The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale went live for card holders on July 13. There are over 3200 items for women alone covering a wide range of styles and price ranges. Rather than tediously going through the items, I thought it would be nice, and save time, to see some of their “Trendsetter Picks” for inspiration. I found it frustrating that none of them represented my age or lifestyle. It’s interesting that Nordstrom would choose to ignore this demographic. To that end, I’ve come up with my own picks, both in home decor and fashion.
The items above fall right into one of my favorite color stories for summer. I love the organic nature the wood pieces add to the glossy sheen on the porcelain plates and glassware. I tend to stick to an all white table, but a set of pale blue desert plates and printed organic cotton napkins would be pretty in the mix. I use an oversize beverage dispenser similar to this one for entertaining and am always glad to have it on hand.
I also found a few items for the home, including Dash & Albert area rugs, a chunky knit throw, and a monogrammed canvas hampers. Printed cotton cocktail napkins or a handcrafted leather guest book would make a thoughtful hostess gift.
A big part to the success of efficient packing, is having all the right goods on hand…
Cashmere wraps, travel size beauty products, and zip pouches or cases to organize the small stuff are all essential. I almost always wear a sneaker when flying like Nike’s Air Max Thea. They’re understated enough for street wear but also handy for any excursions on a trip. I just picked up a Tumi carry-on similar to this and am eager to give it a test drive.
I found a few pieces to add to my casual run-around uniform…
Most days, I’m dressed very casually in pieces that are sturdy and comfortable. I’ve already picked up a pair of joggers that I’ll pair with non-athletic looking pieces, such as this James Perse knit jacket. I can see me living in these slip-on sneakers from Nike…they come in tan and white as well. I feel like I’m in need of refreshing some knitwear from last year and found a couple good pieces on sale. I like the subtle details on the Helmut Lang ivory pullover and the weight of the cashmere striped hoodie.
And some new updates to black silhouettes…
Black won’t be boring when it’s updated in fresh silhouettes and interesting textures. I’m crazy for long, accordion pleated skirts and have been collecting them when the proportions are right. I prefer them very long, as in just above the ankle. Navy and black are such a chic combo and look so good on this oversized jacket from Tibi. Another southern California closet staple for me are sleeveless knits. It rarely gets cold enough to bulk up, plus I like being able to layer a blazer or jacket over something without sleeves. Stuart Weitzman’s tasselled pump is a perfect loafer crossover and looks comfortable with a substantial block heel.
All of my picks can be shopped below:
Lisa Cole
Hi Karima,
A friend told me about this post and I have to agree, the trendsetter picks and the Nordstrom catalog in general were uninspiring. As a 55 year old fashion writer, I wanted to have someone speak to me. Not that I don’t have my own opinions! :) Here is my take on the sale as well. Fantastic blog, by the way! So glad my friend told me about you!
http://www.westfultonstreet.com/2017/07/tales-from-sales-floor-nordstrom.html
Karima
Thank you Lisa. I enjoyed your picks too. I do wish Nordstrom would broaden their marketing to include our demographic.
Shana Spitzer
Karima your selections are spot on for a woman in her 50’s that loves fashion and beautiful things. And can afford to buy them. Thank you for taking the time to do this. I wish that we had more retailers with your same eye for our market!
Karima
Thank you Shana. There’s so much more to the sale that easily gets overlooked with the push towards the on-trend items.
Jennifer
Thanks for this post! Very well curated and a fresh take on the sale. I had completely missed the James Perse jacket — now it is coming my way.
Karima
Thank you Jennifer. I love that jacket and it sold out in my size. I would have bought it in both colors!