I'm a Professional Shopper—Here's What's Worth Your Money From Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale
Thousands of items from Nordstrom's best-selling brands are on sale—think Reformation, Vince, Dolce Vita, and many more.
As a fashion editor, it's my job to study the trend cycle. I know what styles are currently en vogue, which are no longer in the limelight, and, like a sartorial seer, those we'll be drooling over in future seasons. But at this very moment, I'm fully plugged-into summer 2023's trends: from warm-weather leather to high-shine metallics, the upcoming season's must-have pieces skew the entire style spectrum, ranging across subdued and minimalist to adventurous and bold. But the best news of all, however, is that you can shop all of summer's trends at a super discount, courtesy of Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale of 2023.
From now through June 4, Nordstrom is having a gargantuan sale on thousands of items from its best-selling brands—think Madewell, Vince, Dolce Vita, and many more—with discounts of up to 60 percent. Everything from breezy summer dresses and the best sunglasses to denim shorts and lightweight linen pants is on super, super sale. Consider this the ideal opportunity to refresh your seasonal edit at a fraction of what it would typically cost your wallet.
And, as mentioned, the sale is massive; It's so big that you could spend an entire day scrolling and still not be finished shopping by nightfall. The good news, though, is that you can find a much better use of your time because I've already scoured the site and found the best summer pieces from every major category. You can shop everything below but you'll want to act fast because pieces are selling out by the second.
Shop On-Sale Tops
Add this dark floral, slightly sheer button-down to your workwear roundup for some spring-summer flair. You'll find it possess impressive versatility, too, taking you from the office to after-hours occasions. "I really like this top; just bought it yesterday and already wore it for work today," writes one Nordstrom reviewer. "It is completely sheer, but looks fine with a black or tan cami underneath. Great as a business shirt or casual date night.”
A significant bonus to Nordstrom's many site-wide sales is that you can shop trendy brands at low prices that you typically wouldn't be able to. For instance, this luxurious silk blouse from Reformation is 30 percent off—a discount you likely wouldn't find on the cult-adored label's site.
ASTR The Label offers my ideal spring and summer going-out top. It's softly romantic with its puffy shoulders, balloon sleeves, and floral print but slightly sultry, too, with the back cut outs. Sweet in the front, and sexy in the back—that's my new motto for my warm-weather style.
As mentioned early, it's my job to be plugged into the fashion space. A big part of that gig is constantly browsing my favorite retailers for the crème de la crème of the market. And I can confidently state that Levi's faux leather moto-inspired jacket is one of the best leather jackets you'll find on the internet. Oh, and the ultra bonus is that it's currently 40 percent off.
In my book, every wardrobe needs an oversized blazer. The roomy yet tailored style is the key to mastering effortless elegance. Consider adding this Boyfriend Blazer in sky blue from Nordstrom's house line to your lineup. Not only is it around $30 cheaper than normal, but its a classic, no-fuss, and timeless option that will last you for ample seasons to come.
Shop On-Sale Bottoms
This maxi skirt with a molten, liquid look is "absolutely stunning," as one reviewer writes. Plus, for those who like an aesthetic that exudes nonchalance, a floor-skimming skirt is a fundamental component to emulating no-fuss, boho style. As for how to style the maxi skirt, keep it simple with a graphic tee shirt or basic white tank top.
A no-fuss-or-frills pair of black straight-leg trousers are a must-have in any workwear collection worth its salt. This particular style from Nordstrom's house line is a sound option to invite into your rotation, as it's currently 25 percent off and boasts an almost-five star rating.
Comfortable and casual yet elevated—Calson's wide-leg linen pants are your answer to easy spring and summer dressing. Style with an oversized white button-down and raffia loafers for a summer work outfit, or team these breezy bottoms with your best one-piece swimsuit and open-toed sandals for a beach-ready ensemble.
Denim trends fluctuate—in some seasons, low-rise waistlines are in, but in others, everyone is wearing higher-rise, mom jeans. But one silhouette that will always be in style is a slightly retro-inspired flared. Case in point: Joe's Molly Jean. This pair pays homage to the 1970s without feeling costume-y, a delicate balance to strike that the denim brand has managed to do flawlessly.
These top-rated leggings (try over 7,000 reviews with a four-and-a-half star out of five average rating) are a purchases you absolutely will not regret. In addition to being one of Nordstrom customers favorite buys, their ultra high-waisted silhouette is super on trend for summer 2023.
Shop On-Sale Dresses
Do you have a summer wedding to look forward to or another event that requires you to Dress Up? This feminine lace midi dress by Bardot is an absolute stunner that's fancy but not overly formal. This Nordstrom reviewer certainly is pleased: "Loved this dress! Wore it for a friends wedding and even on my shorter frame it was a perfect midi length. The fit is very flattering and the color was beautiful."
This flutter-sleeve, wrap-style dress from the size-inclusive label ELOQUII is a dress I highly recommend. It's obviously on sale (over 20 percent off—woohoo!) and it also comes in this opulent emerald green, bright sky blue, and classic black, so you have a few options to peruse.
Open Edit's Wear Two Ways knit dress is one of the smartest buys you can make off of this list. This midi number is—drum roll, please—reversible, essentially making it two dresses in one. And with its discounted price tag, that's a deal you really can't beat. Oh, and the black and olive green options are also on sale if this trendy digital lavender color isn't quite for you.
Close your eyes and envision an effortless summer dress. The odds are you're imagining a style similar to this breezy shirtdress from Vince. The mid-tier brand is known for its strategic minimalism (neutral closet essentials, but with flair and a twist), and this dip-dyed midi in a dreamy oceanic color palette represents its aesthetic to a T.
A little black dress—or LBD, as it's colloquially known—is the definition of a wardrobe basic. Endlessly versatile, it's a style you absolutely should have in your collection. And if you don't already own one, Treasure & Bond's ruched and sleeveless style, which is around 40 percent off its traditional price, is a great place to start.
Shop On-Sale Shoes
Chloé's slide is the ideal version of an elevated flip-flop. Leave behind your rubber thongs, and snag this luxury woven-linen pair instead. One Nordstrom reviewer writes, "Gorgeous shoes that look beautiful with so many outfits!!! I can dress them up or down, and simply adore them. Take the plunge, they are worth it!:). I did go up a size and they fit perfectly."
There's a high chance you recognize or are already familiar with Vionic's Penelope Sneaker. We previously crowned them the most comfortable work sneaker because they are aneasy slip-on shoe, have a cushioned footbed with built-in arch support, and come highly recommended by podiatric surgeons everywhere. And now, I'm crowning them as one of the best buys from Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale for 2023 because they're currently under $100, which is a deal too good for you to pass up.
Dolce Vita's braided sandal are a cult classic, with an average rating of four and a half out of five stars. I'm particularly partial to this stunning golden metallic style and the trendy hot pink style, but if you're more of a minimal dresser, try any of the neutral options like caramel brown, sandy tan, or ivory—all of which are also on super sale.
The best ballet flats have taken fashion by storm as of late, and I have no shame in admitting I'm head over heels (or, in this case, flats) for the trend. This beige-y yellow pair by Sarto by Franco Sarto was already high up on my list but now that it's 30 percent off? Well, let's just say I'm multi-tasking right now by drafting up this list of to-shop styles while also inputting my credit card info into Nordstrom's site and selecting a size eight pair.
Do you have a summer wedding coming up on your social docket? If so, you'll likely need a new pair of heels, and may I kindly suggest this very of-the-moment style from Open Edit with wrap-around laces? The flared heel offers much more comfort and wearability than a standard stiletto, and the strappy, tied look is extremely on trend.
Shop On-Sale Bags
Your summer accessories lineup isn't complete without an adorable basket bag—and I can't recommend this BTB Los Angeles woven clutch with pink detailing enough. Afterall, with the Barbie movie coming out in a few months, it is the summer of hot pink. "Love this clutch," raves a Nordstrom shopper. "Perfect for summer and neutral to use for any fun occasion. Decent size, and I like the handle. Also has small feet on the bottom."
Call off your search for the best summer bag of 2023—I've found it. Camila Mesar's bucket bag is an ideal find for the coming season because it boasts an inherent beachy look and feel due to its macramé fabrications. Plus, its eye-catching orange hue is one of summer 2023's hottest color trends.
Do you need a new laptop bag to carry with you into the office? Look no further than Tory Burch's leather tote with not one, not two, but three compartments to keep all of your contents secure. Take it from this Nordstrom shopper who dubs it the "ultimate work bag": "[It] looks professional as well [and] can hold more than it looks like. Would highly recommend it if you we looking for something lightweight and stylish."
If you're a smart shopper, which I know you are since you're combing through this curated edit, you'll use Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale to snag a highly-discounted designer handbag. I, for one, am eyeing Stella McCartney's Mini Falabella tote bag. The salmon style features one of the sustainable designer's house codes, statement metallic chains, and is 40 percent off (!). Hurry—you'll want to add it to your cart before I buy the last one.
Like a carry-all tote and sleek handbag, you also need a reliable weekender bag in your collection. This lilac-hued duffel bag from cult-favorite luggage brand Tumi is a great option worth your consideration. It features a removable shoulder strap as well as two top handles. But the best of all is that you can fold up this sturdy style into a small pouch as a major space saver.
Shop On-Sale Accessories
Tap into 2023's silver jewelry trend with this shiny bangle by Coach. It's like a belt, but for your wrist—how fun!
This 14K gold chain necklace and bracelet set by jewelry brand Bony Levy is one of the best (and I truly mean that) discounts you'll find throughout Nordstrom's half-annual sale. Not only do you get two pieces of jewelry for a discount on what they'd cost you separately, but the package deal is currently 40 percent off—a super sale you should act on STAT if you're LOOKING to upgrade your jewelry box.
No, your eyes do not deceive you: These gorgeous metal-plated studs are under $20, which cost less than my lunch from yesterday! These stunning earrings are ideal to wear as your every day pair. "I’ve been on the hunt for affordable faux diamond studs that aren’t too big or fake looking—these are perfect!" writes one Nordstrom reviewer. "They are modest looking but quality. Very impressed and satisfied with my purchase. I highly recommend!"
Upgrade your sunglasses collection with these square, oversized pair in classic tortoiseshell by Australian brand Quay. They create an undeniably elegant look (don't they remind you of shades you'd see on an Old Hollywood starlet?) but are wildly affordable with their under-$50 price tag.
Who doesn't love a laidback summer hat, one you can wear lounging by the pool, running errands on a sunny Sunday, or for an afternoon picnic in the park? Madewell's Braided Straw Hat caught my eye for two reasons: yes, it's 62 percent off, which is an astoundingly good deal, but it also offers a classic flat brim silhouette that doesn't skew too western.
