If you had a Nordstrom credit or debit card, you would have been given a special access code to view items online, and you can set up a special appointment to shop either through a department or with a personal shopper (or you could order by phone). This year, they are allowing you to purchase and take home during pre-sale with your Nordstrom's card, where in previous years you could have the items held for you until the sale actually started. The sale is open to the public on July 15.