Happy Friday, friends! Early Access to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale for cardholders is officially open! This week I did a poll on IG for what you guys wanted reviews on, and the top 3 by far were boots / booties, baby gear, and comfortable shoes available in small sizes. With these in mind, I spent two days trying pieces on in store and sifted through everything online for a few gems. I wasn’t impressed by a lot of the items, but some of the classic boots, shoes, and bigger ticket baby gear are a good value.
For good quality recommendations from the sale that I own and love, please read yesterday’s post and for mens, click here for Nick’s fit reviews. Below I prioritized top petite-friendly picks I felt will get the most bang for their buck.
1. Petite friendly boots in regular & wide: Naturalizer riding boots, 2 colors ($139.90, regularly $209.95)
My top petite find from this sale. Not only are these good on shorties and come in sizes 4-12, but they’re also semi slim fit AND come in wide (petite wide calf is a very specific yet common request on here)!! They are very comfortable and cushioned on the insoles and lined along the shaft. The shaft height on sz 5 regular measures 14″ tall in the front and 14″ around the calf circumference, which will not be fitted on very slender calves unfortunately, but is still slimmer than the average boot.
2. Petite friendly designer jeans: Just got these Paige cropped jeans (avail. in sz 23 and up) in and they fit like a dream! The distressing actually hits properly at my knees and is much more subtle than they appear in the stock photo. Mid rise for those who want something lower than my usual high rise jeans. Stretchy, soft, and shapely but not as tight as Topshop jeans which I know some find to be too skinny. Length of size 24 is perfect on me as full length.
3. Softest twist front tee: Gibson Twist Front Top (in regular & petite)
Fit: TTS, petite runs a tad short in length (works well on my 5′ tall frame)
I got this top years ago and it’s still a top favorite! See it here, here, and here. It’s soft and cozy like a lounge tee, but the twist front detail adds a little extra something. I have xxs petite and the cropped “twist” area works great with mid to higher rise jeans and leggings. I also wore this in xxs regular sizing during my pregnancy to cover the bump, then afterwards gave that top to my mama who is a little taller than me!
4. Slim Fit Over The Knee Boots: Steve Madden OTK Boot (under $90!)
Fit: TTS. I usually wear between 5 to 5.5, and a 5.5 in this fit best.
The favorite amongst the OTK boots I tried on. These are slim and definitely didn’t feel 15″ around as listed online. Felt comfortable all around and the heel + toe shape make for a sharp, leg lengthening look. These are faux suede down the front half (but looked nice), and a thick and stretchy fabric down the back half which help make these more fitted. Pull on style wasn’t too hard to roll on and off like some boots.
If you have a bigger budget and want real suede OTK boots, Stuart Weitzmans still reign supreme for narrow calves and there is a classic black style included again in the sale! (I usually take sz 5 in lower heel SW OTK boots).
5. PETITE friendly Zella leggings: Live-in 3/4 leggings (also on sale in maternity) – save $25.
Fit: TTS to a bit small. XXS fits me perfectly.
Copying this in from yesterday because these are not to be missed! Zella live-in leggings are a longtime favorite of mine and last well through repeat washes. In prior years only the regular length or cropped live-in leggings were included. Their 7/8 is the ideal length on me, and the updated version has a side pocket and wider waistband which I found very flattering.
6. Roomy but not Overwhelming Tote: Sole Society Faux Leather Tote ($32.90; regularly $49.95);
Faux leather tote with simple, clean lines and holds a ton. The two colors on sale are fall staples but I actually love ALL the colors this comes in, both sale and non-sale (deep green! cognac! camel! ivory!). It can fit up to a 15″ laptop, lunch, and a pair of shoes but measurements are still within the cusp of what I look for (14″ wide or less across the base) that don’t make me look like a kindergartener trying on her mom’s purse! There’s a 1 button snap closure at the top, and a large zippered removable pouch to hold valuables. The other large totes in this sale from Kate Spade and Tory Burch unfortunately felt overwhelming against my frame.
7. Versatile silky cami: BP lace trim cami
Fit: TTS with adjustable shoulder straps straps. See on me.
This will definitely be a sale favorite as it’s lightweight, flattering, with a fluid silky feel. I got the dots but the solid black or leopard would also look cute with both jeans and pants!
8. Flattering suede bootie: BP Heath Bootie ($69.90; regularly $109.95)
Fit: TTS to a tad small, in sizes 4 – 13. Size 5.5 fit me best.
Real suede bootie under $70 that comes in very inclusive sizing. The toe shape on this one reminiscent of one of my favorite booties that I always get questions on. Note the Cognac is actually a darker redwood-brown color in person. If you’re looking for a waterproof option, scroll down for a photo of the Blondo Nina which in comparison is more rounded in the toe with a lower stacked heel.
9. Transitional Bootie-Sandal: Cole Haan Callista Heels ($99.90; regularly $149.90)
Fit: TTS. Sizes 5 – 12. Sz 5 fit me best.
If you’re looking for a quality, transitional neutral shoe that you can get a lot of mileage with from Spring through Fall (and Winter if you live in a mild climate), check these out. They are INCREDIBLY comfortable for a 3″ heel, breathable due to the perforations, and the soft suede just hugs your foot. They look sleek and slim but the supple suede stretches to accommodate wider parts of your feet. Comes in 2 skin-flattering tones – I’m trying on the lighter sesame color, and did not see the blush in-person but it looks beautiful online. I already have a similar style of mule-saxndals from years ago, but had to order these for my mom who refuses to wear anything that’s not comfortable.
10. Chic Mules: Madewell Remi Mule ($54.90; regularly $88)
Fit: TTS, comes in black, cognac, and spotted animal print.
As mentioned in my post yesterday, these are sleek and lightweight and a great value for real suede / leather mules. They were love at first sight and I’ve been testing them out all over the city the past few days with no breaking in needed! See below under “Comfort Shoes” for how the black and brown colors look on.
Slip Queen Pillowcase Duo (cream color option) ($119; $170 value) – I’m doing a whole post comparing silk pillowcases from $20 to $85 next week. Spoiler alert: as much I was hoping it wasn’t true, the priciest Slip ones are a noticeable cut above the rest in terms of the weight and smoothness of the silk and I haven’t seen a better deal on two.
Ugg Scuffette II Water Resistant Slipper ($54.90; regularly $84.95) – runs 1 whole size small IMO. Got in brown!
Barefoot Dreams Circle Cardigan ($77; regularly $116) – No brainer cozy gift for moms, siblings, friends who are new moms. Smaller sizes sold out quickly last year. See my post last year for photos of how it looks on a petite frame!
Barefoot Dreams Throw, also in solid colors) – Pricey but after so many of you guys recommended this, I indulged this year and picked a leopard one in “stone!” It is truly beyond cozy and I’m happy to hear from you guys that it lasts.
Diptyque Mini Candle Set ($55; $75 value) – great gift I buy each year but note these are pretty mini sized!
Moonlight Pajamas ($35.90; regularly $55) – XXS is a tad roomy on me but these are super comfy and soft and wash & wear well.
Anastasia Brow Duo ($25; $43 value) – I really like both of these but rarely buy the pencil, as you don’t get lot of product for the price. The gel is great to tame longer or unruly brows, and I also use it sometimes on my pesky hair wispies. This is a great deal for two of their classic cult favorite products at a sizeable discount!
Stila eyeliner & eyeshadow set ($20; $34 value). The eyeshadow is pure glitter and awful. However the liquid eyeliner is the best and costs $22 by itself so worth it for me to get a few. UPDATE: this set is the super fine tip liner and not the normal tip! I was very disappointed and apologize if anyone got this on my recommendation.
Fresh Rose Hydration Rush Ritual Set ($69; $101 value) – picked this up as a head start on my holiday shopping!
La Mer Mini Miracles Set ($90; $122 value)
Lancome Bi-Facial Trio ($58.50; $90 value) – Cannot live without this for gently removing eye makeup. Make sure you check out their great gift with purchase going on as well!
Oribe Full Size Magic Styling Set ($61 ; $92 Value) – Love the texture spray (albeit so pricey), but haven’t tried the dry shampoo!
Jo Malone London Miniature Fragrance & Body Set ($47; $68 value)
Black ankle booties are one of my top staples for Fall – Winter. I tried on a dozen black boot options and found these few to be more flattering, however they are pretty different based on your wardrobe needs! If I had to pick one to recommend, it would be the BP Heath because I love that almond toe shape and it’s a high but still manageable heel.
BP Heath Bootie ($69.90; regularly $109.95)
Fit: TTS to a tad small, in sizes 4 – 13. 5.5 fit me best.
Real suede bootie under $70 that comes in very inclusive sizing. My last pair of BP booties lasted me many years (anyone remember the BP Trolley?) and might still be revived with a cleaning + polish. The toe shape on this one reminiscent of one of my favorite Sam Edelman booties from years past. Note the Cognac is actually a darker redwood-brown color in person.
Blondo Nina Waterproof Suede Boot ($99.90; regularly $149.95)
Fit: TTS, in sizes 4-13. 5.5 fit me best.
Each year there’s a waterproof Blondo bootie as part of the sale and it’s always a solid, versatile option also with a wide range of sizes. This has a walking friendly mid-height stacked heel, zipper on the inside, and elastic panel on the outer ankle for a little stretch in that area as you walk. Compared to the BP Heath the toe is more rounder in shape and the stacked heel is lower.
Halogen Abbi Block Heel Bootie ($84.90; regularly $129.95)
Fit: TTS, in sizes 5-12. 5.5 fit me best.
Suede covered heel and more rounded toe shape. Due to the covered heel vs a wooden stacked one, this one looks a little more refined and would be more versatile for dressing up or for office wear.
As mentioned in yesterday’s post, the foldable Hunter Tour Tall Rain Boot are a great buy as part of this sale. I posted a comparison pic yesterday of the Tall vs the Short and personally think the Tall is more flattering and elongating on my frame! If you prefer a duck boot style, I also own and wear my Sperry Saltwater boots (from many years ago) about once a week in the Fall / Winter and like the black and grey colors that are part of this sale.
Couldn’t find my size to try: Aquatalia Tall Weatherproof Boot ($329.90; regularly $495)
Aquatalia makes high quality, weatherproof boots that tend to run slim in the calf. The shaft height measurement on smaller foot sizes (5 and 5.5) usually are shorter in person than the online listing, which is good news for petite ladies. I have a pair from years ago and they hold up very nicely.
Tory Burch Classics
Every year there are classic Tory’s as part of this sale, and they are actually a very good deal if you or a gift recipient are a fan of the brand. It’s hard to see in my photos, but this year’s has a chic but subtle patent cap toe. I prefer these to the popular Minnie flat because they are more sleek on the foot while the Minnie look more wide on me!
Tory Burch Everly Cap Toe Ballet Flat ($164.90; regularly $248)
Fit: Runs a half size big. I tried on sz 5.5 which I can usually do, but would definitely need a 5 in these.
Super pliable rubber sole good for running around. Did not see the cognac in store but that would be my pick for a leg-lengthening, everyday flat.
Tory Burch Everly Cap Toe Pump ($169.90; regularly $258)
Fit: TTS. 5.5 fit perfectly compared to the flat which felt bigger in the same size.
If choosing between the flat and the heel, I would do the heel because it feels more supportive, while still very walking friendly due to the heel being low and block shaped.
Polished Sneaker: Cole Haan GrandPro Slip-on Sneakers ($84.90; regularly $130)
Fit: TTS. Comes in sizes 5 – 11 and a 5 fit me best.
While trying these on, no less than three shoppers stopped to ask me about these shoes and proceeded to buy them! They are a lightweight, more affordable alternative to my M.Gemi Cerchios (see styling ideas here) and provide the comfort and ease of sneakers but feel more elevated due to the smooth leather. I preferred these to the Ugg version, which have a thicker, slightly more supportive platform sole but were also heavier in weight. If you want the same woven leather texture as my M.Gemi’s, Cole Haan has a woven style as well, on sale outside of the Anniversary Sale.
Leg-lengthening minimalist sandals: Vince Camuto Carolina Sandal ($64.90; regularly $99.95)
Fit: Runs narrow. I got 5.5 and the front strap is a snug fit across the top of my foot.
This is a great quality classic leather sandal that is on sale in SO many colors and materials! Lighter skin tones may prefer the “Nude” (pictured above) while I liked the Caramel (see the 2nd photo in this blog post), and there is also a darker Wheat color and a neutral Tipsy Taupe. These obviously won’t be as comfortable as the flat shoes listed above but are still pretty good given the heel height.
AGL Slingback Pump ($244.90; regularly $370) – If budget is not a concern, these are really comfortable and the modern architectural heel looks more modern than most AGL designs. The leather is soft like butter and these feel like shoes you can walk in all day.
Ugg Callen Loafer ($64.90; regularly $99.95) – felt half size small to me. Great support and comfort.
Born Barnstable Loafer ($59.90; regularly $94.95) – more matronly style but very comfortable and supportive if you like the look.
Brixton Joanna Hat ($58.90; regularly $88)
A nice quality wool hat that comes in XS – M instead of one size fits all! The size guide in the info box is accurate, as I measured gently around my head (21.75″) and a size S per the guide fit perfectly. The blush color is very pretty in person and not too pink.
Sole Society Leopard Blanket Scarf ($26.90; regularly $44.95)
Plush, soft and a great size. Had to add this one to my collection! This is a Fall / Winter weight scarf that is generously sized for keeping you warm, however it’s not huge like some square blanket scarves that I know some of you find overwhelming on petite frames. The rectangular size is also easier to style in my opinion than squares.
Rag & Bone Zoe Fedora ($166.90; regularly $250)
I do not splurge often on hats but caved on the Rag & Bone Zoe a few years ago (not the best photo, but see it on me). If you find most wool hats to look too Indiana Jones on you, this one has a feminine, softer rounded shape and is beautiful quality. Only one color (a soft dove grey) is included in the sale.
Madewell Transport Cross Body Tote ($111.90; regularly $168. Or, if you like the “linen” color it’s $88!))
An old favorite bag of mine updated with a wide stripe of suede down the center. The stripe is only on one side so you could flip it around when you want the solid leather look. Personally I’d still prefer the one I have in solid brown, which is $148 now but goes on sale 2x a year at Shopbop.
The best quality sweaters I found were from Topshop! A lot of the other brands I tried on felt thin or pill-prone. These were both weighty and thick with stylish slouchy chic cuts. I also had high hopes for but did NOT love the Topshop Jamie jeans and moto jacket in the Nsale this year. To be honest the jeans fit well but looked like the hem got chewed up by a puppy, and the moto jacket belt flaps in the front and can’t be removed or adjusted.
Topshop Petite Supersoft Deep Hem Sweater (also in regular) ($44.90; regularly $68). Plush and very soft, in a versatile true camel color. If you’re petite I’d definitely go with the petite sizing available online! I am trying on XS regular above and it may look fine in the photo, but was too oversized on me from the back view.
Topshop Patch Cable Crewneck Sweater ($44.90; regularly $68)
Slouchy fit but isn’t too oversized or long on petite ladies.
KUT from the Kloth Diana Jeans (regular & petite)
Fit: TTS, mid rise. trying on size 24 / 00 petite.
These might be the best fitting petite-friendly jeans from the sale, good if you prefer a mid rise to high rise (my favorite). Slim but still comfortable for those who don’t want denim to be too fitted or skinny. I got my mom a pair of KFTK jeans from the sale last year and they’ve proven to be good quality. I also tried on the Madewell high rise cropped which looked promising but had a 3″ waist gap!
Halogen tie waist twill pants (in Petite & Regular)
Fit: TTS, but may run smaller compared to typical Halogen bottoms. 00P fits nicely with no alterations!
I’ve posted about my share of tie waisted trousers, but these are fantastic from the color to the fabric weight down to the angled pockets. Had to find my size online and they just arrived. Usually Halogen petite bottoms are too big on me but these fit well. Compared to an ASOS petite version I’ve featured, these fit more comfortably at the waist and are notably better quality with a medium weight woven twill material. The cut is easier to pull off because there is less of a dramatic taper from the hips down to the leg, and feel more like straight leg pants.
This Halogen blazer fit fine, but I didn’t think it was anything standout. The J.Crew Dover blazer (I believe this particular fabric and style combo is a Nordstrom exclusive) however is beautiful in both quality and fit (00P for me) and comes in both versatile colors as well as a gorgeous bright yellow!
Nuna Pipa Lite LX infant car seat and base ($314.90; regularly $419.95)
Never thought I’d be oogling a car seat, but the new Nuna Pipas with the leather handles are gorgeous! After a ton of research we settled on the regular Pipa (not on sale) instead of the lighter weight Lite, which was my first intuition. The main difference is the Pipa can be used in cars and plane seats without the base, which was important for us because we fly and take Ubers often and didn’t want to haul the base around with us. If this is not a concern for you, then the Lite is a fantastic option. And if you’re going with a Lite, I would recommend the Lite LX over the regular Lite because it comes with the magnetic “dream drape” sun / sleeping shade – a genius feature that we always get asked about when using ours!
Nuna Rava Flame Retardant Convertible Car Seat ($374.90; regularly $$459 to 499)
A quick search shows that most other sites online have the Rava listed at the same sale price with free shipping, so no unique savings here unlike with the Lite LX deal.
BabyZEN Stroller Bundle – See my post yesterday and the discussion in yesterday’s comments section!
Stokke Tripp Trapp Chair, Baby Set, Cushion & Tray Bundle ($253.90; regularly $339) – See my post yesterday.
Nuna 2019 Mixx Stroller ($499.90; regularly $669.25) – I can’t speak to this stroller at all but wanted to point it out.
North Face Reversible Baby Down Jackets – Just got this and love the reversible feature. Pricey for babies but last year Nori wore her one little pink North Face jacket all winter so it’s worth it! I also got her this adorable shearling-like bear hood jacket for fall (very soft).
Like with each year, I wanted to do a giveaway on this post to say thank you! I put a poll on IG and you guys voted for 4 winners who will each receive a $250 gift card to shop!
To Enter: Fill out the Rafflecopter form below. I always love feedback on what pieces you guys are looking or are interested in, so as part of the giveaway entry, please leave me a blog comment below (including your first name) letting me know an item you’re eying from the sale (or something that you’ve searching for and haven’t found yet)! I’ve also enjoyed discovering new brands and items from you guys this way!
Other Rules: Limit ONE Rafflecopter entry form completed per person (this can include multiple entries such as Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest) but please note multiple entries per person under different email addresses will be disqualified.
Giveaway is open internationally as long as Nordstrom will ship to you, and winners will be drawn at random via Rafflecopter and announced by end of day July 18, 2019 within the Rafflecopter widget in this blog post. Winner must contact me by July 30, 2019 to claim the prize.
Hi Jean! Thank you for your helpful post! Super excited for the baby zen yo-yo stroller for my baby! Expecting and due in August! This will come in handy! Also, thank you for hosting this amazing giveaway and for a chance to win! -Yen Bui
Thank you for this round up and detailed reviews. I have to say that the pull over is adorable 🙂
Nike sneakers
Thanks for the detailed reviews as always!! I’m most excited about the Corlina sandal and the Callen loafer
I bought my first pair of Zella leggings and I can’t wait to use them when I’m postpartum in Novwmber!
Love all of these!
I have two Barefoot Dreams circle cardigans and wear them almost every day. They’re perfect for chilly air conditioned offices. I’m definitely planning to pick up a couple more.
Thank you for suggestions!
I want to get the Zella Live In leggings!
I’m looking for new Ugg boots
I love the BP booties
Love your blog! It is seriously the best petite blog! I have gotten so many items you recommend and love your detailed review of the Nordstrom sale! Sadly, I don’t have the card, so I’ll be waiting until it’s open to the public. Thanks for skins such great reviews!
I am eyeing the Barefoot Dream Circle cardigan! Thanks for sharing your blog post with us =)
thanks for having this raffle! i’m looking for a small summer bag as i transition out of a backpack phase. -christina
Would love the Zella legging
Hi Jean!
Your blog is seriously my bible- I go to you on references for everything! Definitely eyeing the Blondo booties, been contemplating since last Winter.
Have been eyeing the Cole Haan Slip-ons!
Love all of these fall styles! Will need to wait until all access starts – hope that the Halogen pants and Cole Haan slip ons my size will still be left.
Love your blog! Nordstrom Anniversary Sale posts are always very helpful, too. I would love to see a post in the future where you go over your die-hard/holy-grail/favorite basics (favorite shirt, jeans, cardigan, etc.)!
Thanks for the post! This year I’m looking for nice striped tees and a comfortable bootie!
Hi Jean,
Thank you for sharing! I am looking for a great pair of comfortable boots, so I’m looking forward to checking out the boots you recommended.
thanks so much for this post! so i normally don’t shop at nordstrom but after reading your suggestion and review of the nuna carseat, we’re definitely considering purchasing it to use with our yoyo+. thanks for being so detailed in why you chose the nuna pipa vs. pipa litelx. super helpful!!
Definitely eyeing a pair of black petite friendly jeans
I’m considering the Franco Sarto snake print loafer, and bought the Wit and Wisdom check pants. Fingers crossed that they’ll be a good fit.
Thank you for the detailed run down of your favorites!&
The barefoot dreams throw!
the vince camuto perforated booties!
Really love the shoe recommendations! Particularly looking at Blondo boots. Fashionable water proof shoes are hard to find!
Two items I would definitely be looking for are a pair of jeans and cardigan.
Love the blog! Been following you for a Long time and really excited to try on some of the slip ons and the slim boots! Also, love how you have transformed from just doing fashion and a bit a travel to your own personal life! Nori is the cutest smile at baby! Can’t wait to check out the baby strollers! Been readin up on them for a Long time!
I love all the baby gear and boots!!!
Thank you for your recommendations! I purchased the moonlight pajamas and Zella leggings. I also purchased the Serene House diffuser that I was eyeing from last year’s sale and I’m thinking about the Cura hair dryer. I’m looking for a casual petite friendly blazer so I may purchase the jcrew blazer you recommended. Would love a recommendation for a comfortable dressy sandal. Does such a sandal exist?
I so appreciate all of your research that goes in to these posts! Cant wait to snatch some up for myself!
Thank you for your recommendations! I purchased the Zella leggings, moonlight pajamas and
I’m looking for work wear. I heard Wit and Wisdom have a good pair this year!
I am looking for some new shoes. I really love the Blondo Waterproof Suede Bootie you showed.
I’m shopping for a pair of OTK boots!
Hi Jean,
Thank you so much for this post! I got the the Sole Society bag, Zella leggings, and the Vince Camuto Sandal. I’m most excited about the shoes because I have tiny feet and ordered both 4 and 4.5 to see which one fits. I’m also considering the riding boots based on your recommendation.
Again, thank you for pointing me in the right direction! In past years’ sale, I’ve been so overwhelmed or disappointed that nothing fits me (especially shoes; I’ve had many a teary eye while shopping for small sizes).
Also, the Supergoop sets on sale look like a great deal!
Im searching for some sandals and jeans.
Love you site. I been shopping for a bodysuit that you can layer for work and transition to night.
I purchased the Zella leggings. Looking for sport bras and linen dresses.
Petite-Friendly coat for the fall!
I’m excited to try the sweater. I love soft sweaters.
I would love to get a pair of new Melissa flats and a barefoot dreams cardigan!
I would love to have a new laptop bag and would use the money to buy one.
I love the Halogen pants, with the Topshop camel sweater. It’s the perfect fall time outfit!
I think I’m most excited about jeans- those KFTC ones sound perfect for me!
I’m eyeing the Stuart Weitzman boots!!!!!
I’m excited about some of the high waisted jeans I ordered and the tie-waist pants in your post! I’m also looking for some tops and dresses I can wear to work.
Looking for any BLANCNY clothes in the sale and also looking for blog posts about confortables but cute dressy shoes
I loved so many things but if I had to only choose one…I love the Blondo booties. I have a couple of pairs and love the comfort and the fact that they are waterproof. One of my favorite shoes are Paul Green!
Not part of the #NSALE, but just orders an Eric Javits fedora. I tried it on in the store and it was a perfect fit. I bet it would look so cute on you too!
I am hoping to get the Zella high waisted 7/8 legging.
Love BLANCNY brand, so looking for any of their clothes on the sale and also always looking for blog posts about comfortable but cute dressy shoes
Looking for more petite-friendly workout tops that aren’t necessarily crop tops/bras. Most work out tops are too overwhelming for my figure. Looking for shorter tops that I don’t have to tie up.
I would love to purchase some cute dress pants from the sale, its hard sometimes to find petite or short styles, those rust colored pants with the bow tie around the waist are right up my alley!
I’m looking at the BP Heath booties !! Loving the taupe and black colors!
I have the barefoot dreams blanket and ankle boots on my wishlist!