I know there are folks who think we have absolutely lost our minds during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. And yes…I am the first to admit…that yes, we totally have.
BUT…the deals are good, the fall clothes are exciting to see on sale during summer, and it really is the best way to shop the newest styles of designer clothes at a hugely discounted price. AND it’s weirdly a ton of fun to try and find the BEST things possible in such a huge sale…and then compare notes with others who are doing the same. So the fun begins!!!
If you’re in a rush, below are my three favorite outfits (as of now). I placed an order for some more pieces that weren’t available in the store (looking forward to trying these jeans and also these), so look for more selfies soon (as well as a budget-friendly finds post).
Blue Top | Cardigan | Stripe Tee | Snap Sweater | Bootcut Denim | Black Denim | Joggers (Under $40!) | Boots | Similar Sneaks | Tote | Green Bag | Sunnies
*Update As Of 7/15: Some pieces are showing sold out/low stock already. Boo! DEFINITELY worth keeping on your radar and checking back, though, for returns!
Black Denim (still available in blue) = More Washes
Green Bag = Similar Color Crossbody
Black Jacket = Similar
Denim, Tops & Sweaters (Especially Cardigans): My Fav Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks For Fall
I often get into the store on the first day of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and am shocked at how terrible the pieces I’ve been coveting are…and then even MORE shocked when I see how amazing the pieces that I didn’t even look twice at online end up being…but this year? Not the case!
My predictions for what I would love this year in my Wish List and Eileen Fisher Looks posts were pretty much spot on. WHAT? This NEVER happens. I predicted this Eileen Fisher jacket would be even better in person. Yes…it was. And I didn’t even get to bring it home because Shana stole it out of my hands. All of the AllSaints sweaters worn with Clare V bags and Aquatalias are JUST what I want to wear this winter (no surprises there). And of course….cardigans. Lots of cardigans. And, as predicted, I do love this very special one.
Okay…I’ll admit I’m not totally perfect. There were a FEW surprises, and my predictions weren’t completely correct. I had to size up 3 sizes (yes, 3!!!) in these jeans; I unexpectedly fell in love with two blue tops and houndstooth (which I’ve never worn before in my life); and I ended up loving these boots with tons of my outfits (that I didn’t even really notice in the sale initially.)
I took plenty of selfies of my “star pieces” from the sale and plenty of selfies of my “not-so-star pieces” that had sizing and fit issues, so feel free to click on the section below in the table of contents to be taken to what you’re most interested in…or give this post a nice long scroll.
Table Of Contents
(click any link below to be taken to that section of my post)
1. Fab AllSaints Sweaters
2. Cardigan Outfits
3. Pretty Blue Tops
4. The Best Zella Joggers
5. Interesting Plaids
6. Unexpected Sizing
1. Wear-With-Everything AllSaints Sweaters
SO impressed with the AllSaints sweaters in the sale this year. Good colors, good fit, and good style!
A. Ridley Funnel Neck Sweater
Sweater (XS) | Black Denim (6) | Boots | Bag | Sunnies
This was the sweater I kept reaching for when trying on all the denim. It looks good worn shorter or longer (you can kind of scrunch it up), and you can play with the scrunching of sleeves too. Wearing XS (my usual AllSaints size) and I liked the fit — slouchy without being ridiculously overwhelming. Note: The Max Mara black jacket-blazer in the collage below was sold out last night, but then sizes popped back up today, so it’s worth keeping on your radar. It is FABULOUS (lightweight silky no-wrinkle fabric) and comes with a belt that gives it an entirely different look.
Sweater (XS) | Black Jacket (S) | Cuffed Denim (28) | Joggers (S) | Bootcut Denim (4) | Ribcage Levis (29) | Brown Aquatalias | Similar Sneaks | Platform Boots | Green Bag | White Bag | Sunnies
B. Roll Neck Asymetrical Sweater
Sweater (XS) | Ribcage Levis (29) | Platform Boots | White Bag | Sunnies
I tried this sweater on in black in-store (it was great), but I brought the green one home. My favorite look is the emerald green sweater paired with the olive green bag, and I was surprised I liked the look of the oversized sweater with the slouchy levis as well. I guess I’m coming around on the top-to-bottom slouchy look. I brought home the 29s in the Levi’s, but maybe should have stuck with my usual 28s because they’ve stretched a decent amount in just one day.
Sweater (XS) | Cuffed Denim (28) | Bootcut Denim (4) | Black Denim (6) | Platform Boots | Brown Aquatalias | Black Boots | Leopard Crossbody | Green Bag | White Bag | Beige Shoulder Bag
C. Elle Snap Sweater
Snap-Top (XS) | Cuffed Denim (28) | Black Boots | Clare V Tote | Sunnies
Such a fun sweater-top. You have to play around a bit with the snaps to find the drape that works best for you, but once you do, it’s so good. Wearing an XS here, but I think I should have sized up for extra slouch. Can easily be worn as an everyday top or dressed up for evening, but my favorite look is with my fav Zella joggers. Thinking I may use this as a cute top to throw over workout clothes.
Snap-Top (XS) | Joggers (S) | Cuffed Denim (28) | Similar Sneaks | Black Boots | Green Bag
2. The Base Outfit That Works With Everything (Even Cardigans)
These jeans and these brown platform boots basically worked with every.single.thing I tried on from the sale. The perfect black wash on the denim and the perfect shade of brown on the boots and the slight edginess of both are a nice contrast to simple sweaters and cardigans. Obviously, the really good bags (Clare V and rag & bone) I got in the sale also make pretty much any outfit work.
A. Black-Wash Jeans Base Outfit
Black Sweater (XXS) | Black Denim (6) | Platform Boots | White Bag | Sunnies.
This black Eileen Fisher sweater is not anything wildy special, but it IS SUPER soft, super comfortable, super cozy, and wasn’t too thick to half tuck. Which means…it will likely be a keeper.
Black Sweater (XXS) | Black Denim (6) | Platform Boots | Clare V Tote | Green Bag | Sunnies
B. With All The Cardigans
Frame Cardigan (XS) | Tee (XS) | Similar Tee | Black Denim (6) | Platform Boots | Green Bag | Sunnies
Yep….the jeans and platform boots made even my “boring cardigans” that I love look good. Actually…I take that back…the Frame Cardigan above is NOT boring. The 100% cashmere, has extra-long wide sleeves, interesting detail on the back, side slits, pretty buttons, and shorter-in-the-front/longer-in-the-back design make this cardigan VERY special. I especially loved it over this Vince Tee (not in the sale). I’m still hoping to try this one as a more budget-friendly option, but for now…this one is the cardigan winner.
The black Eileen Fisher cardigan on the bottom left is your typical relaxed fit cardigan style, but in the same cozy nubbly organic cotton-blend as the Eileen Fisher black sweater I tried. Cozy, cozy, cozy and comes in tan too. The Eileen Fisher beige cardigan (below right) reminds me a ton of the Vince cardigan I got in last year’s sale. Similar lines, similar easy styling, but made with alpaca and mohair.
Black Cardigan (XS) | Beige Cardigan (XS) | Tee (XS) | Similar Tee | Black Denim (6) | Platform Boots | Clare V Tote | White Bag | Sunnies
3. Prettier-In-Person Blue Tops
These selfies definitely do not do the pretty blue color of either of these tops justice. They’re both so pretty paired with denim or dressed up for work. I will likely wear the Vince one out at night with fancy jewels as well.
A. Vince Short Sleeve-Sweater
Sweater (XS) | Cuffed Denim (28) | Platform Boots | Clare V Tote
I got a short-sleeved FRAME sweater last year in the Anniversary sale that I wore on repeat last fall, winter and spring. Fancy enough to wear for “special”, but easy enough to wear for everyday and perfect for anyone who overheats easily (like me). This blue Vince sweater has a looser, slouchier style than I expected (wearing XS), but it also means it has a lovely drape and works perfectly for a full-tuck or half-tuck. My one from last year could only be worn loose due to the fitted style, so I ended up being happy with the slouchier fit of this one.
Sweater (XS) | Black Denim (6) | Ribcage Levis (29) | Bootcut Denim (4) | Black Boots | Platform Boots | Brown Aquatalias | White Bag | Beige Shoulder Bag | Green Bag | Sunnies
B. EILEEN FISHER Boxy Top
Top (XS) | Black Denim (6) | Black Boots | White Bag | Sunnies
Another gorgeous blue top that’s ALL about the color and fabric. Eileen Fisher definitely (true to form) produced a piece that is incredibly simple, but also incredibly wearable and timeless. The sustainably produced fabric is perfectly drapey and uber buttery soft.
Top (XS) | Bootcut Denim (4) | Black Denim (6) | Platform Boots | Black Boots | Green Bag | Leopard Crossbody | White Bag | Sunnies
4. The Best Easy Zella Joggers (From Experience)
Joggers (XS) | Snap-Top (XS) | Similar Sneaks
Under $40!!!! I got these joggers in the Anni Sale last year and they are my fav joggers by FAR! Last year I bought an XS and they fit like a mix of a legging and a pair sweatpants, but this year I got the S and I like the slouchier fit. I wore them year-round for workouts, errands and even for “real outfits”. Lightweight enough to wear in summer. This year, they come in navy, gray, black, burgundy and a camo print.
Joggers (S) | Tank (XS) | Gray Top (XS) | Jacket (S) | Sweater (XS) | Clare V Tote | Similar Sneaks
5. Interesting Plaids
I am NOT typically a houndstooth or plaid gal, but apparently now I am because I loved the sweater and coat below. I find it feels good to change things up a bit in the fall.
A. Hugo Boss Houdstooth Sweater
Sweater (XS) | Bootcut Denim (4) | Platform Boots | Green Bag | Sunnies
I’ve never owned anything houndstooth in my life. Seriously. But this sweater came home with me. I almost exclusively wear stripes under cardigans, but I need something new and a bit fresh. Houndstooth it is! Super comfortable and lightweight. Great for layering or as a seasonal transition piece.
Sweater (XS) | Bootcut Denim (4) | Brown Aquatalias | Platform Boots | Beige Shoulder Bag | Clare V Tote | White Bag | Green Bag | Sunnies
B. Plaid Shawl Collar Coat
Coat (XS) | Cuffed Denim (28) | Black Boots | Platform Boots | Green Bag
We went back and forth in the dressing rooms on if this coat was too big on me. Shana says no. It’s definitely an oversized look that I’m not used to, but again…I am down for something fun and different this fall. And I love that I can throw it over anything and it pulls a whole look together. Definitely runs big. I’m wearing an XS and it’s still very oversized.
Coat (XS) | Black Denim (6) | Cuffed Denim (28) | Ribcage Levis (29) | Bootcut Denim (4) | Platform Boots | White Bag | Clare V Tote | Beige Shoulder Bag | Sunnies
6. Unexpected Sizing Issues
A. AllSaints Bodysuit
Bodysuit | Cuffed Denim (28) | Platform Boots
Oh my gosh NO! Just no! I thought this bodysuit might be perfect to add some edginess under cardigans, but it’s way too low for my comfort at the top, and way too uncomfortable for me on the bottom. Cut on the bottom was all wrong for my body. Back on the rack.
B. rag & bone Hoodie
Hoodie | Black Denim (6) | Black Boots | Beige Shoulder Bag
This was another piece I thought might look cute under cardigans, but I need a hoodie to be ultra-comfortable and cozy, and this was too fitted and felt too precious for me to wear on an everyday basis. It is VERY cute, but just not for what I’m looking for.
C. AllSaints Pink Print Blouse
Blouse (0) | Black Denim (6) | Black Boots | White Bag
Another fancy top that is so darn cute, but just not quite right for me fit-wise. I want to be able to tuck it in, and it was too much material (even the size 0). And getting it on and off and dealing with the tie thing around the neck was more complicated than I wanted.
D. AllSaints Rita Tee
Tee (XS) | Striped Tee (XS) | Cuffed Denim (28) | Platform Boots | Beige Shoulder Bag
I was counting on LOVING these tops. The price is right, the style is right, the sizing…not so right. At least on me. Way too much material…even half-tucked.
E. Free People Top & Mother Denim
Top (XS & S) | Denim (31) | Platform Boots | Beige Shoulder Bag | Green Bag | Sunnies
I’m going to keep one of these tops because they’re SO cute, and I think I’ll wear it a ton, but I have a few notes on sizing. The white is an XS and I like the way it fits, but the sleeves are snug and getting it over your arms and situated is a “thing”. The gray is a S and the arms fit better and go on easier, but I don’t like the fit in the body quite as much. Will likely keep the gray, but maybe exchange for the white color. But let’s talk about these jeans!!! I had to size up 3 sizes, and they’re still snug! I’m usually a 28 and these are 31’s. What the heck?!?!
So….what else do you guys want to see? I definitely have a budget-friendly post along with more full-outfits in the works, but anything else??? You can follow how we’re covering the sale in our ultimate guide to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. If you want the quick-and-dirty list of articles and contributors to shop, head to our #NSale Cheat Sheet. If you found this post helpful, feel free to bookmark this page to use on your shopping day! Thank you, as always, for your support of TME.
-Linzi
Did you try on the Eileen Fisher Open Front Long Cardigan? I know EF tends to run large and am wondering how long the regular size is.
I didn’t get to try that one yet. I was surprised, though, that the other Eileen Fisher cardigans weren’t as enormous as I expected. I tried on an XXS in the beige one from my post (which is often what I need in Eileen Fisher), but ended up bringing home the XS because it fit better, so maybe the Open Front Cardigan won’t be as oversized either?? I’m hoping. Will let you know if I get to try it.
Great informative post! I’m wondering now if I should buy a size S this year in the Zella joggers.. I currently have an XS pair and they could be a tad slouchier. Did you notice a big difference sizing up?
Yes – I definitely noticed a difference! I wear the small now, too.
I did notice a pretty big difference…the small definitely has more slouch compared to the XS. They both fit, but the bigger size looks more like a jogger on me and the smaller size looks more like a legging/tight/jogger situation. Hope that helps!
LOVE the plaid coat and I think the size looks perfect on you! I feel like this is one of those items that you need to see on someone to realize how beautiful it is!
It’s so fun, right?? I really was excited to try something different and thanks for the vote on size. ha! Always fun to get everyone’s opinions during this sale. 🙂
This post amazing, thank you so much! Last year and definitely this year you influenced and will influence several of my purchases. As for a post idea, could you and the team compare the high shaft Chelsea boots? There are so many to choose from in the sale from the high shaft Staud olive Chelsea, Franco Sarto trio of color options, black Paul Green pair, taupe Paul Green pair Laura showed on Instagram, Vagabond black pair, and black Caslon pair. I’m torn between investing in a more expensive pair or purchasing a less expensive pair as long as the quality is still there. Thank you for all that you do!
Awww….thank you, Sandi. I really appreciate that! There are a lot of boot options..and a lot of brands I don’t usually wear. I was also a little overwhelmed. I’ll let the team know there’s a lot of interest in boots and we’ll see what we can do! Thanks, Sandi, for the comment and the request!
Love the boots but wondering if they will hold up to the comfort standards. Please let us know
Haha! I was so confused by these silly Steve Madden boots. So cute and looked good with all the denim, but not a brand I usually wear. They do have a decently cushiony footbed, the platform helps to make them not feel like really high-heeled boots, and the substantial heel helps with walking and standing….so dare I say they feel pretty comfortable? I’m a comfort shoe snob, though, so I’m just automatically assuming that they don’t have the structural support as some of my comfort brands and I won’t be able to wear them all day every day. I will say I WAS very surprised that I was able to wear them for try-ons ALL>DAY>LONG and my feet felt fine, though. Does that help?
On the model for the Mother jeans you went up 3 sizes, do you happen to know what those boots are? Thanks for putting this together so quickly!
I still can’t believe I had to size up 3 sizes!! I’m wearing these boots: https://shopstyle.it/l/bwiFt. I didn’t even really notice them before the sale, but I liked them a lot in person. They’re not my usual comfort shoe brand, but the footbed has some cushion and because of the platform they don’t feel like you’re wearing a really high heel.
Thank you for the detail, I live 1.5 hours from a Nordstrom so I rely on all of you!
Oh my gosh you’re welcome! So glad it feels helpful.
That houndstooth sweater is so pretty! What a cool find.
Link to denim goes to a blue pair OG Good American jeans. Can you share brand and style of the black denim?
The link goes to the jeans in the picture, but the black wash sold out! So sad 🙁 Hoping they will come back in stock with returns. These look the most similar on Good American’s site. https://shopstyle.it/l/bwj2r The ones I’m wearing are Good Classic High Waist Raw Hem.
Yes, thank you! I am on my feet all day (teaching) and I love that you include stylish comfortable shoes in your posts. I always look forward to your recommendations. So helpful and fun!
My pleasure, Tina. As I said, MUCH more comfortable than I would have expected from Steve Madden, but not Fly London or Dansko support and comfort.
Love when you guys dig up those surprise finds!
I was actually curious about the boots on there model is wearing on the N product page for those Mother jeans…. If you happened to see them online or in store and know the brand.
Thank you!
I can’t find them!!! I’ve searched and searched and they’re nowhere. These are similar in coloring and with the black detail, but definitely not them. https://shopstyle.it/l/bwkxv Hmmm…. I hate when Nordstrom teases us like that! Sorry…JC. I’ll definitely let you know if they pop up somewhere.
awww thanks for searching! Maybe they’ll pop up closer to Fall ? I really appreciate it (and your coverage).