists early this year, turning to some of our favorite brands that make it easy to shop during this busy season. We continue to rely on Amazon for a convenient and easy way to stock up on everyday fashion for women, men and littles. Today Amazon is offering a wide variety of Black Friday specials in just about every shopping genre. Seasonal clothing for the whole family, home decor, kitchen and cooking, yard and garden, tech items and games, toys, movies, books and more. Perfect for gifting to family and friends near and far!
Ah, Neptune, the Planet of Illusion, Deception, and Dreams. For the past five months, this planetary body has been in retrograde, which means it’s been appearing to move backwards through the sky. Retrograde can be a scary term, but Neptune’s backwards dance is more subtle than say, Mercury’s, due to it being much farther from the Earth. Even so, we’ll notice a definite shift when Neptune retrograde finally comes to an end on December 1.
Neptune retrograde exposed the harsh realities of the world to us and, at times, made us feel uncertain and confused. But now, it’s a different story. “We will be seeing situations clearly, after not being able to since June 25 when the dreamy planet started its retrograde journey,” says Lisa Stardust, the author of Saturn Return Survival Guide and The Astrology Deck. The rose-colored glasses are coming off and on at a rapid pace here, so chill out and slow down as you figure out what’s real and what’s not.
Leslie Hale, psychic astrologer at Keen.com, agrees. “Neptunian events have a tendency to appear as surprising, but in actuality the basis of what gets revealed was there all along, just hidden in a fog of confusion and obscured from recognition,” she says. And, sorry to break it to you, but this can be especially true for matters involving our relationships — this is the time when you may be forced to face the reality that a person you’re interested in just doesn’t feel the same way, Hale notes. Our advice? Take some stock in your romances during this time. What have you learned in the past five months? What have you been missing? Being disappointed or heartbroken can feel like a bummer, but use this time of newfound clarity as a stepping stone to becoming your better self.
Neptune is often associated with spirituality and imagination, and Stardust says we’ll be focusing on spiritual endeavors instead of materialistic ones, especially since Neptune is in the tender sign of Pisces. “It’s a great time to start healing and working towards mending issues, particularly personal traumas,” she says. “Also, embracing our inner artistry and talents, and opening ourselves up to unconditional love and mysticism or spirituality.”
When Neptune retrogrades, we’re more likely to listen to our inner voice and our psychic abilities may increase — now, we’re ready to share that knowledge with the world. “Pay attention to what you have learned about your intuition over the past five and a half months, who has shown up for you in your inner circle, and any lessons in spiritual discernment (aka any reveals around teachers, gurus, or ideologies that may not be up to snuff),” says Madi Murphy, the co-founder of The Cosmic RX and The Cosmic Revolution. “Life is about to feel a little dreamier as we move into the clouds again, but we want to make sure our feet are on solid ground.”
Murphy suggests using this time of Neptune’s direct motion to go deeper into journaling, visualization, or meditation. “Use compassion as your compass and see what your imagination and creativity want to reveal to you now,” she says.
There are some vines to be on the lookout for during Neptune’s move. “This year, Neptune goes direct around the time the solar eclipse in Sagittarius takes place, as both of the luminaries and Mercury form a square with it,” says Narayana Montúfar, senior astrologer for Astrology.com and author of Moon Signs: Unlock Your Luminary Power. “This will intensify the feeling of being lost in a cloud of confusion. Our vitality could take a toll around this time, so it’s important to keep a lighter schedule and rest around December 3, which is when this powerful lunar event takes place.” Rest is always important, so just make sure you’re marking down December 3 as the perfect day for a cat nap — or two.
Neptune can be positive in its effects on our creativity and ability to exercise compassion, says Montúfar. “Since Neptune will be crucial to the astrology of 2022, we should all try to attune to its vibration, even when feeling like swimming in a foggy sea of nothingness.” So push through those clouds and allow yourself to come out on the other side, clear and ready to take on the world — the fate of your 2022 is depending on it.
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Do braids look good on guys? – Oh, this eternal question.
And the answer is YES, for sure – otherwise, braid styles wouldn’t have been so favored by boys and their parents for such a long time.
Boys’ braid styles look awesome on young boys with medium-length or long hair. Even easy braided hairstyles look on point, but apart from creating a trendy image, protective braids styles like cornrows for boys are also perfect to keep natural hair healthy and strong. Besides, braided hair for boys helps to wear the hair up, taking it away from the face, which is a necessity for active little boys.
So, how to make kiddies braid hairstyles aka plaits hair for boys with extra length eye-catching on top of being extremely comfortable and versatile? We’ve got some ideas and we’ve listed the best braiding hairstyles for toddlers, older boys, and teens in the gallery below.
The Best Little Boy Braids in 2021
@blackhair_flair_prince_crown
Boy braids gathered in this guide combine style, functionality, and protection. Braided hair ideas come in lots of different unique styles and designs: from beginner easy braided hairstyles to sophisticated top-notch braids for boys with design.
Go beyond the limits of well-known cornrows and box braids for little boys – experiment with hair extensions, beads, zig-zag pattern, mixed boy braids, inversion braids, faded sides, and shaved-in design with a braided top knot on the crown.
If you’re curious about how far you can go with kids braids, scroll down and bring these ideas to life:
All Lined Up
@blackhair_flair_prince_crown
Braids with an undercut combination guarantees a stylish result. Thanks to the contrast between less hair on the sides and loner hair on top, those small plaits stand out and don’t fade into the background. You can add a zig-zag parting, when leading those two braids to the back. And if the shaved sides seem too boring to you, here is an idea of a design that will level up a traditional lined up hairstyle.
Long Braid Style at the Back
@blackhair_flair_prince_crown
Long braids are directed from the forehead to the vertex in an edgy dutch braids cornrows style and tied into a slightly disconnected top knot or man bun. This cute blackboy haircut with a fade is spiced up with a shaved-in side hard part, which disconnects this braid style. And for extra fuss, fix a bead or two on top of these cool braids.
Tie-less Braids on Natural Hair
@zibah_hair_makeover
Traditional box braids are one of those cute easy braid hairstyles that work great for all hair types. This braided hairstyle is a good solution for thick hair – it simplifies the hair care process significantly minimizing the need to detangle coarse hair. Natural Afro hair is also likely to curl forming such authentic twisted braids. If you don’t like this effect, just weigh the braids down with beads.
Thin Mohawk Braid
@hairbytakiyyah
Who said braids have to flow in one direction or must be styled into a single braids design? Man braids allow for freedom of creativity – and mohawk braid styles prove this fact. This braided version of a bold mohawk style is even more daring than the original look. And it’s also more versatile and long-lasting. Choose the sides cornrows pattern you like and enjoy a cool hairstyle that doesn’t require any extra effort on daily basis.
The Fishtail Braid
@ymbook
A single braid will be a win-win choice for little boys with extremely long hair. Long braids take a lot of time. So, crafting one braid can be a way out. To diversify this basic braid style, try a fishtail braiding pattern. Check out this video guide on how to make a fishtail braid step-by-step and start braiding from the forehead to secure all the hair strands away from the face and provide your kiddo with maximum comfort.
The Dutch Braid
@braids_bypunkin
Dutch braids feature an inverted braid pattern, they are more textured compared to a classic French braid. However, Dutch braids style is neither more time-consuming nor complex. Thus, with these inverted individual plaits, you’ve got a chance to level up quick braid hairstyles. Combine usual box braids and double braids cornrows in Dutch manner to diversify blackboy hairstyles.
Natural Twist Hairstyle
@mataelebros
Twisted braids are an awesome alternative to classic long braids for straight hair. Unfortunately, this unusual braids style is less durable but it’s such an amazing complement to a special occasion outfit. To keep it more long-lasting, use a medium-hold hair styling product on each strand before making the twists.
Zig-Zag Braids
@newnew_braids
A zig-zag pattern can spice up and revive any, even the most trivial braided hairstyle. Here you can see a variation of box boy braids undercut with double crossed zig-zag partings. Looks unboring and innovative. Make sure you use enough hair gel to keep the hair sleek closer to the head.
Huge Side Braids with Center Designs
@gees_styles
In this futuristic braid style, the sides are slicked back with huge reverse braids, which form a circle like a crown braid to highlight the central top section of the hair. Here, the design is more angular and detailed, with small braids forming a kind of pyramid.
Half Braids for Long Hair
@blackhair_flair_prince_crown
For a little boy with long hair, a braids hairstyle is always a good idea. When little boys wear braids, they don’t notice that their hair grows since it doesn't bother or distract them. You can rock half braid styles like this one – braided down till the tips, or fix the cornrows with hair ties and let the rest of the hair naturally flow down the shoulders.
Braid Extensions
@szini_braids_and_hair_style
Braid extensions are a way out for boys with fine hair as they help visually enhance the thickness of the hair. Also, colorful extensions can be incorporated into a hairstyle just for fun.
Shaved Ponytail
@tishas.gentle.touch
Nowadays, the best haircuts with braids for little boys are still believed to be based on an undercut. Indeed, the shaved sides and back help to keep the hairstyle neat and clean for a longer time in a fraction of effort. Also, it’s easier to style the rest of the hair and create intricate boy braids.
Short Braids
@realtor_nicole_
Can you braid short hair? As long as your little boy has enough length to capture the hair in the braid, you can braid short hair. You can start with basic short braids like in the photo and use a styling product to make the hair easier for adjustment.
Thin, Complex Designs
@blackhair_flair_prince_crown
Fine hair allows for thin, complex, and sophisticated designs with minimal effort. After rocking a hairstyle like this, you can forget about taming coarse hair for a fairly long time.
Braids with Beaded Ends
@_braidsnlocs
Beaded ends are a popular detail or accessory, which helps to make a braided hairstyle more unique and personalized. However, there is also a practical benefit from beads: they weigh curly and textured hair down so that the braids don’t roll.
Back Crown Braid
@_styledbyjt
There are lots of ways to braid the crown of a little boy – and here is another idea for your inspiration.
Little Boy Cornrows
@tishas.gentle.touch
Cornrows are probably the most predictable braided hairstyle for little boys due to its practicality and versatility. However, we couldn’t have gone here with an ordinary cornrows hairstyle. Tight and clean, this creative cornrows design is as compact and easy to maintain as a traditional variation of the style.
Funky Braid Styles
@jattas_hair_braiding_
Just copy popular funky braid hairstyles for men with the fashionable edge between clean faded sides and a braided man bun on top.
Braided Locks for Little Afro Boys
@blackhair_flair_prince_crown
No matter how much coconut oil and curls cream you apply on the natural hair of your little boy, protective boys’ braided hairstyles do a better job anyway. And you can go really very creative with braids for little boys.
Rattail Braids
@ponytrick
We can hardly forget about a rattail hairstyle – a cool alternative for those boys who don’t want to let all their hair grow long or just can’t choose between two hairstyles.
Little Boy Bun with Braids
@styles_by_crystyle
Don’t want those plaits to hang loose all of the time? A little boy bun is a solution. And those Allen Iverson inspired braids on top don’t only invest into an on-trend look of the hairstyle but also help to keep the hair in place and neat for a long time.
Tiny Braids for Thin Hair
@giovanadastrancas
Box braids for men and boys with thin hair can look this way: long and tiny, without any extra twists but still edgy and stylish.
Two Small Braid Hairstyles
@gees_styles
A two braids hairstyle on short hair of a little boy can be a challenge. But this idea of professional double boy braids with extra tiny side braids is a really long-lasting piece of art.
Fishbone Braids
@hairbynatou
If your little boy can withstand a couple of hours sitting, think no more and ask your hair stylist to make fishbone braids.
Reverse Braid
@hairbyjosaee
As old as the world and as simple as an ordinary French braid, reverse braids are always a good idea for little boys with long hair.
Little Boy Braids with Fade
@blackhair_flair_prince_crown
If you want a cool haircut for your little boy that’s sharp and versatile, braids with an edgy skin or taper fade are what you need. Besides the fade variation, you can also experiment with the braiding patterns on top – for example, try twists like in the photo above.
Conclusion
Braids for little boys are the ultimate in stylish and low maintenance looks.
Some of the hairstyles in this collection you can make by yourself, some braids for men will require professional help. The best thing is that both last for weeks and don’t require a lot of care and maintenance.
Hopefully, you’ve found the win-win ideas of boy braids for your little boy in our gallery.
