The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is one of those events where it’s easy to add things to your cart in a panic and wonder about them later. I used to shop like that — grab anything on sale, ask questions next season. These days I focus on pieces that survive more than one year.
That’s why I went through nearly 10,000 items this year so you don’t have to. Here are the ones worth your time and money.
The Sale Dates You Need
The 125th Anniversary edition is already open for Icon-level cardholders. If that’s not you, here’s when your window arrives:
- July 14: Icon level access
- July 15: Ambassador level access
- July 16: Influencer level access
- July 18: Open to everyone — no card needed
- August 9: Sale ends, prices go back up
This is a pre-season sale, which means the discounts come before the new season arrives. Once it closes on August 9th, those prices return. I always recommend using the virtual wish list — add items ahead of time so checkout isn’t a scramble.
What I’m Focusing On This Year
I’ve changed how I shop this sale over the years. Beauty and elevated basics take priority now, with shoes as a close second. I look for investment pieces — classic cuts in good fabric that won’t feel dated next August.
Denim that earns its keep
The NSale is still one of the best times to buy quality jeans. This year they’ve added more brands: Mother, Paige, AG, Frame, Pistola and plenty more. I’ve worn my go-to pair for years — great stretch through the waist, zero sagging by evening.
The viral sweatpants-jeans
Yes, they’re actually in this sale. I own a pair (size XL, though Large might work since they stretch quite a bit) and the matching shorts version. They fool 99% of people into thinking you’re wearing jeans. The other 1% probably owns them too. These will sell out fast.
Brands worth checking
Varley — first year they’re offering Double-Soft fabrics in the sale (look for Ivory Marl). Also have some solid knits.
Frank & Eileen — investment-priced, but I’ve been happy with every piece: this blazer, this denim top, and a sweater I bought last Anniversary Sale in stripes.
Ralph Lauren — the coat and sweater selection is strong. This navy cotton cableknit cardigan is on my wishlist right now.
Beauty Restocks
I stock up on a few things every NSale because buying them later at full price feels like a mistake:
- My current favorite deodorant and the coordinating body wash — both at a really good sale price.
- Silk scrunchies. I always have one on my wrist or in my hair, no exceptions.
- The gently hydrating shampoo and conditioner set I switched to about a year ago. I mix it with Olaplex sometimes.
- This body lotion — the large bottle and refill pouch are both discounted. One lasts me until the sale two years later.
- A U Beauty set I used every night last cycle.
Shoes & Boots
I was excited to see several pairs of MARGAUX shoes included. If you’ve been waiting for a reason, this is it.
Home Worth Grabbing
The Always Pan set is an incredible value — Kurtis uses ours daily for eggs. And I always grab one of these blankets each year; they make great gifts too.
How to Shop Without Losing Your Mind
Virtually shop ahead, build your wish list, and wait for your access day. It’s the only way to avoid adding things you don’t actually need just because they’re on sale right now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Nordstrom card to shop the Anniversary Sale?
No. Cardholders get early access on tiered dates (July 14–16), but everyone can shop starting July 18.
Does the sale apply to beauty products too?
Yes — deodorant, body lotion, skincare sets, scrunchies and more are all included in the sale pricing.
When do prices go back up?
The sale ends August 9. After that, items return to their regular prices.
A note from Maya: I wish someone had told me earlier in my shopping life that the Anniversary Sale is really about investment pieces, not impulse buys. Now I treat it like a restock event for things I already love — and my closet is better for it.