Do you know the keys to shopping the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale? It’s very easy to get sucked into the hype around the sale. Trust me; I fell victim to that hoopla years ago when I first started shopping this pre-fall sale. But since then I’ve learned to use this mega sale to strategically start my fall wardrobe. I only invest in the smartest purchases that will truly add value to my fall outfits. And in recent years I’ve honestly not had any shopper’s remorse, but I’ve worn and enjoyed the select pieces I accumulated in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale for multiple seasons. Shop with me and I’ll help you make sure that you don’t fall victim to the hype. Instead, you’ll be a smart shopper who starts a beautiful, enjoyable fall wardrobe with these KEY Nordstrom Anniversary Sale finds.
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Strategy: Shop These Key Categories First
If you want to shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale smart, I suggest you check out these key categories FIRST. Purchases in these areas will make the biggest impact in your wardrobe and thus your outfits. And that’s where the rubber meets the road. We’re not just into shopping; we want to build a wardrobe that makes it easy and fun to get dressed for our days.
So be smart, and focus on these seven key categories in the sale first. If, after considering these seven groups and planning the purchases that will get you the most bang for your buck, you have budget left over, you might want to consider other offerings in the sale. You may discover that you have made purchases in some of these areas last year, so you don’t need anything new. But most of us could benefit from a few new, on trend, modern additions to our wardrobe to keep us looking current and smart. Let’s go!
Key Category: Modern Jeans
If you’re only going to do one thing to update your wardrobe this year, purchase a pair or two of modern jeans. Right now the most on trend denim that will also give you longevity are still wide leg, flare and straight leg jeans. But the most current and fashion-forward of all? Clearly the wide leg jean.
I think most of my readers have gotten on board with the wider leg silhouettes in jeans at this point. And the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has a great selection from which to choose a new pair or two that will make you feel modern and stylish this fall and winter.
In the graphic above note the inseam on all three pairs of these full-length wide leg jeans. You can’t really tell the length just by looking at the photos. That’s why it’s imperative to know your personal preferred inseam and to always check that information in the sale listing. Also check the composition of the fabric so you’ll know if the jeans will stretch a little, a lot or none at all. And finally, make sure you know what rise (the measurement from the crotch to the top of the waistband) works best for your body. I prefer an 11″ rise at minimum, but you may need something else for your height, proportions and body shape.
Yes, barrel leg jeans are still in style and trending. You will find several nice options at all price points in the sale, and they’re a nice option if you already have the wide leg jean covered. The styles shown above provide a wide range of options in the amount of “barrel” shape you get in the leg. But notice that the two jeans on the right are 100% cotton, so they have no stretch in them at all. That’s fine, but you just want to know what you’re getting.
But if you just do not feel like wide leg silhouettes or barrel legs are best for you or you don’t care for them, you’ll find slimmer straight leg options in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale as well. Some of my favorites are shown above.
My personal pick in this year’s sale is the Paige Anessa high waist wide leg jean (not shown here) in the Willat wash, a nice dark indigo. I have a couple of pairs of those in different washes and adore them. I appreciate the 11.5″ rise and the perfect touch of stretch. The quality is great and they wear beautifully. These favorite Anessas also come in PETITES and regulars. I generally size up from my usual 30 to a 31 in these jeans for a really nice fit. They’re premium denim, so the price is a little higher. But I find them to be worth it if you wear jeans frequently.
Speaking of prices, I’ve got two different shopping widgets for you to make it a little easier. First I’ve grouped what I’m calling Value Denim. These are options that are regularly priced under $200 and the sale prices are even lower, of course. You’ll notice that this carousel also includes a good number of plus size options.
And next I’ve gathered my favorite Premium Denim in the sale. These are jeans that normally costs well over $200, but they’re priced much more reasonably in the sale and the savings are significant. Personally, I usually take advantage of these rare, low prices and purchase a couple of pairs of premium jeans. I do find that they feel and wear so much better. So if you wear jeans frequently, the savings improve even more with cost per wear.
Remember, you can’t shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale yet, but you can add items to your wish list. Check the calendar at the bottom of the blog post to see when you can start shopping.
Key Category: Updated Sweaters
I always find a nice assortment of good quality sweaters in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. But more importantly, I get a glimpse at the upcoming trends in this fall and winter wardrobe basic. So one of my keys to shopping the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is to look for an updated sweater or two that will help you to look current and on trend.
This year I’m seeing mostly slender, relaxed fit sweaters that skim the body, as opposed to the oversized variety that were more popular several years ago. Interest is added with details and necklines. And while textures vary greatly, I do see the return of the trending pointelle sweater this fall. Colors? I’m seeing a lot of deep, chocolate brown again, along with burgundy and dark red, bold blues and pretty, feminine ivories. As you look at the sweaters I’ve featured here, keep in mind that most of them come in additional hues.
For a while it felt like cardigans were very out of vogue. But a couple of years ago the button-up cardigan had a resurgence, and this past year they got fine-tuned. Most of the cardigans I see in the sale – and there are A LOT – fit close to the body, but not tight. They’re a cropped length, meaning they hit right at the base of the beltline of your pants rather than longer. They come in v-necks, crewnecks and collared necklines. And I’m continuing to see cardigans worn buttoned up as pullovers.
Key Category: Current Sneakers
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is definitely a great opportunity to grab a pair of booties or even full length boots. And you’ll find fashionable loafers, flats, slingback pumps and even sandals in this year’s sale. But the shoe I suggest you focus on updating in this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is the fashion sneaker.
Now maybe you’re good to go in this category. But right now the most on trend sneakers to wear with jeans, track pants and even dresses are the lower profile retro sneakers like the ones you see above. Most are no longer as chunky as they were just a couple of years ago, although you do still find a few of those, too. But the most current look is quite streamlined, but featuring swishes and stripes in trending colors like brown and camel and grey. You will get so much wear out of these and they can make your fall outfits look so much more current.
Key Category: Timeless Jewelry
You’ll never go wrong by adding quality, timeless jewelry to your accessory wardrobe. Generally, I’ve forsaken costume jewelry at this point in favor of high quality fashion jewelry. And in recent years I’ve begun building a small collection of fine jewelry. You’ll find both in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.
This year we’re going to continue to see a return to “getting dressed.” So adding timeless jewelry to an outfit will immediately elevate the most basic separates. A couple of years ago I budgeted for and purchased an exquisite Bony Levy diamond pendant necklace (similar to this one). I continue to love wearing it. While many of the things I purchase in these sales come and go with the passing of seasons, fine jewelry can be enjoyed for years, even generations. In the shopping widget below I’ve collected all of my favorites in the jewelry category, from everyday fashion pieces to finer baubles and all in between.
Key Category: A Standout Jacket
Standout jackets are the key to a modern, stylish wardrobe for women. If you have a few really great jackets, you can create instant outfits from a variety of basics, such as jeans, dress pants, skirts and dresses. Skimp on the tops, pay what you need to for well-fitting jeans you can wear on repeat, but make sure you have at least three powerful completer pieces in your closet for fall. With those three jackets, you’ll create dozens of outfits.
You won’t go wrong with a great blazer, and there are several in the sale. Veronica Beard has several, but I’m only really a fan of this one and this one. And I do love this Lauren Ralph Lauren herringbone tweed blazer. But I think the strong suit this year is leather. While we saw a lot of suede last year (and it’s still available), I’m seeing more leather this year than we have in a while. And the barn jacket is coming back around for at least its third year of popularity. I have a number of on trend options for you to add to your wish list below.
Key Category: The Classic Coat
Remember, the last thing you put on your body makes the first impression. So it’s smart to have a beautiful coat or two in your closet. This year in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale you’ll find a lovely selection to choose from, including trench coats, a few faux furs, some puffer jackets, a few vests and lots of wool or wool blend options. I continue to love a wrap coat, but you’ll find many button-front options, too.
I suggest having a neutral colored coat that plays well with most of your wardrobe. And then I recommend purchasing a coat in a plaid or pretty color that you can wear with neutral colored outfits. Coats go fast in the sale, so it’s definitely time to add the ones you love to your wish list. They won’t be held for you, but you’ll be able to shop fast that way when it’s time for your to shop.
Key Category: A Neutral Handbag
It’s popular to match your handbag to your shoes or boots and belt. It’s not absolutely necessary, of course, but it looks so smart. So you’ll want to make sure you have a handbag that works well with the shoes and boots in your closet. Black is always a good choice, but I’m continuing to see a lot of brown. And this year I’ve noticed a huge return to taupe options, as well as sandy beige. And we’re still seeing a lot of ivory shoes and handbags that are totally appropriate for the cooler months.
I’m familiar with and highly recommend all of the brands represented above. And those are a fair representation of the styles of bags we are seeing on trend for 2025, too. Most all of the bags come in multiple colors, so click through the shopping widget below for more options. The shopping widget also includes my travel favorites.
Of course you’ll find great home finds, beauty exclusives and more in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, too. And the dress selection this year is pretty amazing. I’ve also gathered a few of my favorite choices for menswear here. But if you want to know where to start to shop the sale smart…start with the seven keys above.
For more tips for shopping the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale like a boss, check out my post, The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale – How to Prepare for It. And be sure to follow me on Instagram where I’ll be sharing my try-on session next Tuesday or Wednesday. Oh, and I’m also sharing a Nordstrom Anniversary Sale video on YouTube next Wednesday!
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Blessed for My Day
It’s very normal to have anxious moments. We are people who would prefer to have certainties, but so often we have to live with unknowns. Those unknowns lead us to fear sometimes. That’s normal. It’s human. But it’s not best. When we are anxious we are prone to say things and do things that we would not say or do if we were at our best.
If you’re anxious about something, consider the bad decisions your fears may have led you to make. You don’t want to live in the wake of faulty decisions made out of fear. Ask the Lord to build our trust in Him. I find it helps me to say out loud, “I trust the Lord with this. I know He is at work and loves me,” whenever my anxieties sneak in.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 4:6-7
Happy 4th Kay! I am so excited about the Nordstrom sale like always! Will definitely buy smart, thank you for keeping me grounded. đ Hope you have a lovely trip this weekend and enjoy your family coming in on Sunday! Great times! Enjoy
Such good coaching! Even though I am not in the USA where I would readily participate in the Nordstrom fall sale, I am able to utilize these shopping tips in my own way. I spent may hours with Kay’s blogs, videos and emails after discovering them last fall. This led me to a full remake of my closet (giving away so many older, dated and poor fitting things) and using what I learned about styling and wardrobe planning; I am so much happier with my closet choices. I developed a summary one page spreadsheet (forgive me, I’m addicted to spreadsheets) that gives me the full year at a glance of what I have and what my gaps are, And it paid off today. I come from the business world and loved the office attire but after retiring, I gave away all my beloved blazers and came to regret that move. I fell in love with Kay’s Veronica Beard blazer collection and while it was not within my budget, I went as far as trying one on while in the USA. Oh, my goodness! The fit, the quality, the feel – I was smitten, but still could not justify the cost for my current life. I did though keep my eyes open for a suitable option and today found a beautiful new (in the package) navy blazer at a consignment store for $25.00. Thank you Kay for encouraging us to keep a focus on our wardrobe, it’s gaps and our style priorities.
Hi Kay- Your comments and attention to detail are so helpful. Iâve put several of your suggestions in my wish list. The wish list idea was so helpful to me last year. Hopefully more of my choices will be available this year! Living in Southern California we donât have much in the way of fall or winter but I try!
Of the categories you listed, this year my focus is on timeless jewelry and a neutral tan handbag. I feel I have some gaps in those areas. Not on your list, but I am also looking for non-sneaker shoes for work. đ
Thanks for sharing, Carolyn. There are definitely some great shoes in the sale this year. I’ll be sharing more as we go along. I’d love to hear about the bag and jewelry you find.
First, the BFMD is so true – I think women tend to be anxious, and it’s so hard to give what we think is our control over to God and trust that He wants the best for us because he loves us so much (although the truth is we have no control over some things that cause us anxiety!). Second, thanks for all the tips on how to approach the Nordstrom sale – having a plan is key so we don’t get sidetracked and wind up with things that are nice, but not what we need.
I am very happy to see some cardigans, which I love to wear. We are in the middle of a very warm summer, so it’s hard for me to even think about any denim or fall clothes. Summer goes much too fast and we still have plenty of time to get some of those things worn.
I agree, it’s definitely hard to think fall fashions right now. But it always sneaks up on us faster than we imagined.
Enjoy your lovely daughter and sweet granddaughter. These are times to cherish. Will see you tomorrow on the blog.
Kay, thank you for this post. You are doing exactly what you need to be doing right now, which is enjoying your daughter and granddaughterâs visit. Little ones grow up so fast and you need to treasure those moments when you get to see them. Thank you for all you do for us ladies!
Great BFMD. Wow!!!! This post took a lot of work. Great work.
Donât ever apologize for taking time with your family. You should not have to post when they are there. Ahead of time just say you will be taking a few days off to be with your family. They come first for sure. I bet you are having a great time. I miss mine already and I saw them last month. I wish they lived closer. They are 3, 4 1/2 and 5 hours away. Too far. One might be moving closer and if so would be 1 1/2 hours away. Iâm excited.
I’m trying to make sense of the fabric content vs stretchiness. Some of the brands shown are 98% cotton, 2% elastane and listed as Medium Stretch. The same fabric content on others is listed as A Lot of Stretch. How can it be so different and how would we ever know when ordering online?
It’s probably not really that different, but the brands just see it differently. For me, the maximum of elastane or Spandex I want in a jean is 3%, but I usually prefer 1-2%. Hopefully that helps you out a bit.
Very useful ideas for preventing overwhelm as well as shopping smart. There is so much to look at with this sale that it can cause shopping anxiety! I have been looking at suede bags for a year and keep wondering if I would be happy with one. I’d appreciate your comments about the durability of the suede bags this year, once you have a chance to actually see them.
I can definitely do that, Deborah. I do remember there was one suede bag last year, I believe one from AllSaints, that ended up “bleeding” on anything it touched, such as clothing. So I’ll look into that for sure. But I can tell you that the suede bags I have are among my favorites.
Thank you for this helpful information Kay! I look forward to grabbing a few classic pieces during the sale, and your tips are so helpful! The Paige jeans and the two cashmere argyle sweaters really caught my eye, have always loved argyle!Thank you for all you do for your communityđ¸
Kay – thank you! Iâm not seeing as many ecru jeans transitioning into this Fall as last year. What do you think? Put them away after summer?