Despite working at Nordstrom throughout college and now, constantly checking the site’s new arrivals online, I don’t visit the store as much as I used to. I’m a full-fledged online shopper. I love to scroll through TikTok for product recommendations and surf through online reviews like it’s my job. As editors, we’re able to call in pieces to test drive (as seen in our Great Try On series) but I decided it was overdue for some good ol’ in-person shopping. And after a few hours of trying things on and a brief trip to Nordstrom’s café, I found plenty of chic pieces that I wanted for my summer 2023 wardrobe.
Surprisingly, there were even items that I probably wouldn’t give a second look at online but wanted to purchase immediately after trying them on. And while most of them fall into the “basics” category, every single item I’ve relayed below is a stellar pick. It’s overwhelming to navigate the massive offering Nordstrom has, so I hope my try-on can give you insight into what are the worthy contenders to buy right now.
Topshop’s trousers have always looked good online, so I was very interested in seeing how they held up IRL. They reminded me of Reformation’s Mason pants, except more structured. The asymmetric detailing also makes it a whole lot cooler than any other pair of trousers. I thought I already owned the perfect blazer, but then I met this one from Nordstrom. Many blazers can be a little too thick, but this one is sturdy yet lightweight enough for the summer. I usually wear a size small, but I sized up on this one for that relaxed slouchy fit.
Have you ever seen a clothing item and instantly knew it was going to be the one you reach for constantly? That’s how I felt when I saw this and fell even more in love after trying it on. My most-worn item during the summer has to be oversized button-downs, and this Topshop impressed me as soon as I put it on. It’s that perfect medium blue that’s extremely versatile. As for the pants, this was my first time trying out a pair from Madewell and I have to say I am impressed. The pleating detail elevates it, but the material is more casual and closer to linen. They’re very much true-to-size and have that relaxed wide-leg that’s very on-trend right now.
I’ve never been one for cropped tops, but it’s always annoying to touch oversized t-shirts into skirts and pants when the temperatures start rising. It’s soft and with the right nude bra, not see-through at all. Breezy white skirts were made for summer, and this one has me ready to pack a trip to the Hamptons immediately. It’s lightweight but not sheer. I sized up to a medium because I wanted it to be more of a low-rise skirt, but I’d suggest sticking to your true size if you’d rather it sit higher on your waist.
I loved the first Nordstrom blazer I tried on, but my fellow editors are always raving about Open Edit’s selection, so I knew I had to give it a try. Despite this blazer being called “unstructured,”, nothing about it looks unprofessional. Since I spent most of my days in the office sitting at my desk, having a comfortable work blazer is a must. Despite being on the shorter end, I surprisingly liked this maxi pencil skirt. I usually opt for loose and flowy pieces, but this form-fitting skirt felt sleek and classy. However, I am 5’3″ and was wearing heels, so if you’re petite and don’t like heels, this skirt might not be the best for you. (Or, take it to the tailoring offered at many Nordstrom locations!)
Remember the days when you would ask your friends what they were wearing, and they would reply with “Jeans and a cute top”? This is what I imagine when I hear “cute top.” Linen-blend always doesn’t feel soft, but this one feels just right. Another WWW editor favorite? Topshop’s skirts. I think out of all the things I tried on, I was most excited to test this one out. It hits the floor just right and has an elastic waist that makes it easy to put on and wear.
Can you believe I’ve never owned a pair of white jeans? But after pinning a whole lot of Sofia Richie to my Pinterest board, I’ve been itching to add one to my own closet. I’ve also never tried Good American, so lots of milestones were reached in this Nordstrom trip. I thought I wouldn’t be a fan of the more cropped length, but considering how dirty NYC streets are, I should keep my white jeans right at the ankle.
Don’t be fooled by the price, but this cuff actually looks luxe IRL. It’s heavyweight, but also has a stretch in between the two sides of the cuff so it’s easy to slide on and off!
