Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2025: Shopping Tips & Hallie’s Picks
It’s That Time Again: The 2025 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
Every July, like clockwork, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale rolls around, and with it comes a certain buzz. This sale always stirs up more excitement (and FOMO!) than your average markdown event. Maybe it’s because it feels impossible to think about fall while we’re still in full summer mode. Or maybe it’s because this sale isn’t just clearing out last season’s leftovers. It’s filled with brand-new arrivals at discounted prices before the season even starts. That’s what makes it different. And worth paying attention to.
That said, let me be clear: just because it’s on sale doesn’t mean you should buy it. My personal rule of thumb: if you wouldn’t buy it at full price, don’t buy it just because it’s on sale. Seriously. Those are the pieces I find in clients’ closets all the time, with the tags still on. Don’t fall into the trap. A bad buy is still a bad buy, even if it was 40% off.
I’m sharing my top tips for making the most of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, plus my top 10 tried-and-true picks as well as 10 new items I’m adding to my wishlist this year!
First Things First: Early Access Starts with a Nordstrom Card
Want to shop early? You’ll need a Nordstrom Card. Cardholders get first dibs on the good stuff—before sizes and colors start disappearing.
If you don’t already have a card, you can sign up here.
Here’s how the 2025 Early Access breaks down:
Icons (spend $15k+ annually): July 8
Ambassadors (spend $5k+ annually): July 9
Influencers (spend $2k+ annually): July 10
Public Access (everyone!): July 12
Even if you can’t shop yet, you can preview the sale online right now. The digital catalog is live, so it’s a great time to start browsing and planning your wishlist.
How To Shop the Sale Without Getting Overwhelmed
The Nordstrom Sale is big. Like… really big. Here’s how I shop it smartly and suggest you do the same:
Let Me Curate for You
I’ve already gone through everything. So instead of scrolling for hours, start with my curated picks below. I’ll share the best of the best so you can shop with intention.
Shop Online
It’s quicker, easier, and more efficient. Plus, most local stores don’t carry the full selection anymore unless you’re in a major city.
Opt for 2-Day Shipping
Pay the $12 for two-day shipping. It’s worth it. It often pushes your order to the front of the line and increases your chances of getting what you want before it sells out.
Use the Wishlist Tool
This feature is your secret weapon.
How to Use It:
Sign into your Nordstrom account
Select your size and preferred color for each item
Click “Add to Wishlist”
Now, when your access level opens, everything is ready to go: sizes, colors, and all. Bonus: if something sells out, you’ll get notified when it’s restocked.
Shop My Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks
This year I’m trying to lessen the overwhelm. I’ve curated two lists: my tried-and-true favorites and the new, shiny items I’ve not seen before that I’m putting either on my personal list, or suggesting to clients.
My Tried-and-True Favorites:
First, my tried and true items. The things I shop for every year at the sale. These are my go to’s and they never disappoint.
New Items on my wishlist:
Second, the new, shiny items I’ve not seen before that I’m putting either on my personal list, or suggesting to clients. IMHO these are the top newbies to pay attention to.
A Few More Sale Strategies I Swear By
Don’t Panic if Something Sells Out - Nordstrom reserves merchandise for different shopper tiers, and many people over-order and return. Keep the item in your wishlist or even add another size to your cart—it might restock in a few days.
Start with Shoes - Shoes go fast. Prioritize them when your access begins, and definitely keep favorites in your wishlist to catch restocks.
Replace Your Most-Loved Items - Use this sale to stock up on your tried-and-true pieces: the jeans you wear weekly, the sneakers you’ve worn down, the PJs you live in. If you know you’ll use it and it’s on sale? That’s a smart buy.
Use Filters When Browsing - Don’t scroll endlessly. Use filters to shop by category (like denim or boots) or brand (like Frame or Vince). It saves time and helps you focus on what you actually need.
Lean Into Nordstrom’s Return Policy - Nordstrom has a generous return policy. If you’re unsure about sizing, order two and send one back. Just make sure to keep your returns timely.
I’ll be adding a lot more products from the Nordstrom sale over the next few weeks, you can find it all here in my ShopMy shelf!
Whether you’re shopping early access or public, remember: the goal is to buy better, not just more. Happy (intentional) shopping!