As a follow up to my last post, I wanted to break down my top five picks from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale now that general access has begun. Basically, the items that I think are really worth considering adding to cart. A couple of tips before you shop; to avoid going overboard, stick to a list of core or “key” pieces to buy from the sale. Add items that are sold out to your wishlist to be notified when they restock. Look at the fabric composition; this is a big one, and the composition should make sense for the item you’re buying. Finally, consider what options you have elsewhere; this sale is a great way to save ahead of the A/W season, but is there a better deal at another one of your favourite retailers?
#1 | Eileen Fisher merino wool cardigan
One of the first items I’m always looking for in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, is good knitwear. Just like last year, there seems to be a glut of synthetic blend sweaters, however I was able to find a handful which ticked all my boxes; classic cut, neutral/wearable colours, and 100% cotton, cashmere, or merino. I loved the look of this oversized 100% merino wool cardigan from Eileen Fisher. Merino tends to have a finer gauge, which means it’s an excellent option for layering as it adds warmth but not bulk. It comes in a classic black, in addition to a rich plummy eggplant hue – both great basics for A/W. The length is good for those who are wider across the hip, and it’s a longer length so works well to balance out proportions and skim over the silhouette. An excellent work to weekend option. Only thing I wish they’d done differently was use traditional buttons over a snap button closure, but I don’t think this is a dealbreaker (and you could try seeing if a tailor could replace these with regular buttons).
Other notable mentions include this cotton/merino crew from Nordstrom or for those who are unable to wear wool, I loved this cotton cardigan from Caslon (size up for a more relaxed feel).
#2 | Madewell Leather Tote Bag
The bag that goes from work to weekend and everywhere in between. I love this style, because it’s simple yet functional. Outer pocket, flat base that stands upright, long shoulder drop for wearing even over large bulky coats. And I felt really confident in recommending this bag in particular off the back of my experience with my beloved Madewell Bucket Tote (which I’ve been wearing a lot), as the quality is there, and it’s been wearing really well. The colours are gorgeous too; a caramel and a rich burgundy.
#3 | Good American Fluid Drape Trousers
These trousers from Good American made it into my top five for a few reasons. First, black trousers are one of the few pieces in my closet that I consider a year round staple. They can be worn for a night out, for the office, the weekend, for travel. All depending on how you choose to style them. The second reason is the cut. Good American pants tend to be cut wider across the seat so these are going to work for those who are curvier at the hip (in addition to those who aren’t). This appeals to me as it can feel like a bit of a rarity in trousers. Finally, it’s the fabrication too. Yes, they are polyester, but for a work/everyday trouser that is going to be worn a lot, you want the fabric to be robust, and synthetics *generally* are (not a blanket rule though – there’s varying degrees of quality within every fabric type). Also, the cut is just very nice. Chef’s kiss.
#4 | Barbour Waxed Jacket
A practical purchase, and one I don’t think you can go wrong with, is a waxed jacket from Barbour. The sale price is an incredibly good deal for something that you’ll likely have forever (is it just me or are these jackets indestructible?!). They’re a waxed cotton exterior, cotton lined interior. Water resistant, wind resistant. Pure function, that looks chic too, and leans in on the trend of “barn” jackets we’ve been seeing at the likes of Prada, Toteme, and The Row. With the exception that Barbour is the OG.
#5 | Vince Slingback Flats
My last “top pick” are these cute slingback flats from Vince. And admittedly, I’m sharing a bit from my own personal wishlist here. The cut feels reasonably classic yet modern at the same time. The squared off toe adding in that sense of modernity. I’m not opposed to wearing a slingback with stockings, and what drew me to these was the colour selection, combined with how supple and soft the leather appears in the images (a real dealbreaker in my eyes!). Another more affordable alternative are these Maryjane flats from Nordstrom which are 100% leather and under $100.
