Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Early Access: My List of 20 Must-Haves for Moms

It’s that time of year again… the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is here!

If you’re anything like me, that means it’s time to stock up on some essential pieces to build your fall and winter mom wardrobe at some incredible prices.

And if you’re anything like me, you might also be slightly overwhelmed by all of the choices! Which is why I try to do a lot of the leg work for you. I know as busy moms we prioritize comfort, durability and cost along with style... and I’ve totally got you covered.

Before I share all the pics of my favorite initial finds (yes, more categorized roundups are coming up), a quick reminder about which brands I ALWAYS check out during this sale- in case you want to do some more perusing on your own.

My Favorite Brands

• Madewell
• Paige
• Zella
• The North Face
• Nike
• BP. (It’s not just for teens – trust me!)
• Barefoot Dreams
• Treasure & Bond

Without further ado, here are my favorite 20 items from my visit to the front lines of the sale last night.

Remember, only Nordstrom Card holders can get in on the sale now but things go fast so, even if you’re not a cardholder, it pays to figure out what you want now so you’re ready when you are allowed in!

Here we go…

 

Topshop Colorblock Knit Pullover $68 Now $44.90

My favorite find of the day!

This sweater is flattering, oh-so-easy to wear and unique enough that it makes me feel like I have some fun style in my wardrobe. Plus, a high-end sweater for under $45 is pretty hard to beat!

Make + Model Too Cool Pullover $35 Now $22.90

As you read this post you’re gonna see a theme… in a word, SOFT.

I love soft, comfy clothes and I firmly believe you don’t need to sacrifice style for comfort. When I was checking out at Nordstrom last night the sales clerk even commented on how sumptuous all my picks felt.

The bright and fun look of this thin sweatshirt makes me so happy. (I wish this one was on sale too!)

Make + Model Gotta Have It V-Neck Tee $25 Now $15.90

Another theme you will likely notice? Stripes- I’ve always loved them, always will.

They are such an easy way to add some interest to my outfits and, is it just me, or does it add a sporty vibe too? This summery tee is another find from Make+ Model. I’m really digging their whole line this year!

Paige Hoxton High Waist Slim Raw Hem Jeans $215 Now $143.90

If there’s one gripe I have about Nordstrom, it’s the photos of the jeans on their website! The rail skinny models wearing high heels with every pair not only makes it incredibly hard to figure out how they’d actually look in real life, they don’t do most of the jeans justice!

And, because I wear them every day, jeans are one area that I am willing to spend a little more money. (Also, let’s be honest, because I’m willing to throw a little money at trying to make my butt look good.) That being said, I still love a good deal and this price is a total steal!

Paige has always been a favorite and I was thrilled to discover this vintage feeling pair with a raw hem. I’m really loving the raw hem trend as a way to make jeans feel a little edgy without having to go full-on distressed (which doesn’t work in every situation for me, like volunteering at the kids school, etc.).

The feel of these jeans is also incredible– think your favorite pair of broken in denim.

Psst – the shirt is the same Make + Model Gotta Have It V-Neck Tee as up top but in navy.

More Fabulous Denim on Sale

Another pair of jeans that I’m SUPER excited about, but haven’t yet been able to get my hands on in my size, are:

The Madewell 10-Inch High Waist Skinny Jeans $135 Now $89.90

Although skeptical at first, I have become a total high waist jean convert. They are so good at sucking in and camouflaging some of my not-so-favorite areas.

I’ve also written before about how Madewell is my go-to denim brand and the button fly on this pair is so great (zippers can look weirdly long on high waist jeans).

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Lite Coastal Hooded Cardigan $114 $75.90

I ALWAYS stock up on cardigans during the Anniversary Sale, because it’s one of the things it’s known to be amazing for, and this year is no exception.

There are several must-grabs on my list this year and at the top are a couple from Barefoot Dreams. These are admittedly on the pricier size (I exercised surprising control and limited myself to just this one) but- trust me- you will live in them.

Remember what I said earlier about liking soft stuff? This brand, which I was introduced to by more than one mom in my neighborhood, is the ultimate in softness. Seriously, like walking around in the most comfortable robe ever. All. Day. Long.

And, of course, I like the one with an interesting band on the sleeve.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Cardigan $134 Now $88.90

Here’s another favorite Barefoot Dreams cardigan, this one sans hood.

Hot Tip: My friends actually first turned me on to Barefoot Dreams because of their incredibly snuggly blankets (made of the same material as the cardigans) that we all started hoarding during our Handsmaid Tail viewing parties. I’m totally asking for one for Christmas!

This one is a part of the sale (and a beautiful design) and this one at Nordstrom Rack is an incredible steal but almost sold out!

Treasure & Bond Athletic Stripe Cardigan $79 Now $52.90

If you’re in the market for a lighter weight cardigan, I was actually surprised by how much I loved the look of this slightly preppy number. Another piece perfect for moms on-the-go.

Madewell Ryder Cardigan $98 Now $64.90

Next up in the amazing cardigan category has to be this beauty by Madewell, a line that rarely steers me wrong and I pretty much love without fail.

The length and weight of this one are especially nice (not to mention the price!) and the subtle pink can be used a versatile neutral much like light grey!

I’m also mildly obsessed with this super cute blanket scarf by Madewell $55 now $35.90 (but sadly wasn’t able to nab one at my store yet).

I feel like it’s gonna be the perfect thing for chilly fall evenings and watching the kids’ outside sporting events.

 

Thread & Supply Wubby Fleece Pullover $78 Now $51.90

Speaking of chilly soccer and baseball games, you better believe I put this Wubby Fleece Pullover directly in my cart as soon as I saw it. As one who is always cold, this fleece is amazing– as in amazingly warm!

I’m apparently not the only one who thinks so either, the wubby has quickly become one of the biggest darlings of the sale and the person checking me out told me I was lucky to nab one as they are going super fast!

Free People Rainbow Thermal Tee $68 Now $44.90

I just love the unexpected pops of color the chevron border adds to this Free People thermal tee.

Make sure you check out the other colors! This one was the only one they had in store but actually my least favorite. All the others are so vibrant, including this one that is weirdly listed separately and on an even bigger sale.

Trouve Rib Overlap Cardigan $79 Now $52.90

Wrapping up the cardigan roundup is this beautiful and toasty option from Trouve. I love this light, icy blue as an alternative to gray that still goes with everything.

There is also a really cool twist detail on the back of this one that I failed to get a photo of because my phone died. #BloggerFail

Trouve Rib Funnel Neck Sweater $79 Now $59.10

A bold, bright red sweater is kinda my favorite thing to wear for Christmas so I always keep an eye out for one during this sale. (There’s also a beautiful neutral tan as well as a turquoise option if that’s more your thing.)

This one feel SO luxurous and I love the neckline. That color though! I’m already picturing how great this will look with these and these plus a red lip that pops.

Madewell Province Cross Back Sweater Knit Pullover $69.50 Now $45.90

Just like the cardigans, there are also a wealth of cute sweaters to be had during the sale. Though I might pair it with a slim camisole underneath for a little extra modesty, I am really loving the super cool back on this sweater.

Psst – here’s another shot of those Paige jeans from above… as I said, they do all the good things for the rear!

Free People Found My Friend Sweatshirt $78 Now $51.90

Same thing goes with for sassy sweatshirt- camisole required for me as it’s very cropped but I do love that neckline and the array of great colors!

Zella Gather Sleeve Sweatshirt $69 Now $45.90

This is another one that looks way better in person than online. The tie details on the arms of this sweatshirt take an ultra comfy piece from totally boring to totally chic and it looks great with both jeans and yoga pants, so you can mix it up.

Alternative Cozy Pullover $46 Now $29.90 

and Alternative Lounge Pants $50 Now $32.90

All this talk about being comfy and I just couldn’t resist a legit sweatsuit. I’ve never actually owned one but this one was just too nice to pass up. It’s the perfect blue in person and seriously feels like you’re wearing your pjs.

Make + Model Sleep Fleece Sweatshirt $49 Now $31.90

And one last bright, striped sweatshirt to round out the collection! Youthful, fun, warm and a great price- what’s not to love?!

 

So that’s it! Well, actually that’s it for now- I’ll be back soon with more thoughts on the sale. In the meantime, don’t forget that Nordstrom has a great rep for no-hassle and FREE returns. So if you think you like something there’s no risk in trying it.

But don’t wait, things notoriously sell out quickly all throughout the sale and there’s not telling when or if they’ll come back in stock.

*Post contains affiliate links.