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You either love it or you hate it.

Either way, there’s no denying that Black Friday brings with it some outrageously good deals.

The trick is knowing how to sort the excellent buys from the silly ones. An easy rule of thumb is to focus on winter essentials; the stuff that keeps you warm and cosy long after Santa has left the building.

Preparation is key; decide what you need and research the best bits before the big day.

The rest is execution; get up early, make sure you’re adequately caffeinated, then sharpen your elbows and get stuck in to the bargain rails.

Here are six hot tips on where to direct your Black Friday blow-out:

1. Knitwear

The sales are the best opportunity to buy up fresh knitwear by the armful. Hit Tommy Hilfiger early for designer finds and H&M for up to 50% off everyday winter woolies.

2. Casual trainers

A cool pair of kicks will take you from the gym to the office coffee run and back again. Buy smart during the Black Friday sales and you’ll be set ’til spring. Hit Skechers for the best casual sneakers.

3. Bags

A good bag will take you right through the season and beyond – keep an eye out for bargains in simple, no-fuss shapes, like this snakeskin beauty from Topshop.

4. Suits

Ideal for dinner with your mates, a co-ord suit can be repurposed for work in January and the pieces can be mixed and matched with items you already have in your wardrobe. Blogger Shelley Annem perfects power dressing in this rust suit and faux fur jacket from New Look.

5. Coats

River Island has already discounted its coats and jackets, with even more discounts set to be unveiled on the day. The big prize this year is the cosy belted robe coat – it suits all body shapes and you’ll wear it forever.

6. Boots

Why rely on one pair of fabulous winter boots when you could have two? Black Friday is the day to stock up – the best bargains will be in Office, Skechers, River Island, Next and Topshop, where these leather KOKO boots are already reduced to €46.