Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

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.

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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.

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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!

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