Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: LIY Team Hits & Misses
August 17, 2020
By:
Erin Schrader
Just when we thought we couldn’t love the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale more, our packages started showing up on our doorsteps to prove us wrong. There’s no better way to kick off our love affair with fall than with THEE biggest sale of the year. With literal thousands of brand-spankin’ new items, it’s no wonder the sale can be overwhelming. But never fear, Team LIY is here. We took it upon ourselves to try out some of the most popular goodies of the sale and see if they’re really all they’re cracked up to be. It’s a tough job, but somebody’s gotta do it. Over a dozen shoes later, a sweater or two [or seventeen], and a wholeee lot of fall goodness– the LIY Team narrowed down the good and the not-so good to bring you our 2020 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Hits & Misses. If you have already been shopping the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, you may have missed a thing or two, but don’t sweat it – you have until August 30th to purchase the products at a major discount. After that, prices will go back up to normal. We’re hoping this compilation of hits and misses will not only save you some time, but help to see the items on a real person and also be able to hear our honest thoughts on sizing, quality, cut and all of that good stuff! ps. You’ll find ALL of Erin’s Hits & Misses HERE!
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 #NSALE group [highly recommend joining the group for a ton of helpful info and nightly giveaways!] Note: I have noticed that when I first load a product it is saying sold out, but when I refresh the page [or login to my Nordstrom account] it shows available! Make sure you’ve done this to ensure you’re seeing correct info!
Keep in mind that while the sale lasts until 8/30, 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!
I can’t believe I am saying this, but this is my very first Tory Burch crossbody bag, I know! I love a good statement piece for an outfit but also neutral colors so it goes with everything and this one does it all! The perfect size for my phone and necessities!
THE jacket of the sale! OH my do I love this jacket! It’s the perfect mix of edgy and chic and crazy comfortable on! I think everyone that saw it agreed that this one was GOOD! It’s the perfect statement piece for your basic outfit and I love that it has working pockets!
Loved this sweater so much I bought it in 2 colors!! I have a lot of full length sleeved sweater so the ¾ sleeve was a fun twist and this one will be perfect for early Fall!
Another fave pair of jeans from the sale!! If you didn’t know already the LIY team is a HUGE fan of Kut from the Kloth and these jeans are so flattering on! Size down one in these, the stretch is so good but they don’t stretch out!
You either love bodysuits or hate them and in my case I’m typically on the fence but this one is a must!! It’s so flattering one, surprisingly not too thin despite the feel of the material, and has decent bum coverage!
The perfect red heels I have been on the hunt for a pair of red heels for a loonnngg time so when I spotted these I had high hopes! They far exceeded my expectations and make for a great statement heel!
I LOVE a good mule but these take the cake! These are by far the most comfortable mules I have ever worn! I love that the chain doesn’t slide all over the place and the color is a step above the average neutral making them perfect for Fall!
I REALLY wanted to love these booties but for the price and the way they fit they were a no go… The toe of the booties was awkwardly shaped and I just didn’t love the heel. If you were looking at these, I would suggest maybe finding another option!
This jacket was a swing and a miss! I was excited when it arrived but as soon as I pulled it out of the box I knew between the oversized collar and overall size it wasn’t going to work…
All black everything [except the shoes] – that’s my typical wardrobe motto. The serious suction of these Spanx leggings is amazing, and I’ll be wearing them with sweaters all season long!
Jeans stretchy enough for postpartum life? Yes please! I love these Wit & Wisdom jeans, and the little bit of distressing that they have! Perfect for both flats or booties as well! They can easily be paired with a sweater, a wrap, or simply a tee for your favorite sport team! Calling everything you see here wins all around!
It took me awhile to get on board the mule train, but I have a feeling I’ll be slipping into these more often than I think! Quick trips to school drop off or not so quick trips to Target, these are easy to slip in and out of!
I found you, miss new bootie [of fall 2020]. I’ll be wearing these cuties on repeat to wineries, the office, pumpkin patches, and everywhere in between. The lower slit makes them extra flattering, and I love the neutral taupe color of this pair!
I can’t be trusted with real diamonds in my ears, so these $27 2ct Cubic Zirconia earrings from the Nordstrom Sale were the next best thing and a huge win!Additional sizes and cuts here!
Cute? Yes. Comfy? Not so much. After I finally squeezed my foot into these booties [there’s no zipper!], I wasn’t impressed with the comfort for the price. Back they go!
Everything about this outfit makes me happy! I feel like it’s one of those looks that says “I’m trying without really trying”. The pullover is so soft, the leggings fit like a DREAM (plus they have POCKETS), and these sneakers are cute and comfy! I recommend all of these items!
Sweater [TTS, wearing in XS, Orange Jam Heather] // Jeans [TTS, Wearing 2P for 5’4”] // Boots [TTS, wearing 8, cloud suede]
Okay, can they all be my favorite? This sweater screams Fall and I’m not mad about it. It’s the perfect length, I love the turtleneck, and it’s not itchy! The jeans are comfortable, stretchy, and the button fly is a fun, chic, touch! Last but not least, THE BOOTS. I love the cloud suede color and they didn’t swish my feet with a pointed toe, which I was very happy about!
My inspiration here was Jennifer Anniston in “The Morning Show”. Not sure if I made it happen, but I’m going to pretend like it did haha! This is the boss lady business coat of my dreams. This coat also caught my eye and almost beat out my choice (Good thing it didn’t, because it was a miss for Erin’s Hits & Misses blog post!). One thing to note: the material isn’t super soft on mine, so if that’s what you’re going for you may want to try something else! Now for the shoes. I feel like I can walk all day in these boots and look cute, but stay comfortable! HIT: Moonlight Short Pajamas [size down if in between, wearing XS]
I’ll admit, I’ve never been the person to have a matching PJ set, but I’m so glad I gave in and tried these out. I really don’t want to take them off. They are so soft and comfy. They don’t dig in anywhere and are perfect for a great night of beauty sleep! MISS: Turtleneck [size up if in between, wearing small]
I honestly loved the fit of this turtleneck AND the material is super soft! My only issue with it was that it was somewhat sheer and for the price I don’t want to have any issues with it. Anyone else with me?
Cashmere at an affordable price? I was so pumped to try this sweater out since I have never owned anything cashmere before. I have to be honest though and say that it is itchier than I anticipated. It is cute and classic, but I would have preferred something more comfy or at least my expectations were higher for this piece! These are the jeans I want to live my life in! They are the perfect cropped length and are so flattering! Last year’s version of these jeans were my favorite from the sale, but they updated it with the pretty matte black button fly! Slip these on and you’ll never want to take them off! Ahh these mules are SO pretty! I love the gold chain and the square toe details! And the ivory gives these loafers a super feminine twist! Love!
These pants are so fun! I love the statement of a patterned pant makes while keeping it classic with this black and white houndstooth plaid. The tie waist is flattering and a fun detail as well. If you ever need to suit up, you can pair it with the coordinating blazer [which I would suggest sizing down in if you are in between!]. White booties are such a fun trend! This bone pair is so pretty with the pointy toe and the subtle croc texture! The block heel helps to keep it comfortable enough to wear while you strut your stuff around town!
I am all about the tuck these days and I love that I can wear this bodysuit under pants and skirts without the bulk that tucking a shirt can create. I love the subtle rounded square neckline and that this classic look can be paired with so much in my closet — I know this is an instant closet staple! I will say that it is a bit on the lower side of my comfort zone when it comes to necklines, so if you’re wary about that, this might not be for you! I have had my eye on these loafers for a while and finally decided to take the plunge! They are super cute and walk the line between classic and statement! They are neutral enough to be able to slip them on with so many outfits and I know I will be wearing them all fall long!
This blazer is one of the pieces I was most excited to receive! I love the classic look and the pretty black and white houndstooth plaid! The black buttons also pop against the blazer and the double flap pocket on one side is fun! However, you will definitely want to consider sizing down in this one! It’s a bit larger than I would have hoped, and the buttons make it a bit hard to roll the sleeves which I like to do with my blazers. For those reasons, I am a bit on the fence on this one, but I think if you size down you’ll be happy with it! These Chelsea boots are so much fun! The silhouette is casual, but the sleek croc texture brings it a fun edge! They are super comfortable, enough to be a shoe I will reach for again and again throughout the fall and winter!
I love a good statement pant! This particular pair is a newfound favorite! I love the black and tan windowpane print and the kick flare silhouette! They are super comfortable, stretchy and soft! I will probably get them hemmed a couple inches, but I am only 5’0”, so as long as you are taller than me, the crop will probably hit you just right!
These boots are great for the pumpkin patch or a bonfire and other outdoorsy fall activities that I am looking forward to this fall! I love that they have a chunky heel to give these little lace ups a little feminine touch! Pair them with a sweater and jeans like I have here, or would also be cute with a long sleeve tee and a puffer vest!
If the entire LIY Team is giving this sweater a thumbs up, you know it’s gotta be good. Super soft and cozy [without being itchy] and the perfect amount of slouch. It does fit slightly oversized, so go down a size if you’re looking for something more form-fitting. I prefer a more comfortable fit and ordered TTS, wearing my regular medium!
HIT: Free People Tunic [size down, wearing small but could’ve done XS]
Tunic [size down, wearing small but could do XS] // Denim [size down, wearing 28] // Booties [size up .5] // Hat
Waffle knit tunics are my jam in the fall, so I decided to add this one to my closet this year! It’s legging friendly with full booty coverage. It does run large– I’m normally a size medium, wearing a small here, but could have done an XS. So size down at least one! Side note to self: check inseam before ordering. While these jeans were super flattering [LOVE the high-rise], they have a 30″ inseam that just wasn’t working for my 5’5″ self. Ladies with longer legs; these might be a great option for you! Unfortunately for me, back they go.
I knew I “had” to have this coat the moment I laid eyes on it! I can’t stop, won’t stop repping the animal print anytime soon. It is roomy, so size down! Typically a medium, wearing a small here.
If you’re into the chain-link jewelry trend this season, add these little guys to your cart. Lightweight and such a fun play on classic hoops! Also available in silver.
I bought a similar brown Tory Burch Crossbody in the Anniversary Sale two years ago and STILL use it every. single. day. I’m a firm believer that if you find something you L-O-V-E, buy it in every color. So naturally, I decided to add this black crossbody to my collection as I know it’ll get a ton of love. It’s the perfect size for living on-the-go, has a built-in wallet, and fits all the essentials like a phone, keys, and lipgloss! Hands down, one of my most-used Anniversary Sale purchases of all time.
I was on the fence about these booties upon ordering, but once I slipped my feet into them, I was sold! My love for Sam Edelman runs deep and you just can’t go wrong with a classic black suede bootie. They’re a little unique, but I actually ended up LOVING the funky heel and can already tell they’re going to be getting a lot of wears this season.
Booties, booties, booties rockin’ everywhere! If you’re on the hunt for the perfect cognac bootie this season, look no further. My main man Steve strikes again! Cute, comfortable, and I’m loving the fun metal detail on the heel for a little pizzaz! Fit Tip: They do seem to run a little snug [I’m talking “break a sweat and run out of breath while putting them on” snug] so I’d suggest sizing up .5!
Let me be clear: there was absolutely nothing wrong with these booties! Photos don’t do these beauties justice BUT I fell in L-O-V-E the moment I saw them online. Now that they’re home, I’m envisioning snowy, slushy, midwest winters + white suede = my worst nightmare. There are certainly more practical booties to be rockin’ everywhere, but if you live somewhere that you can get away with white suede, please do yourself a favor and buy these.
Love love love this dress! Say hello to my go-to dress all fall long! I feel like it looks so beautiful while actually being so mega comfortable! It has an elastic waistband and slight leg slit! I paired it with these necklaces that I will be wearing all year long and my favorite booties from last year’s anniversary sale! All major hits in my book!
At first I was torn about this skirt due to the length! I’d say if you are any shorter than 5’4, this skirt may not be for you unless you want it to touch the ground! That being said, I deemed it as a hit for me and love the way it pairs with the Free People wrap tank! This tank is one of my favorite purchases of the sale! Best part is the ability to dress it up, dress it down or layer it! These chelsea boots were also a win for me, they will most definitely be a fall staple this year!
This sweater is a hit! I think I could have ordered a half size up to get a more oversized, slouchy sweater feel to it, but I don’t mind it more fitted! Either way, love this fall ready look! Paired with these chelsea boots!
I am alllll about cozy tee’s lately, hello quarantine! So I was not disappointed with this Led Zepplin tee–it is soft, flowy and so fashionable! I paired it with these cropped flare jeans but again, I wouldn’t recommend them to anyone under 5’4 because they are quite long for a cropped length! If I could, I would have ordered them in a petite! That being said, I still consider them a hit and love the way they look with a heel or bootie! I also paired this tee with these amazing [another sale favorite] joggers! I truly wish I could own these joggers in every color under the sun!
Okay, I love this tunic, but full disclosure it is lonnnng! I kinda love it that way, and it is so perfectly legging friendly! But I ordered the XS and it still feels very oversized and long in length! I still count it as a win for me though because I will be living in this baby! This tunic could also be a great layering piece for your fall wardrobe!
My favorite cardigan, period! This is the cardigan that is going to make me get rid of all the other cardigans in my closet! I truly do love Topshop cardigans and sweaters, so cozy, oversized and perfect for those colder days! Major win for me!
All in all, I did pretty well with my purchases this year [aside from accidentally ordering men’s shoes for myself ha!], but really this top was the only “miss.” I did like it, but I was worried about how much wear I would get out of it and also how it would hold up in the wash!
Woah baby are these sandals light as a feather! When I think about a wedge I often thing of something clunky and on the heavier side, but not these! Fit great and a nice neutral color, I can’t wait to wear them over and over!
I’m in love, I’m in love and I don’t care who knows it! As a longtime fan of the Zella Live-In Leggings, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on these Live-In Joggers. The same delicious texture as the live in leggings, but a glorious looser fit (and a 27 inch inseam!). Tied for my heart these days is this Zella Lola Soft Cozy Jacket! I love the gathering along the zipper and the fun layered details on the collar and cuff. A Fall layering staple for sure! I’ve already worn this 3 (way too warm for jackets) days and I just can’t get enough.
Winners, winners, so many chicken dinners! I’ve never owned a pair of boyfriend jeans and I am so excited to add these into the rotation as the temps cool! I wasn’t planning to pair them with these shoes, but the sandals I ordered weren’t in yet so you do what you’ve gotta do! I love the movable fabric, length and the minimal dressing to add just a bit of detail.
Now that I’ve made a splash into the world of Hunters, I’m afraid there’s no coming out of this storm! The liner feels so wonderful on my legs. Who knew you didn’t have to FEEL like you are wearing rubber on your legs when splish splashing around town?! I did not measure my calves before ordering, but would recommend doing so. While they are fitted, I don’t find them to be too tight but if my calf were any larger I might. Still a keeper for me, I just suggest checking to be safe!
I could not take a photo of this sweater that does it justice to save my life, but I PROMISE it is magical! Flowy, cozy, perfect for jeans or leggings from Fall to Spring! I’d say it’s an elevated basic – my favorite type of piece! It’s got a few fun details like stitching along the top and bishop sleeves, but nothing too extreme. Right up on there on the list of things I’m loving from the Sale are these Ab-Solution High Waist Crop Jeans. As a long time fan of the colored Ab-Solution pants, I had to try these on for size! Ding, ding, ding, they’re also a winner! It would be a shame to leave out these slip-on sneakers considering that I could not stop wearing them with my outfits! I’m not generally into patterns or trends but here we are with these beauties on my feet! I love the muted camo pattern (subtle enough to go with lots of different outfits!) and how easily they slip on.
Another loooong flowy perfect for leggings and ALLLL the cool weather coziness. I’m looking forward to wearing this Free People Arden extra long cotton top on repeat!
Yikes, yikes, yikes! Am I a sausage peeking out of its casing? Admittedly, I should have sized up because it’s clearly a fitted shirt, which I just didn’t pay attention to. BUT I did find it to be quite cropped in addition to one with my body. I will hand it to this shirt, while it shows every.single.crevice. I didn’t find it to be uncomfortable, I was just uncomfortable in it. Definitely a nice material and not tight feeling. If you are someone who is comfortable with very form fitted clothing, it may be worth a try for you!
It’s not that I don’t like this bomber jacket [although I do wish I had sized up to a large!], it’s simply that I ordered it along with the Zella Lola Soft Cozy Jacket to see which I liked more and the Zella won the battle this time. Still think the J.Crew Sweater Bomber Jacket is a great piece, it just didn’t win for me. Another miss for me was the Caslon Rounded V-Neck Tee Shirt. I found it to be more form fitting than I prefer in a shirt, and the white was too sheer for my taste.
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.
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