What to Buy at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

A few weeks ago, I asked our readers if and how they shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and, if they do, what would be the most helpful way for me to cover it. The overwhelming response was to keep it simple. Skip the giant roundups and just share the genuinely good finds.

So that’s exactly what I’m doing.

Before we get into it, though, I want to be clear about something: I think this sale is wildly overrated.

And we’re not buying things just because they’re on sale. In fact, I’d argue that about 90% of what’s included isn’t worth your money. Much of the merchandise is made specifically for the Anniversary Sale, and the quality over the last few years has fallen off a cliff.

There are pages and pages of Nordstrom private-label pieces that seem to be designed around a sale price, making the claimed retail value hard to believe. And an overwhelming amount of the clothing is synthetic. Sweaters, in particular, are an easy pass with the exception of few finds from Ralph Lauren. I’d much rather buy 100% cotton, wool, or cashmere from J.Crew, Gap, Quince, or another retailer later in the season.

That said, there are still a handful of genuinely worthwhile pieces if you know where to look.

You can shop EVERYTHING I curated over on my ShopMy

I dug through everything and came away with about a dozen standouts from brands we know and love. Many are pieces I already own and wear regularly, while a few are on my own fall wish list.

As of today, July 16, the sale is open to all Nordstrom cardholders. It opens to everyone on Friday, July 17, and prices go back up on August 10. The good news is that inventory has been much healthier than in past years, so I’m optimistic these pieces will still be available when the sale opens to the public.

In the interest of not overcomplicating things, I’m keeping this as straightforward as possible. These are simply the pieces I think are actually worth your attention.

Jeans

It’s a well-known fact that I love jeans—and I especially love premium denim. There are dozens of pairs included in this year’s Anniversary Sale, but these are the four I keep coming back to. I already own every one of them. They’re styles I wear regularly, recommend often, and know work in real life. Each fills a different role in a wardrobe, so whether you’re replacing an old favorite or adding a new silhouette, these are the pairs I’d buy.

Coats and Jackets

Outerwear is one of the categories where the Anniversary Sale consistently delivers, although I think the premium selection is a little sparser than usual. Still, these are classic pieces you’ll wear for years, and the savings are substantial enough to make it a smart time to invest. These are my three standout picks this year.

I own outerwear from each of these brands, and I can honestly say every Reiss coat I’ve ever owned has been the nicest coat in my closet. The tailoring, fabric, and overall quality are exceptional, and if you’re looking to make one investment this season, that’s where I’d start.

Shoes and Boots

Shoes are always one of my favorite categories in the Anniversary Sale. These are classic styles from brands I genuinely love, like Margaux and Veronica Beard, and they’re the kinds of pieces you’ll wear for years, not just one season.

One callout: the Nine West boots are a great buy at the $150 sale price, but I would never pay the $250 retail price. In general, I don’t recommend spending premium dollars on a non-premium brand. If those sell out, I’ve linked a few other excellent boot options in my ShopMy that are worth a look, although inventory is starting to get low.

Bags

There is a decent selection of handbags this year, including a few Tory Burch styles and some Away luggage. Away is my personal favorite luggage brand (this is my go-to carry on) although the sale colors are limited and, unfortunately, don’t include black. My favorite bag brand, Maison de Sabré, is also included, and that’s where I’d focus. These aren’t bags made specifically for the Anniversary Sale—they’re part of the brand’s regular collection, so you’re getting genuine savings on pieces you’ll carry for years.

I do want to call out one thing that’s making me crazy. Influencers all over my feed are promoting the JW PEI bags included in the sale. These faux leather bags retail for around $100, and if you prefer a non-leather option, I completely understand. But I don’t think they’re particularly good value. I bought a few a while ago (they’re also sold on Amazon), and they warped and lost their shape much faster than I expected. At this price point, I think there are much better options available.

Beauty

Beauty is one of the categories where the Anniversary Sale offers real value. Unlike many fashion items, these products aren’t made specifically for the sale. They’re the same premium formulas sold year-round, just offered at a discount or in exclusive sets. If there are high-end products you already use and love, this is an excellent time to stock up or replace what you’re running low on.

The brands below will look familiar because they’re products I genuinely use. My current eyebrow conditioner is included, along with the best-smelling deodorant from Donna Karan, a jumbo-sized Elemis Cleansing Balm, and Tata Harper’s Regenerating Cleanser—the perfect pairing for a double cleanse. There’s also a beautiful OSEA gift set that’s perfect to buy for yourself or tuck away for a thoughtful gift under $100.

Jewelry

Jewelry is incredibly personal, but I’m pretty outspoken about how much I love Jenny Bird and Monica Vinader. Both brands have several pieces included in the sale that I already own, wear regularly, and recommend without hesitation. If you’ve been thinking about investing in quality everyday jewelry, this is a great opportunity to save on pieces you’ll wear for years.

I have everything below except the Monica Vinader Signature Link Lab Grown Diamond Ring which is currently sitting in my cart.

If you found something you love and recommend, feel free to share it in the comments below!

Happy Shopping!

Shop my trusted recommendations

ShopMy is where I save and organize the pieces I consistently recommend, including wardrobe staples, standout finds, and brands I have researched, worn, or genuinely trust. Everything here reflects my years of experience in personal style and the same thoughtful approach I use across The Well Dressed Life.

If you are looking for something specific, or want reliable options without the overwhelm, this is where I start.

Browse my ShopMy

What to Buy at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Jeans

Coats and Jackets

Shoes and Boots

Bags

Beauty

Jewelry

Shop my trusted recommendations

Enjoyed This? Get More Like It.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your Free Wardrobe Essentials Checklist

Build a timeless wardrobe with the exact pieces a professional stylist recommends to every client.