How to Shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Like a Pro, According to a Shopping Editor

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Every July, my browser has approximately 37 tabs open as I compare 4th of July deals, designer markdowns, and limited-time sales. But there's one event I come back to year after year: the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Unlike traditional clearance events, this is your chance to shop brand new arrivals before they return to full price. Which means the best finds don't stay in stock for long!

As a shopping editor, I've learned that the secret isn't adding everything to your cart. It's knowing where the best value actually lives. The smartest shoppers skip the trendy impulse buys and focus on wardrobe staples, investment accessories, beauty tools that rarely go on sale, and gifts they'll inevitably end up buying later in the year anyway.

Whether you're building a more elevated closet, refreshing your beauty routine, or simply looking to maximize your budget, these are the strategies I use every year, plus the pieces I'd buy before they sell out.