I’ve been in and out of Nordstrom more times than I can count lately. Between the sale, a few last-minute alterations, and picking up things for a trip, I know exactly what’s moving and what’s worth waiting on. The Anniversary Sale this year is genuinely strong — the kind where you can leave with a few real workhorses and a clear head, not a bin bag of regrets.
Before the list, one shopping note: new collections have just landed, so this is the right moment to start buying for fall while things are still discounted. If your size sells out, put a wrong size of the item in your cart and keep checking it — inventory turns daily, and sizes come back more often than you’d expect. The app’s back-in-stock notifications help too.
What’s new on the floor
Nylon jackets are having a moment — red especially. I found a couple in stock even after the popular ones sold out. Quilted jackets are on my radar for the same reason: they layer over everything you already own.
#1 Nordstrom cashmere
Cashmere is the one department I never skip at this sale. You’ll find an oversized cardigan, a basic crew, even a travel wrap — all at prices that make the quality almost suspicious. A soft neutral crew is a cost-per-wear classic: it earns its place in the wardrobe for years, not one season.
#2 Suede & leather jackets
A stand-collar suede or leather jacket works in any season, and it’s the kind of piece that upgrades the white tee and well-worn jeans you already own. This is a workhorse buy, not an impulse one.
#3 Denim, of course
If you only buy one thing from this sale, make it a new pair of jeans. You’ll find all the brands you actually wear — my favorites are Mother, Paige, and Pistola. One great pair outlasts three mediocre ones; that’s the whole cost-per-wear test in a sentence.
#4 Beauty buys
Beauty sets are where this sale quietly shines — skincare, fragrance, makeup. A set is a smart way to try something new or stock up on your usuals, and they make easy gifts. Sets are a great value, so don’t sleep on this department.
#5 Super stylish boots
Buy boots early in the season and you’ll wear them for months longer. This year I’d look at a knee boot for midi dresses, plus one basic everyday boot for the days the weather turns. The best pairs here are the ones you can wear with slim jeans and long dresses both.
#6 Luggage
I was surprised how many luggage sets are on sale this year. My only rule: skip the black suitcase. You’ll spot yours immediately in baggage claim, which is the whole point of a trip.
#7 Coats: the best investment
The single best investment you can make in a wardrobe is a classic coat. A relaxed trench, a belted style — anything that catches your eye. One good coat carries more outfits than any number of trend pieces.
#8 Don’t forget the guys
If you’re buying for someone, the men’s side of the sale is full of genuine finds — sweaters, jackets, loafers, a cologne set. It’s the easiest gifting of the year when it’s discounted.
#9 The boot shortlist
Since boots were a theme, here’s what I’d actually shop: a Vince low heel that’s still in stock in all three colors, a Veronica Beard pointy-toe block heel, a La Canadienne waterproof boot for cold rainy days, an Aquatalia waterproof knee boot, and a Margaux knee boot that works beautifully with long dresses.
#10 The takeaway
Shop the sale like you edit a wardrobe: few pieces, each one working three ways. Cashmere, one great coat, a pair of jeans that fit, and a boot you’ll wear all winter — that’s the list that still makes sense in a year.
Wear it well — Elise