Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: The Best Pieces to Buy

Today is the day! The 2021 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is now open to EVERYONE! That's right, now is your chance to stock up and save on brand new fall items at a major discount! I always love this sale because I'm able to save so much on the staples I wear all through the fall and winter season and since fall apparel is generally more expensive, I'll take all the savings I can get!

This year, the sale is all about the classic basics, which you know I love! I am so happy with all my purchases and know I will get plenty of wear from them for years to come. From sweaters and coats to fresh booties and great activewear, I feel like I found one of everything from the 2021 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and am sharing it all with you guys today!

Check out my Nordstrom Anniversary Sale shop page for even more must-haves! Scroll to the end for all the collages and shopping guides per category!

Editor's Note: I'm 5'10 and sharing all the fit details for each item below. Click images to shop all products directly.

nordstrom anniversary sale dressing room

Coats & Jackets

As I mentioned in my wish list post, one of the reasons I'm so excited about the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale this year, is for all the fall clothing I'll be able to wear now that I'm living in Nashville instead of San Diego. Coats and jackets are always one of my favorite items to shop for and this year I really feel like I hit the jackpot and will be set for the fall/winter season!

Plaid Shawl Collar Coat

This coat was at the top of my list going into the sale, and I'm so glad I was able to get it! It's such a great fall staple and budget friendly for outerwear! I looks like a designer piece but a fraction of the price, especially with the sale! I love the black and tan houndstooth design for the fall season. I know I'll be pairing this shawl collar coat with jeans, leggings, sweater dresses all the time. It has pockets, its lined, a soft hand feel, and it's not too heavy!

Fit is true to size; wearing an XS.

rag & bone Wool Blend Coat

This coat was on my list but I wasn't sure if I was going to buy it, until I saw it in person. If you're looking for a timeless, classic coat you'll have for years to come, and is versatile to go back to more outfits, this is the coat for you. The quality is incredible, and what I love most about it is the color. Because it's a little more taupe, you can wear it with black, brown, grey, camel, navy, green, etc. It so comfortable and will definitely keep you warm in the winter! This would be a great piece to get if you need a nicer coat for work too!

Fit is true to size; wearing size 4.

Long Wool Shirt Jacket

Ok you know how much I love a good shacket and I was so happy to find this one while shopping yesterday! It's not something I normally gravitate towards, but I just loved the longline silhouette and the light neutral plaid detail. This is such a cool piece to have as we transition into fall. Pair it with booties or sneakers depending on the day's activities. I'm definitely going to take this with me on our trip to Telluride it August! It has pockets and an oversized fit - highly recommend this plaid shirt jacket!

Fit is true to size; wearing an XS.

ALLSAINTS Balfern Leather Biker Jacket

Third times a charm! For the last three years I've invested in the ALLSAINTS leather jacket and I'm also so happy I did come fall. These jackets are effortlessly chic and the ultimate fall staple. I always grab the new color for the season, and this year I'm obsessed with the sage green color. Not only will it be great for fall, it will be gorgeous transitioning from winter to spring! The color is just so good. I paired it with both black and beige so you can see how well with works with both dark and light neutrals. Get ready to see this jacket a lot! And in case colored leather jackets aren't for you, you can't go wrong with the black version!

Fit is true to size, wearing US6.

ALLSAINTS Leather Biker Jacket

Last year I bought the ALLSAINTS Balfern leather jacket in burgundy and it was one of my favorite purchases; I wore it so much during the fall season! If you missed out on this jacket last year, the burgundy color is back in the Dalby leather jacket style, which doesn't have the belt at the waist. Like a black leather jacket, having anther neutral option is essential for a great fall wardrobe.

Fits TTS, wearing a US6

Sweaters

I am a firm believer that you can never have too many sweaters. Ok maybe you can, but I will say that if I can save nearly 50% on cashmere essential sweaters that I'll LIVE IN during fall/winter, I'm going to take advantage of that! This was one of the best years yet for sweaters, personally. I got more than I normally do, but I'm so excited for them all!

Vince Merino Wool Long Cardigan

New favorite coatigan, is that you? If you know me, you know I LIVE in coatigans pretty much as soon as the temps drop below 65. I was so excited for this one from Vince in both the grey and camel. And if I'm being totally honest, it was never a decision between the two. I knew I needed both. The amount of times I wear a coatigan in the fall/winter/spring justifies it 10000% These are especially soft and have a spongy hand feel. I love the oversized pockets and truly just how comfortable they are. If you are trying to decide between the two, I think the camel is my favorite, but just scan your closet and see what color sweater you have more of. I would get in that color because that should me thats the color you like to wear more!

Fits true to size, wearing an XS.

Vince Wool & Cashmere Sweater

Every year I get the cashmere Vince sweater, which is usually a sweater I wear once a week during the fall/winter/spring season. This is always one of my favorite styles to wear either layered under jackets since its tissue thin, or solo for warmer fall nights! I love the light beige/ivory color and the taupe color (which I ordered online already)!

Fits true to size, wearing an XS.

Free People Swim Too Deep Sweater

Who doesn't love an oversized chunky turtleneck sweater for fall? I was really excited about this sweater just because I know myself and how often I wear oversized black sweaters during the fall/winter season. Dress it up with over the knee boots, keep on trend with ripped jeans and booties, or casual with leggings and sneakers. So many easy and comfortable ways to style this sweater. I will note, I also wanted in the ivory color, but it had some pink undertones to it that I just didn't care for. Just a heads up in case you're considering that color.

Fits true to size, wearing an XS.

Crewneck Cashmere Sweater

I always stock up on cashmere sweaters during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and these classic crewneck cashmere sweaters are perfect. They are so soft and comfortable and great essentials for fall. Layer with coats, or wear individually, these sweaters are the perfect! The heather grey and taupe are also on my list to buy!

Fits true to size, wearing an XS.

St. John Wool Knit Wrap

This wrap wasn't on my list, my sales associate found it for me and I'm SO HAPPY about it. Yes, it's definitely an investment, but this is a piece I will have for DECADES. It's so timeless and I know I'll get plenty of wear out of it. The quality is incredible; it's so soft, has a nice weight to it, and the color is gorgeous. While it is 100% wool, it doesn't feel itchy whatsoever. Pretty sure this will always come with me when I travel for added warmth and comfort. I works layered over t-shirts, sweaters, dresses, and easily be dressed up or down! Highly recommend this piece!

Fits true to size; one-size

ALLSAINTS Rib Knit Ruana

Alternatively, if you're new to wearing poncho styles or your not sure you're quite ready to invest, this camel poncho from ALLSAINTS is a great option! I love the mixed stitch detail, and warm camel color. It also comes in charcoal grey (I have from previous years). This one is also so soft and will be a great cozy layering pieces for fall!

Fits true to size; one-size.

Frame Frankie Puff Sleeve Cashmere Sweater

Who can resist a puff sleeve top? Not me. I love this feminine style from Frame. The subtle puff sleeve makes this essential short sleeve sweater elevated for date night, workwear, or really just if you need a fun piece to style with jeans and sneakers. You know I'll be wearing this on repeat!

Fits true to size, wearing an XS.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Lite® Long Cardigan

Last year was my first year buying a Barefoot Dreams cardigan during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and I don't know why I waited so long! This is literally the softest and most comfortable cardigan I've ever worn. Thankfully lounging at home is my favorite, so I'll be LIVING in this.

Fit is true to size, wearing an XS in color bisque.

Tops

I rarely buy tops other than sweaters during the sale because there usually isn't anything I HAVE to have or the savings isn't enough to justify making a purchase to begin with. However, this year there were two tops that were on my list and I'm so happy I was able to get them!

Free People Natasha Puff Sleeve Top

Back to the puff sleeve again, but this long sleeve top reminds me of a style I have from Target last year that I wear all the time. I'm always looking for long sleeve t-shirt style tops that are more fun so I was excited to get this one! It's not a crazy savings, but I know I'll wear it a lot since I reach for my other similar one often. It's slightly sheer, but if you wear a nude bra, it's not as noticeable. I love the slub detail and I'll probably end up ordering it in another color, maybe both, who am I kidding.

Fits TTS. Wearing am XS

FRAME Shoulder Detail Sweatshirt

FAVORITE. NSALE. PURCHASE. I can't even take credit for this! My creative manager found this half zip sweatshirt, and I'm SO glad she did. First off, the color is gorgeous. Green is one of my favorite "colors" to wear that I still consider a neutral. Obviously the sleeve detail is amazing. And I love that I can just throw this sweatshirt on with jeans and sneakers for a casual look but still look elevated. I will say its SLIGHTLY fitted at the waist, so size up if you want it more relaxed. I took my true size because I didn't want to size up and have the shoulders be too overwhelming on my frame. Also the color online reads more yellow. Its definitely more of a beautiful sage green!

Fits true to size, wearing an XS.

Jeans

I really only but a couple pairs of jeans during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Either something essential or a fashion style. I really wanted these Frame jeans, but sadly the store didn't have them. I'm still planning to order them, so check back in a few days for an update!

FRAME Le Original Jeans

FRAME denim is always a favorite of mine, the fit is usually so great for me. These were on my list and after I tried them on I wasn't positive I was going to get them ONLY because they are a little shorter than I like to go. They have a 27" inseam and being 5'10, 28" is usually my minimum, but I just loved the lightweight denim and ripped detail too much to pass up. Plus the slightly cropped length on me will be great with booties in the fall! As I mentioned, these are a lightweight denim, while they don't have stretch, they are super soft making them incredibly comfortable to sit in. I wore them out to dinner and sat in them for a few hours, and I plan to wear them on my flight home today, thats how comfy they are! The medium blue was his so pretty too and will match back to so many of my pieces.

Fits TTS. Wearing a 26

BLANKNYC Madison Ripped Straight Leg Jeans

These BLANKNYC jeans are probably my favorite pair from the sale and they are under $55! I love the medium blue wash, destroyed hem detail, and just the overall fit of the jeans. If you're looking for an everyday budget friendly style, these jeans are for you! They don't have stretch, but trust me, they are so comfortable! I wore them nearly the entire time during the sale and had zero complaints.

Fits TTS. Wearing a 26

Madewell High Waist Skinny Jeans

Madewell jeans have always been some of my favorite styles of jeans and I don't know about you, but I'm always looking for a great pair of black skinny jeans. They are a great option in the fall and winter months if you don't want to wear leggings, these are a great alternative. They are high rise, have a little bit of stretch, and fit like a glove! Just FYI, I noticed they do attract fuzz from some of the sweaters I was wearing, but not enough to make me not want them!

Fits TTS. Wearing a 26

Shoes

Steve Madden Booties: Every year I always get a new pair of bootie (sometimes in more than one color), and this year I got the Steve Madden Cedar Booties in Tan Suede. I love the notch cut out detail and they work with no-show socks. I wore these booties all day for hours and walked a few miles in them and I had ZERO issues. HIGHLY recommend these as the booties for fall!

Over the Knee Boots: Ok I cannot believe these boots are UNDER $100! The quality and comfort feels so luxurious. If you're in the market for a pair, DEFINITELY get these. They will be a staple for fall to dress up date night looks, pair with dresses, leggings, skinny jeans, etc.

Heeled Sandals: Vince Camuto is always one of my favorite brands and these stylish heels are perfect to transition into the fall season. They come in a few of my favorite neutrals so of course I had to get the black and tan. The white is also so good! These will be great with dresses, skirts, jeans, and even dressed up shorts looks for summer!

Zella Long Sleeve Performance T-Shirt

These long-sleeve Zella shirts are SO GOOD. Seriously, get all the colors. They’re perfectly lightweight and can be worn outside, inside, to do yoga, to go on a run, whatever! I love them so much.

Fit runs a little big. Wearing XXS.

Nike Sportswear Crewneck Sweatshirt

I shared this Nike sweatshirt in my original Nordstrom Anniversary Sale post and I had to share it again because it truly is a favorite of mine. I've practically been living in it since I got it last week and don't plan on changing that anytime soon.

Fit is oversized; wearing an xs. (leggings)

Nike Tempo Dri-FIT Shorts

Anytime Nike’s Dri-FIT shorts are on sale is a good time. I love this color so much. The heather grey is a welcome departure from all-black, and they fit so well. I love these shorts for HIIT workouts and running outside.

Fit is true to size; wearing a small. (top)

Fashion Jackson Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Activewear
Fashion Jackson Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Activewear

Zella Rib Biker Shorts

So I actually got these biker shorts before the sale and they have become some of my favorites! I love the rib detail and this elevated design makes them perfect to wear with casual outfits outside of the gym! I have in both black (obviously) and magenta (who am I?!). They are SO good!

Fit is true to size; wearing XS

Zella Live In Jogger Pants

At first, I wasn’t sure about these joggers. I expected them to be insanely soft and made for lounging, so I was surprised that they’re actually lightweight melange-knit. That means they have a bit more stretch and are definitely best worn to run quick errands or go on a walk (when the weather is cooler, of course). Now, I’m obsessed! Highly recommend.

Fit is true to size; wearing an xs. (top)

Zella Live In High Waist Leggings

I get a pair of these leggings EVERY. YEAR. You really can't beat the price. These leggings are definitely more of a lounge/travel/yoga legging since they are a little thicker and I get too hot doing high intensity workouts in them. They are a brushed, moisture-wicking fabric that dries quickly to keep you comfortable. But trust me they are SO. GOOD (over 7K positive reviews online)!

Fit is true to size; wearing an xs. (top)

Fashion Jackson Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Activewear
Fashion Jackson Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Activewear

Athletic Sneakers

I always get a few pairs of sneakers that will typically last me the year so it's a great time to save on these higher ticket items! The adidas Edge Lux 4 sneakers are SO incredibly comfortable! I actually had the pink pair already but decided to get the black as well! I don't have a good pair of all black sneakers and I really loved how these look (and the comfort!). These are great for running, HIIT workouts, walking, and everything inbetween!

The UltraBoost DNA are new for me and WOW these are SO good. I love the fit/comfort/styling of these sneakers and the beige color is so pretty! They are great for running with cushioning that absorbs impact and distributes weight for consistent, buoyant comfort under each step.

I always go down 1/2 a size in adidas sneakers.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Shop

Check out my Nordstrom Anniversary Sale shop page for even more must-haves! Keep scrolling for all the collages and shopping guides per category!

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

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Load All 3 Comments

  1. Posted 7.13.18 · Reply

    Hi Amy! You did such an amazing job on your Nordstrom sale dressing room post! We couldn’t wait to see your classic and chic picks! Just ordered outfit 2, can’t wait to wear those pieces! Thank you for such a thorough review. We missed seeing you in Dallas this year!

    xx,
    Lindsay & Whitney

  2. Posted 7.16.18 · Reply

    I loved shopping this sale, but it was exhausting! Haven’t been this tired since my recent vacation! It was a fabulous kick-off to fall looks.

  3. Noelle said:
    Posted 8.6.18 · Reply

    Great picks! I love everything you tried on 🙂

    Noelle
    http://elle-no.com