Angela’s Lab | A Northwest Tradition

When I first moved to Arizona from Seattle in 1997, I went through major withdrawals when I discovered that the Grand Canyon State did not have a Nordstrom or a Starbucks. No Starbucks? Really? I know it’s hard to believe now, since there’s a Starbucks at every major intersection in Phoenix and Scottsdale (and around the world). Nordstrom opened at Scottsdale Fashion Square about a year later, so I fortunately didn’t have to wait long for that to happen either. Nordstrom was a part of my childhood — annual back-to-school shopping trips during the Anniversary Sale, searching for the perfect dress for dances and proms — it was my go-to store. The Half-Yearly Sale for Women and Children starts today on Wednesday, May 21 (double points today and tomorrow for cardholders!) and of course I wouldn’t miss taking advantage of markdowns to pick up some key items and special pieces. Here’s what I found.

Dress, RED Valentino (Was $695, Now $416.98) Limited inventory, but if this gorgeous dress happens to be in your size, snap it up! A classic cut, this will surely be a go-to for special occasions and events for years to come.

Dress, Ted Baker (Was $275, Now $164.98) MSL featured this all-occasion skater dress on a recent Arizona Midday segment. This super-flattering style is perfect alone or with a tailored blazer.

Skirt, RED Valentino (Was $395, Now $236.98) Who doesn’t love butterflies? So feminine and an A-line silhouette is always flattering for all body types.

Tank, Vince (Was, $98, Now $58.80) A key summer basic black tank. ‘Nuff said.

Top, Wayf (Was $78, Now $38.98) I love this for a swimsuit cover-up! So boho-chic and sarongs are so out.

Top, Classiques Entier (Was $198, Now $118.80) This darling lace top will pair with shorts, skirts and denim — an easy, go-to piece. I may need it in both black and cream!

Shorts, L’AGENCE (Were $225, Now $134.98) Bermuda shorts are so in this season and classic at the same time. Dress them up or down, they are great when you have little ones, so you can look tailored, yet practical and have the ability to be active, all at the same time.

Pants, Current/Elliott (Were $228, Now $136.80)  Love the military trend and the tuxedo stripe takes these to the next level. I need these for summer.

Sunglasses, Saint Laurent (Were $395, Now $169.90) Because they are super chic, the cat-eye is hot, and you can never have too many pairs of shades. If this one isn’t for you, there are a ton of other brands and styles on sale.

Belt, St. John (Was $195, Now $116.98) I had my eye on this belt when it was full-price, so now it’s a no-brainer. Think what it will do for your fav LBD.

Booties, Michael Kors (Were $450, Now $269.98) Silver metallic, snakeskin booties make everything look better, from jeans to cocktail dresses.

Wedges, Tory Burch (Were $235, Now $157.45) The ideal summer shoe. In neutral brushed gold, you’ll wear them with shorts, sundresses, white jeans, the list goes on. Bonus: These shoes are super comfortable.

Sandals, Kate Spade New York (Were $228, Now $136.80) Nothing makes summer ensembles hipper quicker than a great pair of gladiator sandals. This style is here to stay as far as I’m concerned. (Less: Steve Madden, $46.86)

Flats, Kate Spade New York (Were $258, Now $180.60) The newest shape in flats — meet the d’Orsay. This pair will work year-round and put you on the “in-the-know” fashion list. (Less: Halogen, $60.26)

And when you’re done shopping for yourself, there are loads of clothes and shoes on sale for the kids! Happy Shopping!