Dressing Room Diaries | Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Edition!

Happiest of Fridays, friends! I hope this week has been good to you. It’s been crazy fun insanity around here thanks to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. As much as they’d prepped, their site couldn’t keep up with the demand yesterday, and many of you spent a frustrating morning trying to check out all your great new finds.

Fortunately, all the kinks have been worked out, and it’s smooth shopping now. And did you hear, Nordstrom is gifting all cardmembers 10x bonus rewards points on all their purchases yesterday!? Great deals and faster notes…happy Friday indeed!

But let’s get down to the business at hand…today I’ve got a jumbo-sized Dressing Room Diaries for you, featuring tons of my favorite finds of late. Most of it is included in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, but I found several other great things available to non-cardholders, as well.

The shots aren’t good, the lighting is bad, my hair is usually past it’s expiration, and many of the items aren’t a good fit for me…but it’s real life, real girl, real clothes…and hopefully helpful for you to see them this way, instead of perfectly styled on a model. I even drug Mama Sugarplum with me to give you another perspective!!! Maybe you should get a drank first…it’s a doozy!!

hi sugarplum dressing room diaries banner

Fit Note: I’m 5’4″-ish, 120 pounds-ish (depending on the week’s taco count), with a slight pear shape. My usual size is XS/0. Mama Sugarplum is 5’1″, with an hourglass figure, and her usual size is XS/2p.

How could I lead with anything other than my go-to Fall uniform of cardigan, tee, boots and jeans!? The cardigan is my favorite when snuggling at home, but also with boots and jeans. I promise it’s the softest, most sigh-inducing thing you’ll own. I grab a new one every year during the Sale, and pass my older one on to my kids. They’re constantly swiping mine!

I’ve loved this tee and jeans for awhile, and was excited to see them included in the Sale for such amazing prices. I’ve tried tons of booties included in the Sale so far, and these my faves. I love the neutral color for pairing with browns and blacks, and the block heel is extra comfy.

Fit Tip: I’m in an XS/S in the cardi, XS in the tee, but sized down one in the jeans. The boots are true to size.

barefoot dreams circle cardigan nordstrom anniversary sale
Circle Cardigan | Scoop Tee | Jeans | Booties | Necklace | Earrings

I know cardigans are Fall faves, so I tried on several to share. I prefer cozy, thick sweaters, and loved this one for it’s soft and cushy fit, mid-thigh length, and deep pockets. It comes in five great colors.

Fit Tip: Runs big, size down. I’m wearing XXS.

barefoot dreams cardigan nordstrom anniversary sale
Cardigan | Scoop Tee | Jeans | Booties | Watch | Earrings

This one is a nubby wool, but still soft and plush. I love this blush color, but it comes in two others, as well.

Fit Tip: It runs large, so size down. I’m wearing XXS.

madewell ryder cardigan nordstrom anniversary sale
Cardigan | Scoop Tee | Jeans | Booties | Watch | Earrings

It’s hard to think of wearing cozy sweaters now, but when it’s chilly this is the exact sweater I’d be reaching for! Softy and cozy with a tall funnel neck and blouson sleeves.

Fit Tip: It runs large, I’m wearing an XS but would size down.

halogen ruffle neck sweater nordstrom anniversary sale
Ruffle Neck Sweater | Jeans | Booties | Watch | Earrings

My friends at Gibson hit a homerun with this soft, fleecy tunic with longer back for covering the bum. It’s pajama soft, and cute worn alone or layered over a collared shirt. It comes in a ton of great colors, too.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

gibson cozy fleece tunic nordstrom anniversary sale
Fleece Tunic | Jeans | Booties | Watch | Earrings

Another fun tunic option, this one in soft sweatshirt material and a fun space dye texture. I’d wear it over leggings, but love it with the white jeans, too.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a small for a more relaxed fit.

caslon space dye tunic sweatshirt nordstrom anniversary sale
Sweatshirt Tunic | White Jeans | Booties

Mom loved the full bootie coverage, and wearing a small, too.

caslon space dye tunic sweatshirt nordstrom anniversary sale

Now let’s talk tops and tees, starting with this lightweight long sleeve tee in tons of color, including great stripes. It’s great for layering and super soft.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a small for relaxed fit.

caslon long sleeve striped crew neck tee nordstrom anniversary sale
Striped Tee | High-Waist Jeans | Booties

caslon long sleeve striped crew neck tee nordstrom anniversary sale

Adore the sporty vibe of this baseball tee, not to mention, crazy soft cotton. The sleeves are long, but I rolled them up for a three-quarter fit.

Fit Tip: True to size, or size up for a slouchy fit like mine.

caslon lightweight color block tee nordstrom anniversary sale
Camo Baseball Tee | White Jeans | Sneakers | Hoop Earrings

I love the camo, but Mom was partial to the solids. She’s wearing a small, too.

caslon lightweight color block tee nordstrom anniversary sale

I love a good ruffle, and this wear now tee has the cutest sleeve detail and soft cotton feel. I seriously want it in every color! So cute with shorts, skirts, and jeans. It’s a close fit across the shoulders and arms, making it easy to dress up.

Fit Tip: It’s true to size, I’m wearing an XS. 

1901 ruffle sleeve top tory burch sandal flip flops nordstrom anniversary sale
Ruffle Sleeve Tee | High-Waist Jeans | Sandals | Earrings | Watch

Here it is in navy…so cute with the pop of red earrings, right?! By the way, all the jewels in these outfits are included in the sale, too! Another fave find are these loafers!!! I literally sighed and relaxed the moment I slipped them on…insanely soft and so comfy. They come in a ton of colors and you won’t believe the price for this quality!

Fit Tip: The loafers are true to size.

1901 ruffle sleeve tee nordstrom anniversary sale
Ruffle Sleeve Tee | White Jeans | Loafers | Earrings | Watch

Considering our Fall is still three months away, I love to grab pieces I can wear now and later like this crisp popover top. I love the fresh blue and white stripe with fun button back.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS

madewell courier stripe button back shirt nordstrom anniversary sale
Button Back Shirt | White Jeans | Loafers | Earrings | Watch

Speaking of crisp cotton, this top is poplin perfection with a flattering wrap fit. It’s double-lined for added thickness and shape, with a fun peplum hem. It would be darling with a pencil skirt for work, and jeans for casual. The bow is voluminous, but not overwhelming.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 2.

1901 cotton blend wrap top nordstrom anniversary sale
Wrap Poplin Shirt | High-Waist Jeans | Sandals | Hoop Earrings

How stunning is it on Mama SP?! She’s wearing a 4.

1901 cotton blend wrap peplum top tory burch miller sandals nordstrom anniversary sale

Every girl’s closet needs a jean jacket (mine has three, now four!). I wear them with shorts, jeans, skirts and over dresses virtually year-round. This one has a great medium rinse, soft denim and lots of stretch. It fits well through the shoulder and falls high on the hip. It’s jean jacket gold…if you don’t have one you already love (or even if you do!), then grab this one!

Fit Tip: It’s true to size, I’m in XS

mavi samantha denim jacket tory burch miller sandals nordstrom anniversary sale
Jean Jacket | Scoop Tee | White Jeans | Sandals | Earrings

It wouldn’t be fall wear if we didn’t talk about jackets, and my first wave of finds are good ones. Starting with this super lightweight hooded anorak in a crisp, durable cotton. It packs flat and adds an easy top layer, perfect for travel.

Fit Tip: It’s a generous size, I’m in a small but need an XS

caslon cotton utility jacket nordstrom anniversary sale
Hooded Anorak Jacket | Jeans | Booties

caslon hooded cotton utility jacket nordstrom anniversary sale

This jacket has saved me several times on unexpectedly cold travel days. It packs flat and light, so I always bring it if I think there’s a chance of chill where we’re going, and it adds incredible warmth. I love that it’s not bulky, too.

Fit Tip: I size up in jackets, this is a small.

patagonia quilted jacket nordstrom anniversary sale
Quilted Jacket | Striped Tee | White Jeans | Sneakers | Watch

A similar jacket, but this one covers your full bum for added warmth and protection. I can’t believe both these jackets are included in the Sale!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a small.

north face thermoball primaloft hooded parka nordstrom anniversary sale
Long Quilted Jacket | White Jeans | Sneakers

You know those items you see on a hanger and you think, ‘Hmmmm, maybe.‘ And then you try it on and it’s ‘Oooooh, LOVE!’ Yeah, that’s this suede moto jacket! I love the fit, the feel and this gorgeous deep olive. It’s available in other colors, as well.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS for a close fit, but I don’t ever wear it zipped. If you’re chesty or like to zip it, you may want to size up.

blanknyc no limit suede moto jacket nordstrom anniversary sale
Suede Moto Jacket | Scoop Tee | Jeans | Booties | Earrings

Moving on to some dressier looks…can we all just pause and swoon over this outfit please? It is preppy and prissy and I freaking love it!!  The cotton tee is thick and soft with a close fit, and the skirt has flowy layers of tulle (with a solid lining, too). This tee is stripes of lavender and navy, but other options are available.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS top and size 2 skirt, but it was big in the waist so I’ve ordered a smaller one to try. Petite sizing available, too.

1901 embroidered tulle skirt with long sleeve ringer tee nordstrom anniversary sale
Striped Ringer Tee | Tulle Skirt | Patent Pumps | Earrings

Here’s the ruffle sleeve tee I can’t get enough of, this time paired with the cutest gingham ruffle skirt. It has a fun ruffle trim and wrap style with slight a-line shape. It falls just above the knee, so it’s flirty and still totally appropriate.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS top and size 2 skirt, but I need a 0.

1901 ruffle sleeve top with ruffle gingham mini skirt nordstrom anniversary sale
Ruffle Tee | Ruffle Gingham Skirt | Watch

This blouse is so pretty for work, but sassy enough for date night, as well. I love the ruffle neck and flutter sleeves, and pretty drapey fit. The lace insets do require a strapless bra or nude cami. I tucked it in a pencil skirt, but it’d be fun with distressed jeans and heels for a night out.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a small but need an XS, so it’s true. The pencil skirt is a 2p and fits like a glove. I’ve had this one for years and can’t say enough good things about ti!

halogen lace trim blouse nordstrom anniversary sale
Lace Inset Blouse | Pencil Skirt

halogen lace trim blouse nordstrom anniversary sale

Sass Alert!! This thick crepe jumpsuit is incredibly flattering, and a fun departure from dresses for evening events. It comes in black, navy and this showstopping red. Note my earrings, too, which I’m wearing in half the pictures in this post…lightweight, versatile and so edgy-glam!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a regular 0, but it’s a little long in the length and short in the crotch. I ordered a 2p for comparison.

vince tie waist crepe jumpsuit nordstrom anniversary sale
Jumpsuit | Earrings | Clutch (includes a strap to make a shoulder bag)

As for activewear, these leggings are soft and breathable, but with ample support. The hooded pullover is thick and cozy with a longer length to cover the bum.

Fit Tip: Leggings are true, I wear an xS, but I size up in Zella tops to a small.

zella live in leggings favorite hoodie nordstrom anniversary sale
Hoodie Pullover | Cropped Leggings | Sneakers | Watch

A similar look, but this jacket is a full-zip with funnel neck. These are pretty much the only leggings I wear to work out…good support but not restricting. Plus, they wash and dry like a dream. I have pairs that are 4 years old and still going strong after weekly wash and wears.

Fit Tip: XS leggings and Small jacket.

zella old school daydream jacket nordstrom anniversary sale
Funnel Neck Jacket | Cropped Leggings | Sneakers

I don’t really do fancy workout leggings, but had to admit these are cute! They’re full length with mesh inserts on the thigh and calf. I think I’ve got the tank a little twisted up, but you get the idea of the fun back. The material is very lightweight, but not sheer.

Fit Tip: Wearing XS leggings and small top and sports bra (adore Zella sports bras!)

zella loop back tank sun salutation high waist leggings
Open Back Tank | Sports Bra | Leggings

This combo is quintessential Fall…stripes, plaid and boots. The blanket scarf is soft and thick with a fun fringe trim. See my tips for styling a blanket scarf here.

sole society plaid scarf
Plaid Scarf | Striped Tee | Jeans | Booties | Bag

One area I think the Sale is lacking is handbags, but maybe my store was limited. I did love this gorgeous tote, and the cross body strap is perfect for travel.

1901 ruffle sleeve top madewell lafayette leather bucket bag nordstrom anniversary sale
Ruffle Tee | High-Waist Jeans | Sandals | Bag | Earrings

Wrapping up the Anniversary Sale reviews for today with everyone’s favorite category…shoes! I’ve tried most of the selections available in-store, and ordered a few more online, but these were my favorites so far (along with the ones in yesterday’s First Picks post). 

nordstrom anniversary sale booties
Heeled Bootie | Leopard Bootie | Wedge Bootie | Braided Bootie

And finally (I promise we’re almost done!!), I’m sure some of you are like, ‘We get it, Nordstrom is having a big sale! But I don’t have a Nordstrom card and can’t shop it until next week!’ So I wanted to include some cute new things for those of you who aren’t cardholders (the sale opens to the public next Friday!).

You can’t go wrong with this softer-than-soft fleece pullover with fun twist front. It mimics a half-tuck with ease, and keeps the bum covered.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS

gibson cozey twist front pullover nordstrom anniversary sale
Twist Front Fleecey Top | White Jeans | Booties

I’m obsessed with this deep plum on Mom…so gorgeous, right?! She’s wearing an XS, too.

gibson cozy twist front pullover nordstrom anniversary sale

I shared my weakness for ric rac earlier this week (see the cutest maxi here), so of course had to try this demure top. I love the contrasting black and white, and sweet crisp collar. I’ve got it tucked into a pencil skirt, for a chic, flattering style.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS…the material doesn’t have a lot of give making it a little tricky to pull over your head, but fits like a dream once on. It’s my go-to pencil skirt again, size 2p.

cece embellished collar top nordstrom anniversary sale
Ric Rac Trim Blouse | Pencil Skirt

This top is similar with the darling collar, but longer sleeves with pleated ruffle trim.

Fit Tip: Wearing an XS top and 2p skirt

cece pleat sleeve collared crepe blouse nordstrom anniversary sale
Ruffle Sleeve Blouse | Pencil Skirt

cece black and white collar tops nordstrom anniversary sale

I know this will be a HSP reader fave…the pink stripe, popover style and roll-tab sleeves…this tunic has everything a perfect Summer shirt needs!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS.

sanctuary linen blend gauze tunic top nordstrom anniversary sale
Linen-blend Popover Tunic | White Jeans | Sandals

sanctuary linen blend gauze tunic top nordstrom anniversary sale

Can you even with this pattern?? Love the vibrant colors of red, blue and yellow together, and of course the ruffle one-shoulder. It’s thick and fully-lined, and skims the line of your body in a comfortable, yet flattering fit.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS

jcrew one shoulder floral dress
One Shoulder Sheath Dress (super sale!) | Wedges

Another one-shoulder ruffle, this one in a crisp cotton top. Adore the seersucker stripe and navy trim…it’s darling worn out with jeans or shorts, and even cuter tucked into a skirt!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 2, but my usual 0 would fit better.

striped one shoulder jcrew top
One-Shoulder Striped Top (50% off!) | White Jeans | Sandals

One last one-shoulder (I think I’m having a moment with one-shoulder!)…this one a thick sweater knit that would be precious with an a-line skirt, or perfect for a night out with jeans and heels.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS

jcrew one shoulder bow top
One-Shoulder Bow Sweater (under $20)| White Jeans | Sandals

And finally, let’s talk pajamas…this tank set is perfect for summer in a soft t-shirt cotton and fun print.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS

jcrew star print pajama set
Stars Pajama Set

This classic set is thick and jersey soft, and comes in three color stripe options.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS

jcrew striped pajamas
Classic Striped Set

Mom is wearing them in small.

jcrew pajamas

Holy moly, are you still there?! Have you fallen face first into your keyboard?! I know I did a few times, but there’s just so much to show you!

I’ve ordered a ton of new online-only pieces to review next week, and Mama Sugarplum and I are hitting the mall together soon, so stay tuned for her picks next week, along with how more of my favorite styles translate on her.

I hope this post has been helpful, and you’re able to take advantage of these great prices. What are your favorite pieces? Isn’t my mom the absolute cutest?! You can find all my First Picks in this post. Happy weekend, lovebugs!

 

Leave a Comment

31 Comments

  1. Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog wrote:

    I love how many basic, minimal pieces you showed us, Cassie! They’re my favourites, so versatile. Definitely checking out the sales. 🙂

    Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
    http://charmainenyw.com

    Posted 7.13.18 Reply
  2. Judith Mangers wrote:

    Love when you show pics of your mom. I am older but love clothes and nice to see them on someone my age.

    Posted 7.13.18 Reply
  3. kathy wrote:

    Wow! Love that red jumpsuit on you.
    I have that suede jacket in my cart, too. I have about 3 of those jackets from sales past, but love the green.
    I also loved that wrap top on you and your mom.
    Have a great weekend!

    Posted 7.13.18 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      I have the jacket in cognac leather and it’s a fave for sure…the green is def a stunner!

      Posted 7.13.18 Reply
  4. Sabrina wrote:

    That red jumpsuit is STUNNING on you!! I hope you bought it because you need to wear that on a date night!!! Also, I love your other picks, too. I love all things preppy and your style is my favorite! Added the button back madewell shirt to my cart this morning! Happy Friday! Xoxo

    Posted 7.13.18 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      Thanks so much!!! I love all the preppy items this year!

      Posted 7.13.18 Reply
  5. Andrea wrote:

    Hi Cassie! Considering getting a card to do some early sale shopping, but I have a Nordstrom gift card I’d love to use first. Do you happen to know if I can use the gift card instead of the card, as long as I have one? Thanks, and thanks for the round up of all of the great finds!

    Posted 7.13.18 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      Yes ma’am, you just use the N card to gain access to the sale, but you can pay with any method!

      Posted 7.13.18 Reply
  6. Susan wrote:

    WOW, so much goodness to see! Love seeing Mama SP’s looks, as I’m closer to her age than yours! 🙂 Are her wedge neutral sandals linked? I’m a shortie also, and thought these would only work on someone with longer legs, but they look great on her! Would love to try them!

    Posted 7.13.18 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      They are such a great wedge…flattering, but not too tall! Here’s the link: http://bit.ly/2KXduIJ

      Posted 7.13.18 Reply
  7. Rhonda wrote:

    I see you discovered the Eileen Fisher bootie too! I found those Wednesday in store and was so pleasantly surprised! I’ve worn her sweaters before, but never shoes. They were so comfortable and cute and the heel was the perfect length for running after teens and dogs and still looking stylish!

    Posted 7.13.18 Reply
  8. Mary wrote:

    Hi Cassie! Love your Annivy Sale posts! Two questions: the cute Caslon anorak you’re wearing looks quite different from the Nordstrom online version, is it the same jacket (I love the yellow!)
    And, your mom’s cute espadrilles! Are they from the sale?
    XOXO

    Posted 7.13.18 Reply
  9. Kristin wrote:

    I love these types of posts! It’s INCREDIBLY helpful and I look forward to them! Thanks for being so real & down to earth! Both you & your mother are just gorgeous in every photo!

    Posted 7.13.18 Reply
  10. Macomb wrote:

    Do you try on earrings from the store and then return them back to the jewelry department? Seems unsanitary.

    Posted 7.13.18 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      I don’t know how else to see if I like them and if the weight is good? Or if it’s any different than trying on clothes, shoes or swimsuits before buying?!

      Posted 7.16.18 Reply
  11. Natalie wrote:

    I just have to tell you that so many of the things you try on look so much cuter on you than on the website models! Same with your Gibson line- I wanted to buy everything I saw you in! You should get Nordstrom to hire you for one of their web models. 🙂

    Posted 7.13.18 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      LOL! thank you! xo

      Posted 7.16.18 Reply
  12. lori wrote:

    Curious how heavy the Kellen Linked earrings and also the Kendra Scott Kirsten earring are…love them both but wonder if too heavy. Love you and Mama Sugarplum and all the great input

    Posted 7.13.18 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      I can wear them all day with no problems or discomfort!

      Posted 7.16.18 Reply
  13. Brooke wrote:

    you did your blogger job well! you’re just adorable and sincere and show these clothes off in the best way. went for the Nordstrom card, and then used the access to buy a boat load of things. (that I had been thinking about but then were on sale coincidentally). The ugg loafers were the final straw for me- i work in a medical office (closed toe shoes only) and they look so good for business casual! hoping they are great for being on my feet all day!
    great job Cassie!

    Posted 7.13.18 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      You will melt when you put them on!!!! Seriously, where have these flats been?!

      Posted 7.16.18 Reply
  14. Brooke W wrote:

    Doesn’t it honestly feel like all the SAME outfits as the last coupe of years? It’s the same outfits over and over. Not just your looks, but style in general. I mean how many black and white striped tees does one person need/wear—let alone with the big oversized plaid scarf and the same booties! So hard to pull off original looks- every blogger has picked the same exact outfits. The internet has killed originality. With that said, you always look great.

    Posted 7.13.18 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      They definitely repeat the basics, but also add new, updated trends and classics. I try to share a little of it all! xo

      Posted 7.16.18 Reply
  15. Stephanie Stafford wrote:

    Love all the ideas! Getting some long sleeve T-shirt’s, a BD circle cardigan and booties! Your momma is looking super cute in this post, new haircut? Y’all are the cutest!! Love your posts!

    Posted 7.14.18 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      She’s actually growing it out a little!! I’ll tell her you said so!! xoxox

      Posted 7.16.18 Reply
  16. Nikki Gwin wrote:

    The ruffle sleeve top… is the the Purple Fragrent or the Pink Bodacious?? I can’t tell and I need it… LOL
    🙂 gwingal

    Posted 7.14.18 Reply
    • Denise wrote:

      Could I ask a random personal question of your sweet mama. She and I are he same height and figure type. I know she’s lost weight in the last year or so, but would she mind stating here weight. It could just be a random range, just to get an idea. If that is too personal I understand. Thanks.

      Posted 7.15.18 Reply
  17. Mary wrote:

    Love the posts with Mama Sugarplum. Would you ever consider sharing her makeup choices and tips ?

    Posted 7.23.18 Reply
    • Cassie wrote:

      I would…but I can tell you she uses all the same products for makeup and skincare as I do! 😉 She reads Hi Sugarplum! 🙂 xoxo

      Posted 7.23.18 Reply