What to Buy at the Nordstrom Sale: Workwear, Faves and Splurges

Today, we continue our Nordstrom Anniversary Sale series focusing on Reader Faves, Workwear, and Splurges. 

This is a fun post, filled with pieces most of us haven’t worn or needed in over a year. But now that we’re back in the swing of life, it’s time to get some “real clothes.” 😉

For these recommendations, I followed the same strategy as yesterday’s post covering the best Basics, Coats, and Shoes.

I looked at our analytics to determine what brands and styles historically work for readers, and I asked myself, “what would I put in a dressing room for some of my styling clients?” So then, I spend hours sorting through every item in the sale to curate a list of practical and stylish things at the best possible price for our readers.

You might find something new, decided to grab a fresh pair of an old fave, or indulge in a designer item. 

As always, sizes are inclusive whenever possible, but please remember items come in and out of inventory. 

Prices are reflective of the sale. 

What to Buy at the Nordstrom Sale: Workwear, Faves and Splurges

 

Tahari Asymmetrical Sheath Dress, $75 | Spanx the Perfect Back Seam Skinny Pants, $84.90 |Vince Camuto Tweed Jacket, $98.90 |Madewell Kent Colorblock Cardigan, $58.90 |Wacoal Strapless Bra, $39.90 |Rails Cotton and Cashmere Sweater, $145.90 Tory Burch Striped Convertible Bag, $299.90 

NSale Workwear

Good American, Fit & Flare Belted Blazer, $129 | Vince Camuto, Polka Dot V-Neck Top, $48 |Vince Camuto Tweed Jacket, $98 | Tahari Asymmetrical Knot Sheath Dress, $75 | Maggy London, Knit Sheath Dress, $75 | Vince Camuto Ponte Knit Skirt, $45 | Vince Camuto Asymmetrical Belt Button Up Blouse, $65 |Halogen, Raw Edge Tank, $28

I hear from readers these days that they are refreshing their work wardrobe after a year at home. My workwear picks are a mix of classic, updated pieces that you can wear to a traditional office or mix with everyday items to create a relaxed, modern professional look.

Dresses 

Tahari Asymmetrical Knot Sheath Dress, $75: Available in sizes 2 -16 in olive, black and red.

Maggy London, Knit Sheath Dress, $75: This is a dark navy, sizes are limited but might come back in stock. 

Tops and Layers

Good American, Fit & Flare Belted Blazer, $129: This is one of the hottest items of the sale; it’s already gone in and out of inventory. Right now, the sizes are minimal but keep an eye on it as it may come back. With a pair of slim-cut black pants, it will make a stunning look for the office. 

Vince Camuto Tweed Jacket, $98: Another piece that will sell out is this tweed jacket that works with just about anything. Available in sizes 2 -14 for under $100. 

Polka Dot Top, $49 – Will look beautiful with slim-cut black pants or jeans. 

Vince Camuto Asymmetrical Belt Button Up Blouse, $65: Sometimes, you just want a top that completes your look without adding any additional layers. This belted blouse is available in white or black in XXS – XXL.

Halogen, Raw Edge Tank, $28: I’m buying multiples of this raw edge tank, in black and white to layer under blazers and cardigans this fall, available in XXS – XXL. 

Bottoms

Spanx Perfect Black Pants, $85: (not pictured) I ordered these for myself from last year’s sale and wore them to death. They’re a more polished alternative to leggings. 

Vince Camuto Stretch Trousers, $49: I recommend these trousers all the time, available in sizes 00 – 12 (limited). 

Vince Camuto Ponte Knit Skirt, $45 – If you need to replace a basic black skirt, give this under $50 option a try. You’ll need to hem it to hit the most flattering part of your leg, but that’s an easy alteration. 

NSale Reader Faves

BLANKNYC, Plaid Shirt Jacket, $59 | CeCe, Lace Sleeve Blouse, $45 | Rails, Hunter Button Up Shirt, $99 | Madewell, Kent Colorblock Sweater, $58 | SPANX Faux Leather Leggings, $68 | Vero Moda, Leopard Spot Sweater, $38

Below, I’m highlighting the items that have historically been your favorites. 

BLANKNYC, Plaid Shirt Jacket, $59: The shirt jacket is a big trend for fall. Pair with straight dark jeans and boots and go straight to the pumpkin patch. 

CeCe, Lace Sleeve Blouse, $45: CeCe makes pretty and affordable tops and blouses. This blouse was a Reader Favorite last holiday. Available in five colors, in XXS – XXL. 

Rails, Hunter Button-Up Shirt, $99: Rails make some of my favorite shirts, but they are expensive at regular prices, so I always grab a few during the sale. This year I bought the classic white and the blue and white plaid. Available in XXS – XXL.

Madewell, Kent Colorblock Sweater, $58: This cardigan is already popular and will likely sell out. Available in XXS – XXL.

SPANX Faux Leather Leggings, $68: If you want to try a pair of faux leather leggings, or need a second pair, now is the time to grab them; this is the best price you’ll find. 

Vero Moda, Leopard Spot Sweater, $38: You know I couldn’t have a roundup without a leopard print something. I LOVE this sweater, available in XS-XL with a simple pair of black jeans and ankle boots.

 

NSale Splurges

Tory Burch, Carson Striped Convertible Shoulder Bag, $299| Rails, Cotton and Cashmere Sweater, $145| Claire V, Simple Tote, $330 | Jenni Kayne, Genuine Calf Hair Mule, $290 | Staud, Wally Knee High Boot, $340| Michele, Diamond Dial Watch Head and Bracelet, $1900 

Now, let’s have some fun. Every year I take advantage of the sale and splurge on one or two items, like a Tory Burch bag, or a fabulous pair of shoes. Below are a few options.

Tory Burch, Carson Striped Convertible Shoulder Bag, $299: The sale is a fantastic time to splurge on a Tory bag. I adore the color combination of this striped shoulder bag, but I think I’m going to order this black leather version for a more timeless option (and a $200 savings!)

Rails, Cotton, and Cashmere Sweater, $145: I love that cashmere blend sweater from Rails doesn’t take itself too seriously. I’ll wear it with my SPANX perfect black pants and black Birdie loafers around the holidays. 

Claire V, Simple Tote, $330: Pick up this stunning tote, available in three patterns, and save over $200. 

Jenni Kayne, Genuine Calf Hair Mule, $290: I’ve had my eye on a pair of Jenni Kayne mules for years but never wanted to spend over $400. The question now is, do I splurge on the giraffe print (above) or this more neutral pair in suede espresso?

Staud, Wally Knee High Boot, $340: These are the most perfect knee-high boots I’ve ever seen. 

Michele, Diamond Dial Watch Head, and Bracelet, $1900: A serious investment piece, but if it’s been on your wish list, you’ll save almost $1000 if you pick it up during the sale. 

See our top picks for Basics, Coats and Shoes here. 

Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and this post is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers. 

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

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