I’ve been shopping the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale for over 15 years now. It is my favorite sale of the year. It’s like Christmas in July! Over the years, I’ve collected many Anniversary Sale Must Have items that seem to come back each year.
If you’re not familiar, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is all brand new Fall merchandise that is marked down for 3 weeks in the Summer. Once the sale is over, the prices go back up. Oh yeah, and there’s limited quantities so stuff sells out quickly. Sometimes, before the sale starts.

I love me some luxury items, but I don’t love me some full price. So I save up money all year in a YNAB budget category to shop this sale and get my fancy things for less!
You definitely need a plan when shopping this sale in order to make the most of your budget. There is a TON of stuff included in this sale, even items specially made or beauty bundles specially packaged just for this sale! If you don’t make a plan, things can go haywire fast. Your strategy will help you get the things you want before they sell out, as well as make smart choices with your budget!
My strategy with this sale is a bit different than most of the Instagrammers and Fashion Bloggers you see all over social media. Those ladies are all about the trends. I don’t know about you, but I don’t like to spend a bunch of money on trends that I won’t want to wear in 2 years. I tend to skip the trendy stuff in the sale.
My plan is always to get classic pieces that I will wear over and over again for years and years. I’ve been able to find staple items to add to my wardrobe at this sale over the years that I still love today. That, to me, is what makes this sale great. Items that rarely go on sale that I’ll wear forever go on sale. That’s the sweet spot.
Some of my favorite finds include my AG skinny jeans, Sam Edelman boots (the ones with the snaps down the back), my Ugg slippers, Kendra Scott jewelry, and my Vince Camuto booties!
Since the preview is live online (the sale opens to everyone on the 15th), I thought I’d give you my favorite must-have items that are in the sale every year.
So without further ado, here are my Anniversary Sale Must Have Favorite items I’ve bought over the years. It’s a great list to get you started with some things that you’re sure to love! I’m putting this together before the sale starts, so these links and items are not the exact item that is included in the sale. Once Early Access starts, I’ll update with the correct sale links.
My Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Must Have Favorites
Barefoot Dreams Cardigan – I don’t remember when I bought this one, maybe 2014? I absolutely love this cardigan. I wear it everyday and it is the softest thing I own. It feels like an adult minky blanket that you get to wear. It’s the first thing I put on when I get out of bed in the morning. Mostly, I wear it around the house as a house coat over my pjs, but lots of people wear them as a cardigan.
You must have this cardigan, and you must buy more for Christmas gifts. It is number 1 on my must-have list for a reason. It comes in several colors and it’s totally worth every penny. They come in Plus Size too! The throw blanket is on my wish list.
Caslon Rounded V-Neck Tee – These are great basic tees. I first bought one in 2016’s Anniversary Sale. They fit a bit oversized. I wear an XS and its a little big, but I like it to fit like that. Great price & tons of colors, plus I love the little pocket for some extra detail! These are $19 regular price, but on sale for $12.99! These are definitely a must-have!
Spanx Faux Leather Leggings – These are the most amazing leggings! These faux leather leggings are totally worth the hype. The best thing about them is that there is no center seam. They are so comfortable, and they totally elevate your outfits. I can’t recommend these enough! You might want to go up one size as they are a little tight. I wear my normal XS, but it’s a squeeze. They also come in petite, plus size, and maternity!
Natori Feathers Bra – This is the best bra on the face of the planet. It’s sexy, it fits well, it has extended sizing, it comes in fun colors, it’s fantastic, and it’s on sale! I love this bra so much I had the Nordstrom tailor make one into a nursing bra for me. It’s this one. Can you tell? 😉 I have worn these bras for at least 12 years now, and I get a new one every Anniversary Sale. These awesome bras are normally $72, and are priced at $47.90 during the Anniversary Sale.
Nordstrom Moonlight Pajamas – As I approached 40, one of the things in my wardrobe that needed to grow up was my sleepwear. I decided to invest in some matching sets of classic pajamas. These moonlight pajamas are super soft and wear extremely well. They come in both short & long sets. I like to buy the same pattern in each the short and long to mix and match as the seasons change. I also own the Target version, and these are much better quality. My Nordstrom ones still look brand new. Make sure you size down one, I wear an XXS in these.
Beauty tools & exclusive sets are one of my very favorite items to purchase at the Anniversary Sale! They always have fun extras including samples or even full-sized products, travel bags, and more. I try to pick up a new tool or try a new product each year. They are always a great deal!
Shoes– Specifically fall boots, mules/flats, fashion sneakers & athletic shoes. I’ve always been happy with my purchases in this category. There is always a great selection! The most popular items go really fast. On more than one occasion, I’ve waited to think about a pair for a few days only to come back and find out they are sold out. If you see something you must have, buy it, and buy in 2 sizes if you’re unsure. With Free Returns & Free Shipping both ways, you can always return it later.
Bliss Throw Blanket – These are my favorite blankets to have around the house! They are so soft, and they wash really well without the tassels getting messed up. There’s a ton of colors. I have them in my Living Room, Media Room, Bedroom & my Daughter’s Bedroom. Everyone fights over these blankets and they’re on sale for under $20! Makes a wonderful gift for anyone, including teachers!
That’s it! Those are my list of absolute must-have winners from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. These are my tried & true favorites that I’ve bought over the years. If you’re new to the Anniversary Sale, this is a great list to start with!

Keep track of all things NAS by bookmarking and checking my special Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Page. I’ll be posting Anniversary Sale Stories on Instagram, so you can follow me there for the latest info. Also, make sure you sign up for Stacy’s Savings Emails so you never miss a new post!
What are your tried & true favorite purchases from past Nordstrom Anniversary Sales? Tell me in the comments! Maybe its something I need to add to my list this year.











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