Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Early Access

Happiest of Fridays, friends!! I absolutely loved your response to yesterday’s Sugarplum Top Picks…no surprise you’re as excited as me for the biggest style event of the year, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! Early Access goes live to all cardholders today at 11:30am. Do you have your list ready!? (Non cardholders can start shopping next Friday!)

I hope yesterday’s post was helpful in navigating The Sale and deciding on the best basics, and today we’ve got a slew of new finds. Mama Sugarplum and I tackled our local store earlier this week, and found way too many cute things. So instead of sharing everything that caught our eye, we’re only sharing our absolute favorites…the things we’d buy for ourselves.

Today’s Dressing Room Diaries is a doozy…I won’t be talking about the Sale much beyond today, so there’s a lot to squeeze in to a single post! I’ve got it broken down by category, so you can scroll to the section you’re shopping to see my favorites. And if you missed it, I shared my Sugarplum Top Picks here, a super-curated list of my very top Sale finds.

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.

CARDIGANS

We’re going to start with my favorite…okay, most everyone’s favorite…the Barefoot Dreams cardigans! The Anniversary Sale is the only time I see them on sale all year, and I can never resist adding a new one. I honestly live in these things at home year-round, and love them with boots and jeans in the Fall. Part cardigan, part cozy throw…seriously one of the softest, coziest things I own. They also make the best gifts.

My favorite style remains the circle cardigan, with the shawl collar, hip-length hem, and pockets. It’s a great top layer over pajamas or a tee, and comes in several great colors.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing the XS/S

Circle Cardigan | Scoopneck Tee | Pendant Necklace | Donna Ankle Skinny Distressed Jeans | Boots

Mom likes this darker blue shade, and wears it at home and with jeans and sneakers.

Fit Tip: She’s wearing an XS/Small

This Longline Cardigan is the new addition style this year…it’s similar to last year’s, but without the hood. It’s a little less drapey than the Circle Cardigan, with a longer, leaner silhouette, and pockets. I love this new olive shade, but opted for the black.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS/Small

Longline Cardigan | Scoopneck Tee | Pendant Necklace | Donna Ankle Skinny Distressed Jeans | Wedge Boots

I guess Mama SP loves it with sneakers, too…either that, or she didn’t want to take off the wedge sneakers. They are crazy comfy…and she likes the hidden wedge for a little extra height!

Fit Tip: She’s wearing XS/Small

The final style I’m sharing (there are a few more, find them all here, but these are my faves) is the original Waterfall Cardigan. It’s longer in the front, with extra draping, and they added pockets! I love it with boots or sneakers, too, but usually wear this one as a robe around the house.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS/Small

Waterfall Cardigan | Scoopneck Tee | Donna Ankle Skinny Distressed Jeans | Wedge Sneakers

You’ll notice we wore the same Scoopneck Tee with every cardigan…it makes a great base layer, and shows just enough skin. And currently $15!

Fit Tip: She’s wearing XS cardigan, and small t-shirt.

Let’s stay with cardigans, since they’re essential to my fall uniform! I’ve had (and loved!) this Hooded Cardigan for years, and am thrilled to see it back in new colors. It’s lightweight, soft and stretchy, with ribbed sleeves, deep front pockets, and an optional drawstring. Wear it open and loose, cinched at the sides for some shape, or tied together.

It sells out on the first day every year, and I’m guessing it will again. The price is just too good for the quality and versatility!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS

Hooded Cardigan | Scoopneck Tee | Pendant Necklace | Donna Ankle Skinny Distressed Jeans | Wedge Boots

Let’s add some color to our cardis…I love the stripes and colorblocking of Madewell’s new long cardigan. It’s plush and soft, with a medium weight (definitely more Fall than Spring). I love the selection of colors of this one…blush, oatmeal and rust work so unexpectedly well together!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS, but it’s oversized so consider sizing down.

Same cardigan, different color stripes…charcoal gray and navy blue. So fresh paired with a white tee! I don’t think we talked about the boots yesterday…they are high on my list of faves, with a beautiful deep cognac and a touch of heel. And a crazy good under $70 price!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS cardigan, and boots are true to size.

For those of you who prefer cottons and knits, you’ll love this open front draped cardigan from my Gibson friends! They do cozy fleece like no one else. It’s silky soft like pajamas, but darling with jeans, and comes in fun colors and prints. You could definitely jazz it up with black jeans and boots, but I jumped at the chance to wear these Platform Sneakers. They’re absurdly comfortable!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS

Fleece Cardigan | Scoopneck Tee | Donna Ankle Skinny Distressed Jeans | Platform Sneakers

Everyone’s favorite twist-front fleece top is back…in the popular staple colors, plus a fun new leopard spot! It gives the illusion of a little half tuck, and still keeps the bum fully-covered. Cute with boots or sneakers.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS for a tunic fit, but size down if you want a closer fit.

Twist Front Pullover | Donna Ankle Skinny Distressed Jeans | Wedge Boots
Twist Front Pullover | Donna Ankle Skinny Distressed Jeans | Platform Sneakers

Fit Tip: Mama SP is wearing an XS in both, as well.

SWEATERS

Okay, I shared the next few sweaters with you in yesterday’s Sugarplum Top Picks, but honestly love them so much I wanted to talk about them a little more. And I’m confident they’ll be top-sellers, so wanted to make sure you saw them before they were gone! OH, and most are under $50!

This Turtleneck Sweater is slightly oversized with a relaxed fit and a loose turtleneck. It’s incredibly soft (it does have a touch of Angora), and can be worn alone without an under layer. It’s definitely for cooler temps, and so darling with boots and jeans. It comes in a bunch of great solids and these fun stripes.

Fit Tip: I sized up to a small for a more relaxed fit. Mom wearing a small, too.

Turtleneck Sweater | Jeans | Boots

on me: Turtleneck Sweater | Ab-Solution Skinny Jeans | Boots
Mama SP: Turtleneck Sweater | High-Waist Jeans | Boots

Another Top Pick, I wanted to share more fun colors of this Crewneck Sweater. Perfect with skirts and trousers for work, or dressed down with boots or flats, it’s a wear-anywhere sweater I’ll be reaching for all Fall.

Fit Tip: We’re both wearing a small.

Crewneck Sweater (in 9 colors) | Ab-Solution Skinny Jeans | Heath Bootie | Leopard Bootie | Snakeskin Studded Loafer

on me: Crewneck Sweater | Ab-Solution Skinny Jeans | Snakeskin Flats
Mama SP: Crewneck Sweater | High-Waist Jeans | Loafers

How about some luxe cashmere, but under $70! This gorgeous pullover has a deep v-neck in the front, and a fun little dip in the back, too. It has as side slit for wearing untucked, and falls to the hip. It’s super soft and can be worn alone, but would be cute layered over a patterned collared shirt, too.

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

V-Neck Cashmere Sweater | Ab-Solution Skinny Jeans | Snakeskin Flats

Fit Tip: Mom is wearing a small. I love how she paired it with the pop of color on the loafer. However, we both loved this shoe so much, we promptly ordered the taupe for a more neutral option!

on me: V-Neck Cashmere Sweater | Ab-Solution Skinny Jeans | Snakeskin Flats
Mama SP: V-Neck Cashmere Sweater | High-Waist Jeans | Driving Loafer

I know y’all love tunics and long sweaters for legging season, and this was one of our favorite finds so far. A warm crewneck, with cute side snaps than can be worn open or closed. It has the slightest a-line shape so it doesn’t hug the bum, while keeping it fully covered!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS

Side Snap Tunic Sweater | Donna Ankle Skinny Distressed Jeans | Boots

It was one of Mom’s fave finds of the entire day! She loved it with the wedge sneakers. #shocker!

Fit Tip: She’s wearing a small.

on me: Side Snap Tunic Sweater | Donna Ankle Skinny Distressed Jeans | Boots
Mama SP: Side Snap Tunic Sweater | High-Waist Jeans | Wedge Sneakers

Camo and leopard are coming in hot again this season…both incredibly more neutral than you’d think! I love camo paired with chambray, white, and especially pink! This Tippi fit is one of my classic go-to styles, and I pair these sweaters with everything from skirts to jeans. I was shocked to find them included in the Sale!

Fit Tip: I size up one to a small.

Camo Tippi Sweater | Ab-Solution Skinny Jeans | Wedge Sneakers

Mom prefers the bright colors of this striped option, and of course the sweet little shoulder buttons. And she swapped her sneaker for the platform slip-on…a tie in comfort with the wedge sneaker!

Fit Tip: She’s wearing a small.

on me: Camo Tippi Sweater | Ab-Solution Skinny Jeans | Wedge Sneakers
Mama SP: Striped Tippi Sweater | High-Waist Jeans | Platform Sneakers

TEES & TOPS

What’s a Nordstrom Anniversary Sale without at least one cute J.Crew graphic tee! I love these layered under blazers for Fall, and this French option is too cute. The tee is a deep green shade, with white lettering.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS

‘Merci Beaucoup’ Graphic Tee | Donna Ankle Skinny Distressed Jeans | Wedge Sneakers

Mom’s wearing ‘It’s In The Stars’, a soft cotton tee with appliqué silver stars. She paired it with this black blazer for a future post!

Fit Tip: She’s wearing a small.

on me: ‘Merci Beaucoup’ Graphic Tee | Donna Ankle Skinny Distressed Jeans | Wedge Sneakers
Mama SP: ‘Stars’ Graphic Tee | High-Waist Jeans | Blush Pink Converse Sneakers

A feminine take on a classic baseball tee, this wide neck top has three-quarter sleeves and is the softest, lightest cotton! I love the slouchy fit with jeans, shorts, or joggers. And did you notice the Converse Shoreline sneakers? This darling blush pink is included in the Sale!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a small, but need an XS.

Baseball Tee | Donna Ankle Skinny Distressed Jeans | Blush Pink Converse Sneakers

DRESSY OPTIONS FOR WORK & EVENING

It didn’t take long for y’all to notice this leopard bomber in yesterday’s post, which means this one will fly off the shelves today! It’s cut in the style of an edgy bomber, but feels like a soft sweater knit, in the best leopard print!! Pair it over dresses or with skirts, with flats or heels…the slim, chic style is incredibly versatile.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a small.

Leopard Bomber Sweater | Scoopneck Tee | Ab-Solution Skinny Jeans in Black | Nude Pumps

Mom paired it with her favorite bootcut jeans, and already has plans for wearing it with a pencil skirt.

Fit Tip: She’s wearing a small.

Leopard Bomber Sweater | Scoopneck Tee | Bootcut Jeans | Wedge Booties

I know my office girls were hoping for a lot of work wear options, but so far, we haven’t found a lot to recommend. (I’ve got a huge new order coming soon, so fingers crossed for more great finds.) I loved this blouse with flutter sleeves, paired with classic knit trousers. The blouse is fully-lined and so pretty with pants and skirts, and layered under jackets.

The pants are super thick and stretchy ponte knit with a streamlined fit and lots of give! I’ve already ordered a petite for a shorter length, and can’t wait to style them further.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS top, and size 2 pants. If in between, I’d size down though. I’ve ordered both a 2p and 0p and will report back.

Flutter Sleeve Blouse | Pants | Pumps

Mom found this chic work combo, and I’m obsessed with the color on her! A gorgeous cornflower blue blouse with a draped front and tie at the neck, it’s fully-lined with a slight a-line fit. The trousers are a stretchy crepe with a close fit and tapered leg. Pair it with the matching blazer for a snazzy set.

Fit Tip: She’s wearing XS top and a regular 2 in the pants, but would prefer a 4P.

You know I love a good jumpsuit, and this might be one of the chicest and sassiest I’ve ever found!! A thick crepe knit, with a touch of stretch, it has a dressy, yet easy fit. I love the deep v-neck, balanced by a fitted waistband for a long and lean silhouette. And if that’s not enough, the plunging back will have all heads turning! Throw on a shrunken blazer and you have a perfect Day to Night outfit! If you prefer to be a little more covered-up, I loved this style, too.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 0.

Wide Leg Jumpsuit | Pumps

For a more casual jumpsuit, this one is darling in person!! (Some things don’t translate well in photos.) A sturdy, yet stretchy material, it has a modern shape and contrasting topstitching. The top is fitted with a light racerback, balanced by wide legs with an overlapping panel. It sounds strange I know, but trust me when I say we all swooned when seeing it on!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 0, but was really close to needing a 2. Size up if you’re busty!

Topstitch Jumpsuit | Pumps

No one does gorgeous dresses better than Eliza J., and we both fell for the soft swing of this fit-and-flare, with the bold colorblocked stripe. It’s a thick jersey knit with a lot of structure and a touch of stretch, and the deep eggplant hue makes it the best Fall-ready dress.

I should probably mention the pumps…what might be the most perfect, chic nude pump yet!! A great height for flattering the leg, but without killing your foot, and the nude is the best neutral. (True to size)

Fit Tip: I’m in a snug regular 0, but would prefer a 2P. Mom’s wearing a 4, but would prefer a 6p.

Midi Colorblocked Dress | Pumps

This Swiss dot blouse isn’t my usual style, but I instantly loved it on! The mock neck is smocked with a sweet ruffle trim, with sheer sleeves and a banded wrist. It has a full, swingy shape, perfect for wearing untucked. I paired it with my new bootcut jeans, but it’s perfect for work and weeknight wear.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS, but would size down if in between.

Swiss Dot Blouse | Bootcut Jeans | Boots

Full blown sass with this lace-trimmed leopard cami! It’s the perfect layer under blazers, or wear it alone for a sassy night out style. It comes in several colors and patterns, and is only $25!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS

Camisole Top | Ab-Solution Skinny Jeans in Black | Pumps

JACKETS & OUTERWEAR

Fall in Texas usually means light jacket, so I always gravitate to those first. I declared this one as my absolute favorite yesterday, but also found several more worth considering.

This utility jacket is a sturdy cotton twill, with a subtle camo pattern and drawstring waist for more shape. There’s a touch of embroidery above the pockets that gives it a feminine touch. It’s a longer length that falls to the hip, fully covering the bum.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS, but would prefer to size down for a closer fit.

Utility Jacket | Ab-Solution Skinny Jeans | Wedge Boots

Fit Tip: Mama SP wearing a small, and likes the slightly oversized fit.

North Face makes a strong presence in the Anniversary Sale this year, which certainly makes my kids and husband happy! I’ve got several pieces ordered for all of us, but this jacket is already a strong contender. It’s lightweight, but fully-insulated and completely water repellant! Find all the North Face on sale here.

I can’t believe all the attention these leggings received in yesterday’s post…we love our Zella! Excited to find this new style with the high waist and added phone pocket! Find all the Zella on sale here.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing small jacket and XS leggings. I size down half in the sneakers, too.

Insulated Jacket | High-Waist Leggings | Sneakers

WORKOUT WEAR

More great Zella…these leggings are a capri length, lighter fabric, and come in this fun rust color (no pockets). The pullover is soft with a high-low hem and side slit.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing XS leggings, small sweatshirt (I always size up one in Zella tops for more movement), and size down half in the sneakers.

Pullover Sweatshirt | High-Waist Crop Leggings | Sneakers

Mom loved the high-waist leggings, especially with the added phone pocket. She paired them with a cute and super-soft zipper hoodie.

Fit Tip: She’s wearing XS leggings and medium sweatshirt.

on me: Pullover Sweatshirt | High-Waist Crop Leggings | Sneakers
Mama SP: Zipper Sweatshirt | High-Waist Leggings | Sneakers

PAJAMAS & LOUNGE WEAR

Working from home, I spend more days in ‘lounge wear’ than I care to admit, but if it’s as cute as this set, I’m okay with that! A lightweight jersey cotton, this set comes in a slew of fun colors and patterns…some of which you could get away with in public. Oh, and each piece is on sale for $25!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XXS top and medium bottoms (all they had in my store!), but have since ordered both pieces in XS.

Cozy Top | Joggers

The most popular pajamas on Nordstrom’s site, and with great reason, are included in the Sale, too! My mom owns them in virtually every color, and I’m the proud new owner of these stripes!

Fit Tip: I usually size up one in pajamas, but these are sized generously, so I’m in an XS

Striped Pajama Pant Set

Same amazing jersey knit, but in a short set!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS

Floral Pajama Shorts Set

Fit Tip: Mom is wearing an XS

on me: Floral Pajama Shorts Set
Mama SP: Striped Pajama Pant Set

BOOTS

Okay, let’s talk Fall’s sweetheart…the boots! I reached for these three repeatedly when styling my posts, so they’re incredibly versatile and neutral for a slew of different looks.

As for knee boots, I’m thrilled to see two I already own and love included in this year’s sale…the Born Knee High Boot, a rugged riding boot with an abundance of comfy insole, and the Sam Edelman Knee High Boot, a chic dressier option that’s flattering and streamlined.

Wedge Boot (sesame) | Heeled Boot (cognac) | Leopard Boot (all true to size)

TOP PICK SHOES

Shoes are my weakness, and there are so many great finds in this year’s Anniversary Sale! I shared my absolute Top 4 in each of the main shoe categories yesterday, but that doesn’t mean I didn’t find an abundance of darling options!! I love (and bought) many of these, and you can see them styled in all the photos in today’s and yesterday’s posts.

I also just ordered these in a more neutral taupe.

BEST OF BEAUTY

I combed through all the beauty and hair offers, and found tons that are perfect for stocking up, or even as gifts. First thing I did was order more NeuLash, the miracle eyelash serum that rarely goes on sale! Then I stocked up on my eyebrow pencil, texturizing spray, Moroccan Oil and sunscreen.

HOME & GIFTS

It’s never too soon to start thinking Christmas gifts, and these were a few of my favorite finds for home and friends.

first row: Classic Throw (only $25!) | Pave Necklace | Cutting/Cheese Boards
second row: Barefoot Dreams Throw | CZ Studs | Candle Trio

HANDBAGS

My store didn’t have a huge selection of handbags, and I don’t like to recommend anything I haven’t seen for myself, but I adored each of these styles!

top row: Large Leather Tote | Leopard Clutch with Chain
bottom row: Suede Hobo Bag | Blush Leather Hobo

And finally, it wouldn’t be a fall sale without a plaid scarf!! This one is soft and long, without being overly bulky.

Plaid Scarf | Scoopneck Tee | Donna Ankle Skinny Distressed Jeans | Wedge Boots

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 Friday when the Sale goes live to the public, too!

If you want to see my absolute Top Picks, check this post. I know denim is a big category for many of you, and I’m breaking down my top four styles, as well as Mama Sugarplum’s fave pair here.

I hope this post has been helpful, and you’re able to take advantage of these great prices during Early Access. What are your favorite pieces? Is there anything else you’d like to see included? Isn’t my mom the absolute cutest?! Happy weekend, lovebugs!