The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is just a few weeks away. Early Access for card holders starts on July 12-19th. Then the sale opens up to the public on July 20th and goes through August 5th. Online will be live at 12:01 am on July 12th. (PST)
If you are a LEVEL 4 (spending level) you will be invited to a private shopping day before it opens to other card holders. This year that day is July 11th.
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2017 Finds
I have shopped the sale as a customer since we moved to the Portland area nearly 30 years ago. I worked it as an employee for 5 of those years. I believe I can give you a very good overview how to make the most of it. If you are not a card holder, it’s worth it to sign up. You also receive an alteration benefit and of course Nordstrom Notes which basically is credit back for your purchases.
If you are not a Nordstrom shopper throughout the year, I believe this is the one event you should consider. The history of this sale goes back to the fact that July is typically a slow time in retail. Nordstrom came up with the idea to bring in new fall and winter merchandise at a discounted price (30-40% off) IN JULY. The Anniversary Sale was born.
There is always a catalog sent in the mail, and it will reach you this week. If you haven’t received it yet, you should able to see it online. You may have to log into your account, but I tried to link it for you. EVERY. SINGLE. YEAR I would hear customers say. “I’m not interested this year because I didn’t see anything in the catalog.” The catalog is just 40-50 pages and there are literally thousands of items in stores and online that could never be pictured in a small catalog.
CREATE a LIST/MAKE a PLAN
Since the sale is primarily fall and winter merchandise, it is pretty hard to think about that in July. It requires some planning. If you’ve worked with me either in person or virtually, you know that if your closet is in tip-top shape, you will be able to take inventory very quickly. If you need help with your closet I can give you lots of tips in person or virtually.
1. INVEST in BASICS and NOVELTY PIECES
There will be many choices. Take inventory of work pants, denim, etc. Look for the unique, out of the ordinary pieces. Perhaps it’s a unique jacket, sweater or dress. It’s a great time to look for a leather jacket or winter coat. In fact, I often say if you have no time for a careful inventory, I’ll steer you towards something unique like a handbag or great piece of jewelry vs another pair of denim you may not need.
Some women just can’t think about winter clothes and they don’t want to make poor choices, so they stick with shoes and boots. It’s also my advice if you are in between sizes and don’t want to invest. Shoes and boots will be plentiful!
2. STOCK UP
It’s a great time to stock up on lingerie, workout wear and even towels and sheets from the home department
3. THINK GIFTS
There will be many special offers in the cosmetic and fragrance department. I especially love the Voluspa or Nest candles and diffusers which make a great gift.
4. NOT JUST FOR WOMEN
The sale covers every department. I recall one year when we had family wedding to attend everyone in my family got a new suit. Recently my husband pulled that suit out and the tag was still in the pocket. We marveled at what a deal it was.
5. SHOP EARLY
Selection is best the first days, but don’t panic if you really want an item and it sells out. Returns start coming in and stock changes constantly. Don’t give up!
HOW I CAN HELP YOU:
First of all, since I’m in a unique position in that I’m a Personal Stylist who blogs. Many of the bloggers you may follow have huge reader bases so they will offer their expertise in a different way by posting favorites or doing try-on sessions
1. If you are local, I can set an appointment with you in store. Because I’m in the Nordstrom Independent Program, there is no charge for the appointment. We will have to spend a little prep time to make the appointment be the best it can be. I will explain when you contact me.
2. This is NEW. I will have an app I can use to place orders for long distance customers. Essentially you would send me a list of what you want to order. I will send what’s called a “style board” (see photo below) You will put the items in your shopping bag and then check out which will look EXACTLY the same as when you are shopping online. I do receive a small commission for this. What’s the advantage to you? When you send your order, I will advise you the best I can on sizes and overall my opinion of the item. Note at the bottom there is a place for us to chat back and forth.
Personal Style Board Example
3. I will be writing posts throughout EARLY ACCESS with my opinions and links to my favorites. Hopefully I’ll have pics of customers or myself in some of these pieces to help give you an idea of fit.
I can’t wait for the sale! I’m here to help your in any way it works for you.
