Happiest of Wednesdays, friends, and cheers to hump day! I’m still grinning from my fun shopping day with Mama Sugarplum! We hit up our local Nordstrom to scout some of the best styles and products, and they did not disappoint! (Find the entire sale HERE.)
In fact, we found way too many to share… so instead of sharing everything that caught our eye, we’re only sharing our absolute favorites… the things we’d buy for ourselves. And in many cases, we did buy! This is our very favorite sale of the year, and we use it to refresh old items, stock up on go-tos, and even grab some holiday gifts.
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale opens to the Ambassador Level today, so whether you’re shopping now, or adding to your Wish List, I hope our post helps you navigate what your closet needs most! (The NSale opens to the public July 28!)
Fit Note: I’m 5’4″-ish, 125 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.
Tops & Tees //
Let’s start with the piece we both always grab first… and has been a Sugarplum Top Seller for FIVE YEARS running!! This scoop neck tee is super soft, has an easy fit, a cute pocket, and comes in great colors. Wear it alone or layered under jackets and cardis, we refresh ours every year. Especially at the crazy sale price!
Fit Tip: It’s TTS, so choose based on how you prefer your tees to fit. I’m wearing XS and mom a small.
on me: Scoopneck Tee | Button Fly Skinny Jeans | Sneakers | Hoop Earrings | Chain Necklace | Bar Necklace | Gold Bead Bracelets
on Mama SP: Scoopneck Tee | Boyfriend Jeans | High Waist Slim Jeans | Slip-On Sneaker
Scoopneck Tee | Button Fly Skinny Jeans | Sneakers | Hoop Earrings | Chain Necklace | Bar Necklace | Gold Bead Bracelets
The NSale isn’t all Fall pieces, there are actually quite a few you can wear virtually year-round… like this darling swiss dot top. It has the cutest ruffled collar and flutter sleeves, and comes in the most gorgeous jewel tones. Dress it up or down for work and weekend.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS, Mom a small. Jeans are a 2p.
Ruffle Mock Neck Blouse | Bootcut Jeans | Chain Mules | Gold Bead Bracelets
Mom made it work-ready with a pair of slimming ponte pants, and I paired it with some go-to white jeans and new Tory Burch sandals for a fun Spring and Summer look. Can you believe this sandals are included in the Sale?!
Fit Tip: Pants are TTS, mom’s in a 2, and sandals are TTS unless you have a high-arch, in which case, size up half.
on me: Ruffle Mock Neck Blouse | White Jeans | Tory Burch Sandals | Gold Bead Bracelets
on Mama SP: Ruffle Mock Neck Blouse | Ponte Ankle Pants | Chain Mules
We were in the dressing room next to my friend Sheaffer, and the moment I saw this shirt on her I made a beeline to grab it for myself! It’s the perfect oxford shirt, in a washed cotton that feels amazing on, with a great relaxed shape. It’s somehow oversized and feminine at the same time, in a subtle stripe. Wear it open, tucked, tied… it’s a classic piece you’ll wear for years to come.
Fit Tip: Runs large, Im in an XS
Oversized Button Down | High Waist Slim Jeans | Sneakers | Medium Transport Tote | Gold Bead Bracelets
It easily transitions in to Fall with sneakers, booties or flats. I don’t know what mom loves more…the shirt, or her punchy orange loafers! They are seriously SO COMFY… I grabbed them in a neutral taupe.
Fit Tip: Mom’s in an XS shirt, and TTS loafers. You’ll notice she’s wearing these boyfriend jeans on repeat, they’re a favorite of hers for the last couple of years.
on me: Oversized Button Down | Cropped Skinny Jeans | Block Heel Booties | Gold Bead Bracelets
on Mama SP: Oversized Button Down | Boyfriend Jeans | Loafers
It wouldn’t be a Nordstrom Haul without a fun Gibson piece… and my friends have done it again! Our favorite fleece tunic, in the yummiest fabric, now in tons of new colors and patterns. Wear it tucked with jeans or joggers, or loose with leggings, it will be in heavy rotation all Fall.
Fit Tip: I size down to pair with jeans and joggers, mom gets her usual size to wear as a tunic. I’m in an XXS, she’s in an XS.
Fleece V-Neck Top | Cropped Mom Jeans | Loafers | Bar Necklace | Gold Bead Bracelets
on me: Fleece V-Neck Top | Cropped Mom Jeans | Loafers | Bar Necklace | Gold Bead Bracelets
on Mama SP: Fleece V-Neck Top | Boyfriend Jeans | Tory Burch Sneakers
Another cute Gibson find… the same yummy, lightweight fleece, in a sassy off-the shoulder shape. We love the bold colors and prints!
Fit Tip: I’m in an XXS and mom in an XS.
on me: Off Shoulder Top | Cropped Mom Jeans | Loafers | Bar Necklace | Gold Bead Bracelets
on Mama SP: Off Shoulder Top | Boyfriend Jeans | Tory Burch Sneakers
For my bodysuit gals, I adore the shape and style of this one. It has a slight cap sleeve and mock neck for a flattering silhouette. It’s made of a thick, super soft, stretchy knit, that looks great worn alone or under jackets. It does have a thong fit.
Fit Tip: I wear an XS
Sleeveless Bodysuit | Cropped Mom Jeans | Pointy Toe Booties | Gold Bead Bracelets
Sweaters & Cardigans //
There’s a striped cardigan in the Sale every year, so I wasn’t expecting to care much about this one… but I was instantly smitten! It’s the perfect weight for Texas Falls, light and soft with a lot of stretch. I love the longer length and front pockets. I grabbed the stripes, but loved the solids, too.
Fit Tip: Runs really big, I’m in an XS.
Colorblock Cardigan | Scoopneck Tee | Raw Hem Skinny Jeans | Block Heel Booties | Chain Necklace | Bar Necklace | Gold Bead Bracelets
Cardigan | Scoopneck Tee | High Waist Slim Jeans | Loafers | Chain Necklace | Bar Necklace | Gold Bead Bracelets
on me: Cardigan | Scoopneck Tee | High Waist Slim Jeans | Loafers | Chain Necklace | Bar Necklace | Gold Bead Bracelets
on Mama SP : Cardigan | Scoopneck Tee | Bootcut Jeans
This find is cute enough to warrant trying on sweaters in July! Made of a soft and stretchy sweater knit, it’s got a fun, ribbed texture and relaxed funnel neck. I love the speckled color ways.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS and Mom in a small
Mock Neck Sweater | Cropped Mom Jeans | Loafers | Gold Bead Bracelets
on me: Mock Neck Sweater | Cropped Mom Jeans | Loafers | Gold Bead Bracelets
on Mama SP: Mock Neck Sweater | Black Skinny Jeans | Pointy Toe Booties
Jackets & Outerwear //
If the air conditioner in your house runs like ours, then you’re wearing sherpa year-round! This one is super soft, and so cute with the color blocking and mixed material. Even the lining of the zipper is a pop of preppy green!
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS
Fleece Jacket | Scoopneck Tee | Raw Hem Skinny Jeans | Sneakers | Hoop Earrings | Chain Necklace | Bar Necklace | Gold Bead Bracelets
A similar cozy sherpa, this snap-front jacket is warm and cozy, but not obnoxiously oversized. I love the winter white for pairing with everything from jeans to workout leggings.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS
Teddybear Jacket | Scoopneck Tee | Raw Hem Skinny Jeans | Sneakers | Hoop Earrings | Chain Necklace | Bar Necklace | Gold Bead Bracelets
Mama SP took home the blue one, size XS. She really, reallllly wanted the wedge boots, too!
on me: Teddybear Jacket | Scoopneck Tee | Raw Hem Skinny Jeans | Sneakers | Hoop Earrings | Chain Necklace | Bar Necklace | Gold Bead Bracelets
on Mama SP: Fleece Jacket | Boyfriend Jeans | Wedge Booties
I had my eye on another moto jacket this year, so this one caught me by surprise…. I love it!! It’s feminine enough to pair with dresses and skirts, yet has an edginess that’s so cute with jeans and boots. It’s a smooth and sturdy leather with a removable sweatshirt hood. Even mom was a big fan!
Fit Tip: I’m in an XS and mom a small
Hooded Leather Jacket | Scoopneck Tee | Raw Hem Skinny Jeans | Block Heel Booties | Hoop Earrings | Chain Necklace | Bar Necklace | Gold Bead Bracelets
on me: Hooded Leather Jacket | Scoopneck Tee | Raw Hem Skinny Jeans | Block Heel Booties | Hoop Earrings | Chain Necklace | Bar Necklace | Gold Bead Bracelets
on Mama SP : Hooded Leather Jacket | Scoopneck Tee | Bootcut Jeans
Denim //
Two of my favorite denim brands are included in the NSale… Kut from the Kloth and Wit & Wisdom! Both make great-fitting jeans for a woman’s body, with quality fabrics and the right amount of stretch. I’ll do a full breakdown of my favorite styles I’ve tried thus far on Friday, but for now, these are the three I seemed to reach for most in my try-on.
Fit Tip: All are true to size, except the Mother jeans, in which I sized up one.
L to R: Raw Hem Crop Straight Leg Jeans | Cropped Skinny Jeans | Black Skinny Jeans | Raw Hem Skinny Jeans | High Waist Slim Jeans | Cropped Mom Jeans
We may have left 2020 behind, but I’m still all about comfort… which is probably why I reached for these jeans more than any other. They have a relaxed fit that’s flattering, yet not constricting, with a soft finish and touch of stretch. The high-rise sits just below the belly-button, with no gap in the back.
The straight leg makes them perfect for pairing with sneakers and flats, and they have just a touch of distressing. And the beauty of a raw hem is you can just cut them shorter if needed!
Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 2, but would size down if if-between.
Scoopneck Tee | Cropped Mom Jeans | Loafers
These black skinnies aren’t new around here, I’ve been raving about them for years! Soft and stretchy, they have a comfortable mid-rise and cropped length perfect for loafers and booties. And what’s even better, they have the incredible Ab-Solution panel through the waist that’s slimming and smoothing!
Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 2.
Scoopneck Tee | Black Skinny Jeans | Loafers
I tend to stick to denim under $100, but my friend Val swears by Mother jeans, so I couldn’t resist trying this pair. And y’all, they’re good! Like real good! The denim is soft and stretchy, in the perfect rinse, with no distressing. They fit like a glove through the hips and butt, with no gapping at the waist. Oh, and with a great cropped length.
Fit Tip: Size up one if in-between, I’m in a 27.
Scoopneck Tee | Cropped Skinny Jeans | Loafers
Pajamas & Loungewear //
One of my favorite categories, and definitely one of the strongest categories in this year’s Sale! Well, for those of us obsessed with Barefoot Dreams anyway! My two favorite styles are included for a great price… the shorter circle cardigan with a shawl collar, and the longer option with a draped neckline. Both come in tons of colors, and truly make the BEST GIFT!
They’re just about the softest and coziest thing you’ve ever felt… perfect for lounging at home, but cute enough to wear out with jeans.
Fit Tip: We’re an XS/Small in both styles
Left: Barefoot Dreams Circle Cardigan | Right: Barefoot Dreams Long Cardigan
Scoopneck Tee | High Waist Slim Jeans | Sneakers | Bar Necklace
on me: Barefoot Dreams Circle Cardigan | Scoopneck Tee | High Waist Slim Jeans | Sneakers | Bar Necklace
on Mama SP: Barefoot Dreams Circle Cardigan | Scoopneck Tee | Boyfriend Jeans | Tory Burch Sneakers
Barefoot Dreams Circle Cardigan | Long Sleeved Lounge Set | UGG Slippers | Faux Fur Slippers
on me: Barefoot Dreams Long Cardigan | Scoopneck Tee | High Waist Slim Jeans | Sneakers | Bar Necklace
on Mama SP: Barefoot Dreams Long Cardigan | Scoopneck Tee | Boyfriend Jeans | Tory Burch Sneakers
Barefoot Dreams Long Cardigan | Long Sleeved Lounge Set | UGG Slippers | Faux Fur Slippers
You can take your Barefoot Dreams one step further with a cozy, buttery-soft robe, too! They have both a long and short option, and I love the lighter weight and attached belt!
Fit Tip: I’m in an XS, but might size up in the short one.
Ribbed Robe | Tie Waist Cardigan | UGG Slippers
on me: Tie Waist Cardigan | UGG Slippers
on Mama SP: Ribbed Robe | Long Sleeved Lounge Set | Faux Fur Slippers
What’s that you say? You want more Barefoot Dreams?! Okay… how about a full lounge set!! Yes ma’am, made of the delicious, signature Barefoot Dreams fabric, this set feels like a literal dream. Take it one step further and grab a Barefoot Dreams throw and socks, too! There’s even a sweater for your pup! See it all HERE.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS and mom a small
Luxe Pajama Set | Faux Fur Slippers | Chain Necklace | Bar Necklace
Luxe Pajama Set | Chain Necklace | Bar Necklace | Faux Fur Slippers | UGG Slippers
Okay, these pics are from last year, but I couldn’t let our Day 1 coverage of the sale not include Mama SP’s favorite pajamas (our store didn’t have them in-stock)! She buys a new long set every year, and I can never resist the short-sleeve cropped ones. They are made of the softest, silky-smooth jersey knit, that’s never hot and washes like a dream!
Fit Tip: They run large, so I’d size down if in-between. I wear an XXS and mom an XS
Cropped Pajama Set (old color way)
Long Pajama Set (old color ways)
Undergarments //
Do I even need to talk about these undergarments anymore?! I’ve been singing the praises of these undies for years… no lines, no wedgies, and they launder beautifully. The True & Co. bra was my favorite discovery of 2020. So comfy you could even sleep in it! For those of us who can no longer sit around the house bra-less, this will be your new best friend!
And if you like a lot of lift, the contour bra is a long-time favorite. And I forgot to grab a pic of the bra, but Mama Sugarplum’s favorite strapless is on sale, too! Find it HERE.
Fit Tip: All are true to size
Best Bralette | Best Racerback Bralette | Underwire Contour Bra
Ribbed Robe | Bliss Undies | Barefoot Dreams Socks
Athletic Wear //
When it comes to workout wear and athleisure, we headed straight to the Zella department! The fit and quality is on par with any high-end brand. You may remember these lounge leggings from one of my Zella Girl posts last year with Little Miss… we both love them!
Nice wide waist with lots of stretch, and the fabric is velvety smooth and soft. Great for neighborhood walks or errands around town. The hoodie is a thick, traditional sweatshirt material, with a nice relaxed fit. Mom loves them for her morning walks!
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS in both pieces.
Hoodie | Relaxed Leggings | Edge Luxe Sneakers
The first thing Zella we both grabbed were the live-in leggings… so thick and dark, you could wear them for workouts or with boots! I love the soft, high waist that doesn’t pinch or roll down. The cropped length is perfect for our shorter frames.
Fit Tip: We’re both in an XS
on me: Hoodie | Crop Leggings | Swift Run Sneakers
on Mama Sugarplum: Hoodie | Crop Leggings | Edge Luxe Sneakers
Joggers are pretty much my mom uniform during fall and winter weekends, and they don’t come any softer than these! A great weight that hangs without pulling, a cropped length, and drawstring waist. Pair them with a jean jacket for cute street style, too.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS
Scoopneck Tee | Joggers | Swift Run Sneakers | Bar Necklace
Mom loves the thicker live-in joggers for cool mornings, with their soft lining that keeps her warm and comfy.
Fit Tip: She’s wearing a small
on me: Scoopneck Tee | Joggers | Swift Run Sneakers | Bar Necklace
on Mama Sugarplum: Scoopneck Tee | Live In Joggers | Edge Luxe Sneakers
I grabbed these running shorts last year, and they were easily one of my most-worn pair. Built-in undies with a comfy waistband, the length is just right for keeping your bum covered. I love the long line sports bra for pairing with high-rise leggings, too.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS in all the pieces.
Cropped Tank | Longline Sports Bra | Running Shorts | Swift Run Sneakers | Bar Necklace
Dresses //
There are tons of great dresses included this year, but I stuck to those that can be worn through several seasons… starting with this textured mini. I was instantly smitten with the puff shoulder and smocked sleeve, with a nice deep v-neck. It is a touch on the sheer side, so you’ll want a slip or boy short.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS
Long Sleeve Mini Dress | Block Heel Booties | Bar Necklace
This was my favorite dress online, and loved it just as much in person! The colors are so beautifully-Fall, and the ruffled trim and asymmetrical hem are so feminine and flattering. Pair it with heels for work or a dressy event, or even wedges in late summer. Add a moto jacket for a little edginess… it’s such a versatile dress!
Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 2
This classic dress is perfect for everything from work to cocktails to weddings. Made of a thick crepe, it has a flattering fit-and-flare shape, with waist-slimming ruching across the middle.
Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 0, but would prefer a 2.
Handbags //
Who doesn’t love handbags?! We found several styles we loved, but this classic Tory Burch was a fave for sure. But good luck choosing a color!
on me: Striped TB Crossbody Bag | Flutter Sleeve Dress (Use code SUGARPLUM15 to save 15%!) | Miller Sandals | Gold Bead Bracelets
On Mama SP: TB Crossbody Bag | Decked Out Day Dress (Use code SUGARPLUM15 to save 15%!)
Striped TP Crossbody Bag | TB Crossbody Bag
Shoes, Booties & Sneakers //
By far the department I did the most damage… I had the hardest time narrowing down my favorite shoe styles!! I love sneakers and loafers for easy Fall outfits, and these sneaks blew. me. away. Seriously the most comfy (but still stylish!) street sneaker I’ve ever worn.
And you probably noticed, these mules and this loafer were on repeat throughout the entire post! They go with everything, and are as comfy as they are cute!
As for booties, I tried several, but these were my hands-down fave for style and comfort.
Fit Tip: I found them all TTS, but would size up half in the Tory Burch sandal if you have a high arch.
Top: Sneakers | Chain Mules | Loafers
Middle: Block Heel Booties | Tory Burch Sneakers | Tory Burch Sandals
Bottom: Edge Luxe Sneakers | Swift Run Sneakers | Water Resistant High Top
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 got even more to show on Friday, when the NSale opens to all cardholders! Remember, if you aren’t able to shop just yet, you can save items to your personal Wish List for fast, easy shopping later.
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 Wednesday, lovebugs!
I’ll see you back here tomorrow with Mr. SP’s picks for men, and my kids are sharing their top picks for Teens. I even sweet-talked my assistant who’s a new mom to share her picks for babies and toddlers! But if you’re not interested in the Anniversary Sale this year, you might like my latest Amazon Haul HERE.
PS… Thank you so much for shopping my links when my posts are helpful! It’s how I’m able to keep HSP going and continue bringing you the best Sugarplum styles! Plus, it doesn’t cost you a penny!
[More NSale Guides]
Sugarplum Essentials (What I’m Shopping First)
Your 2020 Top Ten
Best of Women: Clothing
Best of Women: Shoes
Best of Intimates & Loungewear
Best of Outerwear & Activewear
Best of Home
Best of Beauty
Best of Gifts
Are there any low-rise jeans this year?
None that I’ve tried on yet!
So thrilled that you and Mama SP are back! Thank you for all of the amazing finds! ❤️
Hi Ashley!!! Trust me, we are too! So fun to hug her neck and spend the day together!! xo, C
Love it when Mama SP is in your posts! Helps us “older” ladies!!
She loves helping y’all out! We have so much fun together too! xo, C
I can’t wear high-rise or mid-rise jeans. Don’t have a Nordstrom near me, wish I did.
Hi Stacey!! The amazing thing about Nordstrom is their free shipping and returns! So you don’t need a local store close by to find your perfect pair of denim. You can search their denim listings by “rise” on the left of your screen, get a few different options and sizes, then return what doesn’t work for free! xo, C
Thanks, Cassie, for your hard work putting together this years best items. It’s just so frustrating to get excited about items to find out that they are already sold,out days before regular cardholders like myself get to shop. It feels like a big tease. Not cool, Nordstrom!
Ugh, I know, Terry! It’s hard to navigate this sale sometimes! I wish I had a magic inventory wand I could wave!!!! xo, C
What did mama SP think about the sizing on the Tory Burch sneakers? TB seems to run small…
Mama SP says they are true to size! xo, C
Just reporting in to let you know those luxe pajamas are AMAZING. They are so soft, I can’t get over it. So glad you recommended them, they’re perfect for our chilly San Diego summers!
Oh thank you, Lisa! So happy to hear reviews from you guys!!! xoxo, C