Ahhh, one of the most coveted, yet overrated sales of the year is finally here. Well, it’s been here for a few weeks now, but it is FINALLY open tomorrow, August 19th, to the public (AKA people who don’t have a Nordstrom debit/credit card). I know, I’m not starting this out with a happy sounding note, but let explain why.

I have always, always been over the top ecstatic and excited about this sale. But this year, in true 2020 form, I’ve been a little underwhelmed and overwhelmed by this sale at the same time. Every year, items from this sale sell out pretty fast, but they are usually almost always restocked by the time public access gets here. In addition, I don’t think it’s ever been open this long before it finally got open to public (maybe that’s just me & time not agreeing, but it opened on 8/4 to elite cardholders). But this year? I had 30+ items on my wish list.. literally everything on it has been sold out and has not been restocked yet.. That is beyond frustrating to me and literally everyone else. I’ve had a few other frustrations with it, but i’m not going to get into all the details. I am only trying to stay 100% honest with you all, like always. I’m not a fan of hiding my feelings (def gets me in trouble sometimes.. lol, just ask my mom & husband).

BUT SERIOUSLY THOUGH, YES, I will still shop this sale and will continue to look for restocks on the items that I have on my wish list. There are seriously so many items that I’ve come across that I didn’t see/come across the first go around when I initially made my list, that I am dying to have.

No, you do not have to buy anything. I never want to encourage spending just because something is on sale. HOWEVER, this is a great time to stock up on staple pieces and items that you know you will get a ton of use out of. In the past, I have always stocked up on sweaters and fall clothing, but now, I view it differently. The trendy sweaters that I bought previously, I hardly wore by the time it actually got cold enough and I wanted new things. That is why this year, I am viewing it more along the lines of:

– What can I get a lot of use out of?
– Is this a staple that won’t go out of style in a few months?
– How long can I wear this?
– Is this something that I could find the same quality but less expensive down the road?
– What is the benefit this gives me?
– Will I actually wear this?

With all of these questions ringing in my ears, I have rounded up my picks from the sale that I believe are true closet/home staples, are great deals, and items that I believe are completely worth it. Here they are broken down my category:

Activewear

A few things I love here:
1 // These Zella Leggings. I have these in a few colors and they are by far one of my favorite leggings that I own. The quality is amazing and they last forever. Seriously, my first pair I bought 4 years ago and they are still just like when I bought them & I wear them all the time.
2 // These ALO leggings. I have these leggings in a different color and I love them. They are high waisted and literally suck everything in. More of a splurge item, but 100% worth it.
3// This Zella jacket. I’ve been eyeing it for a while now. From what I’ve heard, it’s the best dupe for the Lululemon define jackets.
4// Not pictured below, but this pair of Nike running shoes for only $82 & this Nike pair that is $40 off are just to die for.

Clothing

All of these are closet staples that you can wear forever. Also almost all of these are available in other color options.
A few things I love here:
1// White blouse | This top is a closet staple. Perfect top for any office or teacher ladies!
2 // snake print tee | only $15 and would be so cute now with jean shorts or later layered.
3 // grey cardigan & taupe cardigan | I buy cardigans from these brands every year and they are always my favorites. Absolutely go with everything. I even wear these around the house.
4 // Black cami & black moto jacket | these just go without saying. I have been wanting to buy both of these. These are closet staples of all staples. MUST. HAVE. ASAP.
5 // Teddy coat | these will forever be a winter/fall fave. Cozy, warm, and so chic. Could it be more perfect? Also avail in grey.
6 // white tee | def a must have + only $15.90.
7 // bodysuit | I will cry if this sells out before tomorrow. It’s only $15 and I have to have. Just imagine the endless ways this can be styled.

Pajamas

These PJ’s are my favorite. I bought them during the Nsale a couple years ago and I still wear them nonstop. They are SO unbelievably soft and comfortable. Definitely a lounge staple.

Shoes

A few of my favorites (all available in other color options):
1 // Marc Fisher OTK boots | these speak for themselves. March Fisher shoes are literally the best shoes in the world. On sale for under $150 & are normally $240
2 // Ivory pointed toe booties | pointed toe booties are by far my personal closet staple and the only kind of booties I purchase. They are ultra flattering. I can’t get over this ivory color.
3 // Sam Edelman mules | a good pair of mules are always needed. Love the bit detail on them.
4 // Hunter rain boots | I mean just look at these. On sale for under $100.
5 // Madewell white sneakers | these are under $50 and will go with everything.
6 // Dolce Vita sneakers | These hi top sneakers are so fun + they have shearling in them. Love all the details & anything Dolce Vita.
7 // Converse platform sneakers | these are such a cute neutral and under $50.

Beauty & Home

A few of my favorite things:
1 // T3 Curling iron | I have this in white and it’s my favorite curling iron. The only one that my hair actually stays curled with over multiple days.
2 // Diptyque candle set | I’ve been wanting to purchase this set for three years now. These candles are home staples and are perfect to use the containers around your home after you’ve used it up.
3 // Nordstrom blanket | comes in a ton of sizes and is a perfect gift or piece for your home in your living room. only $24.90.
4 // T3 Blowdryer | I’ve been wanting this for so long & it’s on major sale.
5 // Slip Pillowcases | These are the holy grail of pillowcases. This set of two is $53 off.
6 // Supergoop Suncreen Pack of 3 | I love this sunscreen. It’s a “healthier” sunscreen for your skin. This is what we took to the beach with us this year, and we loved it!