Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: What to Buy

what to buy at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Hi friends! I’m sure you’ve started seeing all the hype around the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Fall fashion is my favorite season to shop for, and while the sale has a lot of deals and fabulous finds, it can be a bit overwhelming to navigate. Fear not! I’m here to guide you through what to buy. Here are my tips on how to shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!

Why the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is a Big Deal

First off, why this sale is such a big deal? Unlike most sales that happen at the end of a season to clear out old stock, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale features all new arrivals. So, you get to shop the latest fall fashion, beauty products, and home goods before they go back to full price.

When Can You Shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale?

Nordstrom’s Nordy Club Status determines when you can shop the sale. You can join for free here.

You also automatically get early access to the sale if you are a Nordstrom cardholder. Apply here and get a $40 Nordstrom note (credit) to spend later.

Tips for Shopping the Nordstrom Sale

It’s so easy to start adding items to your cart recklessly. So, my first piece of advice is to plan.

Make a List: Write down what you actually need. Are you looking for a new winter coat, a versatile pair of boots, or perhaps some new beauty products? I purchase a lot of Christmas gifts during the Nordstrom sale, so while the holidays seem far away, they’ll be here before you know it. Having a list will help you stay focused.

Set a Budget: It’s easy to get carried away, so set a budget and stick to it.

Preview the Sale: If you have a Nordstrom card, Nordstrom releases a preview of all sale items and gives you early access to the sale before it’s available to the general public.

Create a Wishlist: When logged into your Nordstrom account, you can create a wishlist. Use this to save what catches your eye and prioritize your must-haves. Nordstrom will notify you if sold-out items on your wishlist return to stock.

What Are the Best Things to Buy During the Nordstrom Sale?

Alright, let’s get to the fun part—what to shop! Here are my top picks for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale:

1. Designer Denim

A good pair of jeans is a wardrobe staple, and this is the perfect time to invest in high-quality denim. Brands like AG, Good American, Frame, and Mother have significant markdowns. Wit and Wisdom and Kut from the Kloth are both great brands at a lower price point and, with the sale, even more affordable.

2. Shoes & Boots

Shoes are my weakness, and I have my eye on these ballet flats and these sneakers. Some of my favorite brands bring back similar boot styles year after year. Sorel has a water-resistant Chelsea boot in the sale this year, similar to my Sam Edelman boots pictured left (the Sam Edelman are also on sale here). My Vince Camuto knee-high boots pictured right are also part of this year’s Anniversary sale.

how to shop the nordstrom anniversary sale

3. Outerwear

The Anniversary Sale is an excellent opportunity to score a deal on outerwear. Look for pieces that offer both style and functionality. A trench coat has been on my wishlist for a few years, and I’m thinking about getting this one.

4. Beauty Exclusives

Nordstrom’s beauty department is legendary, and during the Anniversary Sale, they offer exclusive sets and jumbo-sized products at incredible prices.

I repurchase these items every year: RevitaLash Brow Conditioner, Bobbi Brown Cream Eyeshadow Sticks, Aquis Hair Towels, and the Voluspa candle sets for gifts. I also buy many of the beauty items for stocking stuffers for my daughter.

The Nordstrom sale features a variety of brands and handbag styles. It’s worth checking out whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a versatile everyday bag.

6. Basics and Underwear

It might not be the most exciting purchase, but stocking up on basics like underwear and bras during the sale is smart. Brands like Hanky Panky and Natori always have great deals. I love these Caslon basic tees, and every few years, I splurge on a Barefoot Dreams cardigan or robe.

What to Skip

While there are tons of great deals to be had, not everything is worth your hard-earned money. Here are a few items I recommend skipping:

Trendy Pieces

Sure, that neon green faux fur coat might look cool now, but will you really wear it next season? Stick to classic, timeless pieces that you’ll get a lot of wear out of.

Duplicate Items

Do you really need another black sweater? Before you add something to your cart, consider whether you already have something similar in your wardrobe. If so, put it back and move on.

Anything Outside Your Budget

This one might seem obvious, but it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement and overspend. If an item is outside your budget, skip it. There will always be more sales and more opportunities to find what you need at a price you can afford.

Final Tips for a Successful Shopping Experience

Buy multiple sizes. Items run out fast, and your size might not be available to exchange later. Take advantage of Nordstrom’s free returns. Buy two sizes and send back the one that does not fit.
Shop early: Items sell out fast, especially the popular ones. Be ready to shop as soon as the sale opens before the items you want sell out.
Restocks: If something you love sells out, Nordstrom will notify you of restocks if you have it saved to your wishlist.

Things I’m Eyeing

Shop Here

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is a fantastic opportunity to refresh your wardrobe while scoring a few deals. I hope this post on how to shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale was helpful! Happy shopping!

Also see: Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks and The Best Summer Wedding Guest Dresses

Linking up with:

Away from the Blue | Fine Whatever Blog | Between Naps on the Porch | I do de Claire

Elegantly Dressed and Stylish | Walking in Memphis in High Heels & The Fashion Canvas

The Style Splash | Is This Mutton? | Curated by Jennifer

Mummabstylish | Shelbee On the Edge | Nancy’s FashNancy’sle

Momfessionals | Marsha in the Middle | Sunday Showcase

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