Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale Is Full of Wirecutter Picks. And the Deals Are Very Good.

New York Times

11 hours ago

Other things to know: It's described as a firming lotion and touts the inclusion of peptides and 2.5% niacinamide, but research on the efficacy of peptides in body care is limited. Deal is for the 15.2-ounce pump container; a good value, but less sleekly designed than the smaller bottle.
Read more: The Best Body Lotions
The open weave of this organic-cotton blanket is for more than just looks: It also makes the blanket lightweight and breathable enough for year-round use. Plus, the classic waffle weave feels more luxurious and springy than that of others we tried.
Other things to know: Blanket will snag, but that comes with the territory of an open, airy weave. The two-tone blanket is a bit more expensive than the regular version. Comes in sizes full/queen or king/California king; on sale in white/beige or white/gray color combos.
Read more: The Best Blankets
A secure fit and a soft, cushioned material make these no-show socks ideal for wearing with sneakers and athletic shoes. For every pair you buy, Bombas donates one of the same to a nonprofit organization or shelter. $36 $26 from Nordstrom
Other things to know: The thick material limits the shoe styles these work well with. Pricey, even on sale. Come with a lifetime happiness guarantee. Available as a three-pack in two color combinations in size large (men's shoes sizes 9.5-13).
Read more: The Best No-Show Socks
This hard-sided suitcase features the same sleek look and top-of-the-line components as Away's regular carry-on — including YKK zippers and smooth-rolling wheels — but with even more capacity. $345 $258 from Nordstrom
Other things to know: Hard-sided luggage typically shows more wear and doesn't last as long as soft-sided luggage. No suiter insert. Limited lifetime warranty. The Flex models have an expanding center zipper (this one adds 2.25 inches) and higher prices than our standard Away picks; we think expansion zippers are potentially just one more thing to break, but some travelers may prefer the extra flexibility. On sale in sea green.
Read more: The Best Carry-On Luggage
This modern, minimalist suitcase is made with top-of-the-line materials to protect your belongings from airline damage. Away's model has been a pick for over six years, and we're confident in its durability and limited lifetime warranty. This bag's extra capacity is handy if you need to maximize your allowed space and aren't worried about weight limits. $425 $318 from Nordstrom
Other things to know: Hard-sided luggage typically shows more wear than soft-sided luggage. No external pockets or suit panel. Limited lifetime warranty. The Flex models have an expanding center zipper (this one adds 2.25 inches) and higher prices than our standard Away picks; we think expansion zippers are potentially just one more thing to break, but some travelers may prefer the extra flexibility. On sale in light gray or sea green.
Read more: The Best Suitcases for Checking
This supportive, full-coverage bra comes in cup sizes from B to I, and the shape is ideally suited for wide-set breasts. With a velvety band and silky, lace-wrapped cups, it's the comfiest bra we've tried in large cup sizes. $82 $54 from Nordstrom
Other things to know: If it's not cared for properly, the stretchy band can lose its elasticity, compromising the bra's support. This bra creates a subdued, separated shape, which may not be to everyone's liking.
Read more: The Best, Most Comfortable Bras
Surfers and beachgoers love these sandals, and it's easy to see why: They're supportive, arch-friendly, and made from grippy rubber and ethically sourced full-grain leather. The handy built-in bottle opener hidden in the sole definitely doesn't hurt, either.
Other things to know: Pricey. Our gift editor's husband says he cannot feel the bottle opener underfoot at all while walking. On sale in brown or black.
Read more: The Best Father's Day Gifts
Testers of different sizes and shapes agreed: These jeans are just as flattering as they are wildly comfortable. The curve-hugging style is fitted in the waist and hips and straight on the bottom for a body-conscious yet totally lounge-able fit.
Other things to know: Stretchier denim tends to (you guessed it) stretch out over time. Less-timeless style and cut than our other picks. Sizes 23 to 34. The 28-inch inseam may be too short for some people. Run slightly large; we suggest sizing down if between sizes. On sale in Ravello, a medium wash.
Read more: The Best Women's Jeans
Not only does this baby-propelled bouncer have more positional options than any other we've tested, but it also surpasses its competitors in responsiveness, portability, and durability. It's easy to clean and folds flat for easy storage and transportation.
Other things to know: JPMA-certified for safety. Baby bouncers aren't suitable for naptime. Accommodates children from 8-pound babies to 29-pound toddlers. Expensive, but can be useful longer than most other models because you can convert it into a child seat. Limited lifetime warranty. Bundle includes the bouncer, a Flying Friends toy bar, and a travel bag.
Read more: The Best Baby Bouncers and Rockers
For Jenna Lyons, former president and executive creative director of J.Crew and a RHONY star, these penny loafers are a wardrobe staple that easily dresses up any outfit. Made from hand-stitched box leather with a leather sole, they're a classic shoe from a classic brand established in 1876.
Other things to know: If you buy loafers, 'buy a pair of really good ones and break them in,' Lyons told us. Because these can be resoled, they can have a long life in your wardrobe. We've seen them in plain black for less, but the black/white and whiskey/white colorways are notably stylish. (They are also available for $100 in navy and tan, but those colors are FINAL SALE.)
Read more: Jenna Lyons Knows How to Find Quality Clothing. Here's Her Staple Wardrobe.
Love them or hate them, you can't deny the appeal of these sandals. The wide, adjustable double straps and prominent metal buckles are perennially cool. The sandals are also very supportive, with a contoured cork-and-latex footbed designed to support a healthy posture and gait. $170 $110 from Nordstrom
Other things to know: There's a break-in period of two to three weeks, during which they mold to the unique shape of your feet. They don't play well with water. Maintenance can be a chore, but with proper care, Birks can hold up for decades. Sizes 5½ to 10½; run true to size. We think this is a good deal on the black color specifically.
Read more: The Best Sandals
Originally designed for distance running, these sturdy and stable sneakers give off a playful, retro vibe. Their iconic silhouette features a narrow, streamlined profile, a low-cut collar, a paneled toe box, and cushiony midsoles.
Other things to know: They run hot; the woven interior lining is somewhat breathable, but the substantial leather uppers aren't perforated. Sizes 6 to 14. A bit small and narrow; we recommend going up half a size. On sale in white/black or white/red/blue.
Read more: The Best White Sneakers
Even in storage, you can keep your leather shoes looking fresh with a good shoe tree. Made in the USA completely of aromatic cedar, these are built to last and budget-friendly. $25 $20 from Nordstrom
Other things to know: The type of shoe tree you get matters less than buying and using them; shoe trees help shoes dry out between uses and maintain the shape of the leather. Available in five sizes. Not the lowest price we've seen, but the street price has risen over the years.
Read more: The Best Products for Maintaining and Shining Leather Shoes
Editor's note: The photo at the top of this article may reflect previous deals that are no longer valid and have been removed. Check out our Deals page for more great discounts on Wirecutter's expert-approved picks.
This article was edited by Janie Campbell and Nathan Burrow.
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