I was able to go in the other day to my local Nordstrom and shop and try on several pieces that I had been eyeing with the help of my friend, Caleb, who is the best personal stylist! The store itself did not have as much stock this year due to COVID, but still had a great selection so it was easy to try things on and then order anything not in store online. I have each look posted below that I tried on with sizing info, pricing, review of what I thought and if the item is worth the purchase. If an item is not in stock right now, don’t fret, because they do often restock some items throughout the sale! You can add items to your wishlist to be notified of once they are back in stock!
Outfit 1
Top: Socialite in size XS(runs TTS) $24.90| Denim: Frame in size 25 (run a size small) $146.90| Shoes: Steve Madden in size 7 (run TTS) $39.90
Review:
Top: This is a great basic top and SO soft. It can be styled so many ways too, from lounging at home to a casual and comfy outfit like this or pair with a skirt to dress it up. Verdict: Worth the buy IF you don’t already have a ton of tops like this. I do, so this did not come home with me.
Denim: I always want to like Frame denim, but at 5’2″, the distressing always hits me in a weird spot. I liked the wash and with the raw ankle hem, they actually were not too bad of a length on me. They would be better suited if you were a bit taller (prob 5’5″+). Verdict: A great buy IF you are taller and need a great quality pair of denim.
Shoes: I LOVE these shoes and go back to them every year! They come in so many colors, but the leopard just speaks to me. They are super comfortable, and can easily go from work to happy hour. Sadly, these did not come home with me since my husband is not a fan of leopard so I ended up choosing a few other pairs of shoes instead. Verdict: 100% worth the buy! One of these days, they will be in my closet!
Outfit 2
Top: Frame in size XS (runs TTS) *Not part of sale* $255 | Denim: Mother in size 24 (runs TTS) $158.90 | Shoes: Steve Madden in size 7 (runs half size small) $49.90
Review:
Top: This top is not part of the sale, but I thought it was so cute, I had to try it on! It is the perfect Summer top, but can easily transition into Fall by layering a cardigan, blazer or jacket over it. Verdict: I wanted to take it home, but at $255, I decided against it for now. I could find a similar top at a much lower price point.
Denim: I loved the fit of this brand! This was my first time trying MOTHER jeans on and they were really flattering. They were a bit long on my 5’2″ frame, so I cuffed them, and thought they looked great that way too! I personally am willing to spend more on denim that I know will last and not stretch out, but these are definitely something that you could also find in a similar style at a lower price point, but the quality would be a little less. Verdict: Worth it. I already ordered another pair of jeans in a similar wash, so I did not take these home, but if I hadn’t, I would have gone with these.
Shoes: A MUST have! These are so comfortable and look much more expensive than they are. I will be wearing these ALL the time! They did run about a half size small, so I could have gone up to a 7.5, but the 7 still fit just fine(I am normally a 6.5, but sometimes a 7 in flats). Verdict: YES, 100% worth it! You will get so much use out of them!
Outfit 3
Top: Vince in size XS(runs TTS) $199.90 | Denim: Mother in size 24(runs TTS) $158.90| Shoes: Steve Madden in size 7(runs TTS) $39.90
Review:
Top: Okay, so this is definitely a major splurge top, but if you wanted to splurge, this would be a great item to do that on. It is a classic cashmere sweater that you could wear for years and will not go out of style. Vince makes the SOFTEST tops that are amazing quality! Verdict: You don’t need it. It is a beautiful piece for sure, but I tend to go for a couple lower priced sweaters in trendier styles that I can wear for a few seasons, but not break the bank on.
Denim: I loved the fit of this brand! This was my first time trying MOTHER jeans on and they were really flattering. They were a bit long on my 5’2″ frame, so I folded them under, and thought they looked great that way too! I personally am willing to spend more on denim that I know will last and not stretch out, but these are definitely something that you could also find in a similar style at a lower price point, but the quality would be a little less. Verdict: Worth it. I already ordered another pair of jeans in a similar wash, so I did not take these home, but if I hadn’t, I would have gone with these.
Shoes: I LOVE these shoes and go back to them every year! They come in so many colors, but the leopard just speaks to me. They are super comfortable, and can easily go from work to happy hour. Sadly, these did not come home with me since my husband is not a fan of leopard so I ended up choosing a few other pairs of shoes instead. Verdict: 100% worth the buy! One of these days, they will be in my closet!
Oufit 4
Dress: Topshop in size 2(fits like a US 0, so runs a size small) $35.90| Boots: Marc Fisher in size 6.5 in the Cognac Suede color (runs TTS) $99.90
Review:
Dress: I absolutely love this dress! It is so flattering with the tie at the waist and the side slit on the leg. It is simple, but looks so chic and can be easily dressed up or down, plus the price is great! Verdict: 100% worth it! It is something that you can throw on and look put together and can last for a couple years. You can’t go wrong with an LBD. (Also comes in grey)
Boots: These were my must have neutral boot for the Fall season this year! I love the color, cut, pointed toe, and with a stacked heel they are actually comfortable too. I will be wearing these constantly! Verdict: A definite yes if you need a good neutral boot that can go with literally ANY outfit! Comes in several different colors, and at less than $100, you won’t break the bank on a quality pair of boots.
Outfit 5
Top: BP in size XS(runs TTS) $15.90 | Cardigan: BP in size XS in Oatmeal Beige Light(runs TTS) $31.90 | Denim: Mother in size 24(runs TTS) $158.90 | Shoes: Steve Madden in size 7(runs half size small) $49.90
Review:
Top: I always like to grab some easy T shirts that can easily be layered under cardigans and jackets each year. This year’s version felt better quality than previous years, but I was not a huge fan of the creamier white color or the more rounded neck. Verdict: Not a need. I am sticking with last year’s basic tees because I like the cut and color better, and you could find a similar t shirt several other places too.
Cardigan: I do grab a cardigan each year during the sale as well, since I wear them ALL the time during Fall and Winter. I layer these at home while working and wear them out in outfits like this. I love the stitching detail on this year’s version too, and it comes in several colors! Verdict: Worth the buy. You will get a lot of use out of a basic cardigan, so I recommend grabbing a color that you don’t have in your closet. I don’t have any lightweight cream cardigans, so this one came home with me.
Denim: I loved the fit of this brand! This was my first time trying MOTHER jeans on and they were really flattering. They were a bit long on my 5’2″ frame, so I folded them under, and thought they looked great that way too! I personally am willing to spend more on denim that I know will last and not stretch out, but these are definitely something that you could also find in a similar style at a lower price point, but the quality would be a little less. Verdict: Worth it. I already ordered another pair of jeans in a similar wash, so I did not take these home, but if I hadn’t, I would have gone with these.
Shoes: A MUST have! These are so comfortable and look much more expensive than they are. I will be wearing these ALL the time! They did run about a half size small, so I could have gone up to a 7.5, but the 7 still fit just fine(I am normally a 6.5, but sometimes a 7 in flats). Verdict: YES, 100% worth it! You will get so much use out of them!
Outfit 6
Top: Chelsea 28 in size XS in Orange Jam Heather(runs TTS) $49.90 | Denim: Mother in size 24(runs TTS) $158.90 | Boots: Tory Burch in size 6.5(runs TTS) $249.90
Review:
Top: This sweater was so soft and felt so comfortable on! I loved this color, but it does come in a few other colors as well. The cowl neck detail was not too overwhelming in my opinion either. Verdict: A good buy IF you don’t already have a similar style sweater in your own closet like I did. If you do, no need to buy a double.
Denim: I loved the fit of this brand! This was my first time trying MOTHER jeans on and they were really flattering. They were a bit long on my 5’2″ frame, so I cuffed them, and thought they looked great that way too! I personally am willing to spend more on denim that I know will last and not stretch out, but these are definitely something that you could also find in a similar style at a lower price point, but the quality would be a little less. Verdict: Worth it. I already ordered another pair of jeans in a similar wash, so I did not take these home, but if I hadn’t, I would have gone with these.
Boots: I wanted to love these boots, and I did at first. Once I was wearing them more though, I realized I was not a huge fan of how round the toe was. I did really like the detailing on the side of the boot with the Tory Burch emblem and the heel, but the color is also very different from what it looks like online. Verdict: You can find a cuter boot for a lower price point. If you really want some Tory Burch shoes, they have some super cute tennis shoes on the sale that you could get just as much wear out of as the boots.
Outfit 7
Sweater: Free People in Winter Berry in size XS(runs TTS, but go up one size if you want a more oversize fit) $69.90 | Skirt: STS Blue in size 24(runs TTS) $35.90 | Boots: Marc Fisher in size 6.5 in Cognac Suede(runs TTS) $99.90
Review:
Sweater: Free People is one of my favorite brands for a good sweater, and I love how chunky this one is. The color is so pretty too and it fits a bit better than a normal Free People sweater. I absolutely love this one! Verdict: Worth it. I try to snag Free People items when they are on sale since they are usually a little pricier. This sweater will be a go to for me all Fall!
Skirt: I LOVE this skirt! I had been wanting a denim skirt for awhile, but had not seen any that were not too pricey, until this one. The wash is a great color, it’s not too short and has a little stretch to it to make it comfortable. It is basically the equivalent to a pair of denim shorts, but dressier and more Fall appropriate. Verdict: A must have! At less than $40 it is a great deal and an item that you can wear with so many different tops!
Boots: These were my must have neutral boot for the Fall season this year! I love the color, cut, pointed toe, and with a stacked heel they are actually comfortable too. I will be wearing these constantly! Verdict: A definite yes if you need a good neutral boot that can go with literally ANY outfit! Comes in several different colors, and at less than $100, you won’t break the bank on a quality pair of boots.
Outfit 8
Top: Vince in size XS(runs TTS) $199.90 | Pants: Leith in size XS in color Tan Dale(runs TTS) $34.90 | Shoes: Steve Madden in size 7(runs half size small) $49.90
Review:
Top: Okay, so this is definitely a major splurge top, but if you wanted to splurge, this would be a great item to do that on. It is a classic cashmere sweater that you could wear for years and will not go out of style. Vince makes the SOFTEST tops that are amazing quality! Verdict: You don’t need it. It is a beautiful piece for sure, but I tend to go for a couple lower priced sweaters in trendier styles that I can wear for a few seasons, but not break the bank on.
Pants: These are the most flattering pants and would be perfect for work or dressing up any outfit. I love them for Thanksgiving as well if you are someone who likes to dress up for family gatherings. The tie waist is a fun detail and really snips in your waist accompanied by the higher waist of the pant. Verdict: If you are going into the office, these are a must! I have a similar style in green so I did not take these home since I work from home full time.
Shoes: A MUST have! These are so comfortable and look much more expensive than they are. I will be wearing these ALL the time! They did run about a half size small, so I could have gone up to a 7.5, but the 7 still fit just fine(I am normally a 6.5, but sometimes a 7 in flats). Verdict: YES, 100% worth it! You will get so much use out of them!
Outfit 9
Top: BP in size XS(runs TTS) $15.90 | Cardigan: Leith in size XS in Olive Night (runs TTS) $39.90| Denim: Mother in size 24 (runs TTS) $158.90 | Boots: Tory Burch in size 6.5(runs TTS) $249.90
Review:
Top: I always like to grab some easy T shirts that can easily be layered under cardigans and jackets each year. This year’s version felt better quality than previous years, but I was not a huge fan of the creamier white color or the more rounded neck. Verdict: Not a need. I am sticking with last year’s basic tees because I like the cut and color better, and you could find a similar t shirt several other places too.
Cardigan: Leith makes a version of these super soft and cozy cardigans every year, and I always love them because they are so affordable and come in so many colors! Verdict: A must IF you don’t have a similar cardigan already. I did not end up with this years because I went with the BP cardigan this year, so I would say to choose one or the other.
Denim: I loved the fit of this brand! This was my first time trying MOTHER jeans on and they were really flattering. They were a bit long on my 5’2″ frame, so I cuffed them, and thought they looked great that way too! I personally am willing to spend more on denim that I know will last and not stretch out, but these are definitely something that you could also find in a similar style at a lower price point, but the quality would be a little less. Verdict: Worth it. I already ordered another pair of jeans in a similar wash, so I did not take these home, but if I hadn’t, I would have gone with these.
Boots: I wanted to love these boots, and I did at first. Once I was wearing them more though, I realized I was not a huge fan of how round the toe was. I did really like the detailing on the side of the boot with the Tory Burch emblem and the heel, but the color is also very different from what it looks like online. Verdict: You can find a cuter boot for a lower price point. If you really want some Tory Burch shoes, they have some super cute tennis shoes on the sale that you could get just as much wear out of as the boots.
Outfit 10
Top: Treasure & Bond in size XS(runs TTS) $39.90 | Denim: Mother in size 24(runs TTS) $158.90 | Boots: Vince Camuto in size 6.5 in Tortilla Suede(runs TTS) $149.90
Review:
Top: This sweater is super soft and I really loved the icy blue color! It is a great sweater to pair with jeans or leggings and something that you can wear from year to year as well. Verdict: If you are in need of a longer sweater, I would grab it! I have a super similar version from last year, so this did not go home with me.
Denim: I loved the fit of this brand! This was my first time trying MOTHER jeans on and they were really flattering. They were a bit long on my 5’2″ frame, so I cuffed them, and thought they looked great that way too! I personally am willing to spend more on denim that I know will last and not stretch out, but these are definitely something that you could also find in a similar style at a lower price point, but the quality would be a little less. Verdict: Worth it. I already ordered another pair of jeans in a similar wash, so I did not take these home, but if I hadn’t, I would have gone with these.
Boots: I normally love Vince Camuto boots and had thought I would absolutely love these, but I was not a huge fan. The slouch detail was cute, but I did not like how the toe was cut so long and narrow. Plus, I have similar knee high boots at home. Verdict: Not a need. If you want a knee high or OTK boot, there are other options that are less expensive and cuter in my opinion.
Outfit 11
Top: Chelsea 28 in size XS in Orange Jam Heather(runs TTS) $49.90 | Leggings: BP in size XS (says runs large online, but runs TTS) $28.90 | Shoes: Steve Madden in size 7 (runs TTS) $39.90
Review:
Top: This sweater was so soft and felt so comfortable on! I loved this color, but it does come in a few other colors as well. The cowl neck detail was not too overwhelming in my opinion either. Verdict: A good buy IF you don’t already have a similar style sweater in your own closet like I did. If you do, no need to buy a double.
Leggings: I had been eyeing these leggings last year and they sold out before I could snag them. At less than $30, they are so affordable and perfect for lounging around the house or pairing with sweaters and cardigans for a comfy and cute look. Verdict: Must have! I know I will wear these ALL.THE.TIME.
Shoes: I LOVE these shoes and go back to them every year! They come in so many colors, but the leopard just speaks to me. They are super comfortable, and can easily go from work to happy hour. Sadly, these did not come home with me since my husband is not a fan of leopard so I ended up choosing a few other pairs of shoes instead. Verdict: 100% worth the buy! One of these days, they will be in my closet!
Outfit 12
Sweater: Free People in Winter Berry in size XS(runs TTS, but go up one size if you want a more oversize fit) $69.90 | Denim: Mother in size 24(runs TTS) $158.90 | Boots: Marc Fisher in size 6.5 in Cognac Suede(run TTS) $99.90
Sweater: Free People is one of my favorite brands for a good sweater, and I love how chunky this one is. The color is so pretty too and it fits a bit better than a normal Free People sweater. I absolutely love this one! Verdict: Worth it. I try to snag Free People items when they are on sale since they are usually a little pricier. This sweater will be a go to for me all Fall!
Denim: I loved the fit of this brand! This was my first time trying MOTHER jeans on and they were really flattering. They were a bit long on my 5’2″ frame, so I cuffed them, and thought they looked great that way too! I personally am willing to spend more on denim that I know will last and not stretch out, but these are definitely something that you could also find in a similar style at a lower price point, but the quality would be a little less. Verdict: Worth it. I already ordered another pair of jeans in a similar wash, so I did not take these home, but if I hadn’t, I would have gone with these.
Boots: These were my must have neutral boot for the Fall season this year! I love the color, cut, pointed toe, and with a stacked heel they are actually comfortable too. I will be wearing these constantly! Verdict: A definite yes if you need a good neutral boot that can go with literally ANY outfit! Comes in several different colors, and at less than $100, you won’t break the bank on a quality pair of boots.
Outfit 13
Top: BP in size XS(runs TTS) $15.90 | Cardigan: Halogen in OS in color Beige Oatmeal(one size fits all) $98.90 | Denim: Mother in size 24(runs TTS) $158.90 | Boots: Tory Burch in size 6.5(run TTS) $249.90
Top: I always like to grab some easy T shirts that can easily be layered under cardigans and jackets each year. This year’s version felt better quality than previous years, but I was not a huge fan of the creamier white color or the more rounded neck. Verdict: Not a need. I am sticking with last year’s basic tees because I like the cut and color better, and you could find a similar t shirt several other places too.
Cardigan: I absolutely love this cashmere short sleeve cardigan! It comes in 3 other colors as well and is the softest cardigan I own! It is the perfect layering piece for over t shirts, long sleeve t shirts, and dresses. Verdict: 100% worth the purchase! It is something you can wear SO many ways and at less than $100 for 100% cashmere, it’s a steal!
Denim: I loved the fit of this brand! This was my first time trying MOTHER jeans on and they were really flattering. They were a bit long on my 5’2″ frame, so I cuffed them, and thought they looked great that way too! I personally am willing to spend more on denim that I know will last and not stretch out, but these are definitely something that you could also find in a similar style at a lower price point, but the quality would be a little less. Verdict: Worth it. I already ordered another pair of jeans in a similar wash, so I did not take these home, but if I hadn’t, I would have gone with these.
Boots: I wanted to love these boots, and I did at first. Once I was wearing them more though, I realized I was not a huge fan of how round the toe was. I did really like the detailing on the side of the boot with the Tory Burch emblem and the heel, but the color is also very different from what it looks like online. Verdict: You can find a cuter boot for a lower price point. If you really want some Tory Burch shoes, they have some super cute tennis shoes on the sale that you could get just as much wear out of as the boots.
