I debated not covering the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale this year, but looking through the sale, there are several pieces worth promoting.  So I decided to stick to my longtime practice of posting once at the start of the sale and once when it opens to the public.  Before we get to the picks, let’s talk about the sale.

Dates. Cardmember access opens today and runs through July 14th, tiered base on rewards status level.  The public sale begins July 15th and runs through the 31st.

Shipping. Last year, shipping took forever for many items, and it’s not expected to be much better.  And if you make returns, they will be even slower, so if you can go to a store to make returns, do that.

Wishlist. My number one tip is to wishlist anything you’re interested in buying.  Things get returned, occasionally they restock and having a wishlist allows you to get a notification on an item you really want.  This is how I picked up several items that ‘sold out’ during the early cardmember preview last year.

Okay, let’s talk about best picks.

Beauty Picks // Why beauty first?  Because it sells out the fastest and usually includes the most exclusives and the best deals.

• The Bobbi Brown Eyeshadow Palette will go fast, and the colors are fantastic.
• The Aquis towel that will dry even long hair (with extensions in it) in a jiffy.
• Laura Mercier’s Caviar sticks in an ethereal, shimmery palette.
• Prefer neutral tones? These Bobbi Brown eyeshadow sticks are awesome.
• Anastasia has the best eyebrow products for shaping and filling.
• Creme de Corps lotion is the best, as is this price.

Workwear Picks // This is the first year since 2018 that the sale has decent workwear.  I really appreciate this, since many of us are restocking for the return to the office.  So here are the best work pieces.

• These Halogen wide-leg pants sold out quickly when I posted them in February. They’re comfortable and professional.
• This sleek blazer from 1.State comes in three colors and has the most fantastic slim cut.
• If you like pencil skirts, this <$50 Halogen pencil skirt is an elegant option.
• Need a winter coat?  This Ted Baker camel longline coat is spectacular.
• This Halogen herringbone skirt is the ultimate winter piece to pair with sweaters.
• I have promoted this Vince Camuto shell so many times, but it’s still the best.
• Dresses: a wine-colored fit and flare, a printed dress with yellow belt, and this year’s BOSS dress is more relaxed than the standard sheath they make for the sale.

Essentials // These are the pieces you can stock up on and save a bit.  Like getting socks for Christmas, but better.

• This packable Bernardo short jacket is spectacular; the embroidery gives it a cool shape.
• My favorite pajamas — both pregnancy approved and button-front (also in plus).
• Period underwear that are also good for pregnancy — lacy and simple.
• Need tank tops?  Their Bare Tanks and Camisoles are perfect for layering.
• I’ll probably wear this Barefoot Dreams Circle Cardigan and Longline Cardigan my whole maternity leave.
• These AG Farrah jeans are a longtime favorite; for an affordable jean, try the Absolution Bootcut.

Extras // Not everything needs to be an essential or a workwear piece.  Some things can just be because they’re awesome.

• These Monica Vinader drop earrings are for every special occasion.
• How about a cool pair of oversized sunglasses to finish out the summer?
• These pearl-accented Lagerfeld boots are absolutely the coolest thing ever.
• This convertible AllSaints backpack is one of my favorite pieces I have ever purchased.

Fall Picks // One of the nice things about the Anniversary Sale is the boot, sweater, and coat selection for cooler months.  These are where I will be spending most of my money, as I will not be back in misses sizes until later this year.

• Splurge Sweaters. A Theory cable knit, a Vince mockneck in nubby weave, and this amazing AllSaints funnel neck.
• Affordable Sweaters. A Halogen square neck, a relaxed Madewell henley, and this amazing popcorn sweater from FC.
• These knee-high Sam Edelman boots are perfect for work (lots of colors, the perfect heel height).
• Weatherproof riding boots are great for work or weekend, and you’ll never regret buying them.
• Oh, and that All Saints leather jacket that sold out last sale, it’s back in new colors.

Plus-Size Picks // I’m grateful that Nordstrom has expanded the plus-size section this year.  It was positively anemic last year. Here are some of my faves.

• Dresses: a relaxed ivory midi-dress, a great cocktail dress, and a chic sweater dress.
• A fantastic Halogen faux-leather midi skirt for fall.
• This fantastic bobble-sleeve cardigan from Madewell and this long Open Edit cardi are both great.
• A chambray shirt that styles well with leggings or with white denim for summer.

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