I Have the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale to Thank for These Chic Summer Outfits

If you're new around here, welcome! You'll quickly learn that we're obsessed with Nordstrom, especially in July. The retailer's legendary Anniversary Sale happens once a year, and it's the perfect chance to save on brands such as Rag & Bone, Paige, Coach—you get the idea. My personal lore with this sale runs deep. It all started with back-to-school shopping in elementary school, when I would stock up on Converse, skinny jeans, and a new backpack. This year, it's kitten heels instead of sneakers, barrel jeans over slim styles, and a new work tote or two. To get boots-on-the-ground coverage of what's included in this year's sale, I sent my colleague Anneliese Henderson to the NYC flagship store on West 57th Street. With the help of two talented Nordstrom stylists, Coulson Bingham and Modesto Abreu, Anneliese put together the chicest outfits to wear now and into the fall. These pieces are already selling out, so you need to scroll fast. Happy shopping!

What are you stocking up on during the Anniversary Sale? Is this your time to invest in big-ticket items or everyday essentials?

Anneliese Henderson: A combo, for sure! I've looked forward to the Anniversary Sale for as long as I can remember. I grew up in Sacramento, and despite it being over 100° every time the sale rolled around, my mom and I would always browse for fall staples to get ready for back-to-school season. While I'm no longer heading back to class, I still use the sale as my cue to get ahead on my fall wardrobe. I like to browse the preview first so I have an idea of which pieces I need to act quickly on. This year it was denim and shoes—the selection was immaculate.

Avec Les Filles

Crop Denim Jacket

Open Edit

Asymmetric Cotton Poplin Wrap Shirt

Alice + Olivia

Maeve Faux Leather Midi Skirt

Steve Madden

Lisbeth Pointed Toe Mule

How was your experience working with Nordstrom stylists? What advice did they offer? Did any of their recommendations surprise you?

I'd never worked with a Nordstrom stylist before, but now I seriously don't think I can shop the store without one. The stylists were so in tune with what was in-store and with which styles I love. It was almost like they could read my mind. They even brought in a few pieces I didn't expect to love. Flare jeans? A week ago, I would've said absolutely not. Now, they're a staple in my wardrobe.

Open Edit

Luxe Sculpt Rib Sweater Tank

rag & bone

Flexi Dahlia Mid Rise Flare Jeans

Sam Edelman

Fauna Kitten Heel Slingback Pump

Tell me about this look. I see you have on another pair of adorable kitten heels.

Are you surprised to see me in another pair? Well, don't be. I have a true obsession. But let's take a further look at these balloon jeans that have officially stolen my heart. You know a pair of jeans is good when it's as comfortable as sweatpants. I could wear these all day. My stylists had me keep it casual with a cardigan—which I would have buttoned up if it wasn't for their idea to unbutton it and pop a tank underneath—and a croc handbag. I already know I'm going to get compliments the minute I walk out the door.

Treasure & Bond

Nep Pointelle Cardigan

Pistola

Blair Bandless High Waist Crop Barrel Jeans

Shop Additional Favorites

WAYF

Maddox Belted Blazer

Nordstrom

Seamless Layering Tank

WAYF

Maddox Pleated Cuff Trousers

PAIGE

Ansley Kitten Heel Knee High Boot

Free People

It's on Rib Cardigan