99.9% of sales mark down off-season items for obvious reasons. But not the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. The crown jewel of retail event goes one step further: marking down pre-season items. These aren't last season's leftovers; these are the pieces you'll be lusting over in a few months time.
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is your time to get ahead of the curve, and snag a deal while doing it. But as we all know, their selection is massive, and the best pieces are often buried. There are always amazing deals if you look hard enough — and trust me, I have. That's exactly how I found a jaw-dropping deal on my holy-grail item: a Le Creuset Cast Iron Dutch Oven for under $200.
That's nearly 50% off the original price of $350 for this Livingetc-certified favorite. If you're unacquainted, these are arguably the best Dutch ovens on the market, offering superior heat distribution for consistently perfect cooking. Not to mention they're unbelievably durable. My parent received one of these as a wedding gift in the shade 'Flame' (which happens to be on sale right now) and decades later it's still going strong. Plus, it's worth mentioning a Le Creuset Dutch Oven looks fabulous styled on your stove. (Yes, styled.)
Since 1925, Le Creuset has been a staple in kitchens, not just because they look good, but because their functionality is beyond compare. Each one passes through the hands of 15 skilled craftsmen (or more) to guarantee its outstanding quality. The result? Exceptional steam circulation, just the right amount of water retention, and the perfect sear — all while being oven-safe up to 500°F. This Dutch Oven is the sort of kitchen workhorse that makes it look (and taste) like you know what you're doing, even if you don't. I'm partial to a fiery hue, aptly called 'Flame' (the brand's signature color), though the vibrant 'Marseille' and calming 'Shallot' are also standouts.
Now, I'm quite skilled when it comes to sales, and will gleefully sift through page after page of deals until I reached the very end. As a style editor, I also have quite expensive taste (almost to a fault), but it's days like these that put my eye to good use (speaking for my wallet here). So go on, give my edit below a gander — see what I mean?
The Best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Finds
Here it is, my ultimate beauty secret: a silk pillowcase. It’s amazing for your hair and skin! I’ve tested a few of the best silk pillowcase brands, but Blissy’s pillowcases are a staple in my bedding rotation. The emerald green shade is stunning, and the orange ombre is equally fabulous. They’re rarely discounted, so grab them while they’re on sale!
Dusen Dusen nails playful patterns, perfect for maximalists or anyone wanting a bold statement piece. This table runner strikes a happy medium with its classic cabana-like stripes and versatile color palette, making it ideal for pattern newbies. Layer it over a tablecloth or let it shine solo — it does most of the talking.
I have a soft spot for luxury candles, and this one hits just right without the steep price tag. The Raspberry Cassis scent is crisp, fresh, and perfect for the tail end of summer. Plus, this generously sized 10 oz candle is on sale, making it a steal for fragrance lovers.
Everyone needs a quality baking set, and if yours is due for an upgrade (or is just plain ugly), this 54% off deal is your sign to make a change. This fan-favorite set has an impressive 4.8/5 rating over 391 reviews and includes a ceramic rectangular, oval, and square baking dish in your choice of white, dark blue, or cherry. They’re good-looking enough to serve straight from the oven.
Jewelry lovers, you’ve probably had Bey-Berk’s stylish jewelry boxes on your radar for a while now. They’re a splurge, but the blend of beauty and functionality is unmatched. And check out that chic burl wood velour! Complete with a tassel-accented key, it keeps your bling safe and stylish. Looks fabulous on a dresser too.
I’ve crossed paths with these Baina towels in person a few times now at some of my favorite home decor stores. Each and every time I think to myself, 'Gosh, I wish I bought those.' They remind me of a certain heritage luxury fashion brand, but also the game of chess in a retro, 'The Queen's Gambit' sort of way, making these essentially the chicest hand towels ever. They’re ridiculously plush and also come with a darling little soap — let me live vicariously through you and scoop them up now.
One thing most of us want to skimp on but definitely shouldn’t is a cutting board. They’re not always the most exciting piece, but we use them daily, and a quality board won’t need to be replaced as often. This one, rated 4.7/5 stars, is an at-home chef’s dream, reversing from a flat side to another with three indents for holding just-chopped fruits and vegetables or even condiments, should you choose to use it as a serving platter.
The Conran Shop’s lineup of innovative lifestyle products never fails to impress. Naturally, I was thrilled to see this ceramic platter at a steep 60% off. It's got a playful, hand-drawn quality that feels right on trend but it's also homey. Use it to hold your favorite goods or, if you like it as much as I do, leave it out on a stand to display as art.
A nearly perfect 4.9/5-star rating over 1,431 reviews says it’s high time to invest in a new knife set. A chef is only as good as their tools, after all. This eight-piece set, forged in Germany for maximum sharpness, features a precision-honed blade and laser-controlled edge. Since it comes with a block, it's ready to make its debut on your kitchen counter. One reviewer raves, “I have used these knives for many, many years. I bought another set for a new home. I couldn't be more pleased with their performance.”
I was initially drawn to this pillow for its denim-like finish. It’s not actually made of the same material as jeans, but that weathered blue-green velvet could have fooled me! For less than $40, it looks so expensive thanks to its wide, woven look. Super soft and snuggly, it would be perfect for living rooms and bedrooms alike.
If you’re in the market for colorful wine glasses, look no further than Estelle, who makes my favorites. The elegant silhouette has an antique look, while the amber smokehouse hue feels very “now.” Ideal for spicing up a bland tablescape or displaying on a bar cart or shelf. They’re hand-blown in Poland, so you can be sure these babies serve quality to boot.
If you follow Livingetc, you're likely familiar with the best Berber rugs, but a Berber pouf? Now you have my attention. A super plush wool bundle of goodness that you can lean against, prop your feet on, or even turn into a low-slung seat. The cover is machine washable, and it pairs well with other Berbers or even woven jutes.
Q&A
How often is the Nordstrom anniversary sale?
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale only happens once a year, but don't worry! There are also half-yearly sales: bi-annual events typically held in fall and spring with steep discounts on similarly coveted goods (Nordstrom knows how to throw a good sale). However, for the best deals possible, you'll want to shop now through August 4th.
Can you return Nordstrom Anniversary sale items?
The trouble with sales is that even if you manage to scoop up a great deal, if it falls short of expectations, you’re stuck with it — forever. The frustration is compounded if you dropped a substantial chunk of change. Before you start listing things on eBay to recoup your losses, you’ll be delighted to learn that Nordstrom does, in fact, accept returns on pieces purchased during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. There are a few exceptions, which you can read up on in their return policy, but in general, the retailer’s return policy is pretty generous.
So go ahead and try that unexpected colorway or that brand you’ve never heard of — no harm, no foul.
