Welcome to our edit of the 2017 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale shoe edition. Well, shoes and boots, anyway. This is the one where I wander back into Nordstroms, a little dazed and confused after my marathon DressingRoomSelfies, and attempt to make sense of the footwear. We’re all sooooo picky about shoes and boots around here (like, comfort matters…A LOT), and there’s nothing that pains me more than recommending a shoe that I later find out is uncomfortable. NOOOOO. #theworst
To save you some time, my top picks for shoes are the Stuart Weitzman Over-the-knee boots, the Kate Spade Fringe sneakers, the Steve Madden embroidered booties, and the Vince loafers. Most of the sold out sizes will be restocked before the public sale.
You can find all of The Mom Edit’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale picks – beyond this shoe haul – organized by category (tops, bags, coats, etc.) by clicking on that link.
Also, there’s been some chatter from our readers about how disappointing the shoe selection is this year. I get it. There were some crushing disappointments in this year’s shoe selection – and I talk about those below. Additionally, in last year’s sale was our community favorite, the Lucky bootie which was a game-changer, shoe-wise. I wore these boots allll over Europe and basically the rest of the summer, into Fall, then again in the Spring…and I’m still wearing them again this summer. Many of you wrote in stating that you were hoping for another transformative pair of shoes, or at least a similar pair. So let’s start with that, shall we?
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Shoes: Our Quest For Taupe Bootie Perfection
These are the culprits from last year’s sale, the Lucky Brand booties (please note that Lucky came out with a similar pair, just not currently sale).
They’re comfortable, walkable, and look good with everything from jeans to shorts to dresses. My most-worn boot.
The First Contender: B.P. Perforated Bootie
At first glance, this BP bootie is the closest thing to my Lucky boots. But I didn’t love the slightly lighter color (although, looking at old pics, the Lucky boots may have started out this color), or the elastic in the sides, or the shoe bottom. In short, the details aren’t as good. (Also, the BP boot is a bit narrower and fits smaller overall.)
But here’s the thing: once I take away my old Lucky boots (and just try on two matching boots like a normal person)…I almost can’t tell the difference. VOILA…
BP. Faren Bootie (in ‘Taupe Suede’) | Jeans | Blazer | Sunglasses
They’re….totally fine. And that color, as it gets more lived-in, will prob look better. So. Ok. Fine.
The Second Contender (And My New Fav?): The Hinge, Split-Side Bootie
Ok, now this one was a surprise. At first glance, these don’t look like my Lucky booties, but the vibe is there. They have a cool side split, a chunky wooden heel, and when next to my Luckies….
Hinge Barris Block Heel Bootie (in ‘Taupe Sport Suede’) | Jeans
I love ’em. My only word of caution is that the heel is ever-so-slightly higher, in case you are a hard-core, flat-shoes-only kinda girl. But it still couldn’t be considered high, so there you go.
The Third Contender – Just OK: Sam Edelman Fold-Back Bootie
I styled the black version of these booties in my #DressingRoomSelfies article. I love that they can be mules or boots, and I loved the black. In that post, I mentioned that maybe the taupe would be better???
I don’t think so. They look super cute from the front, but the lighter color leather shows the wrinkles more when folded down or up (something that wasn’t a problem with the black suede).
Sam Edelman Prentice Convertible Ankle Boot (in ‘Taupe’) | Jeans | Blazer
The Third Contender (That I Didn’t Love): Vince Camuto Prasata Bootie
The textured sides called to me. So cute, right? Right. But…..also a bit uncomfortable/scratchy on the sides of my feet. BOO.
Vince Camuto Prasata Bootie (in ‘New Foxy’) | Jeans | Blazer | Sunglasses
Not even a soft suede could make these comfy to wear. (NOTE: I am horrendously picky, with pretty sensitive skin. So others might be OK with these….but proceed with caution.)
The Final Contender (That Was Too High): Vince Camuto Francia Bootie
The downfall of these boots – despite the spot-on color and cool wooden heel – is that they fall into that gray area of too-high for everyday, but not *quite* sexy enough for going out. That said…..they are very comfortable.
Vince Camuto Francia Bootie (in ‘Foxy’) | Jeans | Blazer | Sunglasses
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: OTK Boots
My top pick of the entire sale is the Weitzman OTK boots. Here they are…
Stuart Weitzman Elevated Over the Knee Boots (in Black) | Sweater | Jeans
There’s a Marc Fisher LTD. OTK boot that is similar (the heel is higher, but still chunky), and looks promising. Gwen has a pair from last year she loves. But I’m concerned that a reviewer said they looked really cheap on. For $150 that shouldn’t be happening.
The boot that’s an obvious knock-off of the Weiztman boots are these Steve Madden OTK Boots:
Steve Madden Gabbie Thigh High Boot (in Black) | Jeans | Blazer
Are they as comfy? Nope. Do they look as good in person? Nope. Do they feel as good? Nope. But…..they’re only $86, so if you want to try out the trend, this one might get a big fat CLOSE ENOUGH. They’re comfy enough, they do stay up pretty well, and they look good enough. My one concern is that the shaft is more narrow than the Weitzmans…and I have skinny legs. But there’s more stretch, so once they’re on….maybe it’s OK?
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: Booties
Duuuude. I wanted something….cool. Something unexpected. Something that made my heart beat fast. Truth be told, I was disappointed. However, there was ONE standout pair worth mentioning.
But first…the heartbreaks:
NOPE: Rebecca Minkoff Anette Ankle Boot
These shoes rub uncomfortably against my ankle bone, pinch my toes, and crease weird when I walk. Additionally, the urge to don a poet sleeve blouse was a little too strong.
Nope: 1.State Perforated Cut-out Booties
LOOK AT THIS GORGEOUSNESS. I picked them up, my heart beat fast, I felt giddy, I impatiently waited while they brought my size, and…..
NOPE.
See that ankle-zip on the inseam? It rubs. Uncomfortably.
1. State Iddah Perforated Cutaway Bootie (in Black) | Jeans | Blazer
One might be able to break these babies in, and that mayyyyy be worth it because they’re so gosh-darn cool, but, well….that person isn’t going to be me. #aintnobodygottimeforthat
Nope: Sarto Ankle Boots
Well, I thought, oxblood might be fun. Maybe that’s what I’m missing?
And, I suppose, if one was in the market for stiff, un-walkable, standing-only oxblood booties then yes: FUN.
SARTO by Franco Sarto Paivley Bootie (in Dk Burgundy Suede) | Jeans | Blazer
Good Not Great: Sam Edelman Strappy Wrap Booties
So. This boot is perfectly comfortable. But I do have two concerns:
- I don’t love that the straps are the same color – I think this cool detail gets lost.
- More worryingly, I’m concerned that this style of bootie isn’t quite on-trend (nor is it a classic Chelsea boot that will stand the test of time).
Booties, in general, are moving in one of three directions: a classic chelsea boot, a cool cut-out boot (to wear without socks), or a sleek, high-shaft boot (we’ve called them ‘sock boots’ in the past). This boot doesn’t *quite* fit in. And maybe that’s ok! But I do worry that in another year or so this boot will look dated. (You can see what I’m talking about in the side view….)
Sam Edelman Merton Bootie (in Black) | Jeans | Blazer
LOVE: Vince Camuto Peep-Toe Booties
Ok – let’s get excited. These Vince Camuto peep-toes are sexy enough for date night, but soooo cushy and soft. Again, they’re too high for me to wear everyday, but I could happily walk around Philly for date night in these bad boys.
Unlike the boots above, they’re perfectly on trend: the shaft is high (especially good with cropped denim), the cut-outs are well-placed, and they have a textured detail that’s really cool. (You can see that better in the lighter colors.)
I ordered all three colors, thinking I might prefer a lighter boot….but nope. The black is the clear winner. You can see why on my Instagram stories (@shanachristine).
Vince Camuto Karinta Block Heel Bootie (in Black) | Jeans | Blazer
LOVE: TOMS Peep-Toe Booties
Every pair of TOMS Booties I’ve tried have been insanely comfortable. According to my sister, these are no exception – these were some of her top picks from the sale. Like my Vince Camutos, she thinks they’re a little high for all day walking, but definitely comfy enough for date night. Comes in black, fits true to size. (And even though they’re on sale, TOMS still gives one pair to a child in need for every pair purchased.)
TOMS Majorca Peep Toe Bootie | Sweater | Jeans
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: The Sneakers
This is one area that I think the sale really stands out. The Kate Spade fringe sneaks are flying off the shelves….
Kate Spade New York Lenna Tassel Sneaker | Sweatshirt | Backpack
My favorite Vince sneaker booties have re-appeared (this time with a platform)…
Vince Wade High Top Sneaker (in ‘Pewter’) | Blazer | Jeans
…and there are two classic slip-on sneaks worth checking out: Vince leather (I didn’t love the satin), and Blondo….which are also WATERPROOF. (Thanks for the find, Yvette!)
Vince Corbin Slip-On Sneaker (in Black) | Dress | Sweater
That said, here are two additional sneakers I’m obsessing over:
Flyknit Nikes
These Nikes are so insanely comfortable…and cute enough to wear with street clothes, not just workout clothes. These came home with me.
Nike Free Focus Flyknit 2 Training Shoe (in Black/White) | Jeans | Blazer
Treasure and Bond White Sneaks
I adore these sneakers. If I didn’t already own several pairs of white sneaks (including this gorg pair from The Greats) I would’ve snapped these up. They have such a cool, under-the-radar, French-girl vibe. I DIE.
Treasure & Bond Merrick Perforated Sneaker | Jeans | Blazer
Cole Haan Velvet Sneakers
NOOOOOOOOOO! I can’t find my freaking picture of these babies! Shoot, you guys. It’s been nuts. Wait! Cam has a pic. Hold on….
Keep in mind that Cam, being almost 6 ft tall has giant man-feet. And they look downright dainty in these sneaks. (Also keep in mind that Cam and I live for giving each other shit. haha)
Anyway, the Cole Han velvet sneakers are fabulous. They’re so sleek and fun, have a cushy sole, yet barely weigh anything at all.
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: Winter And Weather Boots
There are some good, not-so-boring basics in this sale.
I like these: Hunter Rainboots
They accidentally brought me the gray. I wanted black, but more than that, I wanted to get outta there. So here’s the gray. I actually love this update from Hunter. They’re sleek and still very practical, but more comfortable (and modern) than the classic tall.
Hunter Original Refined Short Rain Boot (in ‘Dark Slate’) | Jeans | Blazer
LIKE: Sorel Wedge Boots
These waterproof, warm, winter wedges from Sorel are a TME team favorite. And this iteration might be their sleekest looking yet.
The wedges are a little higher than years past, but I might be the only one annoyed by that. They gap a little at the top, but the leather is soft, so I suspect that will lessen with use. (If I were actually wearing these outside in the winter, I’d have a pair of Smartwool socks on, showing in that little gap.)
SOREL After Hours Waterproof Bootie (in ‘Kettle/Black’) | Jeans | Blazer
Proceed With Caution: UGG Boots With Ties
It’s hard to walk away from a new pair of UGGs – so soft! So fuzzy! But I didn’t love these. The back ties were annoying, and I had to choose between tying them so they looked good vs. tying them so they could slip off. Too much work, UGG.
UGG Constantine Genuine Shearling Boot (in ‘Chestnut Suede’) | Jeans | Blazer
Like: UGG Australia Lace-Up Boots
My sister ordered these to get her through those crazy Michigan winters.
“I love the lace-up detail and the height of these boots, but the best thing about them is that they’re super comfortable, warm and waterproof. I will be wearing these alllll winter.”
UGG Elvia Waterproof Tall Boot (tts) | BP Boatneck Rib Knit Pullover (s) | Leggings (s)
Like: UGG Australia Azaria Waterproof Boot
These are super comfy, warm, waterproof and…cute enough.
A Pair To Wear Now: BP Tale 2 Slide
Ok, so Scotti may not be known for her “practical shoe choices,” but these BP are adorable. At under $50, they won’t break the bank and won’t slide off when you walk in them like some slides. The heel is a bit high but Scotti says they’re pretty comfy for over 3 inches. Also in red or grey, they run small . . . she’s wearing an 8 and is normally a 7.5 in sandals.
BP Tale 2 Slide | BP Ruffled Leggings | Halogen Cashmere Dolman Sleeve Tunic Sweater
Hope this helps!
xo,
S
Wow, this was helpful and lots of fun to read. I hear you about buying pieces that won’t look dated. At the same time I feel like even if it were timeless, I’d still find an excuse to buy something new! Terrific selection!
I love Scotti’s ruffled leggings. Hope they restock.
And question about socks: do you wear no show socks or go nekkid? Any recs on avoiding odor?
Agreed that I didn’t find much to love in this year’s shoe sale (or elsewhere in the store, for that matter. why must all the jeans have frayed hems or something else funky happening? where are the classics?!?) Anyways, I did find this pair of boots that I’m excited about. Not quite the Chelsea boots I’ve been dreaming of, but close enough and at a decent price. (http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/kork-ease-mindo-chelsea-bootie-women/4602827?cm_mmc=email_tran-_-071717-_-dtc_order_confirm-_-proddescr1)
Claire, I’d love to see a pic. I was looking at those too (Kork ease is always so comfy), but was wondering if the shaft comes up high enough. Any chance you’d be willing to snap a pic with jeans…??
I loved this!! This was so fun to read, especially the critiques of the shoes that didn’t win you over. And this post is yet another example of why I turn to this blog – you really only spotlight stuff you actually love. Thanks for that.
Thank you, Liz!!! We TRY – hard – to keep it really real round here. (I’m congratulating myself on my alliteration, haha.)
These posts are super helpful. I order more with each blog.
1: did you cut off the bottoms of your paint splatter AG’s?! Did you attempt the step cut?
2: I’m 5’4″ with short legs. I love the SW’s but they are mid thigh on me. Do you scrunch yours a little or are my legs just too short for these?
Thanks!!!
1. YES. I hacked those babies right off. I didn’t even bother with the step hem. The wash is cool enough without one. I did, however, step-hem an old pair of Dres. It’s pretty easy.
2. I’m 5’2″ with long legs. I swear there’s a scant inch of space between my bottom rib and hip. 🙂 The SW Lowlands/Highlands/Midlands are all a mid-thigh boot. If that feels too long, look for a pair of SW 50/50s. They’re over the knee, but not quite as high. Here’s a link (and you can sometimes find them on sale!): http://amzn.to/2vjtJc0
How high are the Sorels with the strappy motorcycle vibe? I absolutely love the look of them, but as mom to 5 kids, when I hear the word “high” I take a major pause.
They ARE higher than the 1964 Lace-up wedges. Here’s a link so you can see what I’m talking about: http://amzn.to/2tGLgcm
Personally, I do prefer the lower height of the 1964 wedges….I wore a pair like the Sorel Anni Sale wedges to Colorado last winter as my “fancy” shoes (haha), and they were totally fine….but after several hours in them, I was pretty happy to take them off. The lower 1964 wedges I can wear all day.
This was so helpful! Love how you keep it real with the ones you don’t like and how you give specifics as to why. Surprised not to see the Vince Camuto Fileana Split Shaft booties on here though….
Oh Geez – those are fantastic. They weren’t in any of the stores I wandered into….and I somehow missed them online. GREAT FIND. Here’s a link for the rest of you: http://rstyle.me/n/cqka9zb89h7
Great post! Do you think the otk boot trend is here to stay for a few more years or this might be it. I’m just trying to justify the SW boots?!
Dana….my gut is that they’re going to be around for a really long time. That OTK boots are the new tall-boot-over-jeans thing. That old trend started around 2004…and while some would argue that it’s still going on, let’s say – for arguments’ sake – that it started phasing out a few years ago. Which means…the tall boots thing was big for 10 years or so. Personally, I think that’s what will happen with OTK boots. I think you are safe for years to come. 🙂
Thanks for all these great finds! I so want the OTK boot to work for me, but after trying several…I think I have to call it a day. I’m 5 3″ with short ……ahhemmm…..athletic ; ) legs so the words stuffed sausage are what best comes to mind. I guess I’ll stick to the ankle booties until the tall boots with jeans come back in.
Shana, what are your thoughts on the Paul Green Logan bootie? They look like they’d be excellent quality and really comfy, but I’m not sure about the shaft? I could use a low heeled everyday bootie in a color other than taupe and these looked like a possibility.
Dangit! I ordered the Sam Edelman booties…disappointing. What about the white DV booties? Are they worth buying? They sold out before I could order them so I’m hoping to snag a pair if they get restocked on Friday. Also did anyone try the State sneakers? I ordered a pair yesterday. They come in a similar color to Kate Spade sneaks. I bought the KS ones and they’re soo cute but I’m having a hard time justifying $150 on suede sneakers I’m afraid my kids (4, 2 and 6weeks) will destroy. I looove them though….
Another post, another Nordstrom order placed 🙂 Thanks for all of the hard work – these posts have been fantastic!
Hey what about the white boots??
After the Kate Spade tassel sneaker (which I got and adore), you left off probably the one other BEST shoe of the sale: the vince milo slip on. Oh so LUXE and comfy …. and in BLUSH suede….SWOON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (got the nut color too…)
Thanks! I love all of these, especially the nude bootie roundup, but unfortunately they just didnt that have much to choose from for wide feet anywhere in the sale. Maybe it’s a good thing, since I placed one or two orders for each post so far!
Shana…the past two years you’ve highly recommended the Stuart Weitzman Over the Knee Boot in black, so this year I decided to take your advice and took the plunge. They arrived yesterday and I wasn’t as blown away as I hoped to be. What’s your opinion on the heel height on this year’s design vs the lower heel from last year? I think that’s where I am little torn…not sure if I like it or not. Keep up the great work…your site is my go-to…LOVE everyone’s style!
Love the Kate Spade shoes….
Shana and readers….Anyone wear socks with their taupe booties?
I tried on the TOMS Deia bootie & BP bootie in taupe. They are both high enough that you could wear one of those no-show footie socks w/o it showing.
Thanks for the post! I actually go the Sorel wedges after you showed them on an earlier post last week. Quick question: is it weird to wear them OVER skinny jeans rather than with the jeans rolled up above the top of the boot?!?!?
Thanks again for finding and posting about these! I live in the Seattle area and it rained SO MUCH last year that I pretty much lived in my Hunter boots. This will be a nice option for rainy days!
Thanks for the post! Any thoughts about the Paul Green Nora bootie or the Blondo Ida bootie? I seem to be bootie challenged and wanted some which could function both with dresses and jeans. I thought these seemed versatile but will they prove hard to style? Also, I love suede but dont want to baby my shoes and thought the water proof idea of both these brands sounded great. Would love any input on the water proofing aspect too!
Being super Prego, I can’t try on or buy hardly any of the clothing. So instead I focused on shoes! Per your recommendations I bought the black Nike flyknits and the taupe BP booties in a whole size up. You can wear thin footie socks with these!
I also bought the Constantine Uggs in grey (not the weird lace up ones that you tried)
I tried on the Vince Camuto ones that said hurt the sides of your feet/ankles. If anyone is apprehensive, they didn’t bother me at all. I just preferred the BP booties.
The TOMS Delia bootie is cute on too! And great for someone wanting to wear socks with their booties.
I might go back and buy the Treasure & Bond flower print velvet ballet flat. Very cute on!
Can you please tell me about the gorgeous sweater Cam is wearing in the Coke Haan velvet sneaker try on photo?
Just want to let everyone know that THE Lucky Brand booties in sesame are in Marshall’s right now for $60.
The perforated lucky boots are at Macy’s. I got the Vince platforms, hope I like em.
Thank you for pointing out the Steve Madden OTK boots! I’ve been looking for an affordable pair and I’m SO happy with them, especially being under $100 haha. I have giant feet and skinny legs and the boot shafts are always too big but these are simply wonderful. 🙂
So glad you like them!!!!
Hello,
This is a questions unrelated to your post, but can you tell me about that awesome black jacket you’re wearing? Thanks!
I’ve tried to find the Kate Spade Lenna sneaker to no avail. What are some comparable options?
collection of most current movies, TV series, as well as animations. You have a great deal of videos to pick something inning accordance