Everything You Need to Know About the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

By now, you’ve probably heard that the Nordstrom Anniversary sale is coming, and that it is one of the biggest sales of the year. It kind of feels like sales are happening ALL the time now, but this one is a bit different, and here’s why.

The Nordstrom Anniversary sale allows to shop new arrivals, pieces for the fall and winter season at really good prices. These items will most likely not go on sale at any other time of the year, and if they do it will be at the end of that season, so this gives you an opportunity to get pieces ahead of time and avoid paying full price.

There are a few key things to know about the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale:

Key Dates (updated for 2017): Early access begins Thursday, July 13, more on how to get early access below. The sale officially opens to everyone on July 21. The last day is August 6.

Early Access: There are a few ways you can get early access. The sale is available 8 days early to cardholders and there are two options, a debit card and a credit card. I opted for the Nordstrom debit card two years ago because I didn’t want to open a line of credit. Nordstrom makes it really easy to link your checking account with a debit card so you can use it for Nordstrom purchases, get early access and earn points if you’re a rewards member. I also highly recommend joining the rewards program, there are a lot of great benefits including early access to the sale.

What to buy: EVERYTHING. Just kidding, I am very specific about what I decide to purchase at the Nordstrom sale and there are several things I take into consideration. First, I take stock of what is in my current wardrobe and the pieces I feel are missing, particularly for fall and winter. Make sure you take a look at anything you’ve packed away and decide if you’re keeping that for the next season or plan to sell/donate. Are there certain pieces or items you really need to complete your fall/winter wardrobe? Typically my investments for that season are boots and booties, sweaters and outerwear. Some of my favorite brands like Vince, Stuart Weitzman, Rag & Bone, Joie, Paige Denim and Nike are all part of the sale. Another great thing to shop for at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is beauty and skincare products. There are some really great sets that are an insane value from brands like Nars, Bobbi Brown, and La Mer.

UPDATE: See my early access top picks here.