Unless you’re living under a rock, the Nordstrom anniversary sale has been all up in your face. Normally, I think these kinds of sales are full of junk, but I decided to check it out this year just to see: would I find any gems that are actually a good value?

Because I love value, I mostly shop secondhand these days, but sometimes you can find brand-new items that rival preowned prices. And from my experience, July is a great time for sales and often when I can find the deepest discounts. So if you’re curious about what I think is a good value from a non-fashion blogger perspective, check out my top picks from the Nordstrom sale, plus my favorite finds from non-obvious shops. Some of them are so good, and I didn’t see anyone talking about them on other blogs, I couldn’t help but share. Think stuff that never goes on sale, like Comme des Garçons wallets.

Note that many of these items are final sale, so if you want to hedge your bets, use a credit card that offers Return Protection, like an American Express card.

PS: I rarely write about sale finds on the blog and usually share them to my newsletter, so subscribe if you don’t want to miss future deals.

*Some affiliate links below

Nordstrom

I have this Natori Feathers bra, and it’s my one T-shirt bra that’s held up really beautifully. I was looking to buy a backup pair, but guess I have a popular bra size, because my size is mostly sold out. Still available in lots of other sizes, though.

If Diptyque candles are too rich for your blood, I also like these budget-friendly Voluspa candles. My sister gave me one for Christmas once, and it not only smelled lovely, but are about half the price as other candles. Nordstrom has several sets on sale, so this is a good opportunity if you’re looking to stock up on candles.

I love Oribe hair products, especially the Dry Texturizer Spray, and you can get that plus a shampoo set in the Oribe Lust Set.

Net-a-Porter

Tip: Use eBates to get 3% cash back.

Yeah it’s summer, but for those who plan ahead, here’s an Isabel Marant striped sweater for sale. I like the dropped shoulders, so it’s not your usual fit.

Sleepy Jones makes adorable sleepwear, and this floral print pajama set is next in line on my wish list.

It doesn’t matter how beat up your jeans look, because as long as you’re wearing this Equipment silk satin shirt on top, you’re gonna look fancy.

One-piece swimsuits can feel childish, but this burgundy Solid and Striped version has just enough detail to look sophisticated.

Modi Operandi

Tip: Get 10% off your first order with code NEW10. Then make sure you use BeFrugal to get 8% cash back.

I love the sporty look of the Solid and Striped Jessica color block two piece. Here’s the top and the bottom.

Very tempted to be that person who wears a silk floral printed pajama top out of the house with a pair of denim shorts…

HBX

I have a blue button down that I’ve worn one too many times, and it’s starting to show its age, so I’m in the market for a replacement. I love this 70s vibe of this A.P.C. striped version, especially paired with some denim shorts.

Totokaelo

Tip: Use BeFrugal to get 3% cash back.

Totokaelo has great markdowns (over 50% off!) on a bunch of Acne denim styles.

Norse Store

I’d like to visit Denmark one day and spend a whole day browsing this shop. The aesthetic is 100% up my alley, and I definitely went overboard with my sale picks. Unfortunately, the shipping prices to the US is $30, so if any nice Europeans want to help me out, let me know?

I adore the plain-ness of heritage brand, Sunspel. If I didn’t sweat at night, I’d be all over this pale pink silk nightie.

T-shirts can be really boring, but not Comme des Garcons tees with a swingy fit.

With its bright yellow color, you’re sure to stand out at the beach in Baserange’s Palma one-piece swimsuit.

I’ve been looking for 90s-esque sunnies, and these Sun Buddies oval-shaped ones are on sale for a great price…but I’d need to try them on first.

I’m always in the mood for an Italian classic blue button down, and this Aspesi version stands out with its feminine details.

Like the look of raw denim, but don’t want to feel like you’re wearing cardboard? These A.P.C. high-waisted jeans are the answer. Also see a review of the jeans on my friend Newinspired’s blog.

These Bass Weejuns penny loafers have been around forever, and have somehow managed to still look timeless.

The satin ribbons add a little ‘extra’ to your standard Adidas trainers.

T-shirts can be tricky to tuck in, but you won’t have that problem with this Baserange nude bodysuit.

For small feet (size 5 and 6), these A.P.C. wedge sandals are a way to feel dressed up without wearing full-on heels.

You can find a striped T-shirt at lots of places, but a Breton-style tee in olive green and navy is not your everyday color combination.

This is a very rare price for a Margaret Howell swing shirt, and her stuff tends to go quick on the resale market.

Five Story New York

Tip: Use code FINALSALE for an extra 10% off.

Finding sandals is always a process (at least for me), and I don’t think there are enough brands who consistently make good ones. But I’ve been liking the look of newcomer Trademark lately. I really like the look of these Cadiz two-toned sandals in white and tan.

Johan

Johan is a shop out of Portland, and there are definitely some rare deals to be had here.

These Sun Buddies 50s-inspired Bobby sunglasses will add a touch of glam to any outfit.

Been wanting a Comme des Garcons zip-up pouch, but couldn’t handle the price?

I have two Comme des Garcons wallets, and the embossing on this burgundy half-zip wallet looks so classy.

MatchesFashion

Tip: Use eBates to get 3.5% cash back.

MatchesFashion is the land of free shipping and free returns. I always try to order from them if possible, because they package their merchandise in the most beautiful marble boxes.

I’ve been looking for a pair of stylish hiking boots, and I really like these Montelliani suede apres-ski boots. Hopefully, someone with really small feet can take advantage. Tip: Get an extra 20% off with EXTRA20.

A platform canvas sneaker can really balance out the proportion of certain looks, like a pair of cropped flare jeans.

Outdoor Voices

Outdoor Voices doesn’t do huge sales, but I found a couple staple items that are currently discounted.

I wish I was taller, because I wanted these running woman sweatpants when they first came out, but they were a tad too long for me.

Leggings are a must for layering in the winter, and these merino wool leggings feel a little extra luxurious.

The Webster

The Webster offers free shipping, which is always a plus when it comes to online shopping. They also have solid sandal picks on sale.

Black and brown are standard colors for sandals, but sometimes you want them in a fresh color. Here’s a pale pink suede pair from Ancient Greek.

For a pretty jewel tone, I love these Ancient Greek green suede sandals.

Did you shop the Nordstrom sale? What have been your favorite sale finds lately?