How to Shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Sales are fraught with disaster. They are full of potential and opportunity and the possibility of heartbreak, much like trying out a new hairstylist for the first time. It can either go very, very well or it can be a disaster. (The no-woman’s-land in between is so boring, don’t you think?)

In the case of that heavily hyped, eagerly anticipated, much blogged about event, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, the risks are that much greater. What if you buy the wrong stuff? Or, worse, what if you don’t buy the right stuff? It’s enough to give a girl nightmares.

That’s why it pays to shop S.M.A.R.T., just like a stylist. Here’s how:

S: Start with your Style Dial number. If it doesn’t flatter your body type, pass, no matter how much you love it.

M: Make a priority list. Decide what’s missing from your closet, and which new trends you’d like to try.

A: Avoid an unplanned splurge. If you fall in love with an item but it’s not on your list, sleep on it before making the purchase. If you still have to have it the next day, then go for it.

R: Repeat the piece 3 ways. Does the item you’re considering work with at least 3 other items in your existing wardrobe? If not, leave it behind.

T: Tags stay on, until you wear it. Most of us can’t wait to wear our newest purchases, so if you’re hesitating (and it’s not an out of season or special occasion item), then there may be a reason. Check the return policy, and keep the tags on until you wear it.

Another way to shop S.M.A.R.T.? Spare yourself the endless hours combing through the sale, and check out my Nordstrom Anniversary Sale catalog instead. Here, 10 of the highlights:

Faux Leather Leggings

Sleek and comfy, these will be fabulous in the fall paired with tunics and sweaters.

Trouvé Faux Leather Leggings, $52.90 (from $79)

Flare Sleeve Sweater

Fall’s answer to the bell sleeve blouse, the sleeve is voluminous enough to add some drama but not so overwhelming that you can’t, you know, do stuff.

Halogen® Flare Sleeve Sweater (Regular & Petite), $49.90 (from $79). Also in Ivory and Black.

Knot Front Blouse

A modern twist on a classic, this is great for disguising a little bit of tummy poochiness. (I just made that word up.)

BP. Tie Front Blouse, $31.90 (from $49). Also in Blue and Pink.

Denim Jacket

A clean, unfussy version of the style staple.

by Alexander Wang Denim Jacket (Nordstrom Exclusive), $206.90 (from $310)

A Wrap Dress

The sale features several stylish, flattering Eliza J. dresses, all under $100. This wrap style is gorgeous and super-flattering to any body type.

Eliza J Side Ruffle Faux Wrap Jersey Dress (Plus Size), $84.90 (from $128)

Tasseled Sweater

The tassel trend continues through fall, but this sweater is classic enough to last for years.

kate spade new york textured tassel pullover, $198.90 (from $298)

Off the Shoulder Swimsuit

I plan to buy this now to wear poolside for the remainder of the summer, and then pairing it with jeans or a skirt in the fall.

Trina Turk Velveteen Underground Off the Shoulder One-Piece Swimsuit, $91.90 (was $138)

Moto Jacket

A wardrobe essential, this one is made of genuine leather and has timeless details.

Topshop Rosemary Leather Biker Jacket, $249.90 (from $420)

Skinny Jeans

The coolest. Jeans. Ever. Just distressed enough, with a trendy step hem, these are cool without trying too hard.

Hudson Jeans Colette Step Hem Skinny Jeans (Backbone), $129.90 (from $198)

Booties

Rag & Bone makes the most comfortable booties, and these are chic and versatile as well!

rag & bone Margot Fringe Cap Toe Bootie (Women), $329.90 (from $495)

I hope you enjoyed my edits from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and don’t forget to check out my catalog for more ideas!