6 Apparel Picks From Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale

1. Chelsea28 lace romper ($118 $79.90) | 2. Topshop 'Amelia' slouch coat ($160 99.90) | 3. Mackage wool blend leather coat with sleeves ($690 $459.90) | 4. Steve Madden blanket wrap coat ($150 $99.90) | 5. Hinge stripe kimono jacket ($128 $84.90) |
6. Rebecca Taylor tweed coat ($550 $367.90)

I know, I know, we're in the dog days of summer and even the mention of coats makes you break into a sweat. (Or at least that's what happens to me.) But any savvy shopper knows that it's best to shop early, and luckily at Nordstrom, shopping early also means the best prices. The Nordstrom anniversary sale starts today for Rewards cardholders. I had a chance to peruse the catalogs and, as usual, was most tempted by all the great outerwear.

The Topshop and Rebecca Taylor coats are neutral enough to go with everything, but visually more interesting than your basic black fall coat. Mackage's luxe wool-and-leather numbers are always a sound cool-weather investment. My favourites are probably the Pendleton-inspired Steve Madden and grey-striped Hinge numbers; the graphic patterns are so fun, and the price points are great for a transitional coat. Of course, if you'd rather buy something you can wear now and into fall, the emerald lace Chelsea28 romper is so pretty.

Want to shop the anniversary sale? Here's how:

1. Rewards cardholders get early access to the Nordstrom anniversary sale July 9-16.

2. Non-cardholders can shop the sale July 17 to August 3. (Pro tip: Start browsing the catalogs and planning what you want!)

3. After August 3, the pre-fall merchandise goes back up to regular prices for the rest of the season.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to fantasize about which coat I'd love to wear this fall—while sitting in AC and sipping iced coffee, of course.