The Best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Tops: My Top 5 Favorites & 50 Editor-Approved Picks

1. I have the dress version of this top from All Saints and love it! Very excited to see this on sale for Anniversary.


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As a personal stylist for women, I’ve been curating shopping lists from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale since day one- over 13 Anniversary Sales ago. I’m excited to report that this year’s collection is better than we’ve seen in several years. Of course, there’s a wide array of basics, a jam packed selection of denim and then, as per usual, some major themes. When it comes to tops, you’ll find a balance of classic choices, super feminine looks and a smaller portion of edgy and boho items.

Each year I organize my picks in different ways, with a goal to make the sale as shoppable as possible for you, Dear Reader. After all, the women’s portion of Anniversary has over 18,000 items. This year, rather than organize by style or body type, I’m listing my favorite pieces by item type. I’ll highlight my top three or so on each post and then give you my overall favs- typically you can expect about 50 items per post. Have a great time and remember that things go quickly, so if you love it, snap it up.

Curious about my finds from my recent trip to Paris and Berlin? I’m dying to share. You’ll see all of that and more after Anniversary. Expect a sea of blog posts over the next week or so. Enjoy!

My Top 5 Favorite Tops from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

2. This textured cardigan is sure to draw compliments. I’ve been especially into cream with white since seeing it done masterfully in Switzerland last year.

3. Another memorable piece, this strapless top is just right for dressy or casual occasions and is fun to layer under a giant cozy cardigan (see the image to your left), with a leather jacket or wearing solo. The options are endless.

4. The value of a great button down shirt can’t be overstated- as long as it’s authentic to your style.

5. The preppie trend done perfectly with this flattering and expressive polo.

6. The subtle piping on the shoulders and sleeves will minimize your stomach with this unexpected detail.


45 More Editor-Approved Picks

Puff Sleeves are everywhere.

They’re ultra feminine and especially flattering for a woman with a Rectangle, Diamond or Triangle body type. Whether you opt for something classic or wildly expressive is completely up to you.

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Grab a fresh button down top.

I’ve never loved a button down so much as in the past year or so. It’s all about styling it in a way that speaks to your authentic style. This year, consider taking things to the next level and freshening up your approach. I’m loving buttoning my top three buttons and leaving the rest open. Or buttoning all of the buttons and letting it hang loose. When wearing an Oxford or Chambray button down with a pair of jeans (aka the Canadian Tuxedo), I tend to leave the top two or three buttons open for a more feminine, streamlined look. This pairing is elongating and has a relaxed and timeless Malibu-inspired vibe.

Be thoughtful about your figure, too. Creating a faux wrap, trying the French Tuck or even tucking in all the way around will completely transform the look of one top.

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Draping makes everything better.

The right ruching can minimize and maximize in all the right ways and stellar draping makes a top feel more luxurious.

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Yes to jackets… but make some space for the return of cardigans

Whether you opt for a boxy or more fitted style, just be thoughtful to ensure your cardigan is elevating your look rather than bringing it down.

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34. Just right for your pregnancy and postpartum.

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Getting Cozy with oversized pieces

Oversized choices are everywhere and can have an effortless vibe. They can also venture into frumpy. As always, you dress for yourself more than anyone else, so ensure that you feel like the pieces reflect your authentic personal style. Then, make sure to elevate your look with a heel, accessories or other polished choices. Classic styles continue to shine, so if that’s your jam, you’re living your best life.

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The T-shirt alternative for the win.

Yes! You can wear more casual bottoms to the office with a polished alternative to a basic t-shirt.

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The perfect sweatshirt or fleece

Before the pandemic, I didn’t own one sweatshirt. Now, I have two drawers filled with my favorites and another couple in my workout collection.

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Puff sleeves aren’t the only super feminine tops on trend

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Don’t forget the vest!

Whether it’s a vintage-inspired choice or something referencing an entirely different approach, vests are everywhere.

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Get ready for my favorite 100 Dresses from the sale!


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