I Asked Nordstrom’s Associate Fashion Director What to Buy From the Anniversary Sale—Here’s What She Told Me
Scroll on for 17 can't-miss styles.


Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale hasn’t wrapped up quite yet. You’ve still got time to indulge in a variety of fashion deals, ranging from elegant summer basics to polished vacation outfits and in-demand sneakers. But the retailer’s blockbuster event isn't just offering markdowns on warm-weather styles—it's also providing plenty of pieces that you’ll need for the season ahead.
“At this very moment, you can discover brand-new arrivals at exclusive prices before fall even begins,” says Nordstrom's associate fashion director, Linda Cui Zhang. Take a look through Nordstrom’s site and you’ll notice a bevy of autumn staples—including cozy knit sweaters that will anchor your capsule wardrobe, denim jackets that will help you to master the art of layering, and even Western boots that embrace fashion’s cowgirl craze. “Now is your chance to refresh your closet with timeless must-haves, invest in elevated essentials, and treat yourself to something special,” Zhang adds.
Ahead, the style expert shares 17 Nordstrom finds that have earned a special place in her shopping cart. If something catches your eye, make sure to act swiftly. The annual sale ends on Sunday, August 3, and items are already selling fast!
Your transitional wardrobe isn’t complete without this short-sleeved sweater. “Pair this piece with shorts and sandals for warm weather, and when temperatures drop, layer this top with outerwear,” says Zhang.
Ask any fashion expert about barrel jeans, and they’ll tell you that that these billowing bottoms will be one of fall 2025's most viral denim trends. Slip into this style and prepare to make heads turn.
If you already have a traditional trench coat, switch things up with this option cut from denim. Go full-on Canadian tuxedo and wear this piece with coordinating jeans.
"Investing in styles that work year-round is the key to building a wardrobe that feels effortless,” Zhang tells Marie Claire. As for what pieces are worth your hard-earned money, consider this sumptuous bucket bag from Veronica Beard.
For those moments when you want to lounge on the couch all day, pull on Zella’s snug sweat shorts. They’re so cozy, you’ll want to fall asleep in them.
Unlike standard leggings, Vince’s stretchy bottoms boast a subtle flared silhouette. Zhang recommends these close-fitting pants if you want to champion “elevated comfort.”
Ground your fall outfits in Stuart Weitzman’s Tassel Loafers, which exude an oh-so preppy feel.
Minimalists everywhere will be delighted to hear that chocolate brown is the highly anticipated color trend of fall 2025. Try the delectable neutral shade for yourself with Alice + Olivia’s leather button-up.
Barn jackets are back for another spin around the trend cycle this autumn. Invest in the timeless look with this corduroy version that flaunts a contrast trim.
Cowboy boots are dominating street style—even French girls have adopted the sturdy footwear trend. As we make our way into fall, consider paring these shoes with flared jeans, a T-shirt, and a cardigan.
I’m swiftly falling for the rosy hue plastered across Vince’s cashmere sweater. However, if you’d prefer another color, the label offers several other shades that are equally as stunning.
I’m on a side quest to elevate my pajama collection. After Zhang suggested this cozy set from Nordstrom, it immediately landed a spot in my shopping cart.
There’s nothing wrong with everyday jewelry, but I’m looking to give my accessory collection a playful boost. I’ll do so with Monica Vinader’s beaded necklace, crafted with earthy stones.
We’ve got a while until winter—but you can never be too prepared, right? Get ahead of the chilly season with Zella’s sophisticated quilted jacket.
Last fall, English country style reigned supreme, and the charming trend is poised to rise in popularity once again. Frye’s sleek riding boots are right on theme.
Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale is filled with discounted designer pieces, and if you don’t believe me, take a look at these sleek Prada shades.
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Lauren K. Tappan is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she covers trend forecasting and shopping stories, highlighting runway-inspired styles and a blend of emerging and established brands. Prior to joining Marie Claire, she worked as a freelance editor for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE, specializing in e-commerce content and curating seasonal trend reports. Earlier in her career, she worked at Town & Country, developing a strong portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.
Lauren holds a bachelor's degree in communications with a minor in journalism from the University of Pennsylvania. While at Penn, she served as editor-in-chief of The Walk, the university's fashion magazine, and completed internships at Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.