One of my favorite sales of the year starts today! It’s hard to get into a Fall frame of mind during mid-July, but these discounts are on new, next-season merchandise and prices do go back up August 4th. Lots of designer items, petites (how cute is this houndstooth dress?), and extended-sizing shoes to browse. I have two keepers pictured above that just arrived from the presale, and will try to do a detailed review soon. Just wanted to post a quick heads up since the smaller sizes tend to go first. As always, there is free shipping & free return ship.
Below are my other picks from the sale (pls. note I have not tried these on for size)…
1. LEFT: Stuart Weitzman Highway boots also in black suede – SW boots are pricey but the fit and comfort for narrow calves is like none other. I already have a wedge over-the-knee pair so did not purchase these. Listed at 21.5″ shaft height and calf width that stretches from 12″ – 14.” This style was available in both leather and suede down to a sz 4 – if you’re interested but don’t see your size online, I’d call your local store with the item #. They can do a nationwide search and ship to you for free.
2. CENTER: Louise et Cie Andora over the knee boot – also starts in sz 4. Affordable, genuine leather dupe for SW over-the-knee style flat boots, but based on the measurements these look quite a bit wider. Listed with 21″ shaft height and 14″ calf circumference. Also comes in wide calf.
3. RIGHT: Franco Sarto Obelisk wedge boots – recommended by a reader (thanks, Angela! please also see her helpful comment below) who said the calves fit slim. Measurements from the site are 17″ high shaft and 13.25″ calf circumference. If these measurements are accurate (keep in mind they’re usually taken from a sz 8 so if you order smaller/bigger sizes, they will vary) this would be borderline over my knees.
4. LEFT: DVF Zarita lace dress – Elegant and subtly sexy dress that rarely makes it to sale. I think the plum color looks gorgeous for multiple seasons (stock photo also shows it with black tights) and it’s the only color that is 35% off. Despite the note to size up, I think it fits fairly true to size and needed slight alterations on a 0 regular (see post here)
5. RIGHT: Kate Spade “Lottie” pumps – pretty in pink (selling quickly) and classic in the nude.
6. LEFT: Longchamp expandable tote – I use my Longchamp bag on nearly every trip, usually stuffed to capacity. This one expands from a medium size suitable for normal use as a tote, to an extra large one perfect for packing.
7. RIGHT: Coach duffle bag (3 leather colors) – This bag is classic Coach, reminiscent of styles before the brand underwent C logo overload. From the photos the adjustable strap looks like it can be worn crossbody, over the shoulder, or shortened to hang at the crook of the arm.
8. LEFT: Northface denali fleece (men and kids also on sale) – Easy gift idea for any member of the family. After stealing my dad’s & brother’s (both successful gifts from Christmases past) several times, my Mom started dropping blatant hints about wanting her own. Good prices for their signature Denali line, esp. with free shipping & return ship.
9. RIGHT: Last but not least, a classic Burberry trench was included in the sale, but there are few sizes left online after the cardmembers sale preview (may still be available in store, if you search by item #). If you’re considering going the Burberry trench route, I feel it’s better to try on numerous styles in-person and get the size and style that fits you perfectly, rather than buy a sale style just for the savings.
Adorable skirt! The silhouette and color are classic, and I like how it's updated with the pindots.
Hi Amadea,
How do you find the Vince Camuto Vala Bootie, sizing wise? I have extremely small foot, 20.5cm and I'm oversea. Ordering them is one difficult thing, can't return them is another nightmare for me hence the question. I am thinking about size 4 btw.
RESUBMITTING MY QUESTION:
Great advice! Classics NOT trendy!
So can I ask for your advice wrt this Ann Taylor skirt: Classic? or Trendy?
PETITE PINDOT FLOUNCE SKIRT
http://www.anntaylor.com/p-pindot-flounce-skirt/347615?skuId=16681989&prodId;=347615&defaultColor;=0765
I bought that same jacket in a petite large in the olive color (inspired by you!). I am 5'2 and big chested but currently dieting, so I am in between sizes. While I couldn't close the jacket, the jacket was comfortable and the arm length was great. However, the green color wasn't as nice in person, especially since the fabric texture reminded me of scales? I thought like I looked like a lizard when I tried it on! I will be exchanging my petite large olive jacket for the grey color and am also thinking about maybe getting the blue in a regular large to determine which fit would be better for me. Would love to see a jacket review from you! Love, Christine from San Diego.
The Halogen pumps in black calf are being returned, as well as the leather skirt. The black pumps are too similar to another pair I own, and the skirt has a very strange horizontal seam across the rear that isn't very flattering as it cuts across the bottom of my bottom.
The rest are keepers, though!
Hi Marie! So excited to hear from a fellow finance gal in Boston! Aren't the Halogen pumps great esp for the sale price? I know what you mean, as before this I only saw similar heels from Ivanka Trump that were much too high for my older age. For business formal offices, I think the Halogen ones would go well with an outfit of just conservative black, olive, or khaki pieces.
I'd love to see a review of the jacket! I've been thinking of buying that jacket since you've posted it but I've been going back and forth. TBH, I love the way it looks in your picture but not so much in the store photos.
How would you wear the knit sweater thing for work?
Hi Jean! I work in Finance (in Boston, coincidentally) so I've been following your blog for a while now for style and fit inspiration. I've been looking for calf-hair leopard pumps to wear to work for the longest time. Either the animal print pattern was too loud, or the heel was too high and looked more appropriate for a night out clubbing haha But the Halogen pumps are perfect and so comfortable! Great find. Can't wait to see how you style them for a more office-friendly look =)
Great advice! Classics NOT trendy! Until I read your blog the other day, I had no idea the Nordie sale was even happening.
Following your "classics" advice, I just purchased my daughter these Vince Camuto Glen Plaid Ponte Ankle Trousers (Petite 00). Item #16347.
So can I ask for your advice wrt this Ann Taylor skirt: Classic? or Trendy?
PETITE PINDOT FLOUNCE SKIRT
http://www.anntaylor.com/p-pindot-flounce-skirt/347615?skuId=16681989&prodId;=347615&defaultColor;=0765
Thanks so much, Jean! I used to be able to find lovely boots nearly every fall, but it seems that the low-heel, over-the-knee trend has changed that–at least for now. Fingers crossed that something will come along. 🙂
PS I love, love, LOVE your blog!
Hi Diane – unfortunately, I have not found anything that fits that description for narrow calves and short shins. If you don't struggle with that fit issue, then the possibilities should open up! Ann Taylor usually has a few styles each fall that are more work appropriate.
Cute twist on a classic black pencil skirt. Thanks for sharing!
Love your picks! The aquatalia boots looked classic and went quickly. The mackage jackets also look gorgeous and I'm sure are worth the minimal sleeve alterations.
Hi Amadea! Cute finds, especially those booties! I thought the heels were pretty comfy, especially for pointy toe shoes. I did stay to my normal size whereas others said they sized down (I usually size up for pointy shoes so my toes don't get squished), and it also helps the heel is not too high at 3.25."
Hi sarahp – I found them to be comfortable, and if you are having trouble with shoes slipping off easily I'd suggest trying a half size down. The heel height on these are just moderate at 3.25."
Hi there! I would choose black personally – if you wear a lot of opaque black tights or dark denim like I do in the winter, black goes seamlessly with those items and lengthens legs. Especially for over the knee styles, it can help make legs look miles long! I just reviewed a Rockport knee high boot as well, which is a lower wedge style compared to the Franco Sarto. Good luck!
Your daughter is very lucky to have a supportive and shopping-loving mother : ) I only wish that back in college I had taken more of a focus on classic pieces versus things that were trendy at the time, which have not been touched again since. With mom's help, I hope your daughter finds pieces that will last her through her first internships, jobs and more : )
Interesting and happy they worked out for you! I had tried to find those in-person but no such luck. Based on your and Angela's differing reviews I'm really not sure what to expect, but glad you were able to score boots that fit at a great sale price : )
Joyce, thank you for your sweet comment : ) I hope the dress works out for you. The sale color is vibrant and gorgeous!
Thanks for sharing your pick! My fiance has actually pointed Herschel out a few times before…love the laid-back designs. totally unisex-friendly in my opinion : )
Wow glad they fit you! They looked rather silly on me, but perhaps they ran big (can't remember how well they fit my feet)
I stumbled upon your blog while searching for photos of the youth Hunter boots on women and found that post extremely helpful! And when I clicked on the home page, I immediately smiled at this post since I work at Nordstrom. I recognize these anniversary items and think they're so chic! My favorite piece though would have to be the Aztec print Herschel supply duffel bag–it's a mens item, but my coworkers and I all agreed that we would still totally carry it!
I ordered the DVF dress =) Hope it fits because it's beautiful! Every post you write is a style inspiration for me. My wardrobe is definitely better now because of your blog, lol. Thank you for what you do!
I bought the LOUISE ET CIE ANDORA last week, they are perfect! The shaft is skinny enough for my chicken legs and the leather looks lovely :). I'm 5' 3.5" and the height was great too.
Logical and concise! I'm sold! Black it is! THANK YOU!
Hey! I'm pretty biased since I mostly wear black pants, so I always buy black boots, so it creates a long line. I also think it looks more modern and chic, and can go from day to night, whereas brown ones are more casual. I also think the the elastic is better "hidden" in black boots again black pants rather than brown boots with jeans. Just my personal preferences!
Jean and Angela, I need boots for the fall – winter seasons. Obviously the SW's are out of my budget. I will order the Franco Sarto. My question for you: if you can only buy 1 pair of boots for your whole wardrobe … would you buy the BLACK or OXFORD BROWN? We get the usual snowfalls, but nothing that sticks around. I currently have a grey pair of booties. But no over the knee boots.
I've been following your blog these past few months. My daughter's college wardrobe is increasing; which implies, my bank account is decreasing. Your suggestions are professional and modest! You also have a very skillful photographer capturing your best poses! My daughter and I both thank you!
i posted my top picks here.
http://sbbeautydiary.blogspot.com/2014/07/nordstrom-anniversary-sale-my-top-picks.html
The vince camuto lace hem skirt is super cute and also comes in 00p
I got the Denali about two years ago at their anniversary sale. It was a good price and still is this time around!
http://www.misshotcouture.blogspot.com
Hi Jean, I liked the Vince Camuto Ruffle Hem Skirt available in 00P and up: http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/vince-camuto-ruffle-hem-skirt-regular-petite/3661599
I love the heel on the SW boots, but I need something that would hit just under the knee. Any leads on a simple, sophisticated, heeled, work-appropriate boot for petites? 🙂
Oh, man, I went crazy. I ordered everything the first day of the sale (I'm a 00P, so my size is typically not carried in my store):
– Halogen pumps (in tan leopard and black calf)
– Aquatalia "Obsession" boots
– Mackage asymmetrical zip wool coat with leather sleeves (in black; needed sleeves shortened and belt loops moved higher on the waistline)
– Mackage leather jacket (in black; needed sleeves shortened)
– Halogen "Astrid" suit jacket (in brown weave; may need a little tailoring)
– Halogen wool seamed pencil skirts (in black and camel)
– Halogen split-front leather skirt (in black)
The only thing I missed out on were the Halogen leather shorts. If anyone is looking to get rid of a black pair, size 00P, let me know. 😉
I just purchased one boots like this style different brand thou…its so gorgeous love it
Love the magenta pumps! I love anything with a pop of color to stand out.
Great picks! I really like the leopard heels, but is it comfortable? I tried the similar pair from BCBG at DSW the other day. It was comfortable but the heels were too high for office wear.
I also picked up several items from the sale. Here's my pick:
1. Vince Camuto Vala Bootie – very comfortable. I'm in between sizes and the sizes
http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/vince-camuto-vala-bootie-nordstrom-exclusive-women/3717243?origin=PredictiveSearch
2. VC Oversized sunglasses- I got the black one, it's really perfect for the summer =)
http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/vince-camuto-54mm-oversized-cat-eye-sunglasses-online-only/3796657?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid;=0&fashionColor;=&resultback;=0&cm;_sp=personalizedsort-_-searchresults-_-1_1_A
amadea | misskristani.com
Are these lepoard comfortable? I am looking for a pair but wonder if they slip off from feet easily and if the heep height is too much for me.
Not sure what happened to my previous comment (feel free to delete if it's a duplicate), but I really wanted to share my views of the black boots (I considered all of them).
SW in suede– perfect and gorgeous– makes legs look a mile long and comfy due to platform. Would recommend if you want a splurge.
Louise et cie– huge and ridiculous. Not like 5050 at all.
Franco Sarto– as mentioned, stretchiness makes it able to be slimmed, but actually turned out rather short on my legs, so decided against them in the end.
I got olive – the color in person is pretty true to the stock photo
Great picks! I love those SW boots!
The Style Storm
<3, Christina
What is the color of the jacket? Olive or black? I can't really tell…
I will be going to Nordstrom tomorrow. I need a pair of nude pumps and maybe a new purse!
Li (simplyli.com)
It's too early to think of fall, but if I have to that jacket is really cute.
Wonderful fall items! I have to admit although here in Germany we have hottest summer days at the moment I think already also about fall stuff …
http://www.dressedwithsoul.com