NAS Top Picks: Bottoms

There are jeans and pants at the NAS that we see every year that are absolute winners. Instead of highlighting them again, I’m focusing my top picks on the unexpected heroes that were hidden away. Once again earth tones, black, and dusty colours reigned supreme. But if you look hard enough and click through the colour options, a wider assortment is offered. There is a wider assortment of sizes too.

There is a large assortment of jeans at the NAS, and most of the silhouettes are modern classic. Faded denim is big, which makes me think it sells well. Consequently, it’s hard to find dark washes at the moment. Mid and lower rises are coming through too. I was surprised at how few pants and skirts there were this year. But there were fewer leggings and Athleisure styles too. Full length pants are gaining momentum.

1. Jeans and Pants

Go to the collection page to see the item pictures alongside my descriptions.

  • FRAME Le High Step Hem Straight Leg Crop Jeans: These worked well on a straighter and curvier figure and narrow calf. If you like sleek jeans, try these.
  • Pistil Charlie High Waist Ankle Straight Leg Jeans: This is a trendier silhouette WITHOUT stretch. A relaxed straight with a good amount of structure and a '90s integrity. Worked on a straighter and curvier body type.
  • MOTHER Raw Hem Flare Jeans: These were GORGEOUS on my 81 year old curvy client who will hack them to a shorter length so that they can be worn with flats and sneakers. They mould to the body in a delicious way. Size up.
  • PAIGE Manhattan High Waist Bootcut Jeans: VERY LONG JEANS for Team Tall. The larger sizes have a 36 inch inseam. Good classic with a mid rise. Sleek and narrow bootcut.
  • Wit & Wisdom 'Ab'Solution High Waist Raw Hem Jeans: Super cute silhouette that worked well on curvier body types. Works on petites. You have to be okay with the sand blasted wash on the thighs, so you've been warned. Not too tight.
  • Wit & Wisdom High Waist Front Slit Itty Bitty Bootcut Jeans: On trend front slit jeans that work on curvier body types and apple shaped figures. You might need to size down if you are straight on the hips. Comes in petite. The front seams are streamlining. Soft, stretchy, and comfy.
  • 7 For All Mankind Dojo Wide Leg Jeans: Fabulous streamlined wide legs with a mid rise that are great with boots or sneakers. Can work on a curvier figure. VERY LONG INSEAM for Team Tall.
  • NYDJ Stripe Relaxed Flare Jeans: I haven't seen these in person yet, but they have potential because they are dark, pinstriped, and the brands works on an assortment of body types. NYDJs run big so size down.
  • FRAME Le Crop Mini Boot Stagger Raw Hem Crop Bootcut Jeans: These were AMAZING on my 81 year old curvier client, and 43 year old straighter client. The wash is light but even and looks quite polished. Very comfy and size up.
  • Vince Easy Fit Crop Pull-On Pants: Great drape, yummy fabric, and forgiving back elastic that makes the silhouette work on a range of body types. Room on the thighs and waist. Deep shade of olive.
  • Eileen Fisher High Waist Split Hem Rib Ankle Pants: These run two sizes big and are FABULOUS. They are PLEATED and looked so good on regular and petite clients. Gorgeous fabric and good fit. Issey Miyake pants at a fraction of the price.
  • ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo Silk Joggers: A petite apple shaped client launched me into orbit when she tried these on. Stinking cute, different, very comfy, and versatile.
  • Boss Tocalita Button Detail Wide Leg Recycled Polyester Blend Trousers: Impeccable dressy sailor pants with a back zip and great fit if you don't mind a higher rise. Quite roomy in the thighs, and gorgeous fabric. Beautiful quality. Chic and dressy. Very long hems that are easy to shorten. I got these and love them.
  • Theory Women's Ignera Straight Leg Wool Blend Pants: Gorgeous pants for Team Grey Plaid. Best on a straighter body type. Rise is not as high as it looks. Crisp and polished.
  • Topshop Textured Ponte Pants: Floppy and fun track pants that are not the usual black.
  • Veronica Beard Lebone Flare Pants: Impeccable as a separate and as part of a suit. Substantial fabric and great fit that moulds to the contour of the body. Works on a range of body types. VERY long hems that can easily be hemmed. I got these as part of a matching suit.
  • NYDJ Stretch Knit Trousers: Soft, stretchy, substantial, and great for WFH. Dressier than Athleisure, less constricting than jeans, and easier to launder than dress pants. Comes in black. FULL LENGTH, and moulds to most body types. Size down a size.
  • OPEN EDIT Flare Pants: These look a LOT better in person, and are darling. Click the links to see the fab hem slits at the side seams. They look great in motion and are super cute as dressier black pants. Worked on an assortment of body types. Comes in tan. $42 well spent.

2. Skirts

Go to the collection page to see the item pictures alongside my descriptions.

  • RAILS Maya Satin Midi Skirt: STUNNING skirt that worked well on petites and regular. Forgiving and gorgeous in motion. Moulds to the shape of the body. It has a matching halterneck top that doesn't look like it matches in the stock photo. If you're interested, ask, and I'll provide the link.
  • Vince Slip Skirt: Liquid Satin Fabness that comes in three colours. The satin has a subtle pebbled texture, which adds to the depth of the style. The bias cut is NOT skimpy and moulds to the shape of the body in a gliding way. Not fitted at all, but very streamlined. I was hoping the skirt would be longer on me – but it’s not. Same length as the model. I need to play around with the skirt to see if I love it enough to keep it. It’s a SUMMER skirt for me. Not lined and very lightweight. STUNNING fabric and colour. Luxe and gorgeous against the skin.
  • Eileen Fisher High Waist Midi Pencil Skirt: Narrow but not body con, and super comfy. Great cool shade of brown. Has knitted tops to match. Size down.
  • Vero Moda Saga Recycled Polyester Blend Midi Skirt: A fab skirt for a curvier body type that comes in more patterns. Breezy with a bit of stretch.
  • Halogen Pleated Faux Leather Maxi Skirt: The best pleated skirt at the NAS. Gorgeous fabric, and excellent drape. Runs big and comes in black.
  • Vince Camuto Ponte Midi Skirt: A forest green knitted tube skirt is a rare find, and here it is. Moulds to the shape of the body. Might run big. Longer in person.

Easy-Breezy White Summer Dress

A new outfit from Elle of Elle Blogs, whom we introduced to YLF in April 2015.

This all-white outfit screams easy-breezy Summer. Elle’s white mini dress comes with lots of built-in visual interest with its playful ruffled hem, pretty ladder lace detailing, and scallop crochet edges. The poufy structured cap sleeves echo the volume of the hemline, which creates outfit balance. Her dainty ankle-wrap sandals with slim low heel have a gladiator sandal vibe that amps up the Summery vibe. Elle’s oversized sixties sunnies and peach lippy add another Summery touch. A sand-coloured belt bag worn as a crossbody adds dressy polish, and brings a second neutral to the mix.

Elle Blogs - 1

Elle Blogs - 2

NAS Top Picks: Footwear

Footwear at this year’s sale wasn’t as well assorted has it has been in previous years, but there are some great shoes nonetheless. I was surprised to see the large assortment of high heels, both chunky and stiletto, as well as all sorts of platforms. I guess the world needs a bit of a change. 

Onto the styles that were winners on my clients.

  • SARTO By Franco Sarto Balinna Platform Loafer: These worked well for a slightly wider foot and narrower heel. The tassels are a fun touch. Quite comfy and lightweight. Comes in navy and black patent, and a tapestry pattern.
  • OPEN EDIT Chloe Zip Boot: If you can do the high heel, these are comfortable and the patent synthetic upper is soft. Roomy toe box and comes in black.
  • On Cloudflow Running Shoe: Extremely comfortable running shoes.
  • BERNARDO FOOTWEAR Bernardo Selma Leather Loafer Pump: These are NAVY and white and super cute. A little snug in the toe box, but stretch out a little. Lots of fab neutral combinations.
  • AGL Nora Pointed Toe Bootie: Buttery soft leather, fab marbled heel, tailored ankle fit, and comes in camel. Very comfy if you can manage the extreme pointy toe. Can work with bunions if your feet aren't wide.
  • Gentle Souls By Kenneth Cole Elaine Bootie: Super comfy, soft, casual, and feels fab on the foot. Room for toes, and comes in four neutrals.
  • Blondo Halo Waterproof Loafer: If you like Blondo footwear, try this chunky loafer. Waterproof, and the navy suede is unique. Comes in dark brown suede, and flat black leather.
  • Dolce Vita Sofi Mule: A dressy mule that is pretty stable to walk in. Soft, pretty, and a little edgy. Comes in two more neutrals.
  • Vionic Leyo Sneaker: Burgundy Sneaker Fabness. Supportive and comfortable. Good on a wider foot. Comes in neutrals.
  • ILSE JACOBSEN Tulip Slip-On Sneaker: Super soft and breezy sneaker for hot days. Most find the shoe very comfortable. Works on a wider foot and comes in colours.
  • Ecco Soft 9 II Sneaker: These are clean, crisp, well made, and very comfy. They have a slightly tapered toe which looks fresh. Comes in black.
  • Ron White Gina Water Resistant Bootie: These are extremely comfortable on some of my clients, and a bad fit on others. Super soft and forgiving. They are not good on wide feet and narrow heels. Fab for long toes, and comes in neutrals.
  • Munro Geena Loafer: Comfy and fun ruby patent loafer that is as light as a feather. Chunky in a refined way.
  • Linea Paolo Venata Block Heel Bootie: Best refined and subtle square toe at the NAS for low volume feet. I got these because they are almost identical to a pair I'm wearing into the ground. Buttery soft, stable, and dainty. I love the chunky wooden heel. Beautiful sleek snip toe silhouette. Crisp and very polished. The white is softer than the darker patent options. Runs NARROW.
  • Rag & Bone Retro Sneaker: Retro Sneaker Fabness. Comes in neutrals.
  • Blondo Dixie Waterproof Boot: These are comfy, lightweight, waterproof, and come in black. Work for higher insteps. I found them short in the toes, but my clients did not. Come in black.
  • UGG Scape Platform Sneaker: Comfy and pretty platform sneakers for wider feet.
  • Naturalizer Dylan Lug Loafer: Chunky yet tailored, and stays on the foot unless you have very narrow heels. The soft cushioning footbed is delightful.
  • Dolce Vita Zina Sneaker: Best glitzy sneaker at the NAS. It's a slip-on so no need to tie the laces. Comes in white.
  • Cole Haan GrandPro Tennis Sneaker: Soft, sleek, simple, refined, and can accommodate an orthotic if you size up. Comes in silver.
  • Eileen Fisher Juku Pump: A dressy and supportive pump that comes in rust and earth tones, Not good on wider feet.
  • Pedro Garcia Peonia Sandal: A fab sandal for wider feet. Buttery soft and a bit futuristic on the foot.
  • Free People New Frontier Chelsea Boot: A fab cowboy boot with a distressed vibe. The white patent is harder and less comfortable than the brown. Works well on a regular and narrow foot with low insteps. You might battle to get the boots on with high insteps.

You can see the items alongside my descriptions on the collection page.

Roundups

Simpler Items

This week's list of top picks list is about basic pieces.

Read More

Assorted Items

Items for Summer, both in and out of air conditioning.

Read More

Casual Summer Vibes

This week's top picks are good for a casual Summer vibe.

Read More

Summery Earth Tones

These items are for those who like to wear casual earth tones in warm and hot weather.

Read More

Hints of Spring

Some tried-and-tested winning items to refresh your style for Spring.

Read More

Dressier Items

An assortment of dressier top picks might be just what the doctor ordered.

Read More

NAS Top Picks: Accessories

To my surprise, costume, semi-precious, and fine jewellery has been selling well during the pandemic. That might be why there are ten pages of jewellery offerings at this year’s NAS. There are some gorgeous items. Of course, there are also some great bags. 

Jewellery

There are no descriptions in this collection because the items speak for themselves. Click on the links to see the jewellery on the model for a better visual. Shout outs to brands like John Hardy, Frieda Rothman, Monica Vinader, Jenny Bird, and Kendra Scott. Colourful jewellery is on trend, so you’ll see that coming through. I’m liking the assortment of dainty and chunkier pieces so that there is something for everyone. There are excellent Apple watch straps too.

Personally, I’m not a big jewellery person, and stick to a few custom-made white pearl jewellery pieces that I wear daily. I did get a white silicone and rose gold Michelle watch strap for my rose gold Apple watch, and absolutely LOVE it. It looks dressy and chic, to my eye. The straps come with attachments for both sizes of Apple watch so look for the attachments in the box. This was my first NAS purchase. I had the strap sized in the store and I wore it right away. Go Team Wear.

Apple Watch Strap

Handbags and a Scarf

Here are my favourite bags from the sale, and a single Kate Spade scarf that works very well with the bag alongside it. 

You can see the items alongside my descriptions on the collection page.

You can see the items alongside my descriptions on the collection page.

NAS Top Picks: Coats and Jackets

This is my eighteenth Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and I haven’t missed one yet. Wow. Time flies and I can barely believe it. I spent time at the Seattle Nordstrom flagship store last week helping clients preselect items for their wardrobes. Generally it was a good sale. There are dressier items aplenty, with Athleisure and super casual items taking a backseat.

Interestingly, the flagship used to stock most NAS items in at least one colour. But those days are gone, as shopping online in the US takes centre stage. Although it’s always fun to see NAS items in store, you’ll get the best of the best if you shop the sale online too. It’s especially better for getting the right size and colour. I had a good appointment at the flagship and found great stuff, but supplemented my wishlist with an online order. I found fab stuff for hubs Greg too.

The NAS is full of great jackets and coats across an assortment of silhouettes, fits and sizes. Some looks are tailored, and others fluid, and oversized. There are lots of earth tones and fashion neutrals, but non-neutrals, patterns and brights are represented too. There are several relatively inexpensive items that are very well made, and look better than the designer pieces. Lots of sustainably and ethically produced items too.

This year I will highlight what is DIFFERENT and fab as opposed to winners we see every year. Often, the stock photos do not do the Items justice and that’s where my firsthand impressions will help. Items in the collections show one colour and size, but often come in a range. My lists are by no means exhaustive, so please add to them in the comments section.

IMPORTANT: Make sure you’re wearing the right layers under coats and jackets when you choose a size.

Coats

You can see the items alongside my descriptions on the collection page.

  • Theory Wool & Cashmere Utility Coat: This is GORGEOUSLY luxe and a more rich lilac in person. Boxy and roomy, yet the shaped hem creates subtle structure. It has handy side entry pockets. The sleeves can be cuffed back if they are long.
  • Sam Edelman Mixed Media Wool Blend Trench Coat: Sam Edelman makes fab outerwear and this one does not disappoint. Well made, looks good worn open, good roomy fit on the arms. Elegant and versatile length.
  • OPEN EDIT Relaxed Blazer: The stock photo gives the wrong impression of this awesome peacoat. It has a fab Japanese architectural vibe when buttoned up. Genius sleeve design but long and easily hemmed. Lightweight and warm. Boxy and very fluid, yet streamlined and clean. It's suppose to look big and is not a classic tailored peacoat. Roomy on the hips. Nicely made and $99. Fab fabric. You get a better impression when you scroll through the pics. I have the navy and sized down. An easy throw-on-and-go. It has fab side entry pockets.
  • Bernardo Packable EcoPlume Hooded Walker Coat: Packable Tailored BLUE Puffer Fabness. Streamlined and well made. Nice dipped back hemline. Comes in black.
  • Bernardo Hooded Quilted Long Jacket: If this came in more colours, most of my clients would have it. VERY well made, robust, unique, and fits a range of body types. It might have an inner drawcord for a bit of shaping. Casually chic.
  • AVEC LES FILLES Shawl Collar Coat: This is a fab coat if you like a boxy and rounded shoulder look that is very '90s. Looks good worn open. Comes in a cool taupe.
  • The North Face 700 Fill Power Stretch Down Parka: A practical, super lightweight, and streamlined sporty active topper for Team Dusty Pink and Mauve.
  • Halogen Brushed Plaid Peacoat: One of my clients wouldn't take this off, she loved it so much. VERY cosy and fun. For Team Green, and can work on petites.
  • Nordstrom Short Wool Blend Peacoat: A classic peacoat with a Modern Retro sensibility. You either love the gigantic collar or you don't. Can work well on a larger bust. Rich colour.
  • Bernardo Houndstooth Check Wool Blend Coat: I love the Modern Retro vibe of this coat. It is GORGEOUS. It has AMAZING architectural and billowing sleeves, that might be overwhelming - but remember that to some extent, that is the point of the look. Oversized and beautiful quality. Long and not easy to hem for shorter arms. Love the fabric, colour, and is handmade apparently. I don't know what that means, but it has a label that indicates that. Unlined but warm. Stunning length too.
  • Bernardo Tailored Longline Coat: Sleek, streamlined and classic. Works on a range of body types. Works well on a larger bust. Subtle and simple. Beautiful quality and fabric. Absolutely GORGEOUS detailed stitching on the front and back that accentuate the princess lines. Versatile length for skirts and dresses. It's more of a maxi length on me, and I'm 5ft 6. Comes in tan. The navy is mine.
  • Sam Edelman Crested Button Wool Blend Coat: Military Coat Fabness. The buttons are gold and glitzy so consider yourself warned. A little more lightweight than I expected. Low stance.
  • Lauren Ralph Lauren Quilted Snap Front Coat: Ralph Lauren makes beautifully classic quilted coats with a casual equestrian vibe. This one is semi-structured with corduroy trim. Streamlined. Impeccable.
  • Halogen Double Breasted Coat: Fun green coat with a Modern Retro vibe for Team Kelly Green. The collar makes a statement. Lovely longer length, and comes in tan.

Jackets

You can see the items alongside my descriptions on the collection page.

  • Zella Quilted Pocket Jacket: This looks MUCH better in person and is a super easy mega casual throw-on-and-go. It's straight and hangs very well. Fab quality and comes in black. Super duper on a larger bust, and or broad shoulder line.
  • Halogen Leather Moto Jacket: Best versatile non-moto leather jacket at the sale if you wear black. Great fit and drape. Nice quality. Longer length works well with pants and jeans.
  • Cinq A Sept Kylie Blazer: Very fun oversized blazer with loads of embellishment and embroidery. Check out the back detailing. Extremely lightweight, and handy scrunched sleeves. Size down a size.
  • 1.State Plaid Double Breasted Blazer: On Trend Oversized Blazer Fabness. Comfy and straight. Looks wonderful with skirts in that early '90s Elaine from Seinfeld way.
  • Pendleton Foxglove Fleece Bomber Jacket: A patterned fleece jacket with a '70s integrity. Beautifully made and size down a size.
  • Sam Edelman Women's Fleece Trim Faux Leather Bomber Jacket: I have a very similar aviator jacket in red from Sam Edelman that I got several NAS's ago, which is one of the most worn jackets in my outerwear capsule. Striking, comfy, robust, and unique. Great quality.
  • Vince Oversize Sweater Knit Blazer: An extremely cosy and soft jacket that can work well when you need layers at home. Fab on broader shoulders and a larger bust. Comes in grey.
  • Sam Edelman Mixed Media Puffer Jacket with Faux Fur Trim: ADORABLE jacket, and the bulky hood comes off. Great fluid yet sleek fit. COMFY and cosy. Different. Loved it, but is too earthy for me. Maybe fab for you.
  • SAVE THE DUCK Joan Water Repellent Recycled Nylon Puffer Jacket: BEST short puffer at the NAS if you don't need a hood. Save the Duck is hands down my favourite brand of puffer because I prefer not to wear down. Lightweight, easy to launder, excellent quality, comfy, and feels fabulous. This one has an architectural collar and a nice shape. You might need to size down. The colour is too grey for me, and not as blue in person. Could be great on you.
  • Veronica Beard Farley Stand Collar Blazer: Structured Tailored Polished Fabness. Impeccable quality, gorgeous rich colour, and might run a size big. The stretch and good fit makes it mould to a range of body types. Can be worn as an item, or as a suit with matching trousers. I have the blazer and bought bottoms to create a suit.
  • SAVE THE DUCK Demi Water Repellent Recycled Nylon Puffer Jacket: I can't rave enough about this style of puffer and the GENIUS zipper. I have the citron from last season that is my favourite short puffer of all time. It's streamlined and shaped, very warm, weather resistant, and lightweight. The infinity zipper zips as high up as you want it to, so you can create excellent insulation, especially when wearing the hood.
  • BLANKNYC Faux Leather Moto Jacket: BEST faux leather jacket at the NAS. Beautifully made, very polished, and looks better than the designer faux leather that was on offer. Gold hardware is only on the peachy toffee colour option. The sage and black have silver hardware. The tiny bottom front pocket is a unique touch. Short length looks great with skirts and dresses. Narrow fit. It's $60 well spent.
  • Barbour Saltwater Quilted Jacket: A different jacket from Babour with soft stretchy sleeves. Great fit and nice hardware. Good on Team Tall.
  • Treasure&Bond Collarless Quilt Jacket: An incredible architectural jacket with a Japanese vibe. Very COS-esque too. Fab rich shade of navy. Well made, genius shallow V-neckline, and the quilted stitching is perfectly lined up. Click the link to see it closed. The sleeves turn back if they are too long. Nice high-low neckline. $79 well spent.
  • Vince Camuto Geo Jacquard Ponte Blazer: AMAZING oversized on trend blazer that is soft, stretchy, semi-structured, and dressy. Very comfy. It is GORGEOUS and looks designer with the matching sleeveless halter neck top to create a TWINSET effect. Fab with black bottoms or jeans. Every client who tried on the twinset effect of jacket with matching top loved it.
  • AllSaints Dalby Leather Biker Jacket: BEST leather moto at the NAS. Beautifully made, simple, sleek, and is a versatile length. Size up at least one size for a tailored fit. Two sizes for a fluid fit.
  • Nordstrom Hooded Quilted Jacket: This olive puffer has a tapered back that structures the topper in an interesting way. Super cute on a range of body types. Straight, yet shaped.
  • AVEC LES FILLES Relaxed Blazer: '80s Jacket Fabness for Team Mustard, although it comes in black. Has a bit of a '40s integrity too. Rounded architectural fit with beautiful sleeve darts.
  • Zadig & Voltaire Viva Skull Wool Blazer: Fab on trend oversized blazer with fun skull embellishment at the back. Silky and soft. Click the link to see it.