Insider shopping tips from a former Nordstrom Canada employee

It’s been a few years since Nordstrom opened its doors to Canadian shoppers, and also a little while since I spent a few months as a denim expert at one of their Toronto department stores. During my time as a sales associate, I learned the tricks of the trade that go into creating their retail environment as well as some helpful shopping tips.

From little known in-store services to how to snag the best deals, there’s a lot of helpful information that many Nordstrom shoppers are unaware of. So just in time for the Anniversary Sale, I put together a list of my top tips for making the most of your Nordstrom shopping experience.

Make friends with your sales associates

My number one tip for getting the best experience at Nordstrom is to get to know your sales associates. They’ll go above and beyond to make sure that every customer finds exactly the items that they’re looking for and leaves feeling satisfied with their purchase.

Whether that means sending a text to let you know when your sizes are back in stock, emailing reminders about upcoming sales, or putting aside pieces they know you’ll love, your friendly Nordstrom sales associate is like the shopping buddy you never knew you needed.

Book a personal shopping appointment

Busy shoppers don’t always have the time to browse through an entire store, so you’re likely to miss out on items in the process. Get ahead of the game by booking a free personal shopping appointment at any Nordstrom location and a personal shopper will take care of the heavy lifting for you.

Before you head into the store, just answer a few questions about your personal style and what type of event you’re shopping for, and the personal shoppers will pull items for you. They’ll also work with you during your appointment to find items that you’ll love.

Take advantage of in-house alterations

Did you know that every Nordstrom location has a dedicated team of tailors and seamstresses on site? They’ll take your measurements in-store to alter pretty much any item of clothing (new or from your closet), and they’re also able to monogram everything from towels to T-shirts to make sure that every purchase is a perfect fit.

Try before you buy

When it comes to makeup and skincare, it can sometimes be a challenge to know which products will work for you. That’s why access to samples can be so helpful before making your final purchase.

At Nordstrom, any skincare, haircare, or makeup that comes in a liquid format can be bottled for you to try at home, while everything else can be tested out in store.

Ready to start shopping? Have a look at my top picks from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale below!

Thread & Supply Wubby Fleece Pullover

SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $50 (after sale: $78)

ASTR the Label Lace Midi Dress

SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $59 (after sale: $89)

Rag & Bone Dre The Dre Slim Fit Ankle Boyfriend Jeans

SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $150 (after sale: $225)

All in Favor Wrap Top

SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $26 (after sale: $39)

Madewell Small Transport Leather Crossbody Tote

SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $112 (after sale: $168)

Dior Technologic 57mm Brow Bar Sunglasses

SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $397 (after sale: $595)

Dolce Vita Coltyn Genuine Calf Hair Bootie

SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $110 (after sale: $170)

Herschel Supply Co. Small Trade 23-Inch Rolling Suitcase

SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $127 (after sale: $190)

Stila Liquid Eyeshadow Set

SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $35

Herbivore Botanicals Emerald Oil + Jade Roller Glow Ritual Duo

SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $52

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