Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale ended a month ago, but if you’re still thinking about that cozy throw blanket or fall-ready denim jacket that you left in your cart because it was 90 degrees at the time, you’re in luck: The retailer’s Summer Sale is on now with tons of seasonal gear in plenty of styles and sizes discounted at anywhere from 25 to 60 percent off. We’ve unearthed deals on several reliable Strategist favorites — such as Girlfriend Collective activewear, Madewell denim, and North Face outerwear. This is the last weekend to shop the sale before it ends on September 12, so it’s now or never if something catches your eye.
Women
Madewell’s vintage-inspired mom jeans are cut slim though the leg “to keep the silhouette flattering and not dumpy,” stylist Samantha Brown explains.
This soft cashmere sweater will be a great transitional piece to have as the weather starts to cool off.
Strategist managing editor Kelsie Schrader is loyal to Brooks’ Ghost running shoes thanks to their rigid, supportive feel.
For those planning a return to the office, this luxe pebbled-leather tote bag is roomy enough for schlepping a laptop, water bottle, gym clothes, and more.
If you’re in the market for a new winter coat, you can’t go wrong with the North Face. This parka features 700-fill-power down encased in a water-repellent exterior to keep you protected from the elements.
Don’t forget to pick up a scarf, too, to replace the one you accidentally left in a restaurant booth last winter.
Strategist editor Maxine Builder reports that whether you’re running miles or just running errands, Outdoor Voices’ exercise dress “remains supportive and comfortable, not constricting, all day long.”
Midi-length silk skirts are very trendy right now. This one can stand alone in warmer weather and, when it gets colder, will pair perfectly with tights and a cropped sweater.
We suspect you’ll be reaching for this classic Levi’s (faux) leather jacket all autumn long. Its insulated lining and front-zip pockets will keep you nice and toasty, and you can size up to layer a sweater underneath.
NYC-based brand Argento Vivo makes some of the best cheap (but expensive-looking) earrings — including these timeless gold hoops with a subtle textured finish.
According to personal trainer Tally Rye, Girlfriend Collective leggings come with a high comfort factor and ability to withstand multiple movements. Plus each pair is made from recycled plastic water bottles.
Strategist intern Brenley Goertzen says these Sam Edelman sandals “can be dressed up or worn more casually with jeans.” They remind her of the Camper Kobarah sandals, “but at a more affordable price point.”
Men
Make the most of fleece season in this snap-neck pullover that’s warm enough for evening strolls and good-looking enough for Zoom calls with your boss.
These chinos are crafted with a touch of spandex, so you can still move freely and comfortably in them.
This lightweight, moisture-wicking Nike tee not only looks sleek, but will keep you comfortable throughout your next trip to the gym.
College freshmen, take note: Our student sources say Adidas slides are the best shower shoes — specifically the black ones with the white stripes. Apparently, they’re “for folks who want to level up from basic Old Navy flip-flops.”
Corduroy paneling adds texture and visual interest to this classic cotton chore coat.
Herschel’s water-resistant duffel bag is a constant companion of Dymphe Mensink, who runs the blog Dymabroad, on her frequent one- to three-day trips. Mensink says she’s been caught in the rain with hers several times, but her stuff “never got damp.”
Brigid Wygod, founder and designer of Follow Suit, loves Le Specs’ trendy sunglasses, because they’re fairly high-quality for their relatively low price. These bold, blocky frames are equipped with 100 percent UV protection.
Phillip Wong, the co-founder and creative director of Hawthorne, has worn “classic Calvin Klein boxer briefs for as long as I can remember,” he says, adding that “the shape is exceptional, not too tight, and it’s very low-maintenance.”
Hoka Bondi sneakers are approved by Strategist columnist Chris Black, who says these shoes “will have you floating” on account of their “unmatched” comfort. Plus, he says, “They will look cool with almost anything.”
Home
This quirky color-blocked glass vase will add a splash of whimsy to your coffee table or mantel.
Strategist senior editor Jen Trolio, who has purchased several Aura frames for herself and family members, loves that she is able to add “new photos straight from my phone” whenever she wants, via the frame’s smartphone app. “So could any other family members or friends I invited to contribute,” she writes.
Former Strategist writer Chloe Anello received the Wild One leash as a gift and highly recommends it: “It looks good and it’s easy to control,” she says.
Barefoot Dreams throw blankets are beloved by teenage girls for how soft and cuddly they are.
Emmett Shine, the creative director of Pattern Brands, likes Casper’s Bluetooth-enabled Glow Light because it dims and brightens gradually, which can help ease you to sleep at night or wake up in the morning. “It’s great to wake up to to get melatonin going as you open your eyes for the first time,” he told us.
Gear up for fall baking with Great Jones’s good-looking Hot Dish. Adorned with an Art Deco–esque design, this 9-by-13-inch ceramic baking dish is perfect for making lasagna, casseroles, cobblers, and more.
Our Place’s Always Pan is an all-time Strategist favorite. Lani Halliday, the founder and owner of Brutus Bakeshop, tells us “the weight, the shape, the size, and the finish are all excellent,” and New York–based stylist Mecca James-Williams calls it the “one pan that can do everything,”
According to Dave Jacobs, the owner of Mini Jake, a children’s store in Williamsburg, Brooklyn — as well as a dad himself — this versatile high chair truly grows with a child, making it worth its price tag. “The convertible Stokke Tripp Trapp high chair provides modern seating for an infant but also can turn into a chair that suits a teenager,” because it can hold up to 300 pounds, he explains.
Beauty
This three-piece Olaplex set includes everything you need for a serious hair-repair routine — including shampoo, conditioner, and a hair mask. Multiple stylists and hair experts have recommended Olaplex products for their patented bond-building technology that works to rebuild damaged hair strands.
Artist Cynthia Cervantes Gumbs credits this grapefruit-scented Malin+Goetz cleanser with keeping her skin clean and moisturized. “I have always loved a thick cleanser that foams up and smells good, and this ticks all those boxes,” she says.
This refreshing botanical-infused mist from Saturday Skin will keep your hands sanitized and delightfully scented. The portable packaging means you can just throw it in your bag and go.
The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural anxiety remedies, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
