Is the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Worth It in 2025?

How can one NOT check out the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale? Every influencer is promoting it, and it's all over the site if you visit Nordstrom. But is the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale worth it? I wanted to round up what I think are the best picks from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale from my perspective.

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale starts July 12, 2025, for everyone, and Nordstrom Cardholders get to shop early starting July 10th. You can begin a “wish list” now so you don't have to waste time when the sale starts to peruse the offerings. Do know, items sell out fast, so making a wish list, checking the offerings now, and shopping early is the key to getting what you want.

Is the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Worth It in 2025?

I originally wrote this post in 2020, but I update it each year of the sale. And I have seen a marked change in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale over the past five years. This post and its content adjust, and as you know, I always keep it real and care more about your trust than a commission (this article goes into how blogs, influencers, and websites make money).

So I went through the 2025 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. focusing on the Women's department and anything considered “unisex,” such as beauty and home goods.

I saw a lot of what I saw last year: similar products, the same brands, and the same sneaky way they offer such a “sale.” A lot of the items are not the typical pieces those brands carry. You will not seed those same exact pieces anywhere else because they are essentially “factory” pieces crafted specifically for the sale.

Outlet and factory stores may carry items with the same designer label, but they are crafted with less expensive fabrics and notions, use simpler patterns and designs, and have fewer details. Outlet and factory apparel are the “basic” versions of the original; they're exciting because they carry the label of a brand you love and have the same general aesthetic and vibe, but they are not the same caliber. And that is primarily what you find in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.

Proof of Lower Quality Products Made for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Let's use this Lauren Ralph Lauren belted wool blend wrap coat that is in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. I love Lauren Ralph Lauren. I find the quality in general quite good, and the fit works well for my soft, curvy frame. This coat is on sale $239.99 during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and after the sale, it will be $370.

However, it looks like a similar coat is available at Macy's for $500. How is Nordstrom not only selling this coat for almost 50% off in the sale, but after the sale, it's still $130 less? Let's break it down:

• The Nordstrom sale coat is 61% wool, 24% polyester, 10% rayon, 5% other fibers; the Macy's one is 70% wool, 20% nylon, 10% cashmere. With that high content of polyester, nylon, and “other fibers,” you won't get as much warmth, and you will be more likely to experience pilling.
• The Nordstrom sale coat has welt pockets and plain cuffs, the Macy's one has patch pockets and folded cuffs. It may seem that a welt pocket is fancier, but those pockets can be made with the polyester lining fabric, while the folded cuffs and patch pockets are made with the more expensive wool/cashmere blend fabric.
• The Nordstrom sale coat claims it is “lined,” but we don't know how much and where. Not even the detail video shows us enough of the interior to see if the lining is full length or includes the sleeves. The Macy's coat says it is fully lined, which means sleeves and from collar to hem.
• The Nordstrom sale coat is 52″ long, and the Macy's coat details share that the size 6 version of this coat is 42″ body length. The Macy's coat states it should hit below the knee, the Nordstrom sale coat product video says it's around ankle length. Usually, length costs money but also having one length for all sizes costs less to produce than adjusting the length for each clothing size.

Why would Lauren Ralph Lauren craft two coats that are so darn similar? Because one is typical LRL quality and design, and one is a “factory” piece designed just for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. So is this really a good deal?

Not All Sale Items Are Cheaper Alternatives

That being said, not every item in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is a factory alternative. Also in the NSale are these Spanx wide-leg pull-on jeans, available in the wash, Authentic Blue. During the sale, these jeans are $98.99, and after the sale, they will be $148. They are available in regular and petite lengths.

These same exact jeans are available on the Spanx website for $148. Same wash, same design, same fabric composition. The Spanx site may have a better size range, additional colors, and tall lengths, but if you are a regular or petite size available at Nordstrom and you can benefit from having these jeans in your closet, they are a good buy from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.

And speaking of Spanx, during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, there are also the Everywhere Flare jeans in Authentic Blue wash, which are identical to the ones on the Spanx site. Additionally, Spanx offers The Perfect cropped wide-leg ponte pants, which are the same item as on the Spanx site.

That being said… I would not be surprised if Spanx discontinues these washes or pieces. There is a reason why only one color or style is in the sale. However, I think all three Spanx pieces, if your style and you like the fit, are good buys and will remain enjoyable and stylish wears for seasons to come.

So yes, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is worth it… if you're willing to do a little research. Don't be swayed by influencers grinning in mirror selfies talking about buttery soft fabrics and amazing prices. Look at fabric content, read reviews, and hit that search engine to look to see if the same item is available for more, or if this is just a cheaper “factory” version to lure you into making a mediocre buy.

If you do plan to peruse the sale, I highly recommend using my tips to shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. However, I also did some leg work and below I share my picks from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale that look as though they're a good buy.

My Picks from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: 2025 Edition

Below I share my picks from the 2025 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. As always, I want to hear from you! If you have some great picks you bought or have on your wish list for this sale, please share in the comments!

The Best Denim Buys in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Denim is worth scoping out during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. However, I recommend sticking to silhouettes you know you like and will wear. Do not try a trend from sale merch; it's a good chance that novelty denim will be considered passé by October.

• Madewell Perfect Wide Leg Jeans: While this wash is not currently available at Madewell, this style is and at the full price.
• Pistola Lana High Waist Wide Leg Jeans: I checked Pistola and again, this wash isn't available but the style is and for the full price.
• Rag & Bone Harlow Mid Rise Straight Leg Jeans: This jean is on sale everywhere at a range of prices and the NSale isn't the lowest price. But this is a popular and classic jean and if you can't find your size elsewhere and know you love these, it's worth checking out. Just use a search engine, copying the title above and seeing if you can find for less elsewhere first.
• AG Brinley Mid Rise Classic Straight Leg Jeans: Again, on sale everywhere so search engine these before committing to the Nordstrom sale price.
• NYDJ Marilyn High Waist Straight Leg Jeans: I have been buying the “Marilyn” from NYDJ for over 20 years. It's a classic, though, check the NYDJ site first, as when I wrote this, they had some Marilyns for sale under $60, which is better than the Nordstrom sale.
• NYDJ Teresa Wide Leg Jeans (link for plus): Same thing, check the NYDJ site first, but if you love NYDJ and you love this color and style, it may be a great buy.
• Wit & Wisdom Sam High Waist Wide Leg Jeans (link for plus): Like NYDJ, Wit & Wisdom has a cult following for comfort and fit. I checked the W&W site, and this style is still available for sale at full price, so if you like a wide leg, it could be a good buy.
• Wit & Wisdom Sawyer Straight Leg Jeans (link for plus): Again, this style is still full price on the W&W site and less than $50 during the Nordstrom sale.

I personally am steering clear of cuffs, barrels, kick flares, front patch pockets, slits in flares, extreme high or low rises, frayed hems, extreme flares or wide legs, and any distressing or embellishment. With fall around the corner, I also think that cropped styles should be carefully considered before adding them to your virtual shopping cart.

Best Beauty Buys in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

The best way to save on beauty is to stop buying what you don't need. You are a grown-ass woman and likely already know what shampoo, face wash, and hairdryer work for you. Most of the beauty deals are bundles, which means they're the best deal for existing product fans.

And those tech devices? You can find just as good for less, or this same price on the same or similar product, other times of the year at other great retailers like Sephora, Ulta, and Dermstore. This is not the time to buy a $300 hair dryer, a red light face mask, or face care device unless you have already done the homework, know you want it, and know this sale is the best price.

Looking at the previous year Nordstrom sale analytics for Wardrobe Oxygen and sharing what I personally own and recommend, these are the beauty buys I think could be worth checking out:

• If you use Clinique, Kiehl's, Augustinus Bader, or La Mer, this is a good sale for stocking up. I've linked to the brand pages where you can see all the Nordstrom Sale prices, plus other beauty deals available.
• This link goes to all the fragrance in the Nordstrom sale; if you already have a favorite fragrance, this is a great time to get bundles with travel sizes, lotions, and extra-large bottles.
• There are also trial sizes and gift sets for trendy brands like BYREDO, Le Labo, Maison Margiela, and Killian in this sale, so you can use this sale to try some new scents, or shop ahead for the holidays to break them into stocking stuffers for teens, college kids, and your friends.
• I like Supergoop sunscreen, and if you do too, this set has their fan favorite Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 daily facial moisturizer and a super convenient SPF 40 facial stick for a nice price. I own and like both, and I keep the stick in my purse for on-the-go SPF touch-ups. If you like the body sunscreen, here is a 3-pack that's $23 cheaper than buying the bottles individually.
• I'm currently trying Thrive Causmetics' lash serum, and it works, but it's not as powerful as Grande Cosmetics. Each Nordstrom sale, I buy whatever set Grande offers, and this year, it's a mini brow serum, mini lash serum, and a mascara with growth serum built in. I'm buying this kit to have it at the ready when my Thrive tube is empty.
  • FYI, while grown women may deal with thinning brows and lashes, this product is also popular with younger generations. My teen uses it as do many of her friends, and it has become more popular than false lashes or extensions with her generation. You can buy in advance for a holiday gift (keep the brow serum for yourself and give them the mascara and/or lash serum!).
• For those who love ILIA cosmetics, who like a no-makeup makeup look, want super subtle makeup just for special occasions, or want to know what makeup is a good buy for a tween or teen… consider this kit. The mascara alone is quite popular, but the multi-stick is a great way to add color to cheeks, lids, even lips. And the crayon is a lip liner and also a matte lipcolor all in relatively neutral multi skintone-friendly colors.
• Another good set of products for self or another is this kit from L'Occitane. Small hand cream, larger hand cream, and a cuticle oil. Great to break up into smaller gifts and also a great gift for teachers. I think this is one of the best hand creams on the market.
• If you like Elemis cleansing balm, this is a good price on a big jar. Don't buy it if you haven't tried it before; it makes more sense to buy the small jar on the Elemis site or one of the Elemis kits.

The rest is… fine. Good deals, but for those who already use the products. If you don't already own a hair tool that costs hundreds of dollars you don't need one now. I've been using my Hot Tools dryer for years with great success. The red light masks in the sale aren't powerful enough to see great results; save your money. Don't shop just to shop, especially when it comes to beauty.

The Best Shoe Buys in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

I don't think it makes sense to buy shoes during this sale unless, A) you already know the brand and need a new pair, or B) you are already in need for that same concept/style of shoe and the price makes it a better choice than the same concept you saw at another retailer.

This is not the sale to buy a trendy shoe; there are trendy shoes in the sale but I feel most are on their way out, not new or classic. Shoes are also another category where you will find “factory” versions to offer at appealing prices. Therefore, my picks are more minimal:

• Dingo Hensley Western Boot: This boot is for sale at a range of retailers, but the Nordstrom sale price is one of the lowest I've seen. Good price for a decent quality western boot that is simple enough to remain in your closet for years after the current trend.
• PAIGE Ansley Kitten Heel Knee High Boot: This is the lowest price I've seen for this highly-rated tall boot. The boot is discontinued by PAIGE but that doesn't mean this isn't a beautiful, classic boot. FYI, Revolve says this boot has a 15″ shaft circumference.
• Blondo Camrin Waterproof Boot: I think this is a “factory” boot as it's not listed on the Blondo site and not sold anywhere but Nordstrom. However, I have bought Blondo during the Nordstrom sale and found the quality equal to the non-sale price. And a waterproof knee-high boot with a walkable heel height and a style that goes with dresses and over jeans is a sound purchase if they're comfortable. However, note these have a 14″ shaft so they're for the narrow-calved.
• Running Sneakers: There is a lot of On Running and HOKA in the Nordstrom sale, and they are popular styles that are likely colors that will be replaced in a season or two. Who cares, they're good shoes at great prices! On Cloud 5, Cloudswift 3, and Cloud 5 Coast, and the HOKA Bondi 8 are included, but look at the sneaker selection to see if other styles may be better for you.

Shoes are personal. There are a lot of ankle and knee-high boots in this sale, lots of pumps and Mary Janes, flats and loafers, with most styles looking great for work. If you're looking for such shoes, check out the selection, but first narrow by size and price point.

Tip: Last Nordstrom sale, I bought a pair of Birkenstock Arizona sandals. They were “factory” quality. The straps stiffer, the sole not quite the same, and they stained my feet the color of the straps. I love me some Birks, but I cannot in good conscience recommend you buy them during this sale.

Best Accessories in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

I didn't see any accessories that blew me away, but there were some fun pieces. I made a collage and linked below, but if none of these look like they need to be in your wardrobe, keep scrolling.

woven bag | sunglasses | bracelet | ring | beaded necklace | scarf | handbag | hoops | leopard bag | brown necklace | tote | cap | belt | clutch

I didn't see any laptop bags, I've heard the Away bags are “factory” level (so might as well get the Quince suitcase), no winter accessories to buy in advance, most of the belts all look “factory” too, or of weird colors/fabrics.

Best Hoisery, Bras, Undies, and Sleepwear in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

When it comes to bras in the sale, the selection is either “factory” or colors that are being discontinued. It's hard to tell which is which, but I know in previous years folks have said the Natori “Feathers” bra and the Chantelle “Rive Gauche” don't seem as high of quality as they are other times of the year.

Regarding sleepwear and loungewear, I have heard the same regarding the Barefoot Dreams pieces. But two brands I have had success with Nordstrom Sale after Nordstrom Sale is Hanky Panky and Bombas. Each NSale I stock up on both and I have never been disappointed.

• The Lightweight Bombas no-show socks are some of my favorite no-show socks. They stay up, they don't show, and they wash well. Here is a single pair in black and here are single pairs in colors if you wish to try out; here is a 3-pack of neutrals, and here is a 3-pack of colors.
• When it comes to Hanky Panky, I like the Retro V-kini, which isn't too high rise but doesn't roll down, doesn't ride up in back, and they look pretty too. I haven't tried the leakproof undies from the Hanky Panky x Saalt collab, but I may order a pair during the sale as I trust both brands.
• Many of you have told me that you stock up on the Chantelle Soft Stretch High Waist Briefs and Soft Stretch Bikinis every Nordstrom Sale. I haven't tried them myself (I'm a Soma Vanishing girl myself) but they seem to be a reliable quality buy.

Best Women's Fashion in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

This is the category of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale where I think you can go a bit wild. Have fun with styles and colors, try designer brands for less, add a statement piece to your closet. A few collages of inspiration with all pieces in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale:

tote | cerulean dress | black dress | blazer | print shell | cerulean top | black top | royal blouse | black pants | cerulean pants | cerulean coat | royal sweater | print cardigan | cerulean sweater | black shoes | black boots

leather shirt jacket | cow print jacket | camel jacket | belt | scarf | lace-up top | tan shell | dress | leopard shoes | clutch | boots | leather skirt | pants | jeans | cardigan | sweater | sweatshirt | sunglasses | bag

Best Outerwear in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Honestly? The outerwear is the best part of this sale. There are so many and it's so good I need to make it a separate article. This one is long enough, especially since I started it by saying this sale isn't worth your time!

But I hope this novel helps you better break down the sale, make better decisions on what to buy and what to skip, and see the sale in a different and smarter light.