If you aren’t familiar with a capsule wardrobe, let me introduce you to something that might literally change your life. The idea of a capsule wardrobe is to buy a few items that you can style a ton of different ways. Some people buy one capsule wardrobe for their entire year while I like to think of capsule wardrobes seasonally. Typically in capsule wardrobes you see less trendy items and more basic, timeless pieces that can be worn year after year and over and over again. This is why people are willing to invest a little more money into a capsule wardrobe because you should get the absolute most wear out of these outfits possible!
With the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale going on, we thought it would be fun to select a Summer capsule wardrobe made up of items from the sale in case you wanted to score new, name brands for less but I will also link similar items from other retailers in case you want a more affordable option or in the event that Nordstrom pieces sell out. See below for alternatives as well as outfit styling inspiration made up from items in the capsule wardrobe!
Can you believe it’s already time for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale again because I most certainly cannot! This will be my 7th year covering the sale so if you have been around for awhile then you know what to expect! If you aren’t familiar with the sale, it includes never before seen name brand items that are marked down as much as 40% off! I like to personally stock up on basics that I can wear all year like denim, athletic clothes and shoes but you will see it all! There are thousands of items included across all categories- men’s, women’s, kid’s and home with crazy good deals in each.
Coverage wise from me, you can check out last year’s content here (including a HUGE try on session here). You all really liked the in store try on session with sizing and fit information so I will be doing the same this year as soon as the sale is live! For now, you can shop my initial picks from the online catalog below!
Since the online catalog opens up today, I am sharing my initial picks for women, men and home below! Items will fly off the shelves once the sale goes live so don’t hesitate on adding that item to your wishlist NOW. This way once the sale opens up to you, you can quickly move your wishlist over to your cart and check!
Don’t forget that Nordstrom has free shipping and free returns so don’t be afraid to load your cart up! Also, if you aren’t sure on size, order both sizes you are between and send the other back! Better to be safe than sorry. Once the sale goes live, check out as fast as possible as leaving something in your basket for more than a few minutes can mean you miss out!
Like every year, Nordstrom cardholders (Icon, Ambassador, and Influencer level) have the opportunity to shop the sale during Early Access. The date of when you get to start shopping is determined by your Nordstrom cardholder status, which is set by your annual purchase amount. If you don’t know what status you are, log in to your Nordstrom account and it should tell you at the top of your home screen!
If you are not a Nordstrom cardholder you can still shop the sale but not until July 15th! If you’re thinking about becoming a Nordstrom cardholder, it’s recommended to sign up before the upcoming sale. That way, you’ll gain early access to the sale and receive a $60 bonus note to shop. This is helpful since alot of items typically sell out well before the sale goes live to noncardholders. That being said, I only encourage you to do so if you can pay off your credit card in full. It’s not chic to go into credit card debt ladies!
KISS Tee// fits a little cropped but I went with my true size Levi Jeans// size down if in between sizes- slight stretch Converse// size down a .5 size Leather Mini Skirt// size up if in between sizes High Top Chunky Converse// size up a half size Leather Cropped Pants// size down if in between sizes (wearing a 0) Chunky Boots// true to size
Oversized Sweater// THE sweater of the sale- size down 1-2 sizes. Suede Mini Skirt// size down (I wear the 24) Sleeveless Turtleneck Tunic// size down if in between sizes. SPANX Faux Leather Leggings// get your true legging size (I wear an XS) Booties// size up a half size Knee High Boots// true to size
Free People Henley// stretchy and perfect for leggings as it is slightly lower in the back. Fits oversized but suggest getting your true size. If it’s sold out here is an almost identical one! SPANX Faux Leather Leggings// get your true legging size (I wear an XS) Adidas// size down a half size (I prefer these if they are in stock) Good American Cropped Jean// great for my petite and/or curvy gals! They hug in all of the right places. Size down if in between sizes (I wear a 00) Booties// size up a half size
Military Shacket// this one is great because it’s not super heavy. Size down if in between sizes-runs big (wearing a XS) Plaid Fleece Lined Shacket// o my heavens this was one of my favorite purchases. Super warm, super cute. Did I mention pockets? (wearing a small) Corduroy Shacket// great transitional pieces as it’s not too warm. Size down if in between sizes (wearing a XS) Leather Cropped Pants// size down if in between sizes (wearing a 0) Distressed Denim// size down- run big (wearing a 24 and they were slightly big) Chunky Booties// true to size. They don’t have any zippers or laces as they pull on like a sock!
Fitted Flannel// since it is fitted, I suggest sizing up if you want it a little roomy. I’m wearing a small here. Good American Cropped Jean// great for my petite and/or curvy gals! They hug in all of the right places. Size down if in between sizes (I wear a 00) Chain Link Mules// size up a half size. Great for work! Oversized Flannel// it’s a little bit longer in the back which makes it perfect for leggings! Size up if inbetween sizes. Wearing a small. Platform Converse// size down a half size.
Pink/Red Maxi Dress// Whether you are attending a wedding or going wine tasting this maxi would be perfect! Fit is true to size. Leopard Maxi Dress// It’s hard to make a maxi dress sexy but this one nailed it! It does run a little big so size down if in between sizes. Black Floral Maxi Dress// From work to church, this maxi is GORG! Size down if in between sizes (I’m wearing an XXS). Booties// size up a half size
Madewell Button Down// not too fitted, not too boxy. Size down if in between sizes. Wearing an XS. Sleeveless Turtleneck Tunic// size down if in between sizes.
Madewell Sweater// I suggest sizing up if you don’t want it super fitted. I’m wearing a size medium here. Madewell Denim// size down if in between sizes. LOTS of stretch. Madewell Cardigan// fits true to size. SO dang soft. Padded T Shirt Bodysuit// I grabbed this in multiple colors! Great basic. Fits TTS. Good American Cropped Jean// great for my petite and/or curvy gals! They hug in all of the right places. Size down if in between sizes (I wear a 00) Booties// size up a half size
Blue Knotted Dress// perfect for a wedding guest or even the office! Size down if in between sizes (wearing a 0). Black Fitted Dress// holy moly yall this dress is GOLD. It is form fitting but doesn’t show too much as the material is on the thicker side. You know how every gal needs a LBD? This one’s it. Size down if in between sizes (wearing an XS)
Plaid Fitted Blazer// AMAZING fit. One of my favorite finds that is SO versatile. Fits true to size (wearing an XS) Long Line Jacket Blazer// fit is true to size. Great to wear over dresses to the office.
BlankNYC Denim Jacket// It is cinched in the back which makes your waistline look smaller. Can be worn like a shirt or open like a jacket. Fits TTS. Graphic Tee// I sized up to a medium for an oversized fit. Faux Leather Leopard Biker Shorts// size down. Wearing an XXS. Levi’s Sweatshirt// I sized up to a small. Levi Jeans// size down if in between sizes- slight stretch
Nike Sweatshirt// fleece lined, fits oversized. Wearing an XS. Nike Shorts// fit true to size. High Shine Leggings// if in between sizes, size down. They do have a drawstring waist. Great for high impact workouts but cute enough to wear whenever! Adidas// size down a half size.
Adidas Sweatshirt// fits oversized but I suggest getting your true size. I’m wearing an XS. Adidas Sweatpants// again fit oversized but I think that’s the look. If you are petite I suggest sizing down. I’m in the XS and had to roll them. Sweaty Betty 7/8 Leggings// size down if in between sizes. I wear the XXS. Great for high impact workouts. They do have a drawstring waistband so they don’t fall down. High Top Platform Converse// fit true to size. The soles are super squishy and comfy!
Free People Oversized Tank// wearing an XS. Fits very oversized. Great to throw on and go with a sports bra as it’s long enough to cover the bum. Does have pockets. Free People Biker Shorts// Run a tad big. I am in the XS/S and they were very big/ill fitting on me. Sweaty Betty Sports Tank// Size up! It does run small. I’m in the S. If you purchase their stamina sports bra, it does fit true to size.
When I think of the NSALE, I automatically think back to my first couple of years shopping the sale. I would take off from my corporate job the first day that I was able to shop the sale and make a whole day out of it! Of course, my main focus back then was shopping work wear which is why I still love incorporating it as much as possible even if my job looks a little different these days. The sale is a great time to stock up on classic work pumps, slacks and blazers! See above and below for some style inspiration.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year -the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! This year I got a super sneak-peak to all of the special pieces on sale — and I’m sharing an HUGEG try-on with my bestie, Keli of Keli Rabon blog! Check out our favorite outfits and don’t forget that I have more NSALE shoppable content located under the “NSALE‘ tab located in the upper right hand corner of the blog if you are looking on your desktop. If you are on mobile, use the drop down menu located at the top of the page.
I am a big fan of all things Sweaty Betty and especially of their fun colors included in this sale! This tank comes in the pictured color as well as a fun “No Pain, No Champagne” quoted option. I suggest sizing up!
Zella continually puts out high quality, affordable active wear and these leggings fit the bill. They have a interesting texture to them, are high waisted and full ankle length. Did I mention under $50? They fit true to size.
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* This is hands down my all time favorite running shoe ever! It offers great support, padding and ankle stability. I always get my true size but alot of people say to size down. I typically wear thicker socks when I run so that might also be why! They come in black and white.
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* This is one of my favorite items of the entire sale! The back needs an entire moment to itself. I also love that it is padded and offers support for medium to high impact activities.
As far as the Zella leggings in the NSALE, I’d say these are my personal favorite both print and fit wise! I am 5’4″ and they hit right above my ankle.
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* This is a great everyday sneaker meaning I wouldn’t necessarily go running in it but it’s a great affordable option for lower impact activities and will definitely be a top seller!
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* I expect this under $25 sports bra to be a very popular item this year as they have been a big trend. I love that you can wear these sports bras as tops since they are cropped but don’t show your entire midriff like a normal sports bra would. Comes in several colors/prints.
As far as the Zella leggings in the NSALE, I’d say these are my personal favorite both print and fit wise! I am 5’4″ and they hit right above my ankle.
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* This is a great everyday sneaker meaning I wouldn’t necessarily go running in it but it’s a great affordable option for lower impact activities and will definitely be a top seller!
I absolutely love the feel of this tank! It’s a thicker material but in a good way if that makes sense. It is super stretchy and form fitting plus has built in padding! It also comes in 2 colors.
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* This is a great everyday sneaker meaning I wouldn’t necessarily go running in it but it’s a great affordable option for lower impact activities and will definitely be a top seller!
I personally think this piece is a little overpriced for what it is but still wanted to share because it is cute paired with the leggings for a monochrome look. Comes in the same 3 colors that the leggings come in.
Sizing: fits a little oversized but I’d still suggest getting your true size, wearing a XS
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* This is a great everyday sneaker meaning I wouldn’t necessarily go running in it but it’s a great affordable option for lower impact activities and will definitely be a top seller!
If you are looking for a cozy, oversized “Tik Tok” vibe sweatshirt, look no further! Forewarning it runs very oversized with butterfly like sleeves but I absolutely LOVE IT!
Sizing: fits oversized so size down if in between sizes, wearing an XS
One of my personal favorite items in the entire sale! If you are a sneaker head like me, you’ll love these. They have fun prints and textures. They almost remind me of Golden Goose but much less expensive and I love the platform on these.
Sizing: only come in full sizes, if in between sizes size up, I’m typically a 7.5 and got the 8
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* I expect this under $25 sports bra to be a very popular item this year as they have been a big trend. I love that you can wear these sports bras as tops since they are cropped but don’t show your entire midriff like a normal sports bra would. Comes in several colors/prints.
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* This is a great everyday sneaker meaning I wouldn’t necessarily go running in it but it’s a great affordable option for lower impact activities and will definitely be a top seller!
This faux-wrap 3/4 sleeve blouse is a winner — multiple colors that can be dressed up or down in a lightweight, wrinkle-free fabric! Grab this work + play staple while you can!
One of the best pants of the sale! These high-waist, paper-bag style pants are easy to wear and come in versatile color options (blank and mustard yellow.) The length is great for work and night too!
What better time to stock-up on essentials than #NSale?! These black heels are perfect for work and weekend — grab them while you can for a fantastic price!
This faux-wrap 3/4 sleeve blouse is a winner — multiple colors that can be dressed up or down in a lightweight, wrinkle-free fabric! Grab this work and play staple while you can!
Snag these faux-leather, high-waist shorts for an option a perfect wear-now, wear-later wardrobe staple! The built-in belt adds polish and the pleats are flattering. Excellent quality for the price!
*HIGH SELL-OUT RISK!* Absolutely obsessed with these booties — I’m grabbing them in white and maybe another color or two as well! SUPER comfy and the white bootie is incredibly easy to dress up or down. The cognac leather is a gorgeous option too!
Sizing: True to size, wearing a 9 (Could possibly size up 1/2 size w/ socks)
*HIGH SELL-OUT RISK* We’re predicting this will be *THE* sweater of the sale! Obsessed with it in every color (neutral beige, burgundy, burnt orange, and black) but we think the neutral beige will be the first to go.
*HIGH SELL-OUT RISK* We’re predicting this will be one of *THE* top-selling jeans of the sale! Insanely good price, perfect distressing, and easy to dress up or down!
We lovvvved the look of these booties… but TBH, Shelbi & I hated the fit. This bootie was painful to both of us (just standing in the dressing room) so we can only imagine how tough it would be to walk around in these cuties. Let us know if you have better success, but these were a “miss” in our opinion.
**HIGH SELL-OUT RISK** We’re predicting this will be *THE* sweater of the sale! Obsessed with it in every color (neutral beige, burgundy, burnt orange, and black) but we think the neutral beige will be the first to go.
Faux-snakeskin is the equivalent of a fall neutral, and what better place to rock the trend than your toes? Love the darker shade, especially in a peep-toe bootie.
Easy-to-wear sweater dress that will probably be a top pick of #NSale considering the price, fit, and style! We rocked this sweater dress two different ways, but you can change it up SO many ways!
Sizing: Topshop’s size varies wildly, but I’m wearing an “8”
*HIGH SELL-OUT RISK* These sneakers are one of my FAVORITE finds of the sale! They are just as (if not MORE) comfy than Golden Goose sneakers and are so, so, so easy to style!
Easy-to-wear sweater dress that will probably be a top pick of #NSale considering the price, fit, and style! We rocked this sweater dress two different ways, but you can change it up SO many ways!
Sizing: Topshop’s size varies wildly, but I’m wearing an “8”
One of my FAVORITE pieces of the sale!!! Grab this top in every color and forgot those BP blouses people usually stock up on. This is FAR softer and a MUCH better fit!
Soft, comfy, color-block cardigan in colors that are so easy to dress up or dress down! You can allllways count on this brand for comfy, cozy, versatile pieces!
One of my FAVORITE pieces of the sale!!! Grab this top in every color and forgot those BP blouses people usually stock up on. This is FAR softer and a MUCH better fit!
*HIGH SELL-OUT RISK!* Absolutely obsessed with these booties — I’m grabbing them in white and maybe another color or two as well! SUPER comfy and the white bootie is incredibly easy to dress up or down. The cognac leather is a gorgeous option too!
Sizing: True to size, wearing a 9 (Could possibly size up 1/2 size w/ socks)
Everyone needs a denim skirt and this little mini checks alllll the boxes for a fraction of the regular price! It’s stretchy, the perfect length, and comes in a great denim wash.
Sizing: Slightly big — wearing a 25, but would prefer a 24.
We lovvvved the look of these booties… but TBH, Shelbi & I hated the fit. This bootie was painful to both of us (just standing in the dressing room) so we can only imagine how tough it would be to walk around in these cuties. Let us know if you have better success, but these were a “miss” in our opinion.
**HIGH SELL-OUT RISK** We’re predicting this will be one of *THE* top-selling jeans of the sale! Insanely good price, perfect distressing, and easy to dress up or down!
**HIGH SELL-OUT RISK** We’re predicting this will be one of *THE* top-selling jeans of the sale! Insanely good price, perfect distressing, and easy to dress up or down!
*HIGH SELL-OUT RISK* This would be my first pair of Sperrys and I couldn’t be happier — they are SO, SO good!! Classic style, easy fit, and they will pair with everything from denim to dresses!
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* If you remember the popular Leith sweater dress from last year that sold out day one, well this is this year’s version and it’s even better! It’s super stretchy, form fitting and very flattering! Also comes in black and can be worn forwards or backwards.
Sizing: size up if in between sizes, wearing an XS but could have done a S
I love that every year, Nordstrom puts a military jacket in the sale because I think this is a Fall staple piece that every girl should have in her closet!
My jaw dropped when I saw the price on these jeans. They are a total STEAL! For $28, they are hard to go wrong. They are super stretchy so if you are in between sizes, size down as they do tend to stretch out with wear!
I love that every year, Nordstrom puts a military jacket in the sale because I think this is a Fall staple piece that every girl should have in her closet!
These remind me of an upgraded Keds! They are cute and sporty with a touch of fun color detail. I’d say they are meant for a somewhat narrow foot as they were a little tight on me.
If you are looking for an affordable suede moto jacket, this is the one for you! It’s considerably cheaper than the popular BlankNYC one and honestly just as good plus comes in more color options! For my girls with long arms you are going to want to size up!
Y’all know I’m a Levi’s girl so I was happy these jeans were in the sale and also that they have some stretch since alot of Levi’s are true denim. The dark wash will be perfect for the cooler weather months.
Sizing: if in between sizes size down, wearing a 24
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* I’m calling it now that these are going to be the most popular knee high boot of the sale! I love that they are pointed toe, slouchy and comfortable!
If you are looking for an affordable suede moto jacket, this is the one for you! It’s considerably cheaper than the popular BlankNYC one and honestly just as good plus comes in more color options! For my girls with long arms you are going to want to size up!
Another great basic layering piece! It can be worn forwards or backwards which means that it can either be a scoop neck or v neck tank! It’s a very stretchy, almost athletic material.
These remind me of a similar jean from BlankNYC but much more affordable! Leopard is sticking around for Fall and these would be so cute paired with even a basic tee now!
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* I’m calling it now that these are going to be the most popular knee high boot of the sale! I love that they are pointed toe, slouchy and comfortable!
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* This hat is under $40 making it a great price point! The brim isn’t too small or too wide which also makes it the perfect hat. Comes in two colors. Sizing: run true to size
For a BlankNYC jacket, I’d say this price point is a steal! The quality is a little stiff so it would take some breaking in but the color is beautiful and will go with so many Fall outfits!
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* I was shocked when I saw the price tag on this baby because the quality is so dang good. This is one of those faux leather jackets that you could wear to the bar and not have to worry about someone spilling on it but is also nice enough to wear to a fancy dinner outing!
This is definitely more of a fun, trendy piece than closet staple but every girl needs a few of those! It’s definitely very cropped so do keep that in mind.
If you are a Topshop jean lover, these are for you! Topshop caters really well to curvy girls as their jeans are very stretchy and hug in all of the right places. I personally love their jeans for date nights or girl’s nights out.
These name brand jeans certainly do good things for the booty but they didn’t do good things for the knee area as they created almost a “knee fat” illusion if they are too tight/small so just beware!
I was pleasantly surprised to see these Tory Burch booties in the sale this year because you know that’s a designer brand that rarely goes on sale and these booties are so cute! They also come in black .
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* Pieces like this are always flying of the shelves especially because it’s an item you can wear now. And yes I’m talking about in quarantine with your sweats or dressed up!
Madewell always puts this same style in the sale every year and it’s a good one for sure! I’m sad that they don’t have it in the basic green this year, but if camo is your thing, it’s certainly a great quality jacket!
These jeans were actually a favorite of mine that I think all of my petite girls need! The price point is great and also where they hit. I’m 5’4″ and they hit right above the ankle.
If you are need of a staple white sneaker, look no further! Both of us loved these. The leather laces don’t need to be tied so they can just be pulled right on plus have a platform on them!
*HIGH RISK OF SELLING OUT* This is one of those basic tees you need to buy in ALL of the colors. It’s the softest basic tee in an NSALE yet! If you plan on throwing it in the dryer I would size up!
This black wash denim jacket fits a little oversized so I’d say it’s more of a trendy item than staple piece but if that’s what you are going for, rock it gf!
