The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale isn’t like most sales. Rather than clearing out last season’s stock, it’s one of the few opportunities to shop brand-new fall arrivals at reduced prices before the season officially begins.
That’s what makes it such a favorite with fashion lovers. Instead of buying clothes you’ll only wear for a few more weeks, you’re investing in pieces that will carry you through fall, winter, and often for years to come. With the sale running from July 18 to August 9 (with earlier access for Nordstrom cardholders), it’s the perfect time to start thinking ahead.
Let’s get into it – we’ve chosen our favorite clothes, shoes, and accessories from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale – some to wear now, some to get ahead for the fall season. And, we’ve created a capsule of outfits from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale for late summer and fall, using only items from the sale.
Image from Nordstrom
Before you start
Before you add anything to your basket, take a look at your wardrobe. Is your favorite blazer looking tired? Have your ankle boots seen better days? Do you need a new everyday handbag or a fresh pair of jeans? Going into the sale with a wish list helps you focus on the pieces you’ll genuinely wear rather than being distracted by impulse purchases.
Prioritize investment pieces
The Anniversary Sale is the ideal time to invest in wardrobe staples you’ll wear for years. Think beautifully tailored blazers, classic trench coats, premium denim, leather handbags, cashmere sweaters, quality boots, and timeless loafers. These are the pieces that rarely go out of style and often represent the best value during the sale.
Shop for next season, not this one
It can feel strange buying knitwear while you’re still wearing sandals, but that’s exactly what makes the Anniversary Sale so valuable. You’re shopping for the season ahead, which means you’ll have your pick of new arrivals before they’re sold at full price. Come September, you’ll already have the foundations of your autumn wardrobe in place.
tops
Let’s start our outfits with our favorite tops from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. When shopping for tops, think about what you’ll wear now and in a few months’ time. Short-sleeve tops and versatile tanks are perfect for the remainder of summer, while lightweight long-sleeve styles will become invaluable as the weather cools. The Anniversary Sale is also a great opportunity to invest in quality fabrics you’ll enjoy wearing season after season, along with flattering details such as soft draping and asymmetric necklines that elevate a simple top and create a beautiful, easy-to-wear silhouette.
Veronica Beard Perezzi Stripe Asymmetric Button-Up Shirt – Reiss Lena Silk Crewneck Top – Vince Asymmetric Drape Sleeveless Top – H&M Asymmetric Butterfly-sleeved Top
Knitwear and cashmere
Knitwear is one of the smartest investments you can make during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, particularly if you’ve been considering adding cashmere to your wardrobe. Premium knits are often significantly reduced, making this the perfect time to buy pieces you’ll wear for years rather than just one season. Lightweight cardigans are especially versatile, easy to throw over dresses on cooler summer evenings and just as useful layered over jeans and trousers once autumn arrives. Choose timeless colors and classic silhouettes, and you’ll find yourself reaching for them year after year.
Nordstrom V-Neck Cashmere Sweater – Caslon Puff Sleeve Wool & Cashmere Sweater – Open Edit Button Front Peplum Cardigan – FARM Rio Stained Glass Print Button-Up Cardigan
Marine Layer Colette Belted Wool Blend Jacket – Nordstrom V-Neck Cashmere Sweater – Treasure & Bond High Rise Wide Leg Jeans – Blondo Lilani Waterproof Block Heel Bootie – The Sak Los Feliz Crossbody Leather Bag – Monica Vinader Odyssey Drop Earrings – Nordstrom Textured Cashmere Scarf
Jackets and coats
Jackets and coats are where the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale really comes into its own. If you’ve been waiting to invest in a beautifully tailored wool coat, a luxurious cashmere-blend coat, a timeless suede jacket, or a classic leather jacket, this is often the best time to do so. These are the pieces that form the backbone of an autumn wardrobe and rarely go out of fashion, so choosing quality over quantity will pay dividends for years to come. Look for clean, timeless silhouettes that can be dressed up or down and will work effortlessly with the rest of your wardrobe.
Nordstrom Crop Suede Jacket – Marine Layer Colette Belted Wool Blend Jacket – Lauren Ralph Lauren Longline Wool Blend Reefer Coat – Nordstrom Sculpted Wool & Cashmere Blend Coat
jeans – refresh your denim
Premium denim is always a highlight of the Anniversary Sale. Whether you’re replacing an old favorite or trying a new silhouette, look for timeless washes and flattering cuts that you’ll continue to wear year after year. A great pair of jeans is one of the hardest-working pieces in any wardrobe. We love darker washes for fall and into winter.
PAIGE Leenah High Waist Wide Leg Jeans – Treasure & Bond High Rise Wide Leg Jeans – H&M Wide High Jeans – FRAME The Bow Crop Barrel Leg Jeans
H&M Asymmetric Butterfly-sleeved Top – H&M Wide High Jeans – Amalfi by Rangoni Balcanico Tassel Pump – Radley Oak Street Medium Ziptop Tote Bag – Monica Vinader Mismatched Keshi Pearl Drop Earrings – Nordstrom Textured Cashmere Scarf
pants
The Anniversary Sale is also a great opportunity to refresh your trouser collection ahead of the new season. Look for styles in rich autumnal shades such as chocolate, olive, camel, navy, and deep burgundy, along with fabrics that add texture, from soft ponte knits to fluid tailoring and brushed finishes. While many of these pieces are perfect for autumn, don’t overlook lighter trousers that you can start wearing immediately. Comfortable wide-leg pants, pull-on styles, and softly tailored trousers are ideal for plane travel, sightseeing, or everyday wear now, and can transition seamlessly into the cooler months with the addition of knitwear and jackets.
Theory Demetria High Waist Flare Leg Pants – FRAME The Modernist High Waist Straight Leg Pants – H&M Belted Cargo Trousers – Zella Atlas Wide Leg Pants
Dresses and skirts
Dresses and skirts are a wonderful way to ease your wardrobe into the new season without committing to heavy layers straight away. Look for rich autumnal shades and timeless plaid prints that will carry you into fall. Soft draping, texture, and asymmetric details are particularly worth seeking out, adding movement, shape, and a modern feel while remaining incredibly flattering. These are the kinds of pieces you can wear now with sandals or sneakers, then simply switch to boots, loafers, and a jacket as temperatures drop.
Nordstrom Textured Ruched Midi Dress – Julia Jordan Plaid Pleated Midi Dress – Nordstrom Suede Midi Skirt – H&M Asymmetric Viscose Skirt
Lauren Ralph Lauren Longline Wool Blend Reefer Coat – Julia Jordan Plaid Pleated Midi Dress – Gentle Souls Gallway Stretch Boot – Veronica Beard Goody Bag Suede & Leather Bucket Bag – Bony Levy 14K Gold Caged Stud Earrings
shoes
Shoes are another category where it’s worth thinking ahead. A fresh pair of sneakers will see you through everything from late-summer travel to busy autumn weekends, while rich suede finishes instantly add warmth and texture to your wardrobe. Loafers continue to be one of the season’s biggest trends, offering a smart yet comfortable alternative to heels, and elegant ballet flats remain a timeless choice that pairs beautifully with dresses, skirts, and tailored trousers. Opt for versatile shades such as chocolate, tan, navy, or burgundy to maximize how often you’ll wear them.
Splendid Latouche Stud Flat – Amalfi by Rangoni Balcanico Tassel Pump – Steve Madden Emorry Penny Loafer – New Balance 327 Sneaker
boots
Boots are one of the best investments to make during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, as quality leather and suede styles are often standout buys. Rather than filling your wardrobe with multiple pairs, focus on two timeless styles: a classic knee-high boot and an ankle boot (bootie). Between them, they’ll work with almost everything in your autumn wardrobe, from dresses and skirts to jeans and tailored trousers. Choose clean, versatile designs in black, chocolate, tan, or rich burgundy, and you’ll find yourself wearing them season after season.
Blondo Lilani Waterproof Block Heel Bootie – Nordstrom Tina Bootie – Sam Edelman Wren Buckle Knee High Boot – Gentle Souls Gallway Stretch Boot
Nordstrom Sculpted Wool & Cashmere Blend Coat – Reiss Lena Silk Crewneck Top – H&M Asymmetric Viscose Skirt – Sam Edelman Wren Buckle Knee High Boot – Veronica Beard Goody Bag Suede & Leather Bucket Bag – Kendra Scott Daphne Toggle Necklace
handbags – don’t overlook your bags and accessories
Accessories are often where you’ll see the highest cost per wear. Leather handbags, belts, scarves, sunglasses, and jewelry instantly refresh existing outfits without requiring a complete wardrobe overhaul. They’re also an easy way to introduce new-season colors and textures.
Radley Oak Street Medium Ziptop Tote Bag – The Sak Los Feliz Large Tote Leather Bag – The Sak Los Feliz Crossbody Leather Bag – Veronica Beard Goody Bag Suede & Leather Bucket Bag
accessories
Complete your wardrobe refresh with a few carefully chosen accessories. Timeless jewelry can instantly elevate everyday outfits, while a lightweight scarf is perfect for layering as the seasons change. And don’t overlook sunglasses; they’re a year-round essential that add an effortlessly polished finishing touch long after summer has ended.
Kendra Scott Daphne Toggle Necklace – Monica Vinader Odyssey Drop Earrings – Bony Levy 14K Gold Caged Stud Earrings – Monica Vinader Mismatched Keshi Pearl Drop Earrings – Nordstrom Textured Cashmere Scarf – INDY Nolita Cateye Polarized Sunglasses
Nordstrom Crop Suede Jacket – Caslon Puff Sleeve Wool & Cashmere Sweater – H&M Belted Cargo Trousers – New Balance 327 Sneaker – The Sak Los Feliz Crossbody Leather Bag – Bony Levy 14K Gold Caged Stud Earrings – INDY Nolita Cateye Polarized Sunglasses
pajamas and Underwear
Don’t forget the foundations of your wardrobe. The Anniversary Sale is a great opportunity to invest in luxurious pajamas made from quality fabrics that make everyday routines feel a little more special. It’s also the perfect time to refresh your everyday underwear or stock up on supportive shapewear, so you’re ready for the party season and all the occasions that come with it.
Nordstrom Cashmere Lounge Set – Open Edit Boxy Everyday Satin Pajamas – Wacoal Back Appeal™ Smoothing Underwire Bra – Commando Classic Control High Waist Briefs
More tips for shopping the Nordstrom Anniversary sale
Shop your favorite brands
The sale is an excellent opportunity to invest in brands you already know and love. If you’ve had your eye on a cashmere sweater from Nordstrom, premium denim from Paige or NYDJ, an elegant jacket from Eileen Fisher, comfortable shoes from Naturalizer, or timeless accessories from Tory Burch, this is often the best time to buy.
Be prepared to act quickly
The most popular sizes, colors, and classic pieces rarely stay in stock for long. If you’ve spotted something you’ve been waiting for, it’s worth purchasing sooner rather than later. You can always review your choices once everything arrives, but waiting too long can mean missing out altogether.
Think in outfits, not individual pieces
Rather than asking yourself, “Do I like this?” ask, “What will I wear it with?” A blazer that works with your favorite jeans, dresses, and trousers is a far better investment than a statement piece you’ll only wear once. The goal is to build a wardrobe where everything works together effortlessly. So think about outfits from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale rather than individual pieces.
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale outfits together in one capsule
Below, you can see our Nordstrom Anniversary Sale picks together in one capsule. You can create so many outfits from these pieces now and into fall – mixing and matching everything to give you lots of looks for the new season.
What outfits from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale are your favorites? Let us know in the comments below
Continue reading:
- What to wear in the heat without sacrificing style
- Summer party outfits: what to wear for every invitation
- The chic everyday summer capsule: mix, match and wear everywhere
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