Public access to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale starts today!  If you’ve been on the fence about shopping this sale, I’m sharing my honest review of what I’m keeping and what’s getting returned.

There is so much noise surrounding this sale and a great tendency to get caught up in the frenzy.  Remember to stay focused on what you need and don’t buy something just because it’s “on sale”!

Here is what I bought, what’s staying in my closet and what’s getting returned.

Cashmere funnel neck sweater: Keep

This Nordstrom Signature cashmere funnel neck sweater is superb.  Superb quality, excellent price, incredibly comfortable.  I ordered an XS but had to settle for a Small because they sold out of the XS before it had a chance to ship.

I’m going to check back to see if I can snag the XS.

Black skinny jeans: Keep

I’m normally a size 25 in Madewell jeans so that’s what I ordered.  But when I put these on, they felt a wee bit tight.  I was able to snag a 26 and as soon as that arrives, I’ll make the decision on whether or not I’ll keep these jeans.

Pros: super comfortable, great price.  I love that there’s no distressing for a crisp look, but that the hem is left raw for a bit of edge.

UPDATE: I’m keeping them.  The 25 looks better than the 26.  Since I think they will stretch a bit over time, the fact that they’re a wee snug is perfect.

3/4 sleeve dress: Return

Pros: it’s cotton and therefore super comfy and easy to clean.  It has pockets, which I love.  I’d pair it with over the knee boots or brown suede ankle booties.

Cons: it looks a little too Little House on the Prairie and the fit isn’t as flattering as I think it could be.  It’s good, but not great, so it’s getting returned.

Striped sweater: Keep

This sweater is good quality and super comfy.  It comes in 7 colors and the price is a steal.  I’ll use it as an everyday and layering piece in fall/winter.

Knee rip jeans: Return

I ordered my normal size but feel these run a bit small.  The wash is kind of “fakey” looking and not the superior quality I’m used to, so although they’re comfy and flattering, I’m going to hold out for something I like better.

Black and White camis: Keep

I’m keeping these camis strictly for the excellent price point and the fact that the quality is pretty decent.  They are lined, so while I’ll still wear a bra, you could go without one (especially the black cami).  I often need shirts to wear under cardigans, and in SoCal I like the light layer these offer.  Plus, it’s a nice change from my routine of “jeans and a tee”.

UPDATE: I returned the black cami.  I have too many other black silk tops.  The white cami is still a keeper.

Joggers: Keep

I bought these joggers to wear as pajama pants.  Now that I have them in person, I see the fabric is more “workout wear” and not at all sleepwear.  While my original plan for these was foiled, I am keeping them because they are suuuuper comfy and look posh for loungewear.  At less than $45, I’d call that a win.

Floral tunic: Return

I don’t have many “fancy” tops that can still be dressed down for a casual look.  I’m pretty much either a t-shirt girl or the girl who wears really elevated statement tops like this one.  For that reason, I bought this top to try and achieve some middle ground.  It comes in 3 colors and will be easy to clean, but I’m not sure the yellow is flattering on me.

What do you think?  The verdict is still out.

UPDATE: The more I thought about this, the more I realized it was just “okay”.  I don’t have room in my wallet or closet for just okay.  Return.

Camel sweater: Return

I originally thought I’d keep this sweater because it’s very soft and comfortable and I like the side slit, but after further thought, I’m going to return it.  I have a feeling it will pill very quickly, and I don’t need a so-so quality sweater taking up space in my closet.

I’m a quality over quantity girl.

Grey long-sleeved tee: Keep

This tee is comfy, flattering and I love the subtle waffled cuffs.  It comes in other colors and if it’s restocked, I’m definitely buying the white one too.

I’m wearing an XS and think it runs TTS.

Other Items I’m Keeping

This pillowcase is an absolute must in my book.  My husband requested one because he wants to “age at the same rate as I do” (something this pillowcase helps with – anti-aging).

These makeup sponges are the only things I’ll use to apply my foundation and concealer.

This bra is underwire free (SO comfy) and padded enough not to show anything, yet not be over the top either.

These boy shorts and these undies are seamless, comfy and what I wear when I don’t want a VPL.

These socks are what I wear with my Golden Goose, Converse and chic loafers.

A Note on Product Availability

Here’s the deal, friends.  SO MUCH is already sold out, but Nordstrom will be restocking.  So if something you had your heart set on is out of stock, check back often.  I’m quite certain we’ll see a resurgence of new inventory during public access.  In addition, there is going to be a period of massive returns.  Everyone hoarded their purchases during Early Access and are now in the decision-making process.  Let someone else’s return be your great find.

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