Muscle Memory is a Real Thing
After many years of working at Nordstrom as a stylist, my body knows it is time for the Anniversary Sale. In May, I start thinking about it. In June I am in planning mode and excited to see the new merchandise. This year is no different. Fourteen years of this sale have taught me exactly what to look for. And I am bringing it all here.
The 2026 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is one of the most anticipated shopping events of the summer, and your chance to shop brand-new fall merchandise at 30 to 40 percent off before the season even starts. All new merchandise for the entire family.
Keep reading for the key dates, shopping tips, and best practices to help you get the pieces you are most excited about.
The Catalog Preview
The 2026 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale preview drops July 6 at noon EST. Browse through it and start building your wish list before your shopping day arrives.
I will be in San Diego on July 6 to see the Anniversary Sale merchandise in person and try things on. I will share everything with you as it happens, so check back here and on Instagram.
1. Know Your Shopping Day
Your shopping date depends on your Nordy Club level, which is tied to your Nordstrom card status. Only cardholders may shop the Anniversary Sale during Early Access.
Icons shop July 14. Ambassadors shop on July 15. Influencers shop on July 16. Everyone can shop starting July 18 using any payment method.
Not sure what level you are? Check your Nordstrom account. No card yet? You can apply online here.
A tip I give everyone: mark your shopping day on your calendar and set a reminder for 11:30 PM the night before. That gives you time to have your wish list open and ready. The sale opens at 12:01 AM Eastern Time, and the good stuff goes fast.
There will be many orders placed during the sale, and you want yours to be a priority. One way to do that is to pay for overnight shipping. Many shoppers are using this strategy now to get their orders filled faster. Buy online, pick up in store is another option worth considering. I will keep an eye on this and update you as we get into the sale.
2. Follow Me on Instagram, LTK, and the Blog
Farm Rio Top | Reformation Skirt | Marc Jacobs Tote | Vince Flip Flops
This is where I do the work for you. I share new content several times a day on Instagram, especially in Stories, on the LTK app, and right here on the blog. My picks are organized by category so you can shop easily and build your wish list without the overwhelm.
LTK Tip: Tap the bell icon in the top-right corner of your LTK shop to turn on post notifications.
Find me at @stylishsandy on both Instagram and LTK.
3. How to Shop With Me
Here is one thing I want you to know, because I think honesty matters.
The way affiliate shopping works is that the last link you shop through before checking out is the one that receives credit. So if you shop my links, then visit another creator’s page and check out from there, they receive the credit for everything in that cart, including the items you found through me.
I am not asking you to shop exclusively through my links. I just want you to understand how the system works so you can make your own choice. If my recommendations have been helpful, shopping and checking out through my links is the best way to support the work I put into this content.
This part matters:
Here is how it works. Tap on any StylishSandy link in my LTK shop, Instagram Stories, or the blog. That tap opens Nordstrom. Everything in your Nordstrom wish list and shopping cart is right there waiting for you. Shop for anything you want. It does not have to be the item you tapped on. Add what you love to your cart and check out as you normally would. The price is the same. The checkout is the same. Returns work the same way. Nothing changes on your end.
Thank you.
Categories I Recommend Shopping
Merchandise for the entire family is included in the sale. Nordstrom buys limited quantities, especially in the luxury and higher-end categories. When something is gone, it is gone. That said, items do get returned, and I am a pro at finding sold-out items. We will talk more about that as we get into the sale. I will be adding my top picks to Instagram Stories, my LTK shop, and right here on the blog as the sale gets closer.
Here is where I always start, and the order matters:
1. Denim. This was the biggest category last year, and it will be again. Premium denim sells out fast. This is your first stop on your shopping day. Do not wait. If you are unsure about sizing, order two sizes and return the one that does not fit as soon as it arrives.
2. Luxury and Higher End Pieces. In past years, Lafayette, Vince, L’Agence, Veronica Beard, Cinq à Sept, and Rag and Bone have been included in the sale. They come in limited quantities. If you see something you love, order it immediately. The same goes for fine jewelry. Designers like Bony Levy are included in the sale. If you have been eyeing diamonds or anything in that category, the Anniversary Sale is one of the very few times you will find them at a reduced price. When you see it, get it.
3. Coats. Always a big seller. A great coat is a year-long investment, and this is the best time to buy one. Max Mara has been included in the sale, and they make beautiful cashmere coats. If you have ever wanted a Max Mara coat, this is your opportunity.
4. Boots and Shoes. A popular item to order for the whole family.
5. Sweaters and Cardigans. Look for cashmere and wardrobe basics.
6. Lingerie. A great time to stock up on bras and underwear. And do not overlook the lingerie wash. It is a favorite for so many and a great item to pick up during the sale.
7. Beauty. There are many beauty sets available during the sale. Perfume sets, cosmetic sets, skincare kits. It is a great time to try something new or tuck a few things away.
8. Accessories and Jewelry. A great time to pick up pieces you will wear for years.
9. Activewear. This is the time to get your workout gear. Zella, Nordstrom’s own activewear line, is always well represented and worth a look.
10. Home. Nordstrom carries beautiful sheets, bedding, and towels during the sale. The sheets and towels are a favorite in my family.
A Smart Way to Shop the Sale: Holiday Gifting
Here is something I do every year with my clients that I want to share with you.
The Anniversary Sale happens in July, which puts you right in the middle of summer. But it is also one of the best times to get a head start on holiday gifts. I have clients who shop the jewelry and beauty sections specifically with the holidays in mind. We pick out pieces together during the sale and put them away until the time is right.
Fine jewelry from designers like Bony Levy. Beauty sets that feel luxurious and generous. These make wonderful gifts, and by the time the holidays arrive, it is already done. You paid sale prices in July.
4. Use a Personal Double Points Day
If you are a Nordstrom cardholder, use one of your Personal Double Points Days during the Anniversary Sale. You will earn extra Notes to use on future purchases.
5. Shop Two or Three Times
Start with your must-haves and order them as soon as you can. Later, go back and shop for items that don’t sell out as quickly. I usually go back and order items for my husband, the grandkids, or my linens. The sale runs through August 9, so you have time.
6. Pick Something Special for Yourself
This is the time to try a brand or item you have always wanted, now at a lower price. A piece of jewelry, something that elevates everything you wear. Each year, I pick one piece of jewelry to add to my collection. It does not have to be extravagant. It just has to feel special.
7. Sold Out Does Not Always Mean Gone
Nordstrom purchases a limited amount of each item for the sale, and many of us want the same pieces. Things sell out quickly, and sometimes even if you place an order, it may be canceled if the item runs out of stock.
Do not worry. Returns happen every day, and your size might become available again.
When I worked at Nordstrom, I was always amazed by the pieces I could track down for clients, even well into the sale. I am still very good at finding things. Watch my Instagram Stories and make sure post notifications are turned on in my LTK shop at @stylishsandy so you do not miss it.
Have questions? I am happy to help. Reach me on Instagram, LTK, or in the comments below.
Thank you for reading, and happy anniversary.
In case you missed it: Previous post-summer sandal edit
xo Sandy