How to shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (and some of my top picks…)
It’s just about that time again…the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale kicks off this week with early access for cardholders. Today I’m sharing some of my strategies for making the most of this sale (without getting overwhelmed or losing focus).
I’ve said this every year for the last few years, but while this sale can be over-hyped, I do think it’s still worth checking out. It features new styles for fall, so it’s not the same picked-over stuff we’ve all been looking at for the last few months. There are always some good pieces in the mix. (And this year, I think the selection is better than it’s been in a while!) Usually, if I come away with 2-3 “keepers,” I consider that a success. And aside from clothing and accessories, there are usually opportunities to replenish lingerie, hosiery, and beauty favorites at reduced prices.
How to shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
The sale preview is already online. If you are a Nordstrom cardholder, you’ll be able to shop the sale first, as early as July 9 depending on your Nordy Club status. (Check your account information for your status and access date.) “All Skate” access (everyone else) starts July 15.
The good news is, you still have some time to go through the preview. If you have a Nordstrom account you can save favorites to your Wish List, and easily add them to your cart when you have access to shop.
Here’s the strategy I use to get the most from this sale:
When you first open the sale Preview, it can be a little overwhelming; there’s just so much there! So I’ve developed a few strategies to help you stay focused and find what you need.
👉 Make a list. Are there items you need to replace or refresh? Gaps in your wardrobe? You can use the filters on the Nordstrom product pages to refine your search by item type.
If you’re planning to shop this sale, what types of items will you be looking for? Let me know and I’ll be on the lookout.
👉 Then, search by your favorite brands. Some of the brands I usually check for first are:
- Eileen Fisher
- Madewell
- AG
- Halogen
- Caslon
- Open Edit
- Vince
- Theory
- Cole Haan
- Paul Green
- Hanky Panky
- Rag & bone
- Cinq à Sept
- Veronica Beard
- L’Agence
- Nic + Zoe
👉 Next, I’ll do a broader search by category. For example:
- Ankle boots
- Jeans
- Women’s jackets
- Weatherproof footwear
- Sneakers
- Cashmere sweaters
- Beauty gift sets
- Hosiery
Finally, I may wait a day or so to clear my head, then I’ll do what I call a “stream of consciousness” lap, just scrolling through broad categories (e.g. Clothing, Shoes, Beauty, Accessories) to see what catches my eye that I might have overlooked. (I’ve actually found some of my best Anniversary Sale purchases this way.)
And I’ll also take a pass through the store early in the sale, to see if anything jumps out at me.
👉 Don’t get discouraged…inventory may be tight on some items, but if something you wanted is sold out in your size or preferred color, bookmark it or keep on your wish list, and sign up for email notification of restocks, or check back periodically. Returns and restocks happen throughout the sale period. With the shift toward shopping more online rather than in stores, there will be more tendency for people to order multiple sizes and return what doesn’t fit.
Some of my first round picks
I like to focus first on versatile basics, and these are a few pieces that stood out during my first few passes through the sale. Some of these may sell out quickly, so keep on your wish list, and sign up to be notified by email if sold-out favorites come back in stock.
Jackets
Classic tweed and boucle jackets have become one of those seasonless, perennial items. This knit version (also available in Plus) has ruched sleeves for added interest.
Dress it up or down, it’s a versatile piece!
Cole Haan wing collar leather jacket
I’m always on the lookout for leather jackets that aren’t a moto or blazer style. I love the clean lines and flattering length on this one (also available in black).
Classic style with a relaxed attitude, this budget-friendly cotton-blend knit blazer is perfect for travel and transitional season wear. It’s available in several colors, sizes XX-Small to XX-Large.
Another great transitional season jacket, this one is also offered in black.
(Fit note: I’ve found that Barbour quilted jackets tend to run a little small/narrow through the shoulders, so you may want to size up.)
Sweaters
Here’s another style that I think will sell quickly. It’s a cotton blend, with a not-too-deep v-neck. Sizes XX-Small to XX-Large.
(In my experience, Madewell sweaters also tend to run a little large.)
Rag & bone cotton-blend cardigan
Don’t hit the snooze button on this one, as I think it will sell quickly. While this color is best for Summers, I think it’s neutral enough that some Springs & Autumns could wear it as well, mixed with some of your other palette colors. Sizes XX-Small to X-Large.
(In my experience, Rag & bone cardigans run just a little large.)
Vince wool-cashmere short sleeve sweater
I love short sleeve sweaters like this one for travel and transitional seasons! Wear alone or layer under a jacket or blazer. Also available in navy and soft brown.
Caslon pima cotton stripe cardigan
This cute striped cardigan is available in a few colors (plus one solid color) but it’s hard to go wrong with navy…
Sizes XX-Small to XX-Large.
Jeans
You can always find some good denim options in the Anniversary sale, though some of the most popular styles tend to go quickly.
This style continues to be popular, for good reason. It’s a flattering slim leg (not skinny) style with a nice bit of stretch. I like this medium wash for versatility, which isn’t too distressed. Sizes 23-33.
Paige “Cindy” straight leg jeans
This is another popular style and with good reason. These have a classic look and a smooth, non-distressed wash.
This “ex-boyfriend” style is one I’ve worn regularly for the last few years. They’re easy to style and a nice marriage of slim and slouchy. I like this wash: a little bit faded, but not too distressed.
Shoes
As always, some of the best finds are in the shoe department!
I’m starting off with something in leopard print, because of course I am…😂 🐆
But I also really like the modern shape of this budget-friendly loafer.
If sleek minimalism is your style vibe, these ankle boots are sure to appeal. They’re also available in gray and brown suede.
I find Vince shoes run consistently about 1/2 size large.
Ilse Jacobsen “Tulip” slip-ons
These comfortable shoes are a “fan favorite,” and a style you won’t need to wait for cooler weather to wear. Several colors available.
AGL flats always get rave reviews for support & comfort. This quilted style in pewter metallic has the look of a high end designer brand that costs about 4x as much…
Accessories
Monica Vinader keshi pearl earrings
What can I say, other than “absolute stunners?”
This simple and classic bag has a detachable crossbody strap, and is also offered in “Chalk” white and black.
(Yes, you can remove the logo tag/charm.)
CELINE. Yes, really!
Dagne Dover large Landon carryall
This is the same carryall I used on my last overseas trip. It holds a TON and has lots of well-thought-out organization and features.
Next up, I’ll be sharing what’s on my wish list. And I’ll be providing updates throughout the sale, so do check back!
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Thank you for your suggestions. I can’t shop until the 11th but the Wish List is the key! I find most things sell out quickly and then quickly get returned (former Nordstrom employee here) so Nordstrom will notify you when you wish list item is back in stock. It’s a great tool. Happy shopping everyone!
Really a great post today. I agree that Nordstrom sale is better than normal this year. You have a Longchamp bag on your post – if you want a nice light weight bag from a great company I highly recommend those bags. I bought my first one 16 years ago and used it so much it got a tiny hole in the seam. I sent it in to the company, they repaired it at no charged and it came back clean – like new. I have since added several different sizes and colors and love them. I really like your suggestions today – definitely will keep watching for other things you suggest in the next few days. Thanks – Marilyn
This is so helpful- thank you Susan. I love Nordstrom and agree that keeping a wish list is a good idea since sizes often come back in stock. In addition to the anniversary sale, they have great short-term discounts on specific items for a week or so.
Nordstrom has created the most incredible marketing tool in the history of marketing tools. Even I, the anti-shopper, find myself updating my Wish List in anticipation, LOL. Thanks for the recs, I esp love the shoes!
This was very helpful, Susan, thank you! Added a jacket and those cute leopard loafers (so nice they come in large sizes) to my wish list.
Every year I spends hours/days renewing my password at Nordstrom to point it’s maybe not worth it?Anyone have suggestions?
Hi Susan, I haven’t experienced this issue. Do you use a password autofill tool like the one in Chrome?
Love the pearl earrings.
Greetje
Hi, Susan, I was hoping to book a color analysis when I’m in CA. None of the links on your style services page appear to work. Can you please help?
Thanks!
Hi Linda, my apologies, had to remove as I was getting “spammed” with bogus bookings. Here’s a link to my calendar. https://calendly.com/susanblakey/personal-color-analysis. If none of these dates/times work for you, please email me at [email protected] and I’ll be happy work with you to schedule at a mutually convenient date.
As you are probably aware Susan, Nordstrom currently has no retail outlets in Canada and just recently has set up a website for us so do sincerely appreciate all your hard work put into this posting sharing your strategy etc. for shopping their Anniversary sale. Sincerely -Brenda-