Can I let you in on a secret? I'm not a big sale shopper. I know that's borderline blasphemous for a shopping editor, but most sales are not actually a steal. But there are exceptions, of course—the biggest being the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.
Every year, I source the sale for new basics to help refresh my wardrobe. Instead of offering a few percent off last season's styles, Nordstrom deeply discounts (up to 50 percent off!) the brands I actually want to shop my essentials from, like Madewell, Reformation, and Free People. And while I love the thrill of thrifting designer pieces, instead of sifting through racks, I can shop Vince, Staud, and Coach from the comfort of my own home. I also appreciate that the sale isn't a manic 24-hour spree—it runs for over three weeks and features over 16,000 products.
That said, it is a little late in the game, but don't worry! You still have until August 9 to shop the sale. Plus, I did the heavy lifting for you. Here are the essentials I'm adding to my wardrobe, starting at just $36.
I've been trading out my black tees for navy hues to soften my look. I can't pass up the price of this highly rated cotton find.
The silver buckle detail on these suede flats makes them a basic that stands out.
I've been wanting to take on the funnel-neck trend, and this timeless bomber silhouette makes it feel much more manageable.
Aptly named the "Perfect Jeans," this dark-wash, wide-leg pair is ideal for fall.
Jenny Bird is my go-to for simple yet stylish jewelry, and I know the cost per wear on these earrings will be in the single digits.
Basics do not need to be boring. I'll get just as much use out of this wrap button-up as I would a more traditional silhouette, but with so much more interest.
The internet and I agree that this is the comfiest bra out there. It's my most consistent sale buy to date.
The easiest way to look instantly polished is a sleek, fitted black blazer.
Every fall, I choose one new bag to invest in, but it looks like I'll be able to afford two this year! This gorgeous leather Coach bag manages to be both spacious and compact.
HR- and fashion editor-approved.
I don't own an LBD, and with fall weddings approaching, I know I'll get a lot of use out of this option.
I'm excited to swap my brown and black belts for this equally versatile maroon find.
This timeless, versatile coat is the only thing I'll reach for on chilly mornings and rainy evenings.
Every fashion girl I know owns these jeans—and since they're over 30 percent off, I'm ready to see what the hype is about.
This watch looks like a designer piece but costs thousands less.
It's rarely cool on September 1. These shorts will get me through that pesky transitional weather until fall officially arrives.
Diamonds for under $200? Sold.
This simple, white tee is perfect for layering under sweaters.
I've tried many sneaker brands, but New Balance remains the most comfortable one for clocking 10k steps a day.
Customers say this cardigan is soft, cozy, and the perfect layering piece.
I missed out on this gorgeous suede Staud bag during the last Nordstrom sale, but I won't be making the same mistake this time around.
I, too, was scarred by the low-rise jeans of the early 2000s, but trust me when I say this AG wide-leg pair is actually flattering and comfortable.
I'm always cold, but hate anything too bulky, so a lightweight 100 percent merino wool sweater is the smart solution.
I don't abide by the "no white after Labor Day" rule. I'll be wearing this flattering skirt with boots and a sweater this autumn.
Square-toe booties have been at the top of my shopping list since I wore mine into the ground last fall.
I tend to lean towards black or dark brown sunglasses, but I love the color pairing of these brown-and-violet-lensed shades.