The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has arrived and, for the 10th year in a row, I just finished shopped 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 11-16: Early Access for cardmembers with Icon status.
- July 12-16: Early Access for cardmembers with Ambassador status.
- On July 13-16: Early Access for cardmembers with Influencer status.
- July 17: Anniversary Sale opens to the general public (and runs through August 6th)
When deciding on what to purchase, I consistently choose to focus on timeless 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: Effortless Parisian Energy
This sophisticated L’Agence blouse (wearing a size medium) is a gorgeous shade of olive with chain detailing and I paired it with some high-waisted, bootcut, frayed Mother jeans (size 26…they feel very Jane Birkin, no?) and endlessly comfortable Paul Green loafers in the most beautiful nude fawn shade Cuoio (these will match everything and you’ll see them pop up a lot in this guide!). I also integrated the Gucci 50mm Gradient Round Sunglasses, which speak to me on every level imaginable.
Look #2: Mod Momentum
I love a good cardigan and this one by Madewell comes in the creamiest ivory (shade is Heather Sand) guaranteeing its utility in my wardrobe. Also, I paired it with a black denim mini skirt (size 6) and some playful pointed toe kitten heel booties (run TTS) that are 100% leather and basically $100. I finished this look with these classic Versace 57mm Gradient Square Sunglasses, which have a very 1960s feel (I’ll expand on their fit and feel towards the end of this post).
// Beauty Break //
I picked up the Bobbi Brown Crushed Lip Duo, which thanks to the sale is half off. It includes a full sized lipstick in Telluride (a deep nude) and a full sized Crushed Lip Gloss in Free Spirit (a glowing peach). I’m wearing the mix throughout this entire story. I also bought the Westman Atelier Petite Light Up Stick Set as I love both the glimmering peach Nectar and burnished nude Brûlée and these sticks will fit in my purse more readily for touch ups on the go.
For skincare, I am having a moment with the cult-favorite Kiehl’s Creme de Corps, which absorbs on contact (rare and wonderful!) while leaving my skin hydrated for hours. I started diligently this fragrance-free marvel earlier this summer and love that both the large bottle and the refills are a part of the sale right now. I also picked up the Kiehl’s Hydrate All Day Starter Set for my husband who is always looking for a straightforward and effective moisturizer and the cleanser has been on rotation over here for years.
I also recommend:
Augustinus Bader Rich Cream Set
I’ll never pass up a deal on one of my favorite creams (it works!) of life.
Westman Atelier The Getaway Edition
Blush, highlighter and a breathtaking lip palette in a lush pinky nude color story come in this compact trio.
Clé de Peau Beauté Defend Your Radiance Collection
This is one of the best sunscreens on the market…pure luxury! And the deluxe travel size skincare will be welcome companions for your next trip.
Dior Addict Set
Lush black lashes and glossy pink lips in an instant…both of these formulas are tried, tested and true.
Valentino Lip Set
In my experience, this is one of the best lip color formulas on the market and I love that this set comes with four wearable shades (I carry Roman Grace in my handbag), nestled in an iconic clutch.
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 Brush with Greatness Brush 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 is a packed with everything necessary for a full face and beyond.
Slip Pillowcase + Scrunchies Set
A perfect way to try the best of the brand…silk is truly the best for hair.
T3 Luxe Brush Set
I use the white detangling brush in this set daily and wholly recommend it along with the other options in this set.
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 #3: Chic + Relaxed
The instant that I saw these jade green pants, I knew I’d be bringing them home as I already own a cream pair that I picked up last summer and have worn frequently since then. They are roomy (I’m in a small) with an elastic waist band and beautiful pleats. I paired them with a Susana Monaco black tank (size medium) is technically not a part of the sale but it’s double lined perfection so you can skip a bra and I’m glad I bought it. I completed this breezy look with the Paul Green Shay Bit Loafer in Cuoio.
Look #4: Serious Business
The star of this look is this super soft Theory cashmere coat (in a medium), which has clean lines and slash pockets. Lightweight and unlined yet very warm, this borders the line between blazer and car coat and I know I’ll be reaching for it a lot when the temperatures drop. I’m also wearing a True & Co bralette (size small, so comfortable) and some wide leg trousers that have a magnificent flow (size medium). The Paul Green loafers keep things neutral and I’m in love with the amber allure of these rectangular Versace sunglasses.
// A SUNGLASS INTENSIVE //
This time around, I found three distinct pairs of sunglasses, each with an intriguing personality that adds to my wardrobe at large.
The Gucci 50mm Gradient Round Sunglasses instantly caught my eye as I love a rounded, oversized style with a lighter-toned lens. This pair is an homage to the early 1970s and the warm honey tones are actually mood-lifting. I’m completely enamored!
The Versace 57mm Gradient Square Sunglasses have a timeless appeal that makes me think of Audrey Hepburn in the 1960s. The delicate black frames are complimented with a soft smoke lens and the glasses themselves are lightweight and extremely comfortable.
Finally, Versace 60mm Gradient Rectangular Sunglasses are unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. The fusion of gold and amber is, in a word, stunning and the gilded detailing is striking yet somehow still understated for those who appreciate quiet luxury. Simply sublime.
–Shop the Sunnies–
// 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 Shoulder Bag
- Chambray Shirt
- Jenny Bird Chain Necklace
- Veronica Beard Argyle Cotton Cardigan
- Veronica Beard Neutral Skirt
- Mini Beaded Pearl Necklace
- Reiss Double Breasted Blazer
- Aquatalia Zip Bootie
- UGG Discoquette Platform Slipper
- Moonlight Eco Short Knit Pajamas
- Free People Free Throw Crop Tank
- Frame Le Palazo Raw Hem High Waist Jean
- Birkenstock Big Buckle Slide
- Natori Bliss Perfection Contour Bra
- UGG Reversible Throw Blanket
- Bombas Socks
- Barefoot Dreams Lounge Set
- Longchamp Belt Bag
- Spanx Faux Leather Leggings
- Natori Feathers Bra
- On Cloud X 3 Shift Cross Training Shoe
- Shinola Birdy Watch
–Shop the Sale–
–Shop the Post–
Bottom Line:
I hope you enjoyed my personalized approach to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and found this guide interesting and insightful. Let me know what caught your eye and is in your shopping basket!
As a reminder,
- July 11-16: Early Access for cardmembers with Icon status.
- July 12-16: Early Access for cardmembers with Ambassador status.
- On July 13-16: Early Access for cardmembers with Influencer status.
- July 17: Anniversary Sale opens to the general public (and runs through August 6th)
Good things ahead including a fresh video featuring some of my current summer favorites, a sunscreen and foundation-centric story 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.
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