Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Guide

Either way, I’m keeping my Nordstrom Anniversary Sale guide real for you.

Below you will find some quick bullet points about the sale, a shopping strategy with some tips you may not know about, my personal picks, and what to really expect if you’re shopping this sale for the first time.

Here’s everything you need to know about the #NSale:

WHAT IS THE NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE?

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is essentially an early access event where you can shop new fall/winter arrivals at low price points.

Instead of waiting for cold weather items to go on sale, Nordstrom reverses it. Items are marked down first before the fall season begins. After the sale, prices go back up to retail costs and then gets marked down again after the season is over. That’s it.

NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE CATALOG

Here’s the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Catalog. Last year, Nordstrom provided an online preview prior to the start of Early Access shopping. It was much easier than previous years because it allowed shoppers to create wish lists and add to them. Good thing they did it again this year.

Depending on what “tier” you fall under is when you can shop the sale. If you’re curious, tiers are determined by spend levels:

ICON STATUS — $15,000+ spend per year

AMBASSADOR STATUS — $5,000+ spend per year

INFLUENCER STATUS — $500 spend per year

MEMBER STATUS — $0 – $499 spend per year (free to join!)

EARN NORDSTROM REWARDS

You don’t have to have a Nordstrom credit card to earn rewards. Take advantage of The Nordy Club, which is a free customer loyalty program where you can earn one point per dollar spent. If you do have a Nordstrom credit card, you’ll receive two points for every dollar spent.

Every 2,000 points gets you a $20 Nordstrom Note to use online or in-stores.

The great thing is you can earn points on every purchase made in stores and online at Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack.

Moreover, when you can get access to services and personalized experiences, make sure to stretch your dollars by using them!

**You can apply for a Nordstrom card if you want one. However, your financial situation and your relationship with your finances are more important. You do NOT have to apply for a credit card to shop this sale nor do you have to shop this sale because of FOMO.**

ANNIVERSARY SALE BEAUTY GIFTS WITH PURCHASE

Typically, Nordstrom hosts events throughout the Anniversary Sale. The one I liked the most in the past were the Beauty Bash events they did in-stores.

In the past, this event gave you access to beauty exclusives, complimentary applications and consultations.

I’m not sure about this year considering supply chain issues, but in the past, brand reps who gave you tips and free samples.

Before purchasing any beauty products, look online at the Gifts with Purchase first to make sure you get what you spend your hard-earned money on.

Some gifts are available both online and in-store, but some are online-only. If you have one you work with, make sure to check with your sales associate.

Don’t miss out on beauty freebies!

WHAT TO EXPECT

Shopping this sale can be overwhelming as Nordstrom’s inventory is massive. That said, even with a lot of product, sometimes the inventory is terrible. To me, last year’s inventory was underwhelming. What’s the verdict this year? This year’s inventory is more underwhelming that last year’s offers.

However, that doesn’t mean you won’t come across a few great finds here and there.

Expect to NOT get what you want. You heard me right. Just because you placed an order doesn’t mean it won’t be cancelled. In the past, Nordstrom would also restock items throughout the sale. However, it’s not guaranteed so don’t get emotionally attached to your order(s).

Inventory can also change during the sale. I noticed some items I had on my wish list were no longer marked as part of the sale. Um, what? How does Nordstrom not know what’s part of the sale and what’s not? Anyway, don’t be surprised if you run into website issues due to heavy traffic too.

MY PERSONAL SHOPPING STRATEGY

It’s important to be strategic when shopping. Here’s how I personally shop the sale:

1. After I survey my closet and beauty drawers, I make a budget and a list of everything I need. Since Nordstrom has free shipping and returns (in the past, when the selection was good), I ordered everything and returned what didn’t work/didn’t want.
2. Put everything you want on your wishlist. When the sale goes live, add it all to your cart and check out — fast. Denim, cult-favorite beauty items and affordable fine jewelry usually sell out fast so I check out with those categories first.
3. In the past, I opted for in-store pick up since I’m not a fan of huge crowds. However, I do NOT recommend it. By the time sellers pull your order, items might already be sold out. Just place your entire order online so you have a higher chance of getting what you want. 
4. Once I get everything in, I get really honest with myself. If it’s not a “10” to me, I don’t keep it.
5. Lastly, as mentioned earlier, I use my double points day when I shop the sale to earn Nordstrom notes for future purchases.

CLOTHING/SHOES NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE PICKS

Below are brands I love and already own or think is worth adding to my cart.

ALLSAINTS — I’ve been a long-time fan of this brand. If you’re going to get one thing, let it be this buttery soft Dalby leather jacket! Pair with this ALLSAINTS black baseball cap for a relaxed look.

STUART WEITZMAN — These over-the-knee boots are similar to my 50/50 pair (pictured left) I’ve owned for many years that will keep your legs warm. Pair with this circle light cardigan for a cozy look.

DL1961 — There’s a reason why I say this brand creates “baby butt” jeans.

SPANX — I own their Get Moving shorts and LOVE them. This moving skort that’s part of the sale is perfect for tennis, running, paddle boarding, and the gym!

TRUE & CO. — I own this convertible bra in black and nude and they’re a 10/10!

BEAUTY NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE PICKS

Add these brands to your beauty arsenal to replace purged products.

BEAUTYBIO — If you’re looking for a high-quality face roller, this cryo roller set is a must-have!

ELEMIS — This cult skincare favorite is a MUST if you’re going to make one beauty purchase. I missed on this resurfacing face wash last year…twice!

MARIO BADESCU — One of my very first Nordstrom sale purchases many moons ago was this drying lotion. This product is so underrated!

ORIBE — I purchased this hair duo set last year after I had purchased a full size of the dry shampoo at retail from my hair salon. Not making that mistake again!

SUPERGOOP — I use their Unseen Sunscreen all year round so this sunscreen set is high on my list to purchase for myself and as gifts.

HOME NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE PICKS

I love picking up something from these brands for myself or as gifts.

DIPTYQUE — In the past, I purchased this candle set for myself and one to split and give as gifts. Although the price has increased and there are four candles instead of the usual five, note they are bigger size this year at 2.4 oz. each (instead of the 1.23 oz travel size).

JO MALONE — This candle duo is actually worth it in my opinion. You’re getting an extra full ounce while also saving $42!

LE LABO — I cannot say enough about this brand. Nab anything from them. This shower gel is a favorite!

NEST NEW YORK — This votive candle set is perfect to split up and gift your dinner hosts.

NORDSTORM — This Hydrocotton Bath Towel Set is worth stocking up on!