I'm Using Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale to Create My Ideal Rich-Looking Closet
Starting with these 24 elegant styles under $100.
As my personal style continues to evolve, I’m becoming more intentional about elevating my capsule wardrobe. Leveling up my collection entails investing in quality staples that will last for seasons to come—like timeless workwear classics and chic vacation essentials. But I’m on a tight budget, which means I’m searching for rich-looking basics that won’t cost a pretty penny. Fortunately for me, Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale has exactly what I need.
From now until Sunday, August 3, the retailer is offering a range of fashion deals that practically scream, “quiet luxury.” I spotted a sharp tailored vest that will round out my office-friendly uniforms, a sleek summer dress fit for upscale occasions, and a polished pair of sandals that will anchor my travel outfits. Oh, and the best part of all? Every single item that I found falls under $100.
So, if you’re anything like me—a sophisticated minimalist who doesn’t want to spend a fortune—keep scrolling. Ahead, you’ll discover a list of 24 basics that appear much more expensive than they actually are. While many of these elegant pieces are ideal for heat-wave dressing, I’ve also included a few transitional items, considering fall is right around the corner.
Found: your new favorite work bag.
How chic are these flats?
This dress toes the line between sweet and elevated.
Yes, this is a nightgown, but you can wear it with flats.
These kitten heels are perfect for wedding season or the office.
What I love most about Wayf’s blazer is that it’s cinched at the waist for a sculpted look. I can’t wait to wear this layer with dark-wash jeans and glossy loafers.
Ballet flats rank high on the list of 2025 shoe trends. Pair Steve Madden's Pipa flats with a floaty dress and a ladylike handbag to play into fashion’s girlhood aesthetic.
There’s something about satin that feels so wealthy. Wear this asymmetric dress from Open Edit, and you’ll look like a million bucks.
You can never have too many white dresses in your closet. Consider Nordstrom’s breezy option made of 100-percent cotton.
Plaid might be in the spotlight this year, but the truth is, this checked pattern has always been in style. Lean into the look with Wit Wisdom’s pleated trousers.
I’ve never been a fan of itsy-bitsy shorts. I prefer bottoms with longer inseams, which is why ASTR the Label’s pleat shorts have earned a prime spot in my shopping cart.
Neo-Victorian fashion is poised to be one of fall 2025’s biggest trends. Embrace the refined aesthetic with this midi skirt covered in delicate lace.
While jeans are considered casual, there are plenty of denim bottoms out there with a rich-looking edge. Take, for example, this dark-wash pair from Mango.
There’s nothing I love more than a lavish pair of kitten heels. Doused in a trending shade of chocolate brown, these sandals from Open Edit have officially caught my attention.
If you want to look put-together while running errands, Zella’s mini dress will do the trick.
Nordstrom’s Sydney Ankle Strap Sandals are the perfect pair of black summer shoes that will match with just about any warm-weather outfit.
I just found this stunning cover-up that will seamlessly transition from the beach to an oceanfront happy hour.
The oval beads keep this top from feeling too basic.
Even the coolest, chicest women need a pair of sneakers.
Trench season is almost here.
What's a capsule wardrobe without a few layerable necklaces?
We still have one more month of summer, so snag these now.
I bet every chic New Yorker will be sporting identical loafers to these this fall.
I love knit vests during the late summer transition period.
