Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: A (Sort of Awkward) Review of Everything I’ve Received

It’s been a week since I shared what I was planning to order from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale during the cardholder pre-sale (this is when I stock up on my fall and winter essentials and love being prepared before the season starts). Since then, I’ve received some of my orders and in celebration of the actual sale launching today for everyone, I’m giving my thoughts on everything that’s arrived thus far. That means- some (kind of) awkward try-ons from a 30-something who is clearly not a fashion blogger ;). Here’s a little gift- if you turn this post into a drinking game, and you have to take a sip every time you come across a photo of me holding my hand to my hair, you would probably be tipsy by the time you finished the post. And, it would be totally fine because it’s Friday. You’re welcome. (But, try to look past that because I’m pretty pleased about some of my finds and think I landed some gems 😉 )

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Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Women's- gray tufted headboard

Green Pillows Mixing Patterns on Bed1. | 2. | 3. 

I over-ordered and am returning more than disclosed here (best thing ever is that everything comes with free shipping and free returns so it makes trying on at home zero risk), but if I were to go through everything, we’d be here for weeks haha. Below, I’m sharing my favorites and contenders that I’m keeping, considered, or had high hopes for. As I mentioned before, I was primarily on the lookout for comfortable, versatile pieces that I can wear across seasons, and mix and match to wear at home, on errands, or even out to dinner. Surprisingly, my favorite of the sale isn’t clothing or something home-related… you’ll have to read on to see what it is! Ok, so here are my thoughts on several things that have arrived and whether or not I’ll be keeping them.

Alo Fluid Tunic Hoodie
(Regular Price: $98.00 // Sale Price: $64.90)

I ordered this totally blindly and was pleasantly surprised. For someone who lives in loungewear, I get excited when I find pieces that still feel like pajamas but have a little more “tailored” look. This hoodie is crazy soft and I really like how it falls- not oversized but not clingy. Reviews for this are all over the place from some who say it runs small to others who think it runs big. I would stick with normal sizing. Status: KEEPING.
UPDATE: Currently sold out; check back often for re-stocks

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale- Alo Fluid Tunic Hoodie

Alo Fluid Tunic Hoodie // Zella Live In High Waist Leggings

Zella Live In High Waist Leggings
(Regular Price: $54.00 // Sale Price: $35.90)

I wore these throughout the try-ons – simply because I wear these 24/7 (favorite leggings ever!) I ordered a few more pairs during the sale to stock up. I’ve talked about these several times before but as a refresher, they are high waisted, suck you in (but don’t cut off your circulation), and are fairly thick. I wear mine lounging around the house and I dress them up. I got a few others pairs of leggings last year, maybe wore them once, and always come back to these. They’re all I need. Status: KEEPING (ordered extras).

Topshop Long Open Front Cardi
(Regular Price: $75.00 // Sale Price: $49.90)

This oversized sweater cardigan is one of my absolute favorite items of the sale – I got it in the green but love it so much, I’m ordering the gray, too. Like most of the pieces I fill my closet these days, this is super versatile and can be worn out or in, with leggings, jeans, or even a maxi with booties for fall. If oversized isn’t your thing, skip this one, but if you like the roomy, cozy goods, this cardigan will quickly become a fav. Status: KEEPING and ordering another color.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale- Topshop Long Open Front Cardi

Topshop Long Open Front Cardi // Zella Live In High Waist Leggings

Halogen Ruffle Neck Sweater
(Regular Price: $79.00 // Sale Price: $49.90)

The thing I like most about this ruffle neck sweater is the length; next would be the billowy sleeves. Unlike last year’s balloon arm sweater I tried though, these billowy sleeves are more cozy and less “showman”. Even though the sleeves are oversized, the sweater itself isn’t engulfing (fits true to size). It comes in several colors and is available in petite also, but is selling out quickly. Status: KEEPING.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale - Halogen® Ruffle Neck Sweater

Halogen Ruffle Neck Sweater // Zella Live In High Waist Leggings

Kristin Cavallari Lash Split Shaft Bootie
(Regular Price: $159.95 // Sale Price: $99.90)

These peep-toe booties are adorable; unfortunately, I ordered my true size and couldn’t get my wide foot all the way in. The heel is taller than I expected but chunky; because I couldn’t try it on all the way, I can’t speak to comfort :/ They come in a few colors but the tan (pictured here) is selling out in several sizes. Status: Returning.

 

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Women's- ruffle neck sweater

Halogen Ruffle Neck Sweater // Kristin Cavallari Lash Split Shaft Bootie // Sole Society Tesso Genuine Calf Hair Clutch // Bauble Bar Tassel Earrings (not part of the sale) // Kendra Scott Ro Pendant Necklace (not part of the sale)

Sole Society Tesso Genuine Calf Hair Clutch
(Regular Price: $74.95 // Sale Price: $49.90)

When I was looking for a clutch, I didn’t think I would go straight for the leopard. But, I wear a lot of neutrals and liked the idea of adding a little pizazz with a clutch that would go with almost anything in my closet. (It also comes in black, but I love the leopard). I didn’t realize that it came with a strap to double as a crossbody but love that feature; unlike a lot of clutches, this one still has compartments so all your contents aren’t just dumped inside. The photos don’t do it justice; the calf hair clutch is beautiful. Status: KEEPING.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Women's-16

Sole Society Tesso Genuine Calf Hair Clutch

Caslon Faux Shearling Jacket
(Regular Price: $129.00 // Sale Price: $85.90)

This jacket was an unexpected treat – I was looking for less “coat” and more “jacket/fleece” and this one delivered! It isn’t lined on the inside with anything constricting; the faux shearling material is just as soft on the inside. It’s casual enough to pair over loungewear but cute enough to dress up to go out. One of my absolute favorites of the sale. It is selling out in sizes quickly (fits true to size) so if yours isn’t currently available, I would check back often for re-stocks. Status: KEEPING.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale- Caslon® Faux Shearling Jacket

Caslon Faux Shearling Jacket // Zella Live In High Waist Leggings

Chelsea28 Leigh Faux Leather Tote & Zip Pouch
(Regular Price: $89.00 // Sale Price: $58.90)

This is a beautiful bag and the price is right. It’s a great everyday tote and even comes with a cute (fairly substantial) matching zipper pouch inside (perfect for makeup, cords, etc.). It comes in black and tan and the only reason I’m not 100% on it is because I purchased thinking I would use it for my laptop. But, while the straps go over your shoulder, I can’t see myself sprinting through the airport with it without them falling down- and, it doesn’t have a shoulder strap for those occasions. So, I love it but don’t need it if I can’t use it for my laptop also… Status: Jury’s still out…

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Women's- faux leather bag and jacket

Caslon Faux Shearling Jacket // Chelsea28 Leigh Faux Leather Tote & Zip Pouch // UGG Pasqual Boot

UGG Pasqual Boot
(Regular Price: $149.95 // Sale Price: $99.90)

I fell in love with Uggs last year (ok, I was late to the party!) but when I did, I got a pair of boots, slippers, and then a pair of slippers for my mom, and then Dave even fell in love and had to have a pair. After wearing those almost exclusively all winter, I could more than justify trying these out. And, I’m so glad I did. The front v-cut is more flattering than their standard straight cut and they are so incredibly cozy. Since I’ve become so picky with my footwear and what actually supports and cushions me feet well, these will probably be a staple for the rest of my life. If you aren’t sure you like them, now is the time to try them. If you have liked them for a while, you will adore this pair. They also come in black and are true to size. Status: KEEPING

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Women's- boots and bag

Chelsea28 Leigh Faux Leather Tote & Zip Pouch // UGG Pasqual Boot

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Women's- ugg boots

Free People Fearless Love Bell Sleeve Shirt
(Regular Price: $128.00 // Sale Price: $84.90)

I had high hopes for this oversized flowy top and when it arrived, I was kind of shocked and disappointed by just how oversized it was. Like- no shape whatsoever, not flattering at all, and you will most definitely have to wear a tank top underneath. But then, I played with the extra material a little, knotted it, front tucked it, etc. and I actually liked it. It’s huge but you can manipulate the extra fabric. It comes in two colors but don’t say I didn’t warn you- it really is huge. Status: On the fence…

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale- Free People Fearless Love Bell Sleeve Shirt - Caslon® Knit Blazer

Free People Fearless Love Bell Sleeve Shirt // Caslon Knit Blazer // Zella Live In High Waist Leggings

Caslon Knit Blazer
(Regular Price: $59.00 // Sale Price: $32.90)

This was one of my top five favorite purchases from last year’s sale so I was stoked that they brought it back this year. I got a second black and ordered an additional one in green- I loved the green color but did not like it on me. So, I will just have two in black haha. It’s a stretchy knit that is casual and feels so good with jeans but isn’t a boxy cut and still looks more tailored. The sleeves are rolled too for a cool look and the price is amazing. Fits true to size, if anything, you could maybe size down one. Status: KEEPING and now have a backup.
UPDATE: Currently sold out in every size and every color. Check back often for re-stocks and returns.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Women's- blazer and leopard clutch

Caslon Knit Blazer // Sole Society Tesso Genuine Calf Hair Clutch // Kristin Cavallari Lash Split Shaft Bootie // BaubleBar Contessa Tassel Earrings

Contessa Tassel Earrings
(Regular Price: $38.00 // Sale Price: $22.80)

I’ve been eyeing these for a while and finally grabbed them up when they were marked down. They are super lightweight and come in several colors. Status: KEEPING

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Women's-15

BaubleBar Contessa Tassel Earrings

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Lite Circle Cardigan
(Regular Price: $116.00 // Sale Price: $76.90)

I’ve been waiting to see if they hype of the Barefoot Dreams cardigans were worth the hype since last year. So, I ordered two different styles to see which I liked best. I am still waiting on the hooded version and passed on the straight version, but I actually wasn’t crazy about the circle version (pictured). I wish it was a little longer and didn’t expect the sleeves to be so fitted. The softness though- oh my word! I can’t even describe it but it’s even better than I expected. Fits true to size and comes in several colors. I have high hopes for the longer hooded version (arriving soon!) Status: Returning.

Madewell Ryder Cardigan
(Regular Price: $98.00 // Sale Price: $64.90)

This is a nice cardigan but I don’t love myself in cream and am not crazy about how the pockets kind of hang open. It comes in several colors and is super soft (not Barefoot Dreams soft but typical “soft”) – I would order one size down. Status: Returning.

Caslon Asymmetrical Drape Collar Terry Jacket
(Regular Price: $79.00 // Sale Price: $52.90)

Ok, I know “asymmetrical” is in the name of the jacket but I was still surprised when I put it on. It feels awkward and looked terrible on me zipped up. When it’s open, if situated correctly, I think it’s cute but I can’t deal. Status: Returning.
UPDATE: This keeps selling out in every size and color; if you are interested in it- come back often for re-stocks and returns.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Cardigans

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Lite Circle Cardigan // Madewell Ryder Cardigan // Caslon Asymmetrical Drape Collar Terry Jacket // Zella Live In High Waist Leggings

Zella Body Fusion Sports Bra
(Regular Price: $35.00 // Sale Price: $25.90 OR 2 for $40)

You can probably tell in some of my photos but I don’t have the smallest chest in the world haha. Actually, I have a hard time finding bras and sports bras that I like. I can’t even get into a lot of sports bras so most of mine that I wear on repeat are old- I’ve been in desperate need so I decided to give this one a shot; the price is amazing. Now that they’re here, I don’t want to take them off. They have fantastic side and back coverage (no spillage/lost circulation) and the shoulder support is fantastic. No heavy weight pulling down, leaving marks. I also tried THIS ONE which was cute but didn’t support me at all. I’ll be ordering four more of these MINIMUM. Status: KEEPING and ordering several more!

Zella Live In Lite Crop Leggings
(Regular Price: $52.00 // Sale Price: $33.90)

This is my second pair of these cropped leggings (I liked them so much, I ordered a backup). They fit like the full length high waist live in leggings but are thinner and perfect for summer and the warmer months. Status: KEEPING and on my second pair.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Women's- zella leggings and sports bras

Zella Body Fusion Sports Bra // Zella Live In Lite Crop Leggings

T3 Grey & Rose Gold Cura Hair Dryer
(Regular Price: $134.00 // Sale Price: $200.00)

This is my all-star of the entire sale. I use nice hair tools in general but my hair dryers have always been cheap tools that blow air- that’s about all I know about them. I’ve had my latest for over a decade and as someone with naturally wavy hair, I assumed that having a wild mane of frizz is just an unavoidable part of blow drying your hair. Well, I was wrong. I couldn’t wait to test the T3 out after all the buzz over the past year about their products and am so glad I took the plunge. Game. Changed. I used my board bristle paddle brush and ceramic round brush as I always do, except this time, I didn’t even have to use a straightener when I was done. My hair was totally smooth, healthy, and ready to go. I kept making Dave pet my head in disbelief haha. If you don’t do anything else, do yourself a favor and try this baby out! Status: KEEPING!

Herbivore Botanicals Rosewater + Gemstone Trio
(Regular Price: $74.00 // Sale Price: $52.00)

I discovered this moisturizer this past year and loved it so much, I ordered some for my mom. At the time, I actually had to order it directly from Herbivore and then they went out of stock for a while; this is the first time I’ve seen it offered at Nordstrom so I was thrilled it was part of the sale and I re-stocked. I haven’t yet tried the spray and brighten so I can’t speak to those but the moisturizer is- YES. Status: KEEPING and regular user
UPDATE: Currently sold out; not sure if it will be re-stocked or not :/

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Women's- t3 hair dryer

T3 Grey & Rose Gold Cura Hair Dryer // Herbivore Botanicals Rosewater + Gemstone Trio 

Vince Camuto Kentvi Sandal
(Regular Price: $149.95 // Sale Price: $99.90)

I haven’t received my order of these just yet but I have high hopes. I love how most Vince Camuto shoes fit and feel and especially since the other booties I ordered didn’t work, I’m banking on these. I ordered in black but all their colors are gorgeous. Status: TBD

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Favs

Vince Camuto Kentvi Sandal 

ALSO WAITING TO ARRIVE…

I’ve already touched base on several of these but as a recap-

1. Barefoot Dreams Cozychic Lite Coastal Hooded Cardigan (Regular Price: $114; Sale Price: $75.90) // I have big hopes for this cardigan since I think I will like the cut better than the circle version I received. I think I will also like the charcoal color better on me 😉 (comes in several colors)

2. SPANX Faux Leather Moto Leggings (Regular Price: $110; Sale Price: $72.90) //  I regretted not getting the regular Spanx faux leather last year for dressier occasions; I thought these were super fun but am going in blind. We shall see!

3.  Zella Live In High Waist Leggings (Regular Price: $54; Sale Price: $34.90) // Like I said, I already have these and love them so much, I ordered a few spares. 😉

4. J.Crew Bead & Raffia Earrings (Regular Price: $65; Sale Price: $42.90) // These are so pretty and come in a few colors. They are made of raffia so they should be pretty light weight.

5. Nordstrom 3-Pack Liner Socks (Regular Price: $12; Sale Price: $7.90) // This is my second time buying these low rise socks; I love them for my Ecco sneakers and for my booties that cut low. They stay put than any of my athletic low-rise socks, too 😉

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Favs from Women

1. Barefoot Dreams Cozychic Lite Coastal Hooded Cardigan // 2. SPANX Faux Leather Moto Leggings //  3.  Zella Live In High Waist Leggings // 4. J.Crew Bead & Raffia Earrings // 5. Nordstrom 3-Pack Liner Socks

AND WAITING TO ARRIVE FOR THE HOME…

1. Villa Home Collection Dirade Accent Pillow (Regular Price: $78; Sale Price: $51.90)// I got two of these to create a new pillow set in the white room.

2. Villa Home Collection Heirloom Velvet Accent Pillow (Sale Price: $25.90)// I got two of these to create a new pillow set in the white room. UPDATE: Currently sold out; check back often for re-stocks

3. Levtex Sadie Crewel Stitch Pillow (Regular Price: $59; Sale Price: $38.90)// I got one of these specifically for my longer stems- like my limelight hydrangeas that are going to be ready to start getting cut any day now!

4. Treasure & Bond Large Creased Vase (Regular Price: $59; Sale Price: $38.90)// I got one of these specifically for my longer stems- like my limelight hydrangeas that are going to be ready to start getting cut any day now!

5. Kennebunk Bliss Plush Throw (Regular Price: $39.50; Sale Price: $25.90)// I already have this throw in cream and it is THE softest thing in the world. I am all for getting more for our rooms so I got the navy to coordinate with the above pillows (which can be rotated throughout the house with our other blues).

6. Treasure & Bond Small Creased Vase (Regular Price: $29; Sale Price: $18.90)// I just love its organic shape and it will go perfectly with it’s big brother 😉

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Home Favorites

1. Villa Home Collection Dirade Accent Pillow // 2. Villa Home Collection Heirloom Velvet Accent Pillow // 3. Levtex Sadie Crewel Stitch Pillow // 4. Treasure & Bond Large Creased Vase // 5. Kennebunk Bliss Plush Throw // 6. Treasure & Bond Small Creased Vase

If you missed my first post during the pre-sale, you can see everything I was loving for both fashion and home HERE. Also, if you’re shopping for Christmas, check out my gift ideas for everyone on your list HERE. Have favorites you’ve scored? Let us know in the comment section below!

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9 Comments

  1. 7.20.18
    Kelley Kolpitcke said:

    This was amazing! I wish everyone would who posts their faves would do a “review.” So helpful!
    The “Barefoot Dreams” collection is A-MAZ-ING! I have their throws and they are better than anything. I hope you end up liking the piece you are waiting for.

    Kelley from Boise ??

    • 7.23.18

      Kelley, I am supposed to be getting the cardigan today!!

  2. 7.22.18
    Linnie said:

    So so so so so glad you posted pics of you in the items. I would say that 90% of us readers are not size 0 or XXS. So REFRESHING to see you in the clothes. Thank you for the honest reviews. Love your posts!

    • 7.23.18

      Linnie, thank you; I hope this was helpful! xoxo

  3. 7.28.18
    Regina S. said:

    Thank you for the info on the sports bra! Exactly what I need! I ordered 2 of them. Perfection!

    • 8.5.18

      Regina, I am so glad! I am SO GLAD I stocked up!