a relaxed approach to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

If you’ve been following me for a while, you probably know my general opinion on the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale — love the sale, don’t love the frenzy surrounding it.

Yes it’s exciting to get an early look at new fall clothes, and yes it’s exciting that these new fall items are on sale. But I prefer to tune out the frenzy on social media, and take the opportunity to create my own experience instead. Something relaxing and chill.

Here’s how:

First, I reframe my expectations (and let go of any pressure I might feel).

I don’t see this sale as something to conquer. I don’t attempt to do all (or any) of my Christmas shopping. I don’t stock up on everything I might need for the fall and winter.

I let all that go. (And it feels good to let go.)

Instead, I go in with the mindset of buying maybe just one or two special things that speak to me and fill a need in my wardrobe.

Second, I keep my wardrobe planner close at hand.

I always enjoy jotting a few notes in my wardrobe planner if I know I may be doing some shopping soon. That way, I’ve got all that valuable information — my color palette, uniform ideas, wish list, and notes about what I like and don’t like — to keep me on track so I can avoid impulse purchases.

(And hey — you can get your own wardrobe planner too. It’s free and you don’t even have to enter your email address. Download it here.)

Third, I set a soothing tone.

The best part about shopping online? The store doesn’t set the tone — you set the tone.

I like to make it into a soothing experience. I’ll light a candle, turn down the lights in the house, maybe pour a glass of wine, turn on a relaxing playlist (this playlist is my favorite for a night in), and snuggle into the couch with my laptop.

The moment I notice I’m feeling anything other than calm, I close the laptop and focus on something that feels better. Because it’s just a sale — not anything worth getting stressed about.

Then I’ll end the evening with a face mask or a bath or a cup of freshly brewed sleepy time tea.

No stress, no frenzy. Just a nice, relaxing night in.

• • •

Since the sale can be a little overwhelming to navigate, I’ve narrowed down to 16 of my very favorite items in the sale. Some items may say they are out of stock, however they usually come back in a day or two, so keep checking back.

See something you like? You can shop it and support my blog at the same time by using the affiliate links below.

Satin Button Down | Chunky Knit Sweater | Boxy Coat

Huggie Hoops | Soft Cardigan | Croc Belt

Abstract Sketch Top | Snake Chain Necklace

Wrap Sweater | Snakeskin Booties

Straight Leg Denim (I have these and love them)| Croc Bag | Alpaca and Wool Coat

Waterproof Booties | Weatherproof Booties (I have last year’s version and love them) | Croc Booties

• • •

And there you have it!

And hey, if you’re not in the market for anything right now, enjoy that feeling of letting go. Don’t feel the need to shop just because there’s a sale happening. Instead, go soak up the sunshine and do your thing. :)

xo,