I Was a Nordstrom Buyer Who Worked the Anniversary Sale—These Items Are Best

As a former Nordstrom buyer, Susie Wright (the mastermind behind So Susie) worked the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale many times. For reference, this sale is the retailer's biggest of the year, with massive discounts on the most coveted brands and products. While there are thousands of standout buys, there are a few specific sale categories Wright thinks are worth checking out due to the discount potential and strong assortment of options.
Below you'll uncover the items Wright thinks are worth checking out in the sale. As a preview, there's everything from the coolest denim silhouettes to gorgeous sweaters and coats to prep that fall wardrobe to beautiful jewelry that will upgrade any look. Keep scrolling for more.
Denim
"Denim is always a great buy on the Anniversary Sale. The good news is that this year, the selection is really great. Since denim is truly the backbone of our wardrobes, investing in a few new styles can update all your outfits. So stock up. You'll be happy you did!" — Wright
Boots
"The boot selection on the Anniversary Sale is usually excellent. You'll always find a new trend that helps get you ready for the fall season ahead. I recommend buying early in the season in order to have a longer wearing time. Boots can be a great investment, so getting them on sale is a bonus." — Wright
Outerwear
"Coats are some of the very best items to consider purchasing during the Anniversary Sale. The prices are incredible, and there are always a few new styles and colors from which to choose. Coats tend to sell out pretty quickly, so if you find one you like, grab it immediately." — Wright
Jewelry
"A couple of years ago, I bought a beautiful necklace on the Anniversary Sale, and I've worn it almost every day since. This is a good time to treat yourself to a special piece of jewelry, ideally something you'll wear all the time." — Wright
Sweaters
"The Nordstrom sale is the perfect time to stock up on sweaters. There are so many styles and options, everything from cool cashmere to versatile cardigans to novelty pieces. All are perfect for work or casual. Stock up while the prices are low." — Wright
Workwear
"Many of us are still building our workwear wardrobes, and you'll find some great essentials on the Anniversary Sale. Think blazers, trousers, and silky blouses—all versatile and great for your off-duty outfits, too." — Wright

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent 10 years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises.
-
Whoa, Everything Is on Sale at Madewell Right Now—Some of These Chic Items Rarely Get Discounted
At 30% off, these are bound to sell out.
-
My Mom Only Shops Affordable Fashion—I Sent Her These 27 Chic Rich-Looking Pieces for Fall 2025
Everything is under $100.
-
Wait, J.Crew Is 30% Off Sitewide Right Now—These Are the Chic Fall Pieces in My Cart
The fall 2025 collection is so good.
-
I'm a Former Nordstrom Buyer—These Are the 8 Fall Trends I Care About, Period
From an It jacket silhouette to a cool denim cut.
-
It's the Last Chance to Shop Reformation's Sale—Up to 70% Off
It's selling out fast.
-
Minimalism With a Side of Trend-Forward Chicness Is My Fall Vibe—These 32 Nordstrom Items Will Elevate a Closet
Chic. Period.
-
If Looking Stylish Is the Goal, These Affordable Nordstrom Fall Items Are It
Expensive-looking jackets, sweaters, and more.
-
The Refined Edit: 32 Luxury Finds on Sale at Saks
Starting at just $58.