What I Bought at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: Focused on Fall Classics

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has arrived and, for the 11th year in a row, I just finished shopping the first day in person; consequently, here is a comprehensive look at what I picked up as well as a mindfully curated list of recommendations to help you navigate this annual shopping event. In terms of access, here is a breakdown of the dates:

• July 9-14: Early Access for cardmembers with Icon status.
• July 10-14: Early Access for cardmembers with Ambassador status.
• On July 11-14: Early Access for cardmembers with Influencer status.
• July 15: Anniversary Sale opens to the general public (and runs through August 4th)

When deciding on what to purchase, I consistently choose to focus on classic pieces that I can wear frequently and especially on campus when I return (as a full time Professor of Communication and Department Chair) at the end of August. This time around, I styled four specific looks, balanced by some glorious discoveries in the sunglasses and beauty departments.

Kindly scroll on for a real life look at what I bought as well as a detailed breakdown of suggestions from the sale and the Bottom Line…

A Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Shopping Guide: Timeless, Classic Style for Fall and Beyond

Look #1: New Neutrals 

This sophisticated L’Agence blouse (wearing a size large) is a gorgeous shade of olive with chain detailing and I paired it with some high-waisted, bootcut, L’Agence jeans (size 26), a Reiss wool camel coat (size 6…will wear this forever) and endlessly chic Stuart Weitzman sock booties in a cashmere beige shade (run TTS). I also integrated these Ray-Ban rectangular sunglasses (under $100!) in the most gorgeous shade of bronze along with a gold necklace with semi-precious green stones (perfect with my existing neck stack).

Look #2: Basics Redefined

I love a good cardigan and this one by L’Agence features a black and tan color way with Chanel-inspired detailing and structured shoulders…truly unique yet timeless. I paired it with a black tank (love that this one has a built in shelf bra…wearing a small), some relaxed denim by R13 (size 25 and not a part of the sale, however, this is my favorite jean brand ever and it’s available at Nordstrom) and the Ray-Ban rectangular sunglasses. While shopping, I became intrigued with these 1980s-style Autrey Reelwind Sneakers (run TTS), which have impeccable ivory and green accents. They are well crafted and ultra comfortable and I’m glad I picked them up (though, also not technically a part of the sale).

// Beauty Break //

I picked up the Trish McEvoy Gorgeous Lip Trio, which comes with a creamy liner (Barely There), rich pink lipstick (Perfect Pink) and plush pinky nude gloss (Babe). I love all three of these formulas separately and getting the trio for $60 is a veritable steal. I’m wearing the mix throughout this entire story. I also couldn’t resist the Westman Atelier Summer Bronze Trio , which includes the glimmering peach Nectar highlight stick, Liquid Super Sheer Illuminator in Peau de Soleil (natural bronze) and Baby Cheeks Blush Stick in Dou Dou (a quintessential flush) for summer skin in seconds. For eyes, no one does long lasting cream shadow better than Bobbi Brown and this eyeshadow trio is so fresh and flattering. I also had to add more Slip Silk Scrunchies into my mix (nothing better in this department) and, if you’re looking to naturally enhance your brows and lashes this sale is the ideal time to stock up on neuBROW and neuLASH.

For skincare, the Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream Duo is a must (I’ve been using this since 2017) and I also am extremely fond of the eye masks and eye cream that come in the Augustinus Bader The Eye Rejuvenating Kit. Have you tried them yet?

I also recommend:

Augustinus Bader Rich Cream Jumb

I’ll never pass up a deal on one of my favorite creams (it works!) of life.

Westman Atelier Petite Light Up Stick Duo 

Two shades of second skin luminosity for a lit-from-within visage.

Clé de Peau Beauté Bright Eyes + Radiant Skin Collection 

One of my favorite eye creams of life plus deluxe travel sized skincare essentials for day and night.

Dior Natural Glow Makeup Set

Lush black lashes and glossy pink lips in an instant…both of these formulas are tried, tested and true.

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lip Kit

I’ve used pillow talk for years and this kit is celebrates the very best of this universally-flattering shade.

Mac Mini Brush Bouquet Set

All the brushes one needs, nestled in a gorgeous pouch for easy transport.

Oribe Gold Lust Set

For soft, smooth and extra radiant hair, this formula is unmatched; I’ve been using it for nearly a decade and it will always be a haircare holy grail. Consequently, this set is spectacular!

Trish McEvoy The Power of Makeup Makeup Planner 

The love for Trish McEvoy amongst beauty enthusiasts runs deep and this planner (which has an option of light, medium or deep skin tone) is a packed with everything necessary for a full face and beyond.

Slip Pillowcase Set

A perfect way to try the best of the brand…silk is truly the optimal for hair.

T3 AireBrush

I use this genius tool to blow dry Joey’s hair quickly and effortlessly.

Riki Loves Riki Skinny Mirror

This mirror is excellent for at-home makeup application, filming and travel. I use mine every single week.

GHD Black 1-Inch Styler

My straightener of choice for the past decade.

Parfums de Marly Delina EDP Set

Feminine, modern and sophisticated, this is one of my favorite PdM fragrances ever.

–Shop the Beauty–

Look #4: Dressing via Dresses

The stars of this look are this midi dress by Veronica Beard (wearing a size XS) and a striped, heart pocket frock (for Joey Elle) by Boden. Both are made of cotton (rare in these times!). Both are feminine yet fuss-free and they have a classic appeal that would make them at home in any decade. I added the Autrey Reelwind Sneakers  for a sporty touch and Joey is wearing the Ray-Ban rectangular sunglasses.

// SHOPPING GUIDE EXPANDED //

Here are the pieces that (1) I already own and love or (2) are still on my radar as the sale progresses:

• Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Tote
• Chambray Shirt
• Jenny Bird Bee Triple Strand Necklace
• Veronica Beard Croc Embossed Faux Leather Blazer
• Hoka Mach 5 Running Shoe
• Veronica Beard Wide Leg Jeans
• Monika Vinader Pearl Necklace
• Reiss Double Breasted Blazer
• UGG Cozetta Slipper
• Moonlight Eco Short Knit Pajamas
• Free People Cami
• Frame Barrel Leg Jeans
• Birkenstock Big Buckle Slide
• UGG Faux Fur Throw Blanket
• Bombas Socks
• Barefoot Dreams Lounge Set
• Natori Feathers Bra
• Shinola Bracelet Watch

–Shop the Sale–

–Shop the Post–

As a reminder,

• July 9-14: Early Access for cardmembers with Icon status.
• July 10-14: Early Access for cardmembers with Ambassador status.
• On July 11-14: Early Access for cardmembers with Influencer status.
• July 15: Anniversary Sale opens to the general public (and runs through August 4th)

Good things ahead including a fresh video featuring some of my current summer skincare favorites, an fresh foundation routine and an updated guide to the #NSale in time for general access…cannot wait to share.

In the meanwhile, I post daily content on my Instagram and LTK shop  so please make sure to follow me there, too.

Stay strong, seek wisdom, much love and more soon,

xx

–The Beauty Professor

**PR samples provided for review denoted by an asterisk (the rest purchased by me); however, as always, all of my opinions are expressly and unequivocally my own. © 2012-22 Beauty Professor® All Rights Reserved. Do not copy, reprint or republish content and/or photos without author’s written permission.