One of the primary cornerstones of my blog is learning how to build a smart lifestyle and wardrobe, so when it comes to sale posts, it’s all about strategy, NOT impulse. One of my biggest secrets to success is my ability to budget and make wise decisions about my purchases, to ensure long-term return on my investments. I love the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale for two reasons: upcoming seasonal items are on sale, and I can make new investments on bigger purchases for beauty tools and clothing that lasts for years to come. FULL DISCLOSURE: I waited on this post for a reason. Instead, I spent this past week reviewing and analyzing the products released against what I already own/have purchased and each of their ROI’s, in order to build your hacker’s list right: this week’s post is your streamlined roadmap to making good choices!
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Facts
Here’s the scoop: while cardholders have been able to shop earlier this week, there’s still time for you to shop if you’re not a cardholder starting tomorrow. This sale is all about shopping the upcoming fall lines and releases early at a discounted price, running from the 20th through August 5th. After the sale, items will return to full price!
That said: YOU. DO. NOT. NEED. TO. RUSH. I am not an impulse shopper, and I urge you to not be as well. Yes, items will sell out due to the demand from cardholders, but Nordstrom has their sh*t together. They will restock for public shopping tomorrow. Read my categories below to ease your anxiety, and build a smart list for yourself right now.
Worthy Investments
This topic is one of my most read blog posts, and there’s a reason: smart purchases last longer, and cost you less in the long run. I’m all about building trust through my recommendations and will always remain straightforward with you as my readers. These following items are NO BS: ones I use and love year after year, and my personal costs per use range from $0.01 to $0.50. I very rarely buy super trendy items during this sale for this reason.
BEAUTYBIO GLOPRO: You’ve seen me use this in Instastories, and in blog posts. It works, and has made a huge difference in fine lines around my smile lines and even helped me go longer between botox appointments. With the sale price, you’re getting it nearly half off, and you even get the eye kit too! I HIGHLY recommend getting it, especially since Nordstrom has such a great return policy. If you hate it, you can return it, no questions asked.
Rag & Bone Raw Hem Skinny Jean: I bought these last season, and I am pumped to see them back in black this season! Denim has always been one of my fashion investments, as good jeans stand the test of time for trends and wear and tear. Rag & Bone is a solid brand that makes amazing jeans that FIT. Size down two sizes though, I took a 25 in these last season, and I usually wear a 26 (wish it came in 24). My current cost per wear is somewhere around $0.05. Not kidding.
LEWIT Leather Moto Jacket: There’s no better investment than a good leather jacket IMO. It’s something that everyone should have in their closet, as they wear so much better than fabric coats over time. I love moto jackets due to their classic style, making it easy to dress up or down given the circumstances or season. This jacket is soft to the touch and hits right above the hip for a flattering fit on just about everybody. As a taller gal myself, this jacket fits perfect! If you’re looking for a faux dead ringer of my Arrivals jacket, this similar one is also in the sale!
Ray-Ban 53MM Polarized Round Sunglasses: I wear Ray Bans for the exact same reason as the leather jacket, they’re timeless. These particular shades have been in style for years, regardless of personal style. They fit well with my grunge looks just as easily as they do for my more feminine looks. These ones are polarized and under $140 which is an absolute steal. If you’re in the market for a new pair of sunnies, these need to be on your radar.
Wardrobe Staples
These picks are meant for you to stock up on items you wear daily, or sensible pieces you should own for seasonal wear. If your favorite leggings or sneakers are starting to show wear, these are ones to replace them with.
Converse Chuck Taylor Platform Leather Sneaker: I wear Converse almost daily due to their versatility and comfort. What’s even more awesome about these is that they are platforms, which amp up the comfort level! Additionally, the leather detail makes it more durable and a little more formal too. At $46, these are a killer deal for daily wear in the office and beyond.
Spanx Faux Leather Leggings: I am so happy to see these back on sale for another year! I purchased these last year, and they are by far my most worn leggings. They are chic enough to wear for just about anything, and you can workout in them too (if you wish). They are part of my go-to travel uniform and favorite work pants. Cost per wear is less than $0.01. Seriously.
Zella Live In Legging: Live in is the truth. These are a screaming deal at less than $40, and the quality is unmatched. These are perfect for any workout, errand, and everything else in between!
Hunter Original Short Rain Boot: With the crazy weather fluctuations around the country, I’ve gotten a TON of use out of my short black Hunters this past year alone. They’re great for commuting, heading to the mountains, and stand the test of trendy time! At a price well under $100 (AND in black!), it’s a great time to invest in a piece you’ll keep and actually use for years to come.
Smart Beauty Stock Ups
Not buying certain beauty products during this sale is just plain ignorant. Higher end beauty never goes on sale, so it’s a great time to stock up to use it year round, especially if they’re already some of your staples. Smarter, not harder!
Super Goop! SPF 50 Antioxidant Infused Face Mist: I chose this post’s image because of this special item: I discovered this product this past spring, and am still obsessed. It’s an easy, no fuss way to apply sunscreen over makeup, and keep your face hydrated.
Perricone MD Cold Plasma Sub-D: If you aren’t taking care of your neck when it comes to skincare, you’ll be in for a rude awakening once you hit your 30’s-40’s. I always make sure I include my neck with my serums and creams, but having a separate product geared for your neck is a great choice to stay ahead of the aging game. ESPECIALLY if you’re a side sleeper! Neck wrinkles form from side sleeping. I use this nightly.
BeautyBlender Blend Cleanse Carry Set: A carry case, cleaner and two blenders for the price of one? Sign me UP. BeautyBlenders are not the easiest things to travel with (very messy/unsanitary if not packed right). This “does-it-all” case plus a cleaner is a lifesaver IMO! I will be snagging one of these this week too.
Urban Decay Naked2 Basics Set: These are three of my most used makeup products. I go through one of these palettes every 3 months. I’ve also been using the other two products religiously for years!
So….Take a deep breath, make a smart list that works for you, and feel good about your purchases: what are you leaning toward when it comes to building your best closet/beauty cabinet?
Photo by Lydia Hudgens, makeup by me.
