Wardrobe Refresh: 13 Must-Have Basics from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2023

The other day, I was going through my daughter’s closet, and it hit me – as a new mom, she was missing some solid essentials to create everyday outfits. Don’t worry, we refreshed her wardrobe, and it’s back in top form. 🙂 But it got me thinking, how many of us need to refresh the basic items in our closets? So, with the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale underway, it’s a perfect time to share the 13 must-have essentials that belong in everyone’s wardrobe.While most hot items from the Anniversary sale are already sold out, I scoured the website and found stylish basics still available. So, take a look and have fun shopping!

1. White T-Shirt

A white T-shirt is an item I’m sure you wear often, so it’s nice to have a variety so you can rotate them. The v-neck on the left is by Caslon and is on the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. My favorite style on the right is the ATM Schoolboy T-shirt (not on sale). It’s a splurge, but you will wear it often, so consider it price-per-wear. Look at the Madewell whisper tee here and here. These fit well and are nice-looking.

Caslon V-neck | ATM Schoolboy T-Shirt

2. White Button-Up Shirt

Cotton button-up shirts are timeless and effortless. The shirts below are both on the Anniversary Sale. I’m wearing the Nordstrom Poplin shirt in the photo, and the shirt on the right is by Lafayette 148. It’s a splurge item, but the fabric is beautiful. Try adding a striped blouse or adding a color or plaid.

Nordstrom Poplin Shirt | Nordstrom Trousers | Vince Pia | Mersea Basket | Stripe Sweater

A few additional button-up shirts.

Nordstrom Button-up | Treasure & Bond Shirt | Rails Shirt

3. Black Dress

The essential little black dress should have a place in everyone’s wardrobe. It’s the dress that’s perfect for any occasion. Here are three black dresses I’m excited about. The knit dress by Vince is so versatile and easy to style. Pair it with flat boots and a blazer, or style it with a denim or leather jacket and some trendy western boots for a fun twist. The possibilities are endless! The Vince satin slipdress( regular price) is a classic style that is timeless, versatile, and a perfect dress to pack on a trip. I always wear the Wacoal Red Carpet Bra with this dress, plus it’s also on the Anniversary Sale. Lastly, the black ALC Renzo (regular price) is a timeless dress to have on hand to wear for cocktail parties, and black-tie events. I also wore it to a wedding where the bride approved the color!:)

Tuckernuck Sleeveless Chamberlain Dress| Vince Pia

Vince Sleeveless Mock Turtleneck | ALC Renzo Dress | Vince Satin Slip Dress

4. Blazer

The blazer completes any stylish look. Whether wearing jeans and a t-shirt, a dress, or a skirt, adding a blazer elevates your outfit.

Veronica Beard Miller | Spanx Wide-Leg Pants | Gucci Horsebit | Vintage Celine Bag (Similar)

5. Black Pants

Black pants are essential, and the Anniversary Sale offers some nice options. I had the chance to try out the wide-leg style by Wit & Wisdom. They are made of a nice ponte knit fabric that feels incredibly comfortable. They are available in petite sizes too.

Wit & Wisdom Ab solution Crop | and Wide-Leg

6. Neutral-Color Sweater

I’m a huge fan of sweaters and always looking for great options to recommend. While on sale, now is the perfect time to add a Vince sweater or cardigan to your wardrobe. Trust me; you’ll often reach for this cardigan for the office or running errands. I included the pullover from Good American, plus the off-the-shoulder style from Treasure & Bond is trendy every year—a perfect choice for a ladies’ night out.

7. Leather Coat

A leather jacket is a timeless and essential item that deserves a spot in every wardrobe. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is the perfect opportunity to find one at a great price.

Caslon Leather Motto Jacket | AllSaints Dalby Leather Jacket |AllSaints Balfern Jacket

8. Utility and Denim Jacket

Utility and denim jackets are must-have timeless pieces that every wardrobe should have. They’re the ultimate go-to jackets to layer over dresses, trousers, or joggers. My favorite is the pink Caslon utility jacket. It looks so nice with grey jeans.

Caslon Utility Jacket | Treasure & Bond Utility Shirt | Levi Classic 90’s Jacket

9. Sneakers

Sneakers have become a staple in our everyday wardrobes, and the best part is that we can pair them with not only jeans but also dresses and trousers. When shopping for sneakers, watch for retro and classic styles that never go out of fashion. The styles below are super comfortable and on-trend.

Addidas Sneakers | Similar Veronica Beard Jacket | Longchamp Bag | Vintage Straight Jeans (similar) | T-shirt

10. Boots

I don’t know about you, but I love boot season! I’ve found three different boot styles you’ll love and wear on repeat with all your essential outfits.

11. Trench Coat

A trench coat is one of the essential items in a wardrobe, and the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has two nice styles. I own the Sam Edelman style on the left. Whether I wear it over jeans or a dress, I look stylish. It’s a nice one!

Pomander Place Stripe Top |Sam Edelman Trench Coat |Fidelity Kelli Wide-Leg Jeans | Naghedi Tote Vince Pia

Sam Edelman Trench | Barbour Trench

12. Wool Coat

When it comes to essential wardrobe pieces, a wool overcoat is a must-have, especially depending on where you live. I’ve searched the coats on sale and found some beautiful styles and colors that are still available.

Bernardo Wool Longline Coat | Avec Les Filles Double Breasted Tie Coat

13. Jeans

I saved the best for last. Jeans—the ultimate wardrobe staple! Adding some modern denim is the way to go if you’re looking for a quick wardrobe refresh. I’ve got a couple of favorites to recommend: the grey Paige and Ag jeans. I love the fit; grey is a great color for your wardrobe. Now, if you like a flared style, the Paige Laurel Canyon is a favorite of many. As for the Paige wide-leg Harper, I haven’t tried them on yet, but knowing the brand, I’m pretty confident they’re on point in terms of fit and style.