Can we talk NAS, and Nordies Cards?

rae

I'm going to be at the mall either today or tomorrow to return a recent Macy's order. The last time I was there, the SA tried to interest me in a Nordies card - at the time, I just wanted to run away, as I was already bending my SYC rules, but now I'm curious. I never used to shop Nordies much, but have been increasingly since they instituted free return shipping.

For those who have a Nordies Card, I heard you get early access to sales, and I know there is some kind of rewards points system. How does all this relate to NAS? Is NAS even the best bet for someone with such a mild winter? What does the card do for you if you don't plan to go nuts at NAS?

13 years ago

Sales and Deals

11 replies

Latest reply was from Sveta

annagybe

(website)

Veteran

You can get a Nordstrom debit card which comes out of your checking account. You do get to preselect items at the sale. For me last year it was my only shot at the sale. You also accumulate points which after so many points you get a certificate in $20 increments.

13 years ago

goldenpig

(website)

Veteran

You get some free alterations depending on the level of spending--I think it starts at $100/yr for level 1 members. They used to have free upgrade to 2-day shipping but I think they did away with that this year. I joined after the NAS started last year so I haven't had any experience with early access but I know that is supposedly a perk.

They also give you Nordstrom notes--$20 gift certificates every once in a while based on your spending which gets you points. And they have some double and triple point days. They do have a sale in the winter too--I went to some fancy party day and didn't buy anything for myself but got some gifts for Christmas. Honestly I was thinking of giving the card up, but I still have some free alterations on it so I'm just keeping it for now.

As for NAS, I bought a lot of fall/winter stuff last season so I don't anticipate buying a lot of stuff this year (we'll see if I can resist!). I'm more lacking (relatively) in nicer warm weather workwear, smart casual for MOTG and loungewear.

13 years ago

Jjsloane

Veteran

I have a Nordstrom Visa and a Nordstrom Debit card. I get points with each. There are times you earn triple points and I get "free" alterations (I have a budget I'm allowed each year on Nordstrom purchases) I admit I "launder" all my home improvement projects through the Visa so I get rewards. You get a $20 reward for your initial $100 purchase (if you don't have anything in mind at the time get a gift card). I personally love the early access and special event invites. One of the most enjoyable shopping experiences ever for me was a Nordstrom Rack event which opened the store at 8 and was invite only. They served coffee, donuts and had extraordinary amounts of extra help. The store was almost empty and a true pleasure to shop in.
As far as NAS I get very excited and purchase but end up returning most (if not all) and rebuy at the Rack when the prices drop more. But I am not a size that sells out early or a person who has to have a particular item so it works for me.

13 years ago

MNsara

Veteran

I think the 2-day shipping upgrade is still available to card holders, but I can't remember if I utilized it yet in 2012.

I have their VISA and use it all the time (and pay it off each month) and probably get $200-$250 in Nordstrom Notes each year Otherwise the points are solely based on your Nordies purchases and I don't think I'd be getting that much at Nordstrom. . .

You DO get early access to NAS, but some stores aren't that fussy about who can make the pre-sale appointments.

1) I love my Nordstrom Notes, however most of them come via my non-Nordies purchases.
2) I think the free alterations, even on Nordstrom Rack purchases, are worth it. $100 worth at Level 1, $200 worth at Level 2, etc.
3) I have enjoyed the 2-day shipping (and hope it's still there!).
4) I didn't like how my store handled the NAS pre-sale (they were missing lots of colors and sizes to even try on) so I'm on the fence with that perk.

13 years ago

Kari

Veteran

Rae, I only have the Nordstrom MOD card. It's not a credit card and it comes directly out of my checking account (what Anna mentioned.) Anna summed up the most exciting benefits nicely.

Some info that can be helpful:
http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/re.....gin=topnav
http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/re.....gin=topnav

13 years ago

sarah

Veteran

I used my Nordstrom's VISA to order online before the sale officially started, with an online access code. And I do like my Nordstrom notes, which seem to accrue even when I return things (although I haven't kept close track of that).

13 years ago

rae

(website)

Veteran

Thank you for the wealth of information, everyone! I especially enjoy hearing what benefits you liked/used and which you didn't.

There are some great benefits here (thank you for the charts, Kari!) - definitely rivals my beloved Amazon card. It is nice to have to great companies between which I can divide my loyalty, as opposed to comlaining about service like I do more an more.

13 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

The ONLY way you will get a shot at preselections for NAS is with a Nordies card. They will not put your order through on any other card UNTIL the day of the actual sale.

13 years ago