What I Ordered from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Since I shared my preliminary “wishlist” for things from the sale, I thought I would update with the things I actually ended up ordering. While browsing, I found myself being drawn to basics and closet staples, choosing to invest in pieces that I can wear over and over again versus some trendier things. One of the things that I’ve learned about this sale from past years is to order things that I’m interested in, try them on at home to see if I can style them multiple ways, and be open to returning them, if they don’t work out. Since pieces can sell out easily and aren’t always restocked, I didn’t want to miss out on a potential closet staple! I looked through everything and bookmarked the things I was interested in, then narrowing that down to the things I would actually wear and that would settle into my wardrobe nicely. From there, I ordered things I think I’m going to love, as well as some things that I’m not sure about but don’t want to miss out on (in case they are as good as they could be!). For example, I ordered two pair of jeans, fully knowing that I’ll only keep one (if I even like either of them!). I also ordered a couple pieces in multiple colors because I couldn’t decide which one I wanted and want to be able to try the piece on with clothes I already have.

Here’s a look at everything I’m keeping from my order:

Vince Camuto Pointed Toe Booties

$99.90 (after sale: $149.95)

I knew I wanted these the second I laid my eyes on them. I live for a pointed toe, so these were a no-brainer for me! Perfect for styling with a tee and cardigan, or dressed up with a feminine top and leather jacket. Similar option here, here and here.

Sizing: run slightly small. If between sizes, go 1/2 size up. (I’m between an 8 and 8.5 and am very glad I got them in 8.5)

Thread & Supply Quilted Utility Jacket

$58.90 (after sale: $88)

I have wanted to add a utility jacket like this to my wardrobe for over two years now! I’m so glad to have found one that’s available and a great price. Plus, it’s lined with fleece, which means it will be extra warm and cozy.

Sizing: Fits TTS. I went with a Small to have a little extra room for heavier sweaters during the fall.

Halogen Cashmere Ruana

$112.90 (after sale: $169)

I couldn’t decide between the grey and the oatmeal, so I ordered both to try them on with my other clothes. I love the idea of this piece for transitioning into fall, or layered over a thermal or plaid later into the season!

Sizing: one size fits women sizes 0-16.

Shop the Look: Striped tank, Jeans, Mules, Tote

Spanx Faux Leather Leggings

$64.90 (after sale: $98)

I picked these up during a previous anniversary sale and they’re a staple in my fall/winter wardrobe! They can easily be dressed up like this, with booties and a cashmere sweater, or dressed down with sneakers and a cozy cardigan.

Sizing: fits TTS; refer to size guide.

Shop the Look: Tee, Ruana, Booties

Topshop Long Cardigan

$44.90 (after sale: $68)

I picked this up in both the oatmeal and the grey marl because it’s something I’ll wear all the time! Love the oversized fit and the texture of this cardigan. I wear things like this all fall and winter long, so I know it will be a staple.

Sizing: fits oversized. I got an XS and there’s plenty of room, but that’s how it’s supposed to fit!

Shop the Look: Dress, Booties

Madewell Transport Crossbody Tote

$111.90 (after sale: $168)

I’m no stranger to a Madewell tote, so when I saw this one with the suede stripe, I couldn’t resist! Love the smaller size (I have and love the larger tote, but sometimes it’s too big) and that it is a stunning shade of brown.

Shop the Look: Cardigan, Tank, Jeans, Mules

BB Dakota Drapey Bouclé Trench Coat

$86.90 (after sale: $130)

I love the look of a classic trench, but feel like they can be a bit formal. What caught my eye about this one is that it’s made of a bouclé fabric, which lends itself towards more casual styling! I’m picturing this as a great layer during the fall for athleisure outfits or over a cute top on date nights. Similar option for the coat.

Sizing: runs a bit big. I’m wearing an XS and there’s still a little room. If between size, I would consider sizing down.

Shop the Look: Tee, Leggings, Slip-on sneakers

Other honorable mentions:

Halogen Lightweight Cashmere Scarf

$98.90 (after sale: $149)

I purchased it during the sale last year and got good use out of it through the fall and winter!

Sizing: one size fits most. It’s large enough to wrap around your neck once or wear as a wrap!

Nike Essential Pullover Hoodie

$39.90 (after sale: $60)

I don’t own a single hoodie like this (in fact, I only own one other hoodie from Target years ago), so I saw a hole in my wardrobe I wanted to fill. It’s lightweight, so I won’t get too hot in it, and super soft. I love it for going to/from the gym and when I’m going for an athleisure outfit.

Sizing: I went for a Small and am glad that I did! It’s got enough room for it to be comfortable, but isn’t too bulky or oversized. I would say go TTS, or up one size for extra room.

Alo High Waist Moto Leggings

$75.90 (after sale: $114)

I’ve had my eye on these leggings for a few seasons, so decided to finally try them out. Since I wear a lot of athleisure during the week, I like the idea of having some more interesting leggings for those outfits. I love the texture on these and the pretty color options.

Sizing: they fit TTS for leggings. They are a bit long – I’m 5’6″ and they’re just the right length. If they were any longer, they would be too bunched up around my ankles.

Similar options: they have other colors available here. And a 7/8 length here.

1.State Lace Inset Camisole

$45.90 (after sale: $79)

I like this kind of cami for a layering piece, especially moving into the fall under chunky cardigans. I have a similar one from Abercrombie from last year that I’ve worn a ton, so I know that I’ll get a lot of wear out of it. What I like about this one, in particular, is that there’s a bit more coverage, since the lace inset shields the v-neck a bit. It’s pretty for dressing up or down!

Sizing: It fits TTS. I went with a small because I wanted a little extra room for it to move nicely. Straps are adjustable.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Cardigan

$88.90 (after sale: $134)

I bought this during a previous sale and it’s easily one of my most worn things in my closet. It’s unbelievably soft and cozy – I treat it almost as a robe. I put it on nearly every morning and evening!

Sizing: fits oversized, but I would go with normal size.

Natori Rose Dream Custom Coverage Bra

$47.90 (after sale: $72)

Another previous sale purchase that I’m happy with! This is a great t-shirt and everyday bra – very comfortable and great coverage.

Sizing: fits TTS – go with regular bra size.

Hi there!

Lauren Bown Lifestyle Blog is an online destination where I share my personal style, beauty finds, and bits of life in hopes to inspire other women to feel good in their skin and find the beauty in the ordinary.

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2 Comments

  1. 7.17.19
    Helen D said:

    So, I’ve been following your blog for a while now (I found you through your sister) and I’ve enjoyed it over all, because why else would I keep coming back? That said, I may be I’m in the minority here, but I AM SO TIRED of hearing about the Nordstrom Anniversary sale. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE NORDSTROM & have been a long time customer & maybe I feel this way because I follow several blogs, but the consumerism that this reeks of just really turns me off from wanting to spend any of my hard earned money there for this sale (or at all). No offense to you, perhaps my rant should be directed at Nordstrom.

    • 7.17.19
      Lauren said:

      Thanks for your comment, Helen! I agree that there’s been A LOT of talk about the Nordstrom Sale, especially amongst bloggers and “influencers” on Instagram. It’s a little bit of a tricky position as a blogger because I love to shop this sale (it’s a great chance to get new items at a discount for the upcoming season) and want to share the good things that I find with you guys, in case you’re also shopping the sale and are overwhelmed by the amount of options or don’t know what may be worth your while. Part of that is because I see my job here as somewhat of a “personal shopper” for some of you – for those that follow along because they like my style, they can shop the things that I’m shopping or draw inspiration for their own closets based on what I’m sharing. On the flip side, as a reader/follower, it can feel like all anyone is ever telling you is to buy buy buy buy buy, especially with a big sale like this. That’s a big reason why I started doing the “shop your closet” series that I’ve done over the last few months – because we don’t need to constantly be shopping, but can be rethinking and restyling the things we already own. It can be a delicate balance to share and inspire without being pushy or making people feel like they always need new things (because we certainly don’t – nearly all of us could probably do without half the stuff we already have!). Long story short, you’re not alone in feeling weary of hearing about the sale, but I hope you also can appreciate that I put this information out there for the other readers that do want to shop the sale and are potentially looking for some guidance on what items are worth it!