I’m a Fashion Editor and These Are the Hot Summer Staples I’m Shopping From the Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale
You know what they say: Summertime and the living’s easy…until it’s approximately 2,000 degrees outside and your wardrobe somehow still consists of only spring sweaters and jeans. But hello, Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale, aka Christmas in July (er, May). Even better, I’ve done all the hard work for you and cherry-picked 20 of the best summer wardrobe essentials, from workout staples to wedding-ready frocks, that you’ll want to order immediately. And while Nordstrom’s amazing deals (up to 60 percent off all the best brands) are technically available through June 6, I don’t expect these best sellers to stay in stock for long. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get to shopping.
1. Zella Studio Lite 7/8 Leggings
The buttery-soft material of these best-selling leggings is incredibly lightweight to keep you cool and comfortable during your workout, whether you’re into lifting weights at the gym or stretching it out at hot yoga, and quickly wicks away moisture and sweat, so you'll never feel soggy, even on the most humid days.
2. Tory Burch Leather Miller Cloud Sandals
A major PureWow reader fave, these Tory Burch sandals have a cushy insole that molds to the shape of your foot over time for even more comfortable support.
3. Staud Leather Acute Bag
Add a pop of color to your wardrobe with this sunny asymmetrical shoulder bag. The angled shape is a fabulous modern take on the ‘90s baguette silhouette, and is large enough to hold all your essentials—and them some.
4. Levi’s Wedgie Crop Jeans
Despite the name, this cult-favorite Levi’s style is incredibly comfortable and will give your booty a subtle boost, no squats required. And the cropped length is perfect for summer. Wear these straight-leg jeans with sporty platforms and an easy tee for the weekend, then switch into strappy heels and a slinky cami for a night out with friends.
5. Zella Restore Bra
This low-impact sports bra pulls double duty as a workout must-have for yoga and Pilates and as a loungewear staple to sport around the house. You can also order a size up to layer this cute crop over a more supportive sports bra for runs or HIIT sessions at the gym. Plus, it’s made from partially recycled materials as an added eco-friendly bonus.
6. Nike Bliss Lux Skort
This sweat-wicking skort comes with built-in bike shorts (with pockets) underneath so you can squat, lunge and jump without fear of flashing your tennis partner. Of course, you can also wear this cutie out for brunch or weekend errands with a cropped white tee and some sporty sandals for double the use.
7. Vans Old Skool Sneakers
Swap your dirty white kicks for a fresh new pair with a trendy platform sole that adds height without stressing your fee or ankles. The sole also comes with an exaggerated waffle rubber for extra tread.
8. Treasure & Bond Oversized Shirt
Everyone should own a classic white button-up—a fact that’s especially true this summer with the rise of the coastal grandmother aesthetic. Wear this open with a white tank underneath over a pair of breezy linen pants and add a wide-brim hat up top to begin living your best Nora Ephron-inspired life. P.S. When you buy Treasure & Bond, Nordstrom will donate 2.5 percent of net sales to organizations that work to empower youth.
9. Natori Feathers Bra
When is the last time you refreshed your bra selection? If you can’t actually remember, it’s been too long. Stock up on this chic T-shirt bra that’s both sexy and practical while it’s on sale to give your gals a little boost without breaking the bank.
10. UGG Fluff Yeah Shearling Sandals
These super-soft sandals are as cozy as your favorite slippers, but come with a rugged sole so you can wear them outside the house as well. They also add a bit of height (just over one inch) thanks to a trendy platform.
11. Charles Henry Midi Dress
Another great wedding guest dress option, this wrap dress is super flattering on a wide range of body types and could even be styled for a day at the office with the addition of some ballet flats and a sharp blazer.
12. Nike One Bike Shorts
Can you ever have too many pairs of classic black bike shorts? Probably, but that shouldn’t stop you from adding this discounted pair to your cart ASAP. They’re built for working out, with sweat-wicking material and slight compression, but will work just as well under a white button-up on your rest days, too.
13. Sam Edelman Leather Bay Sandals
If you’re on the hunt for a new everyday go-to sandals, I’ve found it—this Sam Edelman classic is incredibly comfortable thanks to a cushy leather insole, and comes in just about every color you could imagine. According to one PureWow editor, they wear super well, too: “I own three pairs of these and have worn them everywhere and anywhere for the past few summers. I’m not precious with my shoes at all but they’re still in amazing condition with no rips, tears or loose threads.”
14. Caslon Rounded V-Neck T-Shirt
Stripes are always en vogue, but they feel particularly fun for summer. This Caslon tee has a flattering neckline that’s halfway between a scoopneck and a V-neck and shows off just enough décolletage without giving away the whole farm. With multiple color options ringing in at less than $10, you might just add them all to cart.
15. Tory Burch Leather Tory Sneakers
Retro sneakers have officially replaced dad shoes in 2022, and this Tory Burch pair fits the trend to a T. Inspired by ‘70s track shoes, the Tory sneaker looks just as fabulous with jeans as it does with flirty sundresses. Some reviewers found they ran a smidge tight, especially for those with wider feet, so if you’re between sizes, you might want to consider going up a half size.
16. Free People See You Tonight Sweatshirt
Cozy in the front, sexy in the back, this comfy sweatshirt has a cutout back that’s perfect for showing off a fun, lacy bralette. The fit is pretty generous, so if you prefer a tighter fit, I suggest going down a size.
17. Sea Level Lace-Up Swimsuit
Nautical swimwear will never go out of style, and we love that this adorable one-piece has both adjustable shoulder straps and a lace-up front that you can loosen or tighten, depending on how much skin you want to show. It’s also made from 85 percent recycled nylon, giving it an eco-friendly bonus you can feel good about.
18. Vince Camuto Leather Brelanie Sandals
This 3.5-inch heel comes in so many chic colors, it’s hard to choose just one. So why not pick up two or three while it’s on sale? Despite the minimalist design (which looks just like a Bottega Veneta pair that’s ten-times more expensive), these heels are surprisingly comfortable, making them a fabulous option for all those summer weddings on your calendar.
19. ThePureBag The Bennett Tote
This chic tote is woven with silver threads which help prevent germs and other microbes from multiplying. That means you can feel free to toss sweaty gym clothes or commuter sneakers in there without fear of your bag getting moldy or gross. And it’s absolutely chic enough to carry to the office, too.
20. Free People It Takes Two Minidress
Another ‘70s-inspired piece, this minidress has a faux-wrap front and open back for 360-degrees of fun. And that breezy skirt is sure to keep you feeling cool all summer long, despite the long sleeves.
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PureWow may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from PureWow's editorial and sales departments.
