First Look at Fall: 10 Trends I Spotted in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
Hey, sweet empty-nester friends! The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is here, and one of my favorite parts isn’t just the great prices. It’s getting an early look at the fall trends we’ll be seeing everywhere in the months ahead.
The collage above is clickable for more information on anything you see.
Beth and I have scoured the sale to bring you 10 wearable fall trends we think women over 50 will actually love wearing. No matter what this season of life looks like—whether you’re settling into the empty nest, traveling more, spending time with grandkids, or simply refreshing your wardrobe—there are no impractical runway looks here! Just stylish, age-appropriate pieces that feel fresh, flattering, and easy to incorporate into your wardrobe. Best of all, you can shop many of them at Nordstrom Anniversary Sale prices before the season officially begins.
Before you go any further, be sure to read THIS post first! I rounded up my best tips and tricks for shopping the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, along with the categories that tend to be the best buys year after year. It’ll help you shop smarter and make the most of the sale.
The 10 Fall Trends to Know
1. Suede
Suede is one of the standout trends in this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and it’s an easy way to add rich texture to your fall wardrobe. Whether you choose a chic handbag or a sleek crossbody, a timeless suede jacket or a more affordable faux suede option, there’s something for every budget. You’ll also find everything from suede kitten heel booties to suede midi skirts. And don’t overlook the men’s department! The sale is full of handsome suede jackets that are an effortless way for guys to elevate their fall style. If you’re planning a fall getaway or weekend trip with your sweetheart, suede is an easy way to elevate your look.
2. Totes
We may love our crossbody bags for hand-free convenience (and you’ll find plenty of them in this year’s Nsale), but this year totes are THE bag of the moment! I love a tote for travel, everyday outings, and all the fun that comes with empty-nester life, whether that’s visiting the grandkids, taking a weekend getaway, or heading out on a road trip. I’m hoping THIS Tory Burch tote is still available when I can shop the sale! If it’s not, I think I’ll snag THIS chic black one. Don’t love a big bag? No worries! You’ll find some small, handbag-sized totes, and even totes that double as crossbodies. There’s even a cute packable tote that folds up into a 7.8″ case. It’s perfect for travel and grocery runs!
3. Ziger
If a zebra and a tiger had a baby (Gross! haha), you’d get a ziger, which is the, um, interesting and fresh animal print that is all over the Nordstrom Sale this year! From boots and belts to scarves and bags, this is so new, it will instantly update your fall looks. I think I’ll snag either THESE ziger Mary Janes or THESE ziger kitten heel mules!
4. Scarves
If you love scarves, get ready to live your best life this fall! They’re trending, big time, in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and we’re here for it! There are scarves to suit every style preference, from chic twilly skinny scarves and versatile square scarves to gorgeous lightweight silk & cashmere scarves that are perfect for travel or chilly restaurants. I added THIS cute square scarf by Kate Spade to my wish list! Think gifting when you check out the scarves this year! They’re such thoughtful gifts for daughters, daughters-in-law, sisters, and friends.
5. High Collars
The high collar (think mock necks or funnel necks rather than restrictive foldover turtlenecks) is a big fall fashion trend, and the Nsale is full of them, especially in outerwear. I like this trend! It’s especially flattering if you prefer a little extra neck coverage, and it’s a practical choice for staying warm in cooler climates. Look for high collars in yummy faux fur, cute cropped trench coats, and cozy quilted puffers. I think THIS faux fox fur vest is so elegant!
6. Refined Flats
This isn’t a new trend this fall, but it’s updated and oh-so wearable! Flats are so chic for fall, and they look great paired with just about anything. Look for loafers, ballet flats, Mary Jane flats, slingback flats, and more. For the newest look, seek out flats with a little something “extra,” like flats with grommets, studded flats, jewel-embellished flats, mesh, perforated, or woven flats. They’re perfect for busy days that include everything from brunch with friends to cheering on the grandkids or exploring a new city on vacation.
7. All Things Activewear
If you wanted to wear activewear every day, for just about everything, you pretty much can now! (Don’t tempt me!) While the activewear trend isn’t new, the pickleball craze has definitely given it a boost. We love this wearable fall fashion trend for this season of life, whether you’re heading to pickleball, meeting a friend for coffee, squeezing in a workout, volunteering, or catching a flight for a weekend getaway. Last year, we saw lots of matching activewear sets, but while some of those are still out there, this year it’s more about brightly-colored pieces you can mix and match.
- DRESSES: From midi to mini, you can pretty much find a hemline to suit your preference.
- PANTS: Despite what you may have heard, you can still wear leggings! (Although they’re mostly reserved for workouts now.) If you’re looking for activewear pants for errands, etc., the newest look is flare or bootcut.
- TOPS: From flattering breathable ruched tanks and brightly-colored waist-length cropped tanks, to layered-look sports bras and high-neck racerback bralettes, you’ll find lots of options.
- SKIRTS & SKORTS: Ruffles and pleats, flounces, and drawstrings, oh my!
- SWEATSHIRTS & HOODIES: Look for half-zips, cowl and funnel-neck sweatshirts, and even some cute prints.
- PUFFERS & JACKETS: Update your outerwear with cute cropped (water-repellent!) puffers, waist-defining quilted parkas, and even a 3-in-1 trench with a removable vest!
8. Trendy Colors
Look for head-to-toe navy blue, espresso brown as your new neutral BFF, and any and every shade of green. If you like wearing fabrics that are a little “busier,” you should know that stripes and checks are trending, as well as fall’s ever-present plaid and houndstooth.
9. Kitten Heels
Meow! The oh-so-wearable kitten heel is here to stay for a while, and you’ll find it in every style of shoe, including slingback pumps, booties, mules, sandals, Mary Janes, and pumps.
10. Dark Denim
If you’re looking to add denim to your closet this year, make it dark denim. It’s so much more flattering than light denim! Look for the jeans style you feel most comfortable in, whether it’s straight-leg, wide- leg, utility style, ankle-length, boot cut, barrel leg, etc. Also look for denim dresses and sundresses, denim button-up shirts, cute denim blazers, dark denim traditional-style jeans jackets, and peplum denim jackets. If you’re looking for denim, shop quickly because it is often one of the first items to sell out in the sale!
So there you have it—ten fabulous, wearable fashion trends from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! Add a few of these updates to your existing wardrobe, and you’ll be up to date (and oh-so-chic) this fall.
What fall fashion trends are you the most excited about? Leave me a comment and let me know, okay? Also, if there’s something specific you’re looking for in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (or elsewhere), please let me know! You can leave me a comment below, DM me on Instagram, or email me at suzy@emptynestblessed.com. Happy shopping, my friends!
