Editor-Loved Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks: Reformation, Shark

I may be our team’s go-to Nordstrom writer, but we’re all shopping experts, period.  

So when there’s a big, no, huge sale like the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale on deck, I always ask for their input, just as they ask for mine. This usually results in a lengthy Slack discussion, like when Alex Nelson, associate editorial director, flagged her “favorite Hourglass powder and brush” to me. 

But since you deserve the inside scoop, I figured I’d share what we, the PEOPLE Shopping Team, are hoping to get our hands on, and more importantly, why. I expected picks like the Spanx AirEssentials Wide-Leg Pants, a brand many of our editors love, while others were quite surprising. Check out our finds below from $23. 

PEOPLE-Recommended Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Deals

• Spanx AirEssentials Wide-Leg Pants, $73 (orig. $110) 
• Lowest Price: Nordstrom Hydrocotton Stripe Bath Towel, $23 (orig. $35)
• $107 Off: Reformation Lila Linen Jacket, $161 (orig. $268)
• Wacoal How Perfect Wire Free T-Shirt Bra, $45 (orig. $68)
• NYDJ Marilyn Straight-Leg Pants, $59 (orig. $89) 
• BaubleBar Aria Pisa Bracelets, $45 (orig. $68)
• New Balance 574 Sneakers, $70 (orig. $90) 
• Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream Home & Away Duo, $110 ($180 value)
• Everyday Makeup: Armani Beauty Eye Tint and Vertigo Lift Mascara Set, $47 ($70 value)
• Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System, $292 (orig. $350) 
• Travel Necessity: Béis The 22-Inch Expandable Carry-On Roller, $200 (orig. $268)
• HydroFlask 32-Ounce Wide Mouth Flex Straw Cap Water Bottle, $30 (orig. $45) 

Reformation Lila Linen Jacket

“Whenever I see anything from Reformation, a celebrity-worn brand, on sale, it’s physically impossible for me to scroll past. And the latest piece I’ve fallen for is this gorgeous topper that’s exactly the kind of trendy-butter-yellow-meets-timeless-khaki piece I dream about. I suspect it’s on sale because it’s 100 percent linen, but A) I live in Arizona where it’s always hot and B) I still have all of August to wear it, so I’m going for it.” —Alyssa Grabinski, senior shopping writer

Spanx AirEssentials Wide-Leg Pants

“I’m a mega fan of Spanx’s comfy undergarments and loungewear, and my closet desperately needs some new sweatpants. This wide-leg style is exactly what I’m looking for — cozy yet fashionable. I already own my fair share of joggers, so I’m eyeing this flared pair since they’ll look polished with basic tees and tanks for lounging and running errands.” —Ali Faccenda, associate editor

Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System

“I hate it when expensive things actually turn out to be worth it, but I have to say that the Shark FlexStyle is truly worth every penny. It’s completely transformed my hair game — I love that I can give myself a salon-worthy blowout without leaving my apartment or wrestling with multiple hot tools — and it fits easily in my carry-on when traveling. If I didn’t already have it, I’d definitely be snagging it while it’s nearly $60 off.” —Averi Baudler, senior shopping writer 

Graf Lantz Hana Canvas Tote Bag

“I’ve seen these chic tote bags while walking around Portland, Maine, so I’m going to add one to my collection of Nancy Myers-inspired pieces throughout my home. I love that it’s made from natural materials, and the canvas is sturdy enough to hold groceries, clothes, shoes, and a laptop.” —Lindsey Greenfeld, senior shopping editor 

New Balance 574 Sneakers

“Ever since I injured my foot from walking 10,000+ steps a day in unsupportive shoes, I’ve relied on this podiatrist-recommended brand to keep my feet supported in style. Not only do these sneakers have arch support, but they feature a retro-inspired design that adds a vintage touch to both casual and sporty outfits.” —Rylee Johnston, shopping writer

Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder and Brush Set

“This Hourglass setting powder first landed in my beauty bag back in 2018, and it’s been a staple in my makeup routine ever since. I originally got it for free at my previous job, a double-edged sword because now I can’t buy anything else. I’m always in awe of the way it blurs my pores and keeps my oily forehead shine-free. But my favorite thing is that it never looks cakey around my eyes. I was thrilled to see that this beauty exclusive comes with a brush, too!” —Alex Nelson, associate editorial director

Nordstrom Crewneck Cashmere Sweater

“The only time I’d buy Nordstrom’s sumptuous cashmere sweaters is during its sales — I have yet to see them go for cheaper than this. I bought a camel-colored V-neck at this price last Cyber Monday; I haven’t noticed any pilling on my sweater, and I love how the fit is just slightly oversized, so it’s casual but still polished. Now, I’m checking out this Tan Memoir shade. (What a name!) Plus-size shoppers have a couple different color options to choose from.” —Laura Gurfein, shopping director  

Capri Blue Volcano Jar Candle

“If there’s one thing people remember when they walk into your home, it’s the scent — and Capri Blue’s iconic Volcano fragrance nails that first impression every time. It’s fresh, citrusy, a little juicy and tropical, and instantly makes any space feel cozier and more inviting. It’s rarely on sale, so this is the perfect time to stock up, and not just for yourself because this candle also makes the perfect gift for hosts, housewarmings, birthdays, or just because.” —Jeaneen Russell, shopping writer 

BaubleBar Aria Pisa Bracelets

“I bought matching BaubleBar rings for my grandma, my cousin, and myself a few years ago, and we all still wear them. Now I’m planning to add another piece to our matching jewelry collection, and these bracelets are it. The pavé beads mixed in with the gold-plated beads add a touch of shimmer without being too over-the-top, making these great everyday bracelets we can all add to our current stacks.” —Jennifer Maldonado, associate editorial shopping director

Solawave Wrinkle Retreat Light Therapy Face Mask

“While I’ll always be a fan of gimmicky self-care, this red light mask really does work wonders on my skin. Case in point? I broke it out shortly before bedtime this week after not using it for a while, and I noticed an immediate change overnight. Goodbye, dry, lifeless-looking skin. Hello, radiant complexion!” —Averi Baudler, senior shopping writer 

Yves Saint Laurent Libre Eau de Parfum 3-Piece Gift Set

“I started wearing YSL’s Libre perfume four years ago, and though I’m always scouting new fragrances, it’s held its place in my rotation. Its delicious notes of vanilla, lavender, and orange blossom fuse together for a sophisticated scent that smells like luxury year-round. In terms of longevity, the one bottle has lasted those four years (noting I rotate scents), so a little goes a long way. I’ve received so many compliments from friends to passersby, so if you want your presence to linger after you leave, this perfume does the trick.” —Madison Yauger, shopping editor 

NYDJ Marilyn Straight-Leg Pants

“I’ve partaken in the wide-leg denim movement, and I’ve had a good time. But please, can we go back to more fitted styles? This straight-leg pair has a bit of stretch, as well as slight compression to flatten the stomach and lift the butt. Wouldn’t these look so nice with a pair of fall loafers?” —Laura Gurfein, shopping director  

Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Cheek Tint Duo

“Do I sometimes overdo it with the blush? Sure. Do I care? Not for a second — and I will absolutely continue to keep calm and blush on with this duo from Armani Beauty. As if I needed more convincing, Delicate Mauve, one of the colors in this kit, was used on the queen of rosy cheeks and my personal makeup muse a.k.a. Sabrina Carpenter at this year’s Grammy Awards, per the brand.” —Alyssa Grabinski, senior shopping writer.

Wacoal How Perfect Wire Free T-Shirt Bra

“I despise bras with any kind of wiring. So if you’re so over underwires like me, grab one of these Wacoal T-shirt bras while they’re on sale. They’re soft, supportive, and actually comfortable enough to wear all day. They look smooth under tees without any digging, pinching, or snagging, and the quality holds up wash after wash. (I put it in a mesh laundry bag and throw it in the washer.) It’s an everyday staple you’ll wish you had more of, so now’s the time to buy a few.” —Jeaneen Russell, shopping writer 

Bombas Assorted 3-Pack Mid Ankle Supima Cotton Blend Socks

“It’s a running joke that many of my socks have holes in the toes (blame my Yeti-sized feet and never throwing them out) — but not Bombas! I wouldn’t bat an eye buying this 3-pack for $9 apiece because I know they’ll get years’ worth of wear …and then some. I have these socks in other patterns, and they comfortably and securely hug my feet; nothing slides down to allow blisters, and (gasp) the toes have all stayed intact after two years. It’s only a sell-out risk because I plan to buy them in bulk, so you’ll have to beat me to checkout.” —Madison Yauger, shopping editor 

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream Home & Away Duo

“If I didn’t just re-up my Kiehl’s moisturizer supply at Sephora’s summer sale, I’d be adding this bundle to my cart. This simple, unscented, no-nonsense formula plays nice with my rosacea and sensitive skin. And if I’m ever feeling extra dry, like around my nostrils in the winter, I just dab on a little more. I’d estimate this bundle would last me 10 months, at least.” —Laura Gurfein, shopping director  

Away Mini Polycarbonate Crossbody Bag

“How cute is this hardshell crossbody? I received one at an event the brand hosted last fall in the same shade as my softside suitcase, which I took to Hawaii, France, and Northern Ireland last year. It fits my iPhone 16 and AirPods case, a small wallet, keys, lip gloss, and sunglasses, so long as they’re not too oversized.” —Laura Gurfein, shopping director  

Armani Beauty Eye Tint and Vertigo Lift Mascara Set

“I truly love the Armani Beauty Eye Tints as a one-and-done eyeshadow, but they are rather pricey on their own. Scoring one of the eye tints plus a mascara for $47 is such a great deal, I can’t help but add this set to my cart immediately. Lengthening mascaras are my go-to, so I’m excited to try this one out.” —Jennifer Maldonado, associate editorial shopping director

Béis The 22-Inch Expandable Carry-On Roller

“Between traveling to see my long-distance boyfriend and frequent far-flung vacations, I need a carry-on suitcase I can rely on. I received this Béis suitcase as a Christmas gift over three years ago, and it’s still my go-to. As a chronic overpacker, I appreciate its built-in space-maximing features and organization — like pockets ideal for stashing socks and underwear — compression straps, and expansion panel that can be unzipped to reveal 2 extra inches of space for clothes or souvenirs. Plus, it has a built-in TSA-approved lock, 360-degree spinning wheels, and a convenient sensor on the handle that turns red if your bag is overweight (no more awkwardly balancing your bag on a bathroom scale).” —Maggie Horton, shopping writer

Carve Designs Elba Top

“I live in bathing suits in the summer, so I always stock up on my favorites at the end of the season (when they’re on sale). This Carve top is both supportive and flattering, and I know it won’t fly off if I get caught in a wave while wearing it. I have it in jade, black, and blue, but I’m eyeing the pink oasis pattern. It also comes in a D to DD cup version, too.” —Erin Johnson, editorial director

Naturalizer Hawaii Pointed Toe Flats

“Naturalizer has become my go-to brand for dressy shoes that don’t leave my feet aching. I own a similar pair of flats and can wear them for an entire work day, which usually involves running around New York City. The cushioned insole provides support for my flat feet, and the soft leather makes them feel almost slipper-like.” —Rylee Johnston, shopping writer

T3 Featherweight StyleMax Dryer

“I’ve had this blow dryer for more than five years, and it’s still as good as new. Not only is my long hair dried in minutes, but it also stays shiny and strong despite ocean dips and sun exposure. The tourmaline-infused hair dryer is equipped with ion air technology and a smart chip to minimize temperature fluctuations and prevent overdrying.” —Nicol Natale, shopping writer

Nordstrom Hydrocotton Stripe Bath Towel

“When I had a seasonal position in the Nordstrom home department years ago, my manager put me on to the brand’s hydrocotton towels —  and they’ve been my favorite bathroom linens since. They are plush, fast-drying, and incredibly soft. This year, I’m picking up a couple bath towels in this pretty stripe style.” —Isabel Garcia, associate shopping editor

Nécessaire The Body Lotion

“My best friend can’t stop raving about Nécessaire, and after trying the fragrance-free body lotion at her house during a recent trip, I get the hype. I have sensitive skin, so I’ve been eyeing this one for a while — and now I’m even more convinced. It felt rich and hydrating without being heavy or sticky, and after three days, my skin felt slightly firmer. I’m always trying out different lotions, and this one has definitely earned a spot in my rotation.” —Toni Sutton, shopping writer 

HydroFlask 32-Ounce Wide Mouth Flex Straw Cap Water Bottle

“When it comes to water bottles, it’s HydroFlask or I don’t want it. I purchased my first one about four years ago and discovered firsthand just how cold it keeps its contents, even in the dead of summer. I’m looking to upgrade my current one with this bright-blue, 32-ounce version because it holds even more water, which is especially important with NYC cresting up to 90 degrees in the coming weeks. Plus, this bottle has the flexible, gummy-like straw in the leak-proof cap, which makes achieving my water intake goals that much more enjoyable and convenient.” —Izzy Baskette, shopping writer