The featured store this month is The Nordstrom Rack. I have to say, hands down, I find the best deals here over any other discount store. I’ve taught many clients how to shop the Rack. (yes, there is an art to it!)
It wasn’t that many years ago when I was overwhelmed by this store. I walked in and everything was messy. I had to dig and often really didn’t know what I was digging for.
When I started my stylist business, I knew I would have clients on a budget. I “forced” myself to learn to shop the Rack, and I have not been disappointed. I like quality clothes. There is certainly a time/place for inexpensive brands of less quality. But after shrinking, pilling, stretching and ripped seams, I would rather buy the quality at a discount price than buy at a store known for their low regular prices.
Recently I trained two new stylists. I offer them ongoing support which means occasional get togethers to bounce ideas back and forth. And besides talking, what do stylists do when we get together? We SHOP!
Sometimes we shop for ourselves, and sometimes we shop for our clients. My VIP clients love it when I’m out and about and run across something I think will work for them. I buy it, show to them and if they don’t like it, I’ll return it. Did you know you can return Rack purchases at any Nordstrom store?
The day that Leigh Anne, Kat and I hit The Rack, they were having a “red tag” sale. This meant an extra percentage off already low prices. Kat was not a regular Rack shopper and I think I’ve converted her!
Leigh Anne had to leave earlier, so I didn’t get a photo of a top she bought for her daughter and a very cute cardigan I found for her. I’m pretty sure she walked out of there paying under $25.
Here are a couple recent RED TAG favorites.
After writing my post on COATS a while back, I was on the hunt for a red one. This shade was perfect and not too bright. It was over $300 and the extra 40% off brought it down to $83. Later, I found this Tory Burch dress. It was normally $350, marked down to $129. The extra 60% off brought it down to $53! I simply threw some pearls on for the photo, but I can’t wait to style this one–so much potential here!
My best advice for shopping The Rack: Grab a cart, and move your way through each clothing rounder slowly. If you shop the regular Nordstrom stores, take note of brand names you like and that fit you well. Some rounders are marked by brand name and some by the department. For example, Individualist, Savvy and t.b.d are higher priced departments. I start there. Narrative and Point of View are departments that are pretty affordable at regular price so you will see items on the racks for 14.97! The extra discount rounders are found in the back of the store. The denim is displayed separately by brand name.
Don’t let the ACCESSORIES overwhelm you. You may want to skip this section on the first trip and pick another time to shop belts, jewelry, scarves and handbags! Make sure you bring clothes from your closet along to coordinate. Choose wisely. It’s easy to get caught up in the low prices and buy on the impulse.
Oh, and did I mention SHOES?
Only TEN items are allowed in the dressing room. If you have a full cart, ask for a sign to put in the cart so no one takes your precious finds while you are in the dressing room. If you are going to try on many clothes, it is best to shop The Rack with a friend OR a personal stylist! I run clothes back and forth for the client and help with the choices. I help save time, money and energy!
My husband and boys have found some great things as well. I’m fortunate. We have THREE stores to choose from in the area. Overall, The Nordstrom RACK gets a 5 star rating from my family. Join the mailing list so you’ll be notified of new arrivals and extra special sales.
I’m curious to know–do you shop The Rack? I’d love to take a poll and find out how many of you reading shop here or feel overwhelmed and avoid it. I know you’re out there reading. Let’s get the comments rolling!
