Best Deals from the 2020 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (And How to Get Early Access!)

The 2020 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is THE BEST time to get incredible deals on the wardrobe staples you love at a fraction of retail price. Here’s how to get early access to the Nordstrom sale along with the best deals on clothing, handbags, shoes, boots, accessories, kids, home and more.

Use our free Capsule Wardrobe printable checklist to build your ultimate wardrobe piece-by-piece during the Nordstrom Anniversary sale!

Each year, I look forward to scooping up my entire fall and winter wardrobe at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. It’s when some of their most popular brands go on SUPER sale, whether it’s on stock-up basics like tees and jeans to high-end splurges like luxury handbags. We’re talking savings in the hundreds of dollars range, especially with Nordstrom’s famous FREE SHIPPING and FREE RETURNS.

This year more than ever, free shipping and free returns are SO appreciated.

With world events making 2020 a complete freefall (I’ll say that instead of what it really is, which is not appropriate for all audiences), I know luxury goods aren’t high on the list for most people. But high-quality, specially priced core wardrobe staples can be found throughout Nordstrom’s offerings this year– YAY!

this pic is from a previous Nordstrom sale, I still have and love all these pieces

I’m so much more into QUALITY over QUANTITY during this season of life. I’d rather spend my clothing budget on classic pieces that last, not fast fashion that’s damaging to the environment. While this year’s Anniversary Sale doesn’t seem to have as much variety as previous years, there’s still a lot to get excited for and I’m sharing all my favorites in this one big epic post!

And for those of you who love decorating as much as I do, during last year’s sale I bought several items for my home that I still love, and I think that’s key– if you see it and love it, it’s worth the price.

I get asked about this pink vase a lot– it’s from a previous Nordstrom Sale!

This year, Nordstrom added a new feature– the Wishlist! You can add items to your wishlist starting NOW, so that when the sale starts you can check out quickly.

Pro Tip: If you see anything you like in this post, after you click on it be sure to click ‘add to wishlist’ so you can grab it as soon as the sale opens!

How do you get early access to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale?

The key to early access is to have the Nordstrom card-– it’s free to enroll and unlocks early access on August 13th for ALL cardmembers (having the card starts you at the Insider level). Nordstrom opens the sale in stages, giving the earliest access to different tiers on their credit card. The sale won’t open to the public until August 19th, often times with depleted inventory unfortunately. You will want to get in early to have the best chance at getting what you want, so the card is key!

PLUS, if you have the card you can unlock your Double Points Day and earn points towards Nordstrom Notes.

If you open a new Nordstrom Card through August 18th, they’re gifting you $60 NORDSTROM BONUS NOTES! SCORE!

How do I get the best deals at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale?

First, read this post (wink!) and add everything you want to your Wishlist. This will make checking out super fast and easy so you don’t miss out on the items you most want.

Shop as soon as your level opens, and if you’re unsure on sizing then get both sizes (FREE shipping, FREE returns for the win!) Otherwise the size you need may sell out if you accidentally order the wrong size.

If something goes out of stock, don’t lose hope! Nordstrom restocks and adds more inventory as different tiers are opened and things get returned, which is why your Wish List is so key. Check several times a day if something you really want is out of stock, you may be surprised!

Another thing: keep your core values and needs in mind. I’m going to be staying home a lot this year, so my focus is on comfy leggings, cozy cardigans and classic pieces like this handbag. I’m adding in a few cute tops and earrings for Zoom calls too. Shop what works best for your lifestyle.

And don’t forget the gifts! There’s lots of great finds UNDER $50 which will be so appreciated once the holidays roll around.

EDITED TO ADD on 8/13: Items are going FAST, and I know it’s disappointing! If an item you love is sold out, keep checking back because hopefully there will be restocks as each level of the sale opens and as items are returned. Here’s a few additional items that are still in stock as of this morning:

Caslon Open Front Cardigan, comes in tons of different colors and will keep you warm this fall and winter

This 1.State Blouse has 3 color options and paired with a pretty necklace is Zoom meeting ready!

A Flutter Sleeve Mock Neck Blouse that’s perfect for summer and then layering in the fall and winter.

This Treasure and Bond Curved Hem Tee comes in 3 neutral colors, great for layering and the back is long enough for wearing with leggings.

Vince Camuto Boots in leather complete the look.

Our Favorite Deals at the 2020 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Tanks, Short Sleeve Tops + Tees

With Zoom meetings making pants optional (haha, just kidding, but leggings now count as workwear if you’re on Zoom) the focus is on tops. I’ve always concentrated my buying on tops because you can mix and match them with a great pair of jeans. Here’s what I’m eyeing this year:

This V-neck print blouse and this sleeveless satin blouse can be worn now (YAY!) or as a gorgeous layer when fall arrives.

I’m scooping up this Leopard Print Flutter Sleeve if it’s still in stock, what a pretty top!

This Favorite Daughter tee is super popular and would make a funny statement if subtly worn at family gatherings.

If there’s a message that needs to be spread right now, it’s the one on this $18 tshirt. Wear your positivity on your sleeve… er, chest.

Shop Short Sleeve Tops and Tees

Long Sleeve Tops, Blouses, + Sweaters

This classic shirt is stunning in person, looks great paired with jeans and a leather bag. Adding to cart ASAP.

The snap closures on the side elevate this tunic sweater. Looks great with jeans or leggings.

If you love chunky sweaters, this Free People sweater comes in several colors and is going to fly off the shelves when the sale opens.

Bring the RRRRAWRRRR to your Zoom meetings in this stylish leopard blouse that’s $40 off retail.

If comfort is on your mind, this Indoorsy sweatshirt is on point for the times.

Treasure & Bond Crewneck Pullovers are another basic staple that you can stock up on in various colors for $30 OFF regular retail.

Madewell never seems to fit right on my body, but I know many people love this brand– in which case, these waffle knit sweaters should be on your radar.

Shop Long Sleeve Tops, Blouses + Sweaters

Cardigans

Cardigans always steal the show at the Nordstrom sale. Probably because they’re perfect for layering and elevate jeans and tees to another level. This year, I predict they’ll go super fast because everyone is looking for soft, comfortable items to work from home, teach from home, or just… literally pretty much do everyone from home.

The Barefoot Dreams cardigans are famous for a reason. They feel like butter and act like a hug. Just when I think I don’t need one more flipping cardigan, they come out with one in a new pattern, length or color and I click ‘ADD TO CART’ because seriously they’re that good. They make perfect gifts as well. Here’s a few favorites:

• This leopard cardigan will look great with a white tee and jeans.
• The Lite long version is an awesome length, especially with leggings
• The Lite Circle cardigan is one you can wear around the house from morning ’til night and still look super cute.
• don’t forget the blankets— they’re always the first to get claimed any time we’re on the couch!

This Leith cardigan has Dolman sleeves and looks perfect for summer and going in and out of AC because it has short sleeves.

Shop Cardigans

Jeans + Pants

If you’ve seen me in the past year, I’ve probably been wearing these jeans. They’re my absolute favorite, and the price is great so I’m getting another pair!

These Ab-Solution jeans are highly rated and only $44 during the sale. I’m going to order a few because I’m not sure what size I am in this brand, so with free shipping and free returns I want to play it safe.

I’ve purchased these Paige jeans in previous sales and they’ve held up really well. They’re always super popular during the sale because at $149 they’re $80 off of regular price!

If this sale had a HALL OF FAME, these Spanx Faux Leather Leggings would be in it for sure. They are super comfortable and go with almost everything, plus this is the lowest price I’ve seen on these.

Shop Jeans + Pants

Activewear + Athleisure

The Real MVP of the Nordstrom Sale every year are the Zella leggings. I get several every year and wear them pretty much every day. The cropped Zella lite leggings are part of my summer uniform, paired with a black (Zella) tank. My friends who’ve seen my this summer (socially distanced) are nodding their heads right now, I wear this uniform 5 days out of the week LOL!

With fall and winter (and COMFORT) in mind, I’m getting as many of these high-waist Zella leggings and high-waist 7/8 leggings as I can. I already own several pairs and they hold up really well and are super flattering.

I’m thinking this long sleeved top with THUMB HOLES (my favorite!) will be part of my fall uniform this year.

Every year I add a pair of these pajamas to my cart and it’s such a treat.

Shop Athleisure + Activewear

Shoes + Sneakers

Officially OBSESSED with these Caslon sneakers for $49 ($50 off retail price!) Not sure if I want the black, tan, leopard… or all three.

Slip on sneakers? Yes please. These come in black, pink, and snake print.

Fleece-lined socks from UGG for the WIN. And get a few because they’ll make great gifts too.

I love me a retro sneaker, and these Nike Blazer Low SEs are HOT!

These Steve Madden sneakers in camo are a favorite and I predict will be bestsellers.

So these Adidas sneakers sold out SO FAST last year I couldn’t get a pair even on the first day of the sale. I’ve added them in every color to my Wish List in the hopes I can snag a pair.

An off-the-shoulder sweater for $32 will be a big seller I’m sure. Wear it with a strapless bra or cute bralette underneath.

Shop Shoes + Sneakers

Boots + Booties

Mark my words, these versatile Vince Camuto Booties WILL sell out of popular sizes and colors!

Ohhhh… High Gloss Quilted Hunter boots for $65 OFF of regular retail, so good.

Always popular are Vince boots and these are no exception. Get ’em while they’re hot at $90 off retail!!

Shop Boots + Booties

Outerwear

One of my favorite buys of years past was a winter coat that was about $100 off. This year, this Patagonia Water Repellent Thermogreen jacket is a fantastic deal, as is this stylish raincoat and this North Face for under $100!

A reversible bomber jacket for under $100, yay! I love it in the camo/ink colorway.

Shop Outerwear

Handbags

My power of prediction is guessing this Madewell handbag will be the big seller this year, so snag it day 1 of the sale! It’s classic with a twist and I know I’m not the only one totally obsessed with it.

If you’re on the lookout for a Tory Burch bag but need a lower price point, this stylish crossbody checks all the boxes. I adore it! These cute TB stud earrings are also a great price compared to regular retail.

Another well priced handbag is this Kate Spade tote that’s $120 OFF of retail price! The Kate Spade initial necklaces are also a great price and perfect for gift giving.

The biggest savings are on handbags, this Coach bag is almost $200 off it’s regular price.

This versatile Tumi nylon tote is packable, which is perfect for stashing in luggage when we can start traveling again!

Shop Handbags

Jewelry + Accessories

My Gorjana necklace from last year’s sale that I totally adored got lost in Raleigh somewhere, so I’m eyeing either this starry version or this Gorjana one as well.

Adorable fringe earrings for jazzing up any outfit.

Wool Fedoras are all the rage, this one is only $38 and super on trend.

Speaking of on-trend, so are small hoop earrings like these Crystal Huggie Hoop Earrings that I plan to grab.

Scarves are not only a wonderful accessory but helpful this year due to current circumstances. There’s only a few in the sale this year, but I’m loving this pretty oversized one.

Shop Jewelry + Accessories

Kids

Kids Outerwear: This sale is when we snap up North Face and Patagonia jackets for the kids. Not only are these jackets warm and comfy, but they’re not bulky and last FOREVA. There’s quilted jackets that are water resistant and also NanoPuff jackets that are insulated. This packable North Face jacket has a hood or for more temperate climates they’ll love these hooded North Face rain jackets. This toddler jacket is only $38, a steal for North Face!

My daughter only wants to wear ‘sporty clothes’ and shorts, so we invest in a few great pairs of leggings like these from Zella Girl and she’s happy all winter long.

As for boys, are your sons in an Under Armor stage too? We’ll be getting several pairs of these UA Knit Shorts for sure. This raglan style long sleeved tee is only $11.90, so we’ll be stocking up!

Shop Kids

Home

These super soft Bliss blankets are such a great price point at $24, do yourself a favor and get a few for yourself and gift-giving too.

Blush Stemless Wine Glasses look gorgeous and chic. They make an appreciated gift as well.

We got this shower curtain for my daughter’s bathroom last year but in a different colorway and I seriously LOVE it. It’s so fresh and chic.

PLUG IN WALL DIFFUSER. Y’all know how much I love my essential oils! I love this diffuser and it’s super pretty as well.

You rarely see Hydroflasks on sale, so this limited edition Hydroflask is a good deal (and I know I sound like a broken record, but hellllllo gift idea!)

Shop Home

Shop all my favorite picks from the 2020 Nordstrom Sale below!

I appreciate so much that you’ve taken the time to go through this monster of a post. It takes a huge amount of time to put it all together, and each year it’s a labor of love. Each purchase you make through my links supports this blog with NO extra charge to you, please know how much it means when you shop through my links.

Can’t wait to hear what you loved and bought from this sale, it makes narrowing my picks each year super helpful.

Happy Shopping at the 2020 Nordstrom sale, and let me know what great deals you got!