Early access has begun for my favorite sale of the year! Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale is 30-40% off of new Fall arrivals (not past-season merchandise), and everything goes back up to regular price on August 3rd. As always, there is free shipping and easy returns on everything. Nordstrom Cardholders get early access starting today, though if you’re not a cardholder, you can still use the “save to wishlist” button on all items for easy checkout once the sale opens to the public on July 17th. I missed out on several items last year that sold out during the preview, so placed my order early this time around! Will be posting updates as I get to try items on, if they’re still in stock. Had lots of requests from my mom and like-sized cousin as well, so I’ll be able to review a few extra pieces when my order comes in.
Below, I’ve thoroughly combed the sale for petite-friendly Fall must haves, including slim-calf boots, shoes and clothes in extended sizing, or regular sizing pieces that are noted to run slim or small. If you own or have tried any of these items, would love to hear your feedback!
Special notes on popular, versatile items:
1. Sam Edelman Onyx half d’orsay leopard pump. If you missed out on the d’orsay leopard pumps from last year’s anniversary sale, this is a very similar version in a manageable 2.5″ heel. I’ve tried on Sam Edelman’s other styles in their same leopard calfhair material and think the print looks like a pretty good leopard in person. You’ll be surprised at how a pump like this goes with everything. Bonus, extended sizes are available from a 4 – 12!
2. AGL cap toe flats, available in sizes 3.5 – 14 (amazing!). Kudos to Nordstrom for getting brands to make an extended range of sizing that they wouldn’t otherwise produce. AGL gets the most rave reviews for comfort right out of the box – here are 600+ reviews on this similar full-priced ballet style. I picked up a pair in black for my mom.
3. The Longchamp expandable tote is back in several classic colors with rave customer reviews. It’s convertible from a medium everyday tote to an XL travel bag, plus their Le Pliage nylon material can fold up super small for storage (or tossing inside other bags).
4. Halogen Tencel denim shirt starting in xxs petite – looks very, very similar to the one I own (now sold out) and the material and “light denim” color codes are also the same. Here is an alternate relaxed chambray shirt from BP that’s just ~ $30 and in 4 colors (ordered for my cousin).
Slim and/or short calf boots! So many options on sale this year that are listed as “fitted calf.”
1. Aquatalia “Gianna” Weatherproof boot, starting in size 5. Listed as a “fitted shaft” boot. My Aquatalia boots have held up so well throughout Boston winters, I definitely find the brand to be worth the price. Please remember that shaft measurements can vary quite a bit with shoe size – the last time I bought Aquatalia boots online the shaft was an inch shorter and narrower in-person than what was listed online, to my pleasant surprise.
2. Blondo “Laina” Weatherproof boot, starting in size 5.5. I don’t know much about this brand, but look at this description: “shorter knee-high shaft; ideal for petite customers; narrow calf circumference. Stretchy tall boot that’s waterproofed and seam-sealed for effortless weather protection” What! Sounds like a dream for those searching for the perfect petite boot that is also durable enough for inclement weather.
3. Cole Haan “Marina” over-the-knee suede boot looks like such a hot but elegant boot, with promising calf measurements (listed at 13.5″ circumference, stretching up to 15″).
4. Lucky brand Heloisse boot (3 colors) – also noted as “fitted calf” with listed measurements of 15.25″ shaft height and 14.5″ shaft circumference. Pull-on style. Sizing notes say order a half size down.
5. La Canadienne waterproof leather boot with antibacterial, moisture-wicking lining. Starts in size 5, with a 13.75″ calf circumference that stretches up to 15″ around. I’ve heard lots of great things about this brand’s durability and weather-proofedness as well.
Work & travel totes that aren’t too oversized (all under 14″ in width):
1. Splurge: Chloe Marcie bag in 5 color options, 14″ wide x 12″ high – a good size for someone my height. This premium designer style will probably not make it past the early access sale period.
2. Steal for leather: 13″ x 13″ genuine leather slouchy tote with pouch pocket to keep valuables secure. In 3 fall-ready colors.
3. Michael Kors jet set tote (6 fall colors!) in their easy-to-maintain saffiano leather, which has held up nicely for me on my MK bag. A simple, clean look for work if the removable medallion is taken off. Love the merlot, dark dune, and pearl gray for fall. 12″ x 11″ medium size.
4. T
ory Burch Plaque hobo tote in 3 pretty colors, at a manageable size of 14″ x 11.”
Coats coats coats – these make me just a tad excited for cooler weather.
1. Trina Turk skirted coat in 3 unique colors, with the pine available in petites starting at 0P.
2. Budget option for under $40: Thread & Supply peacoat. Fit notes say XS/00 runs small, narrow through shoulders, and suggests sizing up. They also make a toggle coat (4 fall colors) which is noted to have a roomier fit.
3. Guess petite boucle coat starting in XS petite (0-2), in pretty girly shades like wine and pale pink.
Petite-friendly workwear, mostly starting in 00 regular or 00 petite
1. If you’re looking to spruce up your office wardrobe for fall, Theory’s signature suiting coordinates and Betty sheath dress are on sale in two new–season colors. For something a little more feminine, this beautiful boucle fit and flare dress is also on sale. I’ve had a lot of success with Theory 00 in the past, and based on the more shrunken fit of this one on the model, I’m guessing it is petite-friendly. Layer over a tie-neck or collar blouse, or under a cropped blazer for the office.
2. Adrianna Papell scalloped crepe dress, starts in size 2P – the LBD with adorable little details.
3. Halogen ponte fit and flare dress – starts in xxs petite (favorite is the burgundy)
4. Mix-and-match work outfit under $100: Halogen lace pencil skirt starting in 00 petite – pair with a machine-washable tie-neck blouse (6 colors, starts in xxs petite), which will look equally nice for going out with skinny jeans or leather leggings. **Update: Thank you Florence for sharing your fitting room snap of these two items! Her review is down in the comments. PS – her blog has very thorough reviews on lingerie for petite, busty ladies**
5. Under $50: Calson shirt dress – work-friendly year round with no layering necessary. Starts in xxs petite and for under $50.
6. Under $40: Calson shawl collar knit blazer, starting in size xxs petite in 8 colors. This is back from last year’s sale! I’ve heard good feedback on this basic piece from readers who own it.
Comfort dressing – all regular sizing pieces noted to run small or slim:
1. Classic Breton stripe pullover in 3 colors. XS noted to fit like womens 00.
2. Free people cowl neck asymmetrical pullover in 4 fall colors (ordered in charcoal). Love the slouchy, easy way it’s styled on the model simply with jeans and booties.
3. BP Trott ankle bootie, available in 4 fall colors and starts in an elusive size 4 (noted to run small so size up) – looks to be a similar option to their signature Trolley.
4. Astr floral romper in a very similar cut as my Motel one – crossover front with long sleeves. The XS here is listed with a fit like size “00 to 0” so may be petite-friendly.
5. Treasure & Bond layered sweater (ordered in grey plaid) – summer has barely begun but this casual, comfy-looking piece makes me look forward to fall and cozying up on the couch with cider. Available in 4 colors and starts in size xxs.
Thank you for mentioning the Caslon shawl knit blazer! Bc of your post, I went to Nordstrom and found in black/grey stripe, navy, and black. For some reason, the navy and black blazers are made with thinner fabric than the striped blazer, so I ended up purchasing the black/grey stripe version. Really appreciate this post highlighting good finds in the sale :).
Also, a random great find was the Nordstrom-exclusive Lorac skinny black palette for just $15 (ran out very quickly at my local Nordstrom bc of early access — I assumed that is the same case with other stores). I heard it will be back on July 17 though but will run out quickly.
I love Blondo boots-I have 3 pairs! Big plus is that Blondo boots hold up VERY well. I have 2 pairs that I've worn almost daily through the last 2 horrible Michigan winters and they are just starting to show wear. (The 3rd pair is suede) Unfortunately, I'm petite with a more muscular frame so the 13" calf won't work for me…. although it looks like there's a nice stretch panel and I'm tempted to order and try…
Hi Jean! I have gotten alterations on a few brands of leggings at Nordstrom including Zella! I do prefer the capri leggings for working out and in general because they are versatile for all seasons since I live in Michigan. I've had some of mine for about 3 years and they still look brand new.
Hey Jean! I just got back from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Early Access. I bought these:
1. Vince Camuto Ponte Knit Ankle Pants: http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/vince-camuto-ponte-knit-ankle-pants-regular-petite/3242815
My mom and I needed non-nonsense black ankle pants for work, and these have 100+ reviews on Nordstrom with 4 stars. They are SO comfy and slimming! I got a 2P, 5'1" 115 lbs 32B-26-36.
2. Top Shop '70s Scoop Neck Crop Top: http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/topshop-70s-scoop-neck-crop-top-nordstrom-exclusive/4045480
I love the nude color, scalloped hem, and that it is VERY figure-flattering for people who are slender in the torso. I got a US size 2. The model in the photo does not do it justice since it seems to be too big on her.
Let me know your thoughts! 🙂
I picked up the Rebecca Minkoff 'Chevron Quilted Love' crossbody bag. This particular style reminds me of the Chanel double-flap bag, but for much less of course. I also purchased the Burbetty Beauty 'Nude Glow' Set which comes with full size foundation and lipstick and a beauty bag which I think is a good value. I've always wanted to try Burberry makeup ever since it launched, so this seems like a good time =). I also bought Nike 'Eric Koston 2 Max Skate Skater for my boyfriend.
Thank you for the detailed recommendations! I can't wait to see the review on some of the purchases.
heyamadea.com
Hola : )
Picked up the BP Plaid shirt in Navy peacoat yesterday (item #1027234) and am happy to report that it is super comfy! I also got compliments on it today from my coworkers & bf so that is always a plus hehe. However, I'm a bit curious to see how it will hold up in the wash…
I read the comment on the Zella live-in capri and thought too that they were a great deal but I tried them on yesterday and just wanted to say that I didn't pick them up because you could totally see my underwear lining! What a bummer. With that being $29, I would instead recommend the Nike legendary capri (poly-material – not the cotton one) that you could most likely find at the Nike Factory store for $30 when they have their 50% off retail price deals. I love those just as much as my Lulus (if not more :X) .
For a beauty-related item, there's the Lorac skinny palette for $15!!!! (item #1117305) That is for sure a major steal.
Happy shopping! Can't wait to see how you style the Soia & Kyo coat !!
Great picks!! I especially love the green coat and the fact that it comes in petite size <3 <3 I always have lots of trouble with coats...
Xo
Pauline
http://www.prettypetite.org
This and your photo below is super, super helpful! Thanks for the reviews! I've included it up above with a link to your blog.
Hi Claud! Hope you've been well : ) Ah, the SW Mixitup boots…when I initially saw them I thought they were an awesome sale option, but then I compared the measurements to my boots and realized they'd be an awkward height on someone shorter. They are designed to be a regular knee-high boot (not over the knee like their 50/50 or Mainline), but unfortunately a 17" high shaft regular boot would hit squarely at the top of my knee right where it bends. What did you end up getting from the sale?
Hi Nan – I've found that AP runs true to size, unfortunately for anyone smaller-framed. I wish they would make more extended sizing!
Interesting about the capri version- thanks for the tip! I saw the regular (keep getting so many recommendations for them from readers) but wasn't sure if I'd want to get alterations on leggings.
Hi guys! Let's keep things positive on here…I know it's easy to miss small things in my longer, wordier posts like this one. I had noted the items I did order in parenthesis (as someone helpfully pointed out above) and will be updating with reviews as they come in the mail. Hope that helps.
you definitely weren't paying attention. she noted what she ordered before you commented.
(ordered) wasnt there before. probably just added.
Definitely need to get in on this sale! Thanks for the picks 🙂
Enclothed Cognition
I'm guessing its the items that say (ordered)
Love all pics!! Thanks for the information!!
Hugs,
Love from http://www.trangscorner.com {a lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and food blog}
Picture in the neck tie blouse and skirt on me, for reference: http://i.imgur.com/5s0m7Z6.jpg
I also am 5 ft and about 96 lbs.
We had a lot of the same picks! I tried on and bought the neck tie blouse (in 2 colors) and the lace pencil skirt. Be warned that the blouses fit my 28FF chest ideally in an XXSP (a super rarity, hence buying 2 and ordering a third) so it might be roomy on you. The skirt was both long and loose in the waist in 00P. I'm probably a little bigger than you in the hips. I took it home to think about whether it's worth altering – still not sure if I will keep it.
I also bought a tahari leather jacket and ordered the halogen collarless leather jacket – going to choose one. The tahari one is thin lamb leather but fits nice and slim in the sleeves. The halogen is tbd but might need sleeve alterations based on the fit of the SP.
Lastly I got the halogen v neck ponte sheath dress in green and grey in 2 different sizes and the halogen floral burnout sweater in mint! Great options this year.
Awesome picks. What are your thoughts about the Stuart Weitzman boots? Thanks
This is so informative. Love the Tory Burch Hobo. 🙂
http://www.chicuturnonglitz.blogspot.com
Which items did you end up picking for yourself? Curious which items on the list you purchased vs just recommend checking out. Thanks in advance!
Love the Adrianna Papell dress, but its smallest size is 2. Does AP run extremely small?
Wow, great picks with so much awesome detail information<3
Shall We Sasa
Fantastic guide!
http://greenthorneboulevard.blogspot.com/
some petite XXS coats from Halogen, nike tempo shorts, zella livein capri leggings (regular too long for me!)
I swear by AGL flats. Very tempted to get another pair. Usually when these go on sale theres only about 1 or 2 spotty sizes left in weird colors.
I was hoping to find your picks! Thanks Jean!
Xo
Joyce
http://Www.teawithmd.com
A dermatologist's guide to health and beauty!