It is about TIME. The time that ALL of us have been waiting for, public access for the 2019 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is open and ready for EVERYBODY to get their shop on! For those of you who haven’t been able to shop the last week of life, well congratulations – you are officially much, much richer than I, but also, welcome to the dark [and by dark I mean fashionable and FUN] side of life
While there are literally thousands of items [I may have ordered just a few shy of this number, oops] 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 4th to purchase the products at a major discount. After that, prices will go back up to normal.
ANNIVERSARY SALE SHOPPING TIPS & TRICKS
- Anything that you love and want for yourself, add to your wish list and check out once the sale is live [reminder: it starts at 12:30 pm EST TODAY! If it isn’t currently available in your size and color preference, things are always coming in and out of stock, 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 8/4, 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! For more Nordstrom Anniversary Sale posts, click here!
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, let’s get [the longest party you’ve ever attended] started…
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Tees & Tops
HITS
HIT: Red Collar Leopard Tee • J.Crew [size up if in between, wearing in small] I love a great tee that makes a statement. The red collar sets this tee apart and screams “look at me” in the best way possible. A definite fun addition for summer and fall.
HIT: London, Paris, Tokyo, Portland Tee • J.Crew [true to size, wearing in small] If animal print is less your thing but traveling is, this statement tee is a fun one! It’s cute alone or you could pair it with one of the many jackets in this year’s sale to take it through fall!
HIT: Thermal Henley Top • Caslon [size down if in between, wearing in small but would prefer in XS] There is nothing better than a good waffle knit to me. This top is SO incredibly soft and works well alone or layered under vests as the weather gets cooler! This may just be a favorite top of mine from the entire sale!
HIT: Long Sleeve Thermal Henley Top • Socialite [size up, wearing in XS but need in small] Speaking of waffles, pour some syrup on this one. Or don’t, but still do wear it. While this one runs small [hi love handles] it is equally as soft and layerable as the last.
HIT: Caslon Chambray Top [size down if in between, wearing in XS] One of my FAVORITE tops of the sale, a classic chambray top to make me fit in with fall in the best way possible. I love the fit and feel of this top and how you can wear it by itself or layered! A definite season must-have!
HIT: Baby Ponte Bow Back Long Sleeve Top [true to size, wearing in XS] It could be because I’m obsessed with ponte material or because I have a thing for bows in the back, but whatever it is, I’m diggin’ this cute little top! I could have done a size small just for some extra room, but other than that, it’s a win in my book!
HIT: Shirttail Tunic • Caslon [size down one, wearing in small but need in XS] If you’re looking for a great basic long sleeve tee that you can wear while running errands, on the sidelines on Saturday or whatever it may be, this one is great for that. The v-neck isn’t too low while still exposing enough and I like the length of this!
MISSES
MISS: V-Neck Tee • BP[size up one if in between, wearing in XS but would prefer in small] These tees aren’t terrible, don’t get me wrong, however I don’t love them enough to keep them. I think there are much better basic tees [my favorite are these] and I feel like these run just a little boxy and short.
MISS: Lightweight Colorblock Cotton Tee – Caslon [true to size, wearing in small] While I wanted to love this, it’s really hard for me to get down with tops that have a tighter waistband. For that reason, it’s a no for me!
MISS: Something Navy Puff Sleeve Tee [size up, wearing in XS and can’t fit into it..clearly] Cute on paper, not on me. End of story.
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Sweaters
HITS
HIT: Turtleneck Sweater • Caslon [true to size, wearing in XS] This is absolutely one of my favorite sweaters of the sale. It is SO incredibly soft without being too furry and the turtleneck size is perfect for me [not choking, not overwhelming]. I love the color options and how easily it pairs with jeans and boots / booties!
HIT: Cowl Neck Waffle Knit Top • Caslon [size down if in between, wearing in XS] You didn’t think I was done with waffle yet did you? This cowl neck top is a must if you’re looking for a lightweight sweater for the fall season. I love the vibrant colors and just how comfortable it is! Cute tucked or untucked!
HIT: Softly Structured Knit Tunic • Free People [size down if in between, wearing in XS] And THIS my friends, is my FAVORITE sweater of the sale. If you love a good chunky sweater that you can wear with leggings, look no further. I truly want it in all of the colors, it’s that good. If you feel like it needs more shape, add a belt around the waist!
HIT: New Oversize Cardigan • J.Crew [true to size, wearing in small] At first, I didn’t think I was going to like this cardigan. It reminded me way too much of Mr. Rogers and not in a charming old man way. However, I then put it on and started styling it and now I’m convinced it’s one of my favorite cardis of the sale! I love the button detail and it’s a great length! Highly recommend!
HIT: Thread & Supply Wubby Fleece Pullover [true to size, wearing in XS] Oh, how I love the sherpa. I bought this last year and wore it ALL winter long as it is truly the coziest thing I’ve ever put on my body so I had to order it again this year in this new color option. If you like soft, you’ll like this one. Believe me.
HIT: Ryder Colorblock Cardigan Sweater • Madewell [Size down if in between, wearing in XS] This has been a sale favorite for years and I finally got on board! I love the color block detail, however, I do know another girl on the LIY team tried it on and didn’t find it flattering so it can go both ways. I personally love it oh so much for fall!
HIT: Flecked Crewneck Sweater – Something Navy [Size down if in between, wearing in small but could do XS] If you’re looking for a great crewneck sweater, this one is your ticket. It’s very comfortable and very easy to wear. I love the speckled detail which gives it just enough to be interesting!
HIT: Caslon® Boat Neck Boucle Sweater [true to size, wearing in XS] I bought this last year in yellow and wore it all of the time so I was so excited to see it back again this year! It’s lightweight enough to wear on cooler summer evenings!
HIT: Bishop Sleeve Sweater • Caslon [Size down if in between, wearing in small but could do XS] This was another one I wasn’t completely sold on until I tried it on and instantly I was all “HALLELUJAH! A SWEATER I CAN WEAR WITH LEGGINGS!” These are sometimes a rare find so you gotta snatch ’em up while you can! The little balloon sleeve detail is fun as well!
HIT: Wool & Cashmere Long Cardigan • Halogen [true to size] This cardigan is definitely more of an investment piece and while I love it, I wouldn’t say it’s necessary. There are so many awesome cardigans in this year’s sale, however, if you want to be a little “extra” this is a great way to do so. It’s super luxe and I love the long lines of it. If you want to save your dollars, go with this non-cashmere option instead!
HIT: Marilyn Off the Shoulder Sweater [true to size, wearing in XS] I really hope off the shoulder things never stop being a thing because gosh, I’m obsessed. If you love them too, you absolutely want to buy this sweater. The colors, the cuts, just everything. LOVE.
HIT: Barefoot Dreams® CozyChic Lite® Circle Cardigan [size down if in between, wearing in XS] A no brainer of the sale, this cardigan. If you love soft and cuddly, you want this baby. I could go on but I think we all know why they are so popular. The sale is the best time to get your hands on them!
HIT: Caslon® Cozy Print Sweatshirt [true to size, wearing in small] This is my favorite sweatshirt of the sale I think! It is the perfect weight to take you from summer to fall and while it does have a band at the bottom, it is loose and not form fitting!
HIT: Leith Longline Cardigan [size down if in between, wearing in XS] Oh my love. This cardigan is a absolute favorite from the sale! If you were buying ONE long cardigan this year, I would recommend it to be this one!
HIT: Rib Funnel Neck Sweater [true to size, wearing in XS] I loved this so much last year, I had to buy it again this year. I am obsessed with this sweater. I think it’s the perfect amount of chunky and the neckline gives you the feel of a turtleneck without the suffocating feel they can sometimes bring.
HIT: Zella Go To Wrap Cardigan [size down, wearing in XS] This cardigan is a MUST. Especially if you like to be comfortable while traveling or just on the go. Definitely size down though as it is roomy!
HIT: Gibson Cozy Fleece Convertible Neck Sweatshirt [true to size, wearing in XS but would prefer in small] This has been a personal favorite top for years and I was thrilled to see Gibson remake this popular top by adding a slight balloon sleeve to update it a bit. You can wear this two ways and as always with Gibson, it is so comfy and cozy!
HIT: Long Sleeve Cowl Neck Tunic [true to size, wearing in small] Another option for leggings and I’m not mad about it. This lightweight sweater is another option to wear with your fave leggings or jeans!
HIT: Treasure & Bond Colorblock Crewneck Sweatshirt [size up if in between, wearing in XS but would prefer in small] If like you soft fleece filled sweatshirts, you’ll like this one. The end.
Zella Live In High Waist Leggings [size down if in between, wearing in XS] // adidas Edge Lux 3 Running Shoe [true to size]
MISSES
MISS: Button Sleeve Turtleneck Sweater • Halogen [true to size, wearing in small] I keep going back and forth on this if I consider it a hit or a miss. I love the theory and I do love the button detail, however, the only reason I’m saying miss is that I found the sleeves turning on me constantly while wearing which got frustrating. Sorry Charlie.
MISS: Bishop Sleeve Merino Wool Blend Sweater – Halogen [Size up if in between, wearing in small] It’s a cute sweater, however, I found it to run quite small and also quite sheer. Just not a personal favorite I’d choose to spend money on.
MISS: Colorblock Sweater • Caslon [true to size, wearing in XS] It’s cute, but it’s also reminding me a little too much of my middle school days. Unfortunately for this sweater, middle school is not a season of life I’m trying to recreate. Back it goes.
MISS: Leopard Crewneck Pullover – Something Navy [Size down if in between, wearing in small but need in XS] While I do love this, I bought the wrong size and I have worries about how it hold up with wash. Untucked it felt too boxy and the more I look at it, the more I find myself looking like a cow standing on the side of the road. I’ll pass.
MISS: BP Warm Me Up Cozy Cardigan [size down, wearing in XS] This just did nothing for me. There are so many better cardigans in the sale I feel so it’s a no go for me!
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Blazers & Jackets
HITS
HIT: Double Breasted Plaid Blazer • Chelsea28 [Size down if in between, wearing in XS] Favorite blazer of the sale, this thing makes me feel like FIRE. I love the classic plaid and the overall fit and shape of this blazer. Sign me up, I’m here for this look.
HIT: Drape Collar Knit Blazer – Caslon [true to size, wearing in small] A team favorite in the sale, you can’t go wrong with this comfy blazer! You can dress it up or down, I am a huge fan of this one!
HIT: BLANKNYC Next Level Suede Moto Jacket [size up if in between, wearing in small] Dare I say my favorite jacket of the sale? This is more of a splurge, but I also think it’s totally worth it. It is real suede and I feel like it will hold up for years. The fit and cut are are flattering and it is SO comfortable. love.
HIT: Onto the Next Faux Leather Drape Front Jacket • Blank NYC [size up if in between, wearing in small] Another closet staple in my opinion. This drape front jacket is a must for fall and winter in my opinion, especially when it comes to girls / date night out.
HIT: Revolution Drapey Boucle Trench Coat • BB Dakota [true to size, wearing in small] I wasn’t sure what I was going to think about this one when it arrived but then I put it on and I fell in love right away. If you’re looking to step up your style and layer with a trench coat, this one is as sassy as it is comfortable.
HIT: Treasure & Bond Long Knit Blazer [true to size, wearing in XS] The color is everything for fall and I think it’s the perfect little blazer.
HIT: The North Face Thermoball Vest [size up if in between, wearing in small] I was so excited about this vest when I put it on! It isn’t too puffy and bulky at all but rather quite thin [yet still warm] and easily layerable! I love the color options that this is available in!
HIT: Colbey Leopard Print Denim Jacket [true to size, wearing in small] This was another one I wasn’t sure what to think about it when I ordered it, but low and behold I think I love it. I am a HUGE denim jacket wear[er] so it’s fun to have an animal print option to switch things up once and awhile! I think it’s super cute with just leggings and tennies for a more casual look!
HIT: Sanctuary Military Jacket [true to size, wearing in small] If you like a little less structure and a little more linen type feeling, this jacket is for you! Easy breezy and perfect.
HIT: BLANKNYC Next Level Suede Moto Jacket [true to size, wearing in small] This was another LIY team favorite as several of us bought it! The jacket feels amazing and I love the little detail on the sleeves! It has a nice drape to it and is SO comfortable!
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Jeans, Pants and Leggings
HITS
HIT: KUT from the Kloth Donna Ripped High Waist Ankle Skinny Jeans [true to size] I have died and went to black jeans heaven. I love these exposed button and the fact that they are all different. It definitely catches your attention. These have just a tab bit of distressing and the raw hem detail which I love.
HIT: AG Ex-Boyfriend Relaxed Slim Jeans [true to size – if in between, go down] My FAVORITE pair of premium denim jeans in the sale. Oh how I love these so much. If you are looking for a pair of boyfriend jeans, I absolutely recommend these. So comfortable and the perfect fit. You can adjust the cuff as you’d like! I would size down if in between as I’m noticing with wear they do get a little looser. My favorite purchase of this year’s sale!
HIT: SPANX® Active 7/8 Leggings [size up if in between, wearing in small] My FAVE leggings of the sale [other than the Spanx Faux Leather of course] These are so flatter figuring and so comfortable and smooth. Gosh, I can’t recommend these enough.
HIT: KUT from the Kloth Donna Button Fly Ankle Skinny Jeans [true to size] My FAVORITE pair of regular denim in this year’s sale, these jeans are a must [if you haven’t noticed from the thousands of outfits I shot in them]. The raw hem, the exposed buttons, just all of it. They are so comfortable and haven’t stretched out from wearing. A huge hit!
HIT: Kut from the Kloth Donna Ankle Skinny Jeans [true to size] If you haven’t noticed yet, Kut from the Kloth KILLEd it this year in the denim department. SO MANY GOOD JEANS. This is another pair I love and recommend!
HIT: Catherine Boyfriend Jeans – Kut from the Kloth [Size down if in between] If you want the boyfriend jean but don’t want to spend the money for the AG pair, this pair is great! The only thing I would say is to size down if in between as they do run slightly large! The cuff detail is SO fun!
HIT: Halogen® Tie Waist Twill Pants [true to size] Working ladies, I found some pants for you! These are so comfortable and chic for the office, my only “problem” if you will was it took me a second to get the tie right so you may have to play some with that!
MISSES
MISS: Hoxton Ripped High Waist Ankle Skinny Jeans • Paige [true to size] I just wasn’t wowed by these to spend the money on them. I didn’t like how they were a little looser at the ankle and knew I would have a hard time wearing them with booties in the fall so back they go!
MISS: KUT from the Kloth Catherine Boyfriend Jeans [size down if in between] These were just too baggy for me, especially in the leg area. Cute in theory, not on my body.
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Boots & Booties
HITS
HIT: Uchee Knee High Boot • Børn [true to size] If you’ve been a follower here for awhile, you know how deep my love runs for Born boots. These are the most comfortable and durable riding boot I’ve found over the years. I can’t recommend these enough [fun fact: these were the most purchased brand of shoe by LIY readers last year]!
HIT: Steve Madden Jillian Bootie [true to size] If you’re looking for a classic easy to wear bootie with nearly everything, I am loving this pair for the season! The top is a more of a sock type feeling [not stiff but relaxed and comfortable on your leg / ankle]! I’m a huge fan of these!
HIT: Vince Camuto Gigietta Bootie [size up .5 if wearing socks with them] The MOST popular bootie of the sale, these sold out almost immediately! They are the perfect bootie for fall and winter! I find them to be quite comfortable and I love the shape and heel height of these!
HIT: Blondo Eloise Waterproof Bootie [true to size] One word that gets me every time: waterproof. I am really excited about these booties for fall and winter as I think they are the perfect amount of edge and still highly functional.
HIT: Blondo Nappa Waterproof Open Toe Bootie [true to size] Speaking of waterproof, this is another pair that won’t allow rain to ruin your day. These are SO comfortable [probably the most comfortable pair I bought] but my only “issue” if you will is that I feel like they make my toes look long due to where the cut out ends if this makes sense. Odd I know, but just an observation.
UNDECIDED / MISS
UNDECIDED: SOREL Cate Waterproof Lace-Up Boot [true to size] These were the shoes that I was MOST excited about in the catalog and I bought them immediately. I love so many things about them, I just don’t know if I love them ON. They are along the lines of a combat boot which is not my traditional style, however, they are so comfortable and waterproof. TBD on my final decision!
MISS: SOREL Joan of Arctic II Waterproof Wedge Bootie [true to size] While I want to love these, they just don’t work on my feet and ankle. I look like I have lego feet I feel like and with the gaping between the top of the boot and my jeans, I think they just look silly. They are however incredibly comfortable and could be a great boot for somebody!
MISS: Yimina Waterproof Wedge Bootie [true to size] The only reason I am filing these as a miss is that I don’t love the rounded toe look on me. I feel a little bit like I’m wearing clogs when I have these on just because of the appearance. They are however very comfortable and a great versatile bootie, so if you don’t mind the rounded toe, these could be a great option for you!
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Shoes
Hits
HIT: Steve Madden Feather Studded Loafer [true to size] My favorite flat of the sale, I can’t get enough of these [so I bought them in solid black and gray as well]. I’ve already been wearing these like crazy as I find they go with SO much! Highly recommend if you’re looking for flats for the season!
HIT: Cole Haan GrandPro Sneaker [true to size] The LIGHTEST shoe of the sale, it has to be. These babies are like NOTHING on your feet and I couldn’t love them more! I have been wearing them often and goodness, I’m in love.
HIT: adidas Edge Lux 3 Running Shoe [true to size] If you’re looking for a pair of athletic sneakers, I highly recommend this Adidas pair. They are so comfortable and also very lightweight. I love the look and feel of these!
HIT:ASICS® GSM Sneaker [true to size] These were a surprise of the sale. I never owned a pair of this brand of shoes but when I spotted the online, I fell in love and then when they got in my possession I fell in even more love.
HIT: Caslon® Caslon Allie Wedge Sneaker [true to size] I was skeptical of these mostly because I didn’t know how to wear them or style them. It turns out it’s not that difficult. Wear them just like you would a normal sneaker and add in the comfort of the wedge and we’ve got ourselves a winner folks.
MISSES
MISS: UGG® Scuffette II Slipper[size up for .5 sizes] I’m a huge lover and wearer of UGG slippers, but this year’s pair just aren’t doing it for me. They are pretty flat like pancakes on the bottoms without much cushion compared to their normal. I wouldn’t recommend after wearing for awhile.
MISS: Nike Blazer Low Sneaker [true to size] Oh how I wanted to love these, but oh how much I hate them on my feet. Ever heard of balloon feet? You have now. Please see second picture.
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Ponchos & Scarves
HITS
HIT: Treasure & Bond Plaid Fringe Blanket Scarf I love this baby. If you love plaid scarves, you want this one. Believe me.
MISSES
MISS: Plaid Front Zip Cape • Treasure & Bond I’m not really sure what happened here with this one, but it’s not working for me. It is so cute on the hanger and then I see it on me and I feel like I should have an ax in my hands in the middle of the woods. Not my usual social scene so back it goes.
MISS: Varigated Stripe Poncho I think it’s too much like I’m wearing a blanket which may confuse people in public. I like to avoid conversations with strangers in public so I’ll avoid the questions and just send it back.
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Coats
HITS
HIT: The North Face ThermoBall(TM) II Insulated Hooded Parka [size up if in between, wearing in small] I found my winter coat for the season! I love this and the fact that it isn’t bulky and doesn’t give the marshmallow look that so many winter coats give. This is warm, hooded and ready for some snow.
HIT: Thread & Supply Fleece Lined Quilted Utility Jacket [true to size, wearing in small] This is another favorite and must-have from the sale in my opinion. I am obsessed with the warm sherpa lining and outside appearance.
MISSES
MISS: Sam Edelman Faux Shearling Trim Plaid Coat [size down if in between, wearing in small but would need in XS] I wanted to love this coat so much, but I put it on and I felt like a cupcake topper. Pass…. [the cake please ;)]
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Loungewear
HIT: Nordstrom Moonlight Pajamas [true to size] Hands down the softest pajamas you’ll ever wear. These are perfect for nursing mamas and nice and lightweight that you won’t sweat through the night! Tried and true favorite!
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Dresses and Skirts
HITS
HIT: 1.STATE Plaid Pencil Skirt [true to size] The classic plaid is back, this time in the version of a pencil skirt. I think this is so timeless and chic for fall and winter. Pair it with shades of burgundy, black or brown and you’re set!
HIT: Vince Camuto Plaid Ponte Pencil Skirt [true to size] While I need to size up one in this skirt I think, it’s SO comfortable and I love the plaid colors! The light blue that runs throughout it is electric and makes it for a fun skirt to pair with different color options!
MISSES
MISS:Eliza J Flutter Sleeve Sheath Dress [true to size] The dress is great, however, my chest in this dress is not. If you won’t bust out of this thing as much as I do, I highly recommend it as I love the shape with the belt, the flutter sleeve, detail, etc.
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Handbags & Jewelry
HIT: BaubleBar Farida Beaded Earrings These earrings made me so happy the minute I got them. The color is SPOT ON for fall and I’ve been able to pair them with nearly everything for fall it seems! They aren’t too heavy and can be glammed up if you have an event coming up!
HIT: BaubleBar Musia Drusy Layered Y-Necklace I love a good layered necklace so I was so excited to spot this guy in this year’s sale. It’s so chic and makes a statement without making too much of one! Due to the shape it’s perfect for v-neck tops!
HIT: BaubleBar Ashaya Hexagon Drusy Drop Earrings While I wish I had a better photo depicting the color of these cuties, I can promise you they are a perfect neutral to go with everything! These are nice and lightweight and the perfect size!
HIT: Rebecca Minkoff Jody Feed Suede Bag I bought this in store the second I saw this. I don’t know if it’s the color or the shape or size or what, but it just spoke to me so I spoke back by making it mine!
HIT: Madewell The Simple Crossbody Bag I couldn’t love this little crossbody more. The colorful stripes make this a handbag that’s easy to carry with a lot of things!
HIT: Alexander Tote Bag • Herschel If you are looking for a bag for travel that you don’t have to worry about spills and what not, this is the tote for you! I love that the inside is nylon lined and that it’s big enough to carry your belongings while fitting under the seat in front of you!
UNDECIDED: Madewell Suede Stripe Transporter Tote After years of seeing this as a top pick from many people in the anniversary sale, I decided to make it mine. It’s a great timeless look, however, I don’t LOVE that it doesn’t have any inside pockets and can be a big bottomless pit for my crap. I’m a little undecided if I’ll keep it or not!
CONGRATULATIONS, YOU MADE IT TO THE END. Pour yourself a stiff drink because you just earned it. Hopefully this post was helpful to you, happy 2019 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale shopping friends! Until next year…
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.