While there are literally thousands of items [I may have ordered just a few shy of this number #sorryUPSman] I am hoping this compilation of hits and misses will not just save you some time, but see the items on a real person and also be able to hear my honest thoughts on sizing, quality, cut and all of that good stuff! If you have been shopping the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale already, you may have missed a thing or two, but have no fear – you have until August 5th to purchase the products at a major discount. After that, prices will go back up to normal.
You may remember when I showed you all here what I actually purchased [I may have accidentally blacked out and purchased a few..hundred other items after this post was published] and now it’s time to tell you exactly how I feel about everything now that I have tried it on, photographed it, begged my husband to let me keep it and all that good stuff. I will say, while I had a lot of things that I absolutely loved, I also had some things that I absolutely hated. Strap on your panties [is that a thing?] and get settled, we’ve got a lot to cover folks. Before we get this party started – remember the following things:
Anniversary Sale Shopping Tips & Tricks
- Anything that you love and want for yourself, add to your wish list tonight and check out once the sale is live! If it isn’t currently available in your size and color preference, I heard a rumor that items will be restocked for public access so check back often!
- Remember that Nordstrom always offers free shipping and free returns! Because of this, I would recommend ordering two sizes on things you are unsure of, to make sure that you can get it at the sale price and return the one that doesn’t work!
- Some of the items I mention may currently be out of stock, but check back often for restocks! We’ll also be notifying you of restocks over on our Facebook page and Insiders group [highly recommend joining the group for a ton of helpful info and nightly giveaways!]
- Keep in mind that while the sale lasts until 8/5, things go quick so don’t be like N*Sync and have to say “bye, bye, bye” to everything before it’s gone – shop early!
- Last but not least, if there’s anything I didn’t cover and you still have questions, ask away below and I’ll answer right here so check back!
ps. For sizing reference, I am 5’4, 125 lbs on a good day, typically a 2 in tops/dresses and 26 in jeans/pants with a preferred inseam of 26-28 inches. Bra size is 30DDD [I get it from my momma]. Now, who’s ready to see this lineup?!
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Hits & Misses: Jackets and Cardigans
HIT: CASLON KNIT BLAZER [True to size, wearing in XS] So comfortable and lightweight – I love that you can wear this to the office or on a day of running errands! Super versatile and feels great!
HIT: Caslon(R) Utility Jacket [size down if in between, wearing in XS] This is a jacket everybody must have! The camo, the the pink embroidery detail, oh my! Lightweight and not bulky!
HIT: Mural Drape Trench [true to size, wearing in XS – it is a little tight in the chest and upper arms so size up if in between/bustier] This is an absolute 100% yes on my part! It’s lined, the color is so pretty and can double as an added piece to bring your outfit alive or as a jacket [just note – it doesn’t close]!
HIT: BB Dakota Gabrielle Faux Leather Asymmetrical Jacket [true to size, wearing in small] This jacket is so good and all of the yes’s! It feels like high quality for less than $70 and I love the mixed material! Awesome for nights out!
HIT: Leith Ribbed Shawl Cocoon Sweater [size down if in between, wearing in XS] Dare I say this is my fave cardigan of the sale? It’s not bulky, has the softest ribbed material and has layering abilities written ALL over it. More colors, please!
HIT: Barefoot Dreams(R) CozyChic Lite(R) Circle Cardigan [size down if in between, wearing in XS/SM] This will come as no surprise to anybody. If you’ve never tried Barefoot Dreams, the time is NOW. So soft [and stays that way – just air dry!] Great for travel, lounge, on the go, or as gifts!
HIT: MICHAEL Michael Kors Hybrid Hooded Down Jacket [true to size, wearing in small] Between the winter white color, gold detail and the fact that it has the ability to keep you warm while not making you look bulky, it’s a win all around!
HIT: Caslon(R) Asymmetrical Drape Collar Terry Jacket [size down if in between, wearing in XS] Here’s another jacket that I think every closet could benefit from having. It’s such a comfortable fabric, hangs nicely, isn’t bulky and has pockets [always worth pointing out ;)] I will totally wear this out to dinner or to office on casual Fridays [who am I kidding, every day is casual Friday at my office..]
HIT: BLANKNYC Meant to Be Moto Jacket with Removable Hood [true to size, wearing in XS] I love a good Blanknyc jacket and this one doesn’t disappoint. I’m obsessed with this green color for fall! It feels good on and I love that I can remove the hood if I want a little less bulk!
HIT: The North Face Westborough Insulated Jacket [size up if in between, wearing in small] I love that this jacket isn’t super bulky but yet still packs a punch for warmth. I like that the back goes down in the back a bit to cover my butt. It has a nice preppy look, I wasn’t certain about this one at first, but now I love it!
HIT: BLANKNYC Cloud Nine Drape Jacket [size down if in between, wearing in XS] I love this so much, it is SO soft and I love that you can wear it a couple of ways! Easy to dress up for a night our or wear with leggings for a more casual look. I was intimidated by the faux suede at first but it is perfect!
HIT: Zella Cozy Up Bomber Jacket [size up, wearing in small] Zella does it again. I am bomber OBSESSED and this one is no exception. So cozy, soft and freaking adorable.
HIT: Gibson Convertible Cozy Fleece Wrap Cardigan [true to size, wearing in XS] The fleece is SO soft and you can wear it two ways [although I’d just wear it wrapped] so perfect for travel! Super easy to wrap [watch this FB live for how to!] This is a must-have!
HIT: BP. Stitch Curve Hem Cardigan [size down if in between, wearing in XS] This is such a perfect cardigan, love the circle hem, it isn’t too bulky and is nice and lightweight easy for layering! I’d totally love this in more colors!
HIT: KUT from the Kloth Haddie Faux Suede Moto Jacket [size down if in between, wearing in small but could have done XS] This is such a comfortable jacket, I can’t get over how good it feels! I was afraid of the red at first and now I absolutely love it! I want this in grey next! Such a great jacket!
HIT: The North Face Crew Run Wind Anorak [size up if in between, wearing in small] This color combo is PERFECTION. It does run a little short so if you are taller I would stay away! I love the front pocket and that it is nice and lightweight.
HIT: Olivia Moon Cotton Blend Knit Blazer [true to size, wearing in XS] If you need a blazer, this baby is for you! I absolutely the lining and fit of this jacket and the collar of the jacket. Definite win!
MISS: Badgley Mischka Double Face Wool Blend Wrap Front Coat [size down, wearing in XS] I wanted to love this but unfortunately I felt like it was quite large and was itchy due to it not being lined at all. I love the color but am going to have to pass!
MISS: J.CREW J. Crew Olga Boiled Wool Topcoat [size down, wearing in 2 but could have done 0] I love this coat for obvious reasons [the color yellow being its main winning point] however, it is itchy because it isn’t lined. Unfortunately, going back!
MISS: Barefoot Dreams(R) CozyChic(R) Cardigan [size down, wearing in small] I only had one thought when I saw this…Straight. Up. Grandma. It is much bulkier than the circle cardigan, sending back asap.
MISS: Leith Midi Coat [size down, wearing in XS and still swimming] I thought this felt like a hospital blanket combined with a nurse gown. A huge miss for me.
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Hits & Misses: Boots, Booties and Shoes
HIT: MARC FISHER LTD Valen Sandal [true to size] I love these oh so much! The strap is a little loose around my ankle but I believe I could punch another hole. Super comfortable and highly recommend! Some of my favorites from the sale!
HIT: Born Cupra Riding Boot [true to size, available in regular and wide calf] If you are buying one pair of shoes from the sale, I would choose THESE. They are the BEST riding boots you will ever put on your feet and I firmly believe that. The past two anniversary sale’s I purchased the pair of Born riding boots and I still wear them constantly in the fall and winter. Beyond comfortable, last forever and look awesome with nearly any outfit! A must!
HIT: Sam Edelman Rivera Genuine Calf Hair Flat [true to size] I’m a sucker for Sam Edelman and a good pair of flats, I love these in both the leopard and bright pink! So comfortable and I love the little stud detail! My feet do slip in and out some so trying to decide if they need broken in or that’s how they will be?
HIT: Vince Camuto Reeista Bootie [true to size] Vince never does wrong in my book. While these aren’t great shoes for the dead of winter, I will wear them throughout the fall and spring. Plenty comfortable and I love the side cutout. If you are in California or Florida, please wear these all of the time. Thank you.
HIT: Blondo Nicola Waterproof Knee High Boot [true to size] One word: WATERPROOF! These are so good. I love that they don’t go over the knee, but still go all the way to the knee. Not having to worry about wear from snow and rain is such an added benefit!
HIT: Sperry Shearwater Water-Resistant Genuine Shearling Lined Boot [true to size] These are so adorable in their light colors. Nice and warm, waterproof, and cute! They aren’t too clunky either which is nice!
HIT: UGG(R) Pasqual Boot [true to size] These are so CUTE. You can wear them up or folded down some. So warm and cozy, I know I will wear these often!
HIT: Vince Camuto Pevista Bootie [true to size] I could see some of these being my most worn booties this fall. The stitching detail is spot on and they are so comfortable! They can be worn with no show socks and because they have a low heel, they are super easy for anybody to wear!
HIT: Sam Edelman Helen Ankle Strap Pump [true to size] I can’t get over how comfortable these are! They are definitely a little more spunky and edgy than I would normally wear but fun for a date night!
HIT: Lucky Brand Yabba Wedge Bootie [true to size] THE BEST of the sale! These are so lightweight, comfortable and can be worn with no show socks! They feel like a dream on your feet! I’ll take ’em in every color please!
HIT: UGG(R) Dakota Bow Slipper [size up for half sizes, they do stretch with wear] I have worn and loved my UGG slippers for years! the warmest without making my feet get too hot!
HIT: Nike Air Max Thea Sneaker [true to size] I LOVE these! The lavender is such a cute feminine touch for an athletic shoe. I will wear these while traveling or working out. Super lightweight and comfortable!
HIT: Sam Edelman Rivera Flat [true to size] I’m a sucker for Sam Edelman and a good pair of flats, I love these in both the leopard and bright pink! So comfortable and I love the little stud detail! My feet do slip in and out some so trying to decide if they need broken in or that’s how they will be?
HIT: Converse Chuck Taylor(R) ‘Shoreline’ Sneaker [true to size] It’s no shocker that I love Converse, these especially. Add some gold touches to an already adorable shoe and I’m sold!
HIT: Hunter Refined High Gloss Quilted Short Rain Boot [size down for half sizes] I LOVE these! I’ve been on the hunt for shorter boots and these are perfect! The color is spot on and I love the quilted detail!
HIT: Vince Camuto Kochelda Over the Knee Boot [true to size] I am a big fan of over the knee boots, but it’s nice when they don’t overwhelm your legs! I found these to be just that! Cute stitching detail and so comfortable thanks to the low heel!
HIT: Blondo Lanka Waterproof Bootie [true to size] Again, waterproof so I am sold. I love knowing they will stay good forever. These are super comfortable!
HIT: BP. Brice Notched Bootie [true to size] I love that you can wear these two ways! Up or down, they look great both ways! They do have a thicker heel which makes it easier to walk!
ON THE FENCE: Lucky Brand Perrma Bootie [true to size] These go with literally almost everything. While I love the design of them, I didn’t find them to be the most comfortable pair of booties that I purchased so I can’t decide if they are worth keeping or not! Decisions, decisions.
ON THE FENCE: Steve Madden Sultan Chelsea Wedge Sneaker [true to size] While these are so comfortable and unique, I just don’t know how much I would reach for them when leaving the house. I love that they are different, but I don’t know if I love them enough to keep them? Super comfortable!
ON THE FENCE: ED Ellen DeGeneres Crowley Quilted Sneaker [true to size] Here’s the dilemma on these – I love them [as much as I love Ellen herself] but I kinda feel like I’m wearing a bowling shoe in these. They are so comfortable and the quilt pattern is great so I should keep them, bowling or not, right?
MISS: Sperry Shearwater Water-Resistant Boot [true to size] While I liked the lighter colored Sperry boots, these black look a little too “biker chic” or something for me MISS. Sending back!
MISS: Cole Haan GrandPro Spectator Scalloped Slip-On Sneaker [true to size] Here’s the thing – I love these, however, for $100 I don’t think I would wear them too much. They are so comfortable and the scallops kill me in the best way possible, but logistically, they probably don’t make sense in my closet.
MISS: Tory Burch Marsden Flat Thong Sandal [true to size] While these are a great sandal, I can’t justify paying nearly $150 for them. They are comfortable and could be worn often, but they were loose on the top and I couldn’t adjust them more.
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Hits & Misses: Tops, Tees, Sweatshirts and Sweaters
HIT: Trouve Rib Funnel Neck Sweater [true to size, wearing in XS] I really like this! The neck is so fun, it’s super cozy and a great color! Can easily be dressed up or down!
HIT: Free People January Tee [size down if in between, wearing in XS] I like that it’s not too deep of a neckline but still shoes a good amount of skin. The ribbed texture is so soft and I like that it’s longer in the back but not too long. You could tuck it in the front or leave it out.
HIT: BP. Plaid Shirt [true to size, wearing in XS] This top is super soft and a great price! These come in so many colors and are great for layering under vests and jackets!
HIT: Zella Cashmere and Wool Hoodie [true to size, wearing in Small]. I wasn’t sure what I would think of this, but holy cow, I’m in love! It’s so soft and lightweight, I like that it’s a little longer so you could wear it with leggings.
HIT: Caslon(R) Peplum Top [size down, wearing in XS] I absolutely love this! It is a bit of an oversized look, but it’s nice, flowy and comfortable! Fun colors and this asymmetrical peplum detail is fun!
HIT: Thread & Supply Wubby Fleece Pullover [true to size, wearing in small] This is THE fluffiest, softest thing I’ll ever wear and yes, I will have it on ALL winter long.
HIT: Caslon Plaid Shirt [true to size, wearing in small] This is another great plaid option! This one runs longer in the back so you could do this with leggings as opposed to the other one!
HIT: UGG(R) Astrid Poncho [size down if in between, wearing in XS] I wasn’t sure if I would like this but I absolutely love it. It’s not as heavy as other years and could be layered if needed. the neck is perfection and I love the front pocket! so soft!
HIT: BP. Raw Edge V-Neck Tee [true to size, wearing in XS] This is so soft and lightweight, the V isn’t too low and it’s an easy tee to throw on and go! Stock up!
HIT: Bobeau Ruched Sleeve Stretch Crepe Blouse [true to size, wearing in XS] I really love this! So cute with black pants for the office or with jeans for out and about! The ruched sleeve detail is cute!
HIT: Caslon(R) Calson(R) Dolman Sleeve Sweater [true to size, wearing in xs] I would buy this in every color possible. The neckline is perfect for wearing it either off the shoulder or as a boat neck. Nice and comfy!
HIT: BOBEAU FAUX WRAP KNIT SWEATER [true to size, wearing in XS] I really love this soft sweater! The faux wrap is perfect and not too low! The only downside is it is somewhat sheer so if you are uncomfortable with that you would want a cami underneath.
HIT: Bobeau Side Tie Wrap Top[true to size, wearing in XS] This is so cute for work or play. It is breast feeding friendly which is a bonus for you mamas! I’d love this in more colors!
HIT:Caslon(R) Rounded V-Neck Tee[size down if in between, wearing in XS] I love these tees! The rounded neck is perfect and doesn’t show too much off and they work really well under jackets or cardigans!
HIT: Slouchy Pocket Henley [true to size, wearing in small] I love these for layering or alone! You can tuck or leave it untucked! So soft and easy to wear!
HIT: Halogen(R) V-Neck Tunic Tee [size up if in between, wearing in XS but could have done small] This is more form fitting than I prefer! I don’t always love side slits but these don’t go up too high, it is a nice tee for leggings or for layering since it isn’t too baggy.
ON THE FENCE: Halogen(R) Ruffle Neck Sweater [true to size, wearing XS] While this is so cozy, comfy and has the fun neck detail, I can’t decide how often I would reach for it in my closet. I may hold on to it for awhile and see!
ON THE FENCE: Halogen(R) Gathered Neck Blouse [true to size, wearing in XS] At first I didn’t know what to think but then after wearing it for a longer period of time it grew on me! I think this could be really cute as a work top!
MISS: Patagonia Lightweight Better Sweater Fleece [size up if in between, wearing in XS] While this is a great pullover, I prefer the quilted pullovers more, so this one is going back! This is nice and lightweight and not bulky but still warm!
MISS: Trouve Long Sleeve Wrap Blouse [true to size, wearing in XS] While I wanted to love this, it just wasn’t working for me. It felt very odd on and I couldn’t figure out why. The bright side: it is breast feeding friendly!
MISS: BP. Balloon Sleeve Sweater [size down if in between, wearing XS], I like the color and the neck, but I don’t see myself reaching for this top in my closet. Going back!
MISS: BP. Exposed Seam Sweater [true to size, wearing in XS] This is just an overall no for me. I don’t like the cut of it really at all or not it fits. Sending back fast.
MISS: Halogen(R) Puff Sleeve Sweater [size up, wearing in XS but need in small] I don’t love this, it is too form fitting and I just didn’t like how it looks overall. Sorry, bye bye.
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Hits & Misses: Denim and Pants
HIT: KUT from the Kloth Donna Release Hem Ankle Skinny Jeans [true to size, wearing in 2] These are some of my favorites from the entire sale! So comfortable, love the ankle detail and raw hem. Such a win!
HIT: KUT from the Kloth Donna Ankle Skinny Jeans [true to size, wearing in 2] As you can see Kut from the Kloth wins this years denim selection! Comfortable, nice stretch and great length!
HIT: Halogen(R) Seamed Ponte Knit Leggings [true to size, wearing in XS] These are a great pair of ponte leggings which can work well for the office or out! I love the front and back seam that go down the legs. They also hit at a nice point for both heels and flat!
MISS: PAIGE Hoxton High Waist Ankle Skinny Jeans [true to size, wearing 26]. I have owned Paige jeans in the past and I’ve always found them to stretch out and bag out in the knee area. They are super soft but based on past experience, they are going back!
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Hits & Misses: Dresses and Skirts
HIT: Taylor Shift Dress [true to size, wearing in small] I love this dress! It’s so easy to throw on and go! Regular bra works just perfect and it has pockets! Lined and not sheer!
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Hits & Misses: Sleepwear and Athleisure
HIT: Nordstrom Lingerie Moonlight Pajamas[true to size, wearing in XS] These are SO soft and comfortable! I love these oh so much and they encourage sleep at all times. I will happily oblige…
HIT: Zella Harlow Wrap Hoodie Jacket [size down if in between, wearing in small but would prefer XS] This is SUPER soft and I love the drape of it. It’s not too bulky, but lays nicely. Love it!
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Hits & Misses: Accessories and Handbags
HIT: Herschel Supply Co. Strand Flight Satin Duffel Bag This is the PERFECT travel bag! I love that I could hold my water on the outside, that it is waterproof and the cutest color! Perfect size!
HIT: Sole Society ‘Lacie’ Faux Leather Duffel Bag You can’t beat a good Sole Society duffel bag, I always use these for travel and weekend getaways. Big enough to fit everything I need! For the price, they are an amazing value!
HIT: Tory Burch Marsden Leather Wallet Crossbody Bag I was pleasantly surprised with just how much I liked this crossbody bag. It will be perfect for travel, concerts and any time I’m on the go. Great quality and plenty of pocket space on the inside!
MISS Rebecca Minkoff Medium Keith Suede & Leather Satchel For the price, I would expect a bit more. It’s super cute, but I think I could find a more affordable option with a similar look. Sorry, back it goes!
MISS Leith Asymmetrical Zip Faux Leather Tote Bag & Zip Pouch While I really like the look of this bag, I don’t know how much I would actually end up using it due to the color. Otherwise, it’s awesome!
MISS: Nordstrom Kara Leather Expandable Crossbody Bag Here’s the thing, I love the bag, however, for almost $100 I don’t know if I love it that much. It is a great size, but it reminds me a lot of a $39 version that I already own!
And that concludes this years largest EVER hits and misses blog post! Hopefully you found this post to be a great resource for the sale! If you have any questions on anything, let me know! But for now, get to shopping!
Founder and creator of LIY, Erin turned her dream of a hobby blog into a full-time career which she now runs alongside the LIY team! When not in front of her computer screen [with a La Croix or wine in hand] or in front of a mirror taking mirror selfies, you can find Erin spending time on the water, cuddled up with her two pups and husband most likely watching the latest Shark Tank episode, or getting lost in an easy beach read.