How to Shop the Nordstrom Rack

by | Oct 25, 2018 | Shop on a Budget | 1 comment

Recently one of my clients told me she was not successful shopping the Nordstrom Rack and could never find anything there. She asked: How do you shop the Rack?

I intended this article to come BEORE my online shopping post, but once I got on the mailing list for the Rack, I just had to share some of my great finds, only to be notified by readers that all my choices had sold out overnight! I’m so sorry about that.

The Rack can be challenging and overwhelming. It takes some persistence. Almost every time I shop there I can find something. Our whole family has scored some seriously great deals over the years. The men’s department is usually excellent. Although I haven’t done this recently, previously I would take clients there just to “show them the ropes” and point out what can be done on a budget.

I headed over to the Tigard, Oregon location which is a newer store, and in my opinion one of the best. It’s key to go earlier in the day if possible. Avoid the weekend. The store is easier to shop with less people and the rounders are still fairly neat (many women can’t handle the “messiness” )

Nordstrom Rack tigard oregon

1. SHOP BY CATEGORY

The Rack is nicely categorized, so start in one area and work you way around. In some ways it’s easier than shopping in a large store if you aren’t familiar with all the departments or brand names. And if your closet is nicely categorized as I recommend doesn’t this make perfect sense to shop this way?

2. FIND YOUR FOCUS:

If you came to shop for shoes, stick with that narrow focus especially if the whole store overwhelms you.

Coats would be another great place to focus.

As you become more proficient at shopping here, cover the whole store. I have found that when I have a focus, I make better choices. It’s very easy to get carried away and buy things you don’t really need just because they are such a good deal.

The handbag section was a little thin compared to normal. Typically is filled with many possibilities.

There always seems to be a plethora of accessories.

The denim rounders are divided by brand name. It’s one of the best places to find premium denim.

Nordstrom Rack denim selections

I usually start in Designer Row because it’s nice to get those higher end labels at a reduced price.

Designer Row at the Rack

The Rack has some labels created just for them that you won’t see in the full -line store. 14th and Union is one that comes to mind, but there are quite a few others. Usually these are a little lower quality. This particular Rack also has a good selection of extended sizes. Some of the smaller ones won’t have the selection.

When I signed up for the mailing list, I was reminded that you learn about about new arrivals. I think this is key if you are new to shopping here.

You will also find out about the “Clear the Racks” dates. The prices are good anyway, but clearance prices are exceptional. I recall one is in January as I found one of my favorite wool coats on the clearance racks. I still wear it almost ten years later.

Are you a Nordstrom Rack shopper? If not, are you willing to give it a try?