That wonderful time of year is here – the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! As compared with nearly all other sales, this one is special, because instead of marking down what they couldn’t sell in previous seasons, they’re offering the new collection at a discount. It’s a pretty glorious sale indeed.

Now, it’s worth pointing out that the Anniversary Sale has technically only begun for Early Access, i.e. Nordstrom cardholders. Yes, this is a big push for them to sign up new cardholders. However, it’s really worth it – beyond the early sale access, you also get $100 in free alterations credit and earn points that turn into Nordstrom Notes, which are basically gift cards. There are three ways to become a cardholder, and not all of them require any effect on your credit:

1. Nordstrom Visa – this is a branded Visa card you can use anywhere, and you earn points on all purchases (not just those at Nordstrom)
2. Nordstrom Retail – this is a typical store card. It’s only good at Nordstrom, but does otherwise function like a credit card, including the effect on your credit rating.
3. Nordstrom Debit – this is what I have, and it’s great! It links to a bank account, and automatically withdraws the balance to immediately pay for expenses. It does not require any effect on your credit rating, but still gets all the benefit of the Visa or retail card. To take it to the next level, you can even keep a separate bank account for your “fun shopping” money – this is also a great way to keep yourself from spending more than you intended – and link it to that one.

If you choose not to get any of these Nordstrom cards, no worries – the sale will open to the public on July 22, and you can still browse and set your own strategy.

Here are the pieces I’ve got my eye on this year (all clothing choices come in petite):

Ribbed Cashmere Turtleneck | Halogen

The Anniversary Sale is always such a great time to stock up on discounted cashmere, and Halogen’s is always among the best value. I love the shape of this sweater – the 7/8 raglan sleeves, the slightly boxy fit, and the soft-but-not-shapeless turtleneck – and can absolutely imagine wearing it regularly this winter.

Cap Sleeve Italian Ponte Sheath Dress | Classiques Entier

Classiques is one of those brands I always admire but can’t quite justify at full price; they make amazing, office-friendly dresses that flatter the heck out of some curves. I bought a version of this particular dress a couple of Anniversary Sales ago and was blown away by the quality and the fact that it required absolutely no tailoring.

Cotton Knit Open Front Blazer | Caslon

I love the way this blazer is unstructured enough to look absolutely comfortable while still appearing professional and put-together; it has a real MM.LaFleur vibe, but with a much more palatable price.

Cap Sleeve Silk Tee | Eileen Fisher

A great tee made out of a fancier-than-cotton fabric is a key purchase for any busty lady; I’d pair this with a pencil skirt and great pumps (and perhaps the above blazer) for an A+ office outfit.

‘Look in a Box – Advanced’ Brush Set | MAC

Did you read my last post and decide now was the time to step up your makeup brush game? The Anniversary Sale has you covered, and then some. This set from MAC comes with some of my all-time favorites, including the pencil brush and eye shader brush I use daily. The ‘Basic‘ kit offers a similarly great selection, and best of all, the only item both sets have in common is the carrying case!

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What are you eyeing this Anniversary Sale, Petite Crew?

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