Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Window Shopping

I'm of two minds about the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. I've only ever made two purchases, that Gorjana Taner small bar necklace last year (not in this year's sale) and a pair of Louise et Cie flats two years ago (seen here, similar sale style has a prominent tassel detail I like less), but I'm happy with both items. I'd like to think it's a good opportunity to look for rare discounts on items that I was already in the market for prior. At the same time, it's more important than usual to keep the principle of "buyer beware" in mind. There is some anecdotal evidence that some Nordstrom Anniversary Sale items are different from the full-price stuff and made specifically for the sale price point, in the same way that many items at outlet stores are. Still, as long as one is cautious about buying things that will be put to good use and that feel "worth it," even assuming the sale price was the full price, it can't be too bad to shop the sale. With that general mindset and sense of caution, here are a few items that I am considering or would consider, though actually keeping anything depends on what they looked like in person as well as the limits of my month-to-month shopping budget. I'm also not a Nordstrom cardholder, so I won't have access to the sale until it officially opens at the end of the week.

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There are a ton of work-appropriate dresses available through this year's sale, though I suspect that many designs were produced specifically for the sale, so I'd be careful of examining the quality of any of the ones I ordered before making a final decision on whether to keep anything. I like the somewhat unusual v-neck detailing of this Tahari stretch sheath dress (pictured) as well as the striking colorblock design of this Ellen Tracy ponte stretch sheath dress (also pictured). 

These Cole Haan Tali Luxe wedges are visibly different from the full price designs (the wedge heels on the nude color are darker-colored on the full price ones and the stitching and materials look different) though the Nordstrom sale version has a sleeker look. That being said, regardless of any differences, I'm intrigued by the tortoise shell patent leather color (pictured). I've seen colleagues wearing similar subdued animal-print patent leather shoes, often with outfits closer to the business-formal end of the spectrum, and it's a good way to add some interest to an otherwise fairly conservative work outfit. I'd keep those away from formal courtroom appearances though!

If I was still in the market for a down coat this year, I would have thought that this North Face Arctic parka was a decent rare opportunity to get that staple item at a modest discount, though I notice that the design and materials may be different from the full price version (notice the different color of the faux fur trim on the full price black one), and, either way, 6pm has a better price for almost all sizes in the olive green and heather gray colors. 

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale's bra selection is generally good. As far as I can tell, many if not all of the Chantelle and Natori designs are identical to full-price offerings other times of year. I can vouch for both brands making some high quality bras. I've worn this Natori design before and liked it and I think both of these Chantelle designs are very similar to ones I currently wear. This Panache sports bra is different in color scheme from the one I bought at full price, though if the sizing is the same, I'd consider it a good value at the sale price, given how challenging it is to find a sports bra that fits well and is comfortable. 

Will you be shopping the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale this year? Have you noticed differences between the sale merchandise and similar full price items?