Laptop charged, coffee in hand. So, are you ready for this?  The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, aka the Shopping Superbowl, is here–and it’s DELISH.  Also, this is one of my all-time favorite sales (Who am I kidding?  It’s my favorite.), so I’m sharing my add-to-cart secrets for making the most of the markdowns.

The size, scope, and popularity of this sale mean it’s not your average, “oh I’ll just take a look” sort of thing.  That’s for amateurs. So, sale pros know to bring their A-game and a well-honed strategy to the table to stock up on style staples, trend moments, and everything in between. Like…finger exercises might be a good idea, I’m just saying.

The thing to remember about this sale—it’s all brand new Pre-Fall items that are extremely marked down. It’s not the junk that’s no longer in style or just plain isn’t selling from seasons past. This is brand spankin’ new, latest and greatest fall GOODNESS that hasn’t even hit other retailers.  Trust me, come September you’re going to want that perfect leather moto, but—plot twist—it’s back to full price.

I know, I know.  This July heat isn’t making you crave a wool jacket, but your future self will thank you for scoring it on sale—trust me.  Also, be aware that items sell out insanely during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. So, consider yourself forewarned.  I’ve mentioned the missed jacket of 2012 that I still can’t really talk about it.  If you want it, buy it—otherwise prepare for some overtime sessions with your therapist and years searching your closet for a phantom garment.  You deserve better.  Let’s shop.

FYI, Nordstrom card-holders will have Early Access to everything starting today through July 20th when it opens up to the public. If you’re not a Nordstrom card-holder, you can still preview everything, but won’t be able to actually buy until July 20th when public access begins.

[be]

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: Your Plan Of Action

Enough chit-chat.  Here’s your plan of action:

1.  Everyday Investments

Everyday essentials generally mean that you wear them…you know, every day. Even the most stringent dry cleaning advocates and shoe repair aficionados need to replenish their stock. Think a classic sheath dress, the perfect skinny jeans, a timeless Barbour jacket or beautiful silk top.  Versatile pieces you need for the things you do most often, and timeless classics you can rely on, always.  

2.  Trendy Steals

Being timid around trends often has to do with price, but when they’re marked down, there’s no reason not to hop on the puff-sleeve bandwagon (how stunning is this sweater?!). 

3.  Don’t Skip The Accessories

We all do it. We give our attention to the dresses and perfect pumps of the world, and those stunning accessories sit there on sale, untouched.  They deserve your attention and you deserve these earrings.  And this Longchamp tote, too.

4.  The Beauty Section Is A Goldmine

And sometimes I mean that literally. The beauty section is un-skippable. Don’t wait until you’re scraping the bottom of the bottle, now is the time to stock up on your mainstays. Dare I say it’s also the perfect opportunity to try something new, too?  Much like my strategy around trends, now is the perfect time to test the waters of the Drybar products that everyone raves about.  Personally, I’ll be hoarding my favorite brow duo (among many other things).

5.  DON’T FORGET ABOUT OTHER CUTE THINGS LIKE DECOR, DUDES AND BABIES.

Yes, there are things for other people in this sale!  I know, this is a bit of a holiday season shopping mentality, but shine it on for a moment.  This is your chance to stock up on everything from baby finds (how CUTE is this?!) to hostess gifts—don’t miss it.  Pro tip: If your partner’s sharp-dressed essentials are looking dull, swap them out with sale finds (like this Patagonia half-zip). (It’s up to you whether or not you tell him.)

I’ll be with you throughout the sale, posting more favorite finds and outfits—so be sure to sign up for Memorandum emails here and follow along on instagram so you’re the first to know!