Saturday, July 13, 2013

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Basics

So the season is upon us and the Nordstrom Anniversary Pre-Sale is on right now.  These are just a couple of tips that I have gathered through experience.  If you have more to add please do so in the comments.


If you don't have a Nordstrom card then you'll have to wait until the 19th to shop.  But why wait?  You can easily apply for a Nordstrom Debit Card.  This links directly to your account so you get no bills and pay no interest..... just don't overspend.  You still get Nordstrom Notes as well and can access the sale and other events exclusive for cardholders.

At this moment in the pre-sale, the items that are popular are boots, bags and some watches.  Items on sale are for the upcoming Fall season and are 33% off.

If stock is replenished for the beginning of the public sale, these will probably be the first items to go.  If you have a SA that you regularly deal with, be sure to talk to them to let them know that you are looking for something.  While a lot of stuff is purchased, a lot of stuff is also returned.  Last year they began a new system where whatever you pre-saled, you were able to take home that day.  In the past, you would pre-sale items with your SA and pick them up on the first day of the public sale.  While I never minded the wait before, I do agree that this fulfills my instant gratification nicely.

Designer items are usually lower in stock to begin with so you might be out of luck if you wait too long.  Same thing goes for high end watches and bags. 

If you want something then buy it.  Nordstrom's has one of the best return policies in retail.  It is also much easier to return something than to hunt something down once it is sold out.  Last year I waited on buying the Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Tote.  The item was ordered and after a few days I got a cancellation notice.  This year I didn't make that mistake.  In fact I have not seen many of these in stores and I wouldn't be surprised if by the 19th there were none to be had.

Set a budget.  While it is easy to return items, it's still a bit of a hassle.  Plus if you know what your budget is and have a list of must have items, that will make shopping a lot easier.  Sites like TPF have great resources and plenty of people to answer your questions.

Don't buy into the hype.  While some items are at a great deal others can wait for a better sale.  I just got a bunch of Hanky Panky underwear from Nordstrom Rack for $3 each!  While this isn't an often occurrence, you can easily get some basics for the same as the sale price or less year round at Nordstrom Rack.  Besides, I wouldn't think that underwear adheres to style trends as much as coats and shoes.

I would normally say something like have fun but this is a sale and for many of us this is almost a sport.  Just remember, if you don't get what you want then it wasn't meant to be.  Maybe you will have better luck next year or even find it at Nordstrom Rack a few months from now at a steeper discount.  Sales are fun, angry customer meltdown because something is sold out is not so much fun.

Good luck and live happy! 

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