Photo illustration: the strategist; Photos: Retailers
As your friendly Neighborhood Deals editor, I know it can be hard to tell the difference between all the sales Nordstrom made during the year. The retailer just had a spring sale last month, and the anniversary sale (perhaps the most anticipated) will take place in July. But today marks the beginning of Nordstrom’s semi-annual sale, so allow me to break it down for you.
Unlike most sales, which focus on new products and seasonal products, the semi-annual sale features thousands of items that were apparently already in the sale sections and are now further discounted. But that doesn’t mean these are throw-aways: In fact, I was surprised to see how good many of the deals are this year. The living area is particularly robust, which is often not the case for Nordstrom sales, and features a lot of interior decoration from the MoMA Design Store and indie brands. And shoes take center stage in the women’s department, making it a great time to stock up on sandals and loafers.
Scroll on to see the best deals I’ve found so far, and click here to see everything on sale.

Perfect for going from the beach to dinner, these breezy, wide-leg pants come in sizes XXS through XL and in both regular and petite fits.

Actually comfortable wooden clogs from Dr. Scholl’s.

These pillowy slides from Toms — yes, the canvas slip-ons guys — are more than 50 percent off.

Several Skims products were surprisingly displayed in the sale section. Size and color options are up in the air for the brand’s bras and tank tops, but I still saw this wrap dress in stock in all sizes and three colors.

This ultra-sleek maxi dress is also half-finished in gray and beige.

A polo that is a cross between preppy and grungy.

And here’s a polo for working in your overly air-conditioned office.

Don’t get caught desperately Googling “last minute Father’s Day gifts” – just get him this candle and pair it with a wick trimmer or reusable lighter.

Stylishly packaged vitamins are nothing new, but if you want to complete your wellness routine without spending a small fortune, get 40 percent off Asystem’s 30-day supply.

You will find many Clinique products on sale. We recommend this lightweight, medium coverage foundation (with SPF 15) to even out and protect your skin.

Since we’re already fans of Disco’s sweat-resistant sunscreen and body wash, I’ve set my sights on the DTC skincare brand’s hydrating moisturizer. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free and contains hero ingredients like vitamin C and macadamia oil.

If, like me, you have a tendency to burn your hair along the parting every time you step outside, this sunscreen (from a brand co-founded by Strange eye‘s Karamo Brown) provides sun protection for face and scalp. It is gentle enough for sensitive skin types and does not leave a white cast.

We’ve included Utility Ceramics in our roundup of Black’s best studio ceramics, so it was lovely to see this speckled tumbler in half.

Nordstrom stocks many home decor items from the MoMA Design Store, and thankfully much of that is part of this sale. Protect your coffee table from stains caused by Aperol spritz with these colorful silicone coasters.

Or you can cover up the water rings that are already there with this 512-page coffee table book about David Hockney’s artistic career.

A centerpiece and potential fidget toy in one.

If you constantly forget to water your plants, get this self-watering planter in a neutral shade from NYC-based nursery and design retailer Greenery Unlimited.

I especially like L’or de Seraphine’s beachy Whitby candle, with notes of sea salt, violet and vetiver.

The perfect candle. No notes.

Okay, maybe a note: you can buy this smaller red version much cheaper.

I hung out at PacSun through middle and high school and I’m happy to see Quiksilver back fashionable. And with these adorable flip flops, you too can push the surfer-chic agenda to the next generation.

A long-sleeved swimsuit adds an extra layer of UV protection, while the ruffles and tropical bird print ensure your baby is best dressed for the beach.

The strategist is designed to bring out the most actionable, expert recommendations for things to buy in the vast ecommerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests are the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural remedies for anxietyAnd bath towels. We update links when possible, but please note that deals may expire and all prices are subject to change.