
But first, The Elephant in the room
It’s that time of year again, the highly anticipated shopping sale of the year for fashionistas at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. But first, let’s address the elephant in the room. Be mindful when promoting or talking shopping and spending amidst the COVID pandemic. With so many people unemployed from losing their jobs, unnecessary spending on clothes, bags and shoes should be last thing on our minds. Also there has been a lot of backlash to influencers promoting the sale this year, a lot who are shopping in store, trying on loads of clothing without masks on. I encourage everyone, consumers, influencers or otherwise to be sensitive and be safe. Times are different now and we need to adapt and support each other any way we can. I personally am choosing not to shop in-stores this year. Instead I will be scaling-down my shopping and spending and only doing so online. But for those of you who plan to shop a little or a lot, continue reading for some tips and strategies.
Like every year, significant savings are made and anyone’s closet can benefit from this annual sale. Unlike any other sales where discounts are only on end-of-season items, the Anniversary sale is all about saving on new and upcoming Fall season trends. And it just so happens my favourite season to style is Fall, so I especially get excited for this event that runs from August 16-18th for Early Access and August 19 – Sept 3 for everyone.
Tackling this sale requires a bit of strategy in order to avoid crowds, frustration and missing out on your desired pieces. Below I am sharing a few tips and considerations in hopes to make your shopping experience a pleasant one this year.
Shopping Strategies and Tips
1. Timing: Early Access vs Public Access
If you are a Nordstrom credit card holder, you will get early access to the sale so I highly recommend getting the card even if for just this sole purpose. It is the only reason why I got it last year (I don’t use it for purchases). With the card, you will get first dibs on discounted goodies, increasing your chances of getting what you want before it sells out. Probably most importantly, you won’t be fighting the enormous crowds once the sale opens up to the public on August 19th. Early access is best for cardholders who reside in the USA which starts even earlier and this year, Fashion Youtubers have already been vlogging about it weeks in advance. Unfortunately for Canadians like me, this early access doesn’t start until a bit later on August 16th. However, I do get a “sneak peak” at the sale online.
2. Be safest by shopping online. New Nordstrom.ca website for Canadians.
This year Nordstrom launched its new Canadian website nordstrom.ca so Canadian shoppers are now limited to shopping online on this site only unless you have access to a US shipping address. Sadly, I do find the selection somewhat limited compared to nordstrom.com With COVID as another reason to avoid crowds, shopping online is your best and safest option this year. But if you prefer the in-store experience, read on for tips and strategies.
3. Sneak a peek and start a wish list
The key to getting what you want before it sells out is deciding what you want ahead of time. Go online to take a sneak peek at sale items and even though you can’t add them to your cart until you have access, you can add pieces you want or are considering to your wish list.
4. Make a wish list in advance
Whether you choose to shop online or in store, having a wish list handy will help you prioritize and stay focused on the pieces you really want. If you are planning to shop in store, keep your list at your finger tips while you shop. It will also help you get in and out of the store more efficiently and quickly. I also find access to the Nordstrom app and website is also handy for when I like to lookup or check if items come in other colours etc.
5. Book a shopping appointment at your local store
Contact your personal shopping stylist or sales associate at your local Nordstrom and let them know what is on your list. Schedule an appointment on the first day you have access and he/she will pull your desired pieces for you. There’s nothing quite like having all your wish list items ready and waiting for you to pick up upon your arrival.
6. Be safe, avoid trying on in stores.
This year safety is first and foremost. Usually I advise dressing appropriately to avoid dressing rooms so you can try on in front of mirrors. However, this year I recommend avoiding any trying on. Instead, buy to try on later at home and if you change your mind, you can return items later.
7. Buy now, decide later
If you are debating to buy something or not, I highly suggest you buy now and decide later because chances are it will sell out if you hesitate or wait. Should you change your mind later you can return it anytime. With Nordstrom’s amazing return policy, there’s never a concern for buyers remorse. If items are already sold out online, don’t despair. Keep checking back – I’ve seen pieces magically re-appear back in stock from people returning items throughout the week or from inventory restocks.
Time to Shop!
Mark your calendars for Aug 16th or 19th and get ready to shop. I’ll come back and share my picks from this years sale soon.
I’d love to hear about your picks and finds too so feel free to comment below! Happy Anniversary Sale Shopping!
Luci
I really love the black floral jumper and floral maxi dress. I haven’t been to a Nordstrom sale before, they look really great.
Sandy
You should really check out the sale one day. The sale prices are really reasonable!
Karla
This is the ultimate shopping tips! I really need the last tip. Buy now and decide later. I’m very picky and when the time I want to go back and buy an item, it’s too late. All your tips are very useful! Thanks!
Sandy
Hi Karla, I’m so glad you found the tips helpful. Navigating the sale can be overwhelming otherwise!
Jen
I love this advice! Especially about buy now, decide later. I also love the tip to check back for items sold out…you are right, that someone could have returned the item. Thanks!
Sandy
Hi Jen, yes checking back always works for me. It’s very likely to show up especially during the early days of the sale.
Angela
Always so many goodies! Makes me want fall to be here ASAP!
Sandy
Yes, Fall is my fav season to shop for – can’t wait until tomorrow when I have early access!
Yza Pillone
This tips are really helpful! I always make a wishlist whenever I go shopping.
Sandy
Wish lists are the best! They help me stay organized and focused. Otherwise I find myself wandering and feeling overwhelmed!
Jordan | Read. Eat. Repeat.
I had never thought about dressing so that you don’t need a dressing room before. Great tip!
Sandy
It really saves a lot of time by not having to lineup for a dressing room. It’s always so crazy busy!
Dani
LOVE all of the dresses/rompers in the top row. I also love those black heels in the first row of the shoe section. I might have to check this out!
Sandy
I love the dresses and rompers too – they are so pretty! I just hope there are some left when I start shopping tomorrow.
Angela Cruz
Love your helpful tips for this special sale! And the Longchamp bag you picked is life – I have one, and I wish I had gotten it on sale at Nordstrom during this anniversary sale. Thanks for your tips!
Sandy
Hi Angela – that longchamp bag is a great buy! It was also on sale at last year’s anniversary sale too. It will sell out fast!
Emily
I love that grey sweater! Its so drapey and cute!
Sandy
Me too Emily! I have a weakness for grey sweaters in the fall/winter
Daisy
I’m loving seeing all the amazing deals for this awesome sale! So many cute choices to pick from!
Sandy
The selection is really good this year!
Ana
Fantastic list and I love all of your tips, especially setting up a wishlist. I was just looking at a coat the other day and sure enough, it already sold out. Such fantastic items to choose from this year and I’m really loving the shoe picks from the brands I love. Thanks so much for sharing!
sarah camille
I agree with your tips and love all your finds! The Nordstrom sale is one of my favs and I’m totally eyeing those floral dresses you shared – so cute!!
Brittany
I need to remember to dress more appropriately while shopping so that the dressing room doesn’t take me forever!!