Vancouver Is Awesome’s shopping expert Allie Turner is right: doesn’t quite compare to the name brand deals available in the US. But every rack is worth a look, right?
With the sale is in full swing right now, we've honed in on high-end and luxury brands (so, we’re skipping the Nordstrom house lines and easy-to-find stuff like Steve Madden) and the rarest sale pieces from brands like Tom Ford and Gucci. Because the biggest brand names tend to sell out quickest, availability and sizing is limited; we’ve started with women’s fashion, then beauty, then men’s fashion.
The best deals in women’s fashion at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who loves a luxury denim label and classic fit.
Why we're endorsing it: Frame is a favourite of tastemakers like Gwyneth Paltrow.
Where it could use improvements: Limited size options.
Price (subject to change): $199.99 (save $110).
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who lives in B.C.
Why we're endorsing it: Hunter rain boots haven't changed much since their invention in the late 1800s, which makes it a much-loved staple in rainy climates like ours.
Where it could use improvements: This is the pull-on Chelsea style (not the knee-high boot).
Price (subject to change): $127.99 (save $43).
Who it's ideal for: Shoppers looking for quality transitional pieces.
Why we're endorsing it: It’s an elevated basic that works for day-to-night dressing.
Where it could use improvements: Calf circumference is 14.5” (which could be too narrow for some).
Price (subject to change): $625 (save $395).
Who it's ideal for: Someone who wants a rain coat that’s not Arc’teryx.
Why we're endorsing it: U.K. line Barbour has a long-standing reputation of excellence for its waxed rain coats. (And if anyone knows more about rain than British Columbians, it’s the Brits.)
Where it could use improvements: Check size notes for U.K. conversion.
Price (subject to change): $339.19 (save $170).
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants to add a glamorous pair of designer frames to their fashion repertoire.
Why we're endorsing it: A classic shape that will never go out of style.
Where it could use improvements: There’s no virtual try-on option.
Price (subject to change): $345.99 (save $180).
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who has coveted the unique pendant necklaces by Vancouver line Pyrrah.
Why we're endorsing it: The talisman necklaces are having a fashion moment (but never got out of style).
Where it could use improvements: The chain is 18” (with no other length options).
Price (subject to change): $132.9 ($67 off).
Who it's ideal for: Fans of the Vancouver-based jewelry line that makes sleek gold pieces.
Why we're endorsing it: Stylish and relatively affordable for the high-end designs.
Price (subject to change): $85.99 (save $30).
The best deals in beauty at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who already loves — or wants to try — this cult-favourite skin care line.
Why we're endorsing it: Brand reputation, user reviews.
Where it could use improvements: This set is specifically for eyes.
Price (subject to change): $95 ($140 value).
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Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants a bougie hand soap for the bathroom.
Why we're endorsing it: Le Labo products are a standard pick for beauty and lifestyle influencers because of the signature scents and chic packaging.
Where it could use improvements: This has a pronounced scent, so not suitable for those sensitive to fragrances.
Price (subject to change): $58.
Who it's ideal for: This body oil set is unique because one bottle is “gold” and the other is “platinum.”
Why we're endorsing it: Tom Ford sets the standard in luxury beauty and its products — from lipstick to fragrances — or pricey and very rarely go on sale.
Where it could use improvements: These are travel size.
Price (subject to change): $97.
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who is a fan of this much-loved hair care line.
Why we're endorsing it: It’s rare to see Oribe on sale in a set, particularly for its hero shampoo/conditioner set.
Where it could use improvements: This is a rejuvenating shampoo and a little thick, which could weigh down thin hair.
Price (subject to change): $112.
Who it's ideal for: A skin care pro whose routine goes way beyond face masks.
Why we're endorsing it: This effective tool is able to mimic micro-dermabrasion treatments at home.
Where it could use improvements: It takes a few tries to get used to and while it’s a decent dupe for micro-dermabrasion, it is not the same suction level as having it done by an aesthetician at a spa or skin care clinic.
Price (subject to change): $139.99 (save $60).
The best deals in men’s clothing at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants a pair of luxurious leather shoes made in Italy.
Why we're endorsing it: Salvatore Ferragamo was a shoemaker-to-the-stars in 1920s Hollywood before returning to Italy to start his namesake business. The entire line is made with the best materials and each pair of shoes is made using the brand’s signature handmade craftsmanship.
Where it could use improvements: Limited sizes available. Check size notes for fit.
Price (subject to change): $539.99 (save $376).
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who needs a new pair of jeans to live in.
Why we're endorsing it: Rag & Bone makes great quality denim in modern washes.
Where it could use improvements: Limited sizing.
Price (subject to change): $199 (save 100).
Who it's ideal for: You don’t have to be a sneakerhead to appreciate a classic pair of Nike AirMax shoes.
Why we're endorsing it: The grey colour palette is fashionable but not flashy.
Where it could use improvements: Price varies by size.
Price (subject to change): From $135.
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants to stock up on elevated basics.
Why we're endorsing it: Quality, price point, utility.
Where it could use improvements: Limited sizes.
Price (subject to change): $80 (save $40).
Who it's ideal for: Anyone looking for a sneaker that will last forever.
Why we're endorsing it: Vans are a no-fail, no-fuss option for casual dressing.
Where it could use improvements: This canvas sneaker should stay home on rainier days.
Price (subject to change): $45.99 (save $20).
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants an no-trend pair of shades that are not the same brand/style as everyone else is wearing.
Why we're endorsing it: Gradient lenses, aviator shape.
Where it could use improvements: No virtual try-on options.
Price (subject to change): $120 (save $60).
Who it's ideal for: Summer is the best time to score a deal on a winter coat and this Stover jacket is not as common as the Nuptse, but still has The North Face’s signature branding and quality.
Why we're endorsing it: Brand reputation, 550-fill power, emergency face covering, drawstring hood, water-repellent construction.
Where it could use improvements: Hood is not removable.
Price (subject to change): $337.49 (save $100).
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants a posh coat that can handle a bit of chill.
Why we're endorsing it: Classic style, brand reputation.
Where it could use improvements: Per size notes, runs small.
Price (subject to change): $289.99 (save $145).
