I’m a Fashion Editor and Here’s What I’m Shopping from the Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale

• Discount: 33 percent off
• Size Range: 23 to 29
• Pros and Cons: flattering fit, high-waisted, not very stretchy

Despite the name, this cult-favorite Levi’s style is incredibly comfortable and will give your booty a subtle boost, no squats required. And the cropped length is perfect for summer. I'll be wearing these straight-leg jeans with sporty platforms and an easy tee for the weekend, then switch into strappy heels and a slinky cami for a night out with friends.

• Discount: 30 percent off
• Size Range: 5 to 11
• Pros and Cons: arch support, contoured footbed, limited color options

A major PureWow reader fave, these Tory Burch sandals have a cushy insole that apparently molds to the shape of your foot over time for even more comfortable support. I've heard these babies truly live up to their name, so it's about time I started walking on clouds. Heavenly strolls are calling...

• Discount: up to 30 percent off
• Size Range: XXS to XL
• Pros and Cons: machine washable, breathable material, runs large

I love a breezy button-up for days when I want to feel put together despite the heat. This oversize shirt is made from a super-lightweight cotton that’s wonderfully breathable, and the crinkled look of the fabric means I don’t have to be so precious in trying not to wrinkle my shirt two minutes after putting it on. It’s also machine washable, although the brand recommends you lay it flat to dry. Reviewers say it runs large, so you might want to consider sizing down, especially if your petite.

• Discount: up to 60 percent off
• Size Range: 5 to 13
• Pros and Cons: textured details, block heels, may run narrow

The perfect in-between heel—suitable for both going to the office and hitting Happy Hour afterwards—is hard to find, but these slip-on sandals check all the boxes. Trendy braided straps make 'em playful enough for party time, while sensible 2 1/4 inch block heels keep them comfy enough for all-day wear.

• Discount: 35 percent off
• Size Range: 00 to 14
• Pros and Cons: bra-friendly, machine washable, also comes in black, straps are not adjustable

No wardrobe is complete without at least one (or five) white cotton summer sundresses, and this button-up version is one of the best I’ve seen thus far. The slightly wider straps make it so you can wear a regular bra (huzzah!), and the midi length is flattering on just about every height. Plus, it has pockets, and the lightweight cotton will keep you cool on even the hottest summer afternoons.

• Discount: 40 percent off
• Pros and Cons: made of leather, adjustable strap length, limited color options

Kate Spade’s Sam bag first debuted 30 years ago in 1993 and I have wanted one for almost as long, or at least ever since my older sister got one in high school in the late ‘90s. This color is also one of the top trends of the year, and adds an incredible pop to any outfit. Don’t fret over the mini size—it’s still large enough for your phone, a slim wallet, your keys and a handful of extras, like lip balm, a face mask and a granola bar. It also comes with a longer detachable strap if you prefer to wear it as a shoulder bag or crossbody.

• Discount: 40 percent off
• Size Range: 6 to 16
• Pros and Cons: made from 100 percent cotton, water repellent, dry clean only

I recently discovered a surprising gap in my wardrobe—I don’t really have any spring jackets outside of my trusty denim styles. This Burberry stunner does not come cheap, but at 40 percent off, it might just be worth the investment. The cut and color are such a perfect combination of timeless and modern, and I love that the lightweight cotton has been treated to be water resistant so I don’t need to panic if I get caught out in a sudden spring rainstorm. Plus, the roomy pockets have button closures to prevent water from seeping in and damaging your wallet or phone.

• Discount: 50 percent off
• Size Range: XS to XL
• Pros and Cons: made from real leather, timeless silhouette, should only be cleaned by leather professionals

Investing in a leather jacket right as we head into peak summer may not feel like the most intuitive move, but when that leather jacket is 50 percent off, I assure you it’s definitely a smart item to add to cart. The deep brown hue is also great for layering over brighter patterns or light summer colors when hanging out on a rooftop bar after dark, and looks less harsh or out of place than classic black. Reviews suggest it runs true to size, however if you hope to wear a thicker knit under it come fall, you may want to go up a size.

• Discount: up to 30 percent off
• Size Range: XXS to XXL, also 1X to 3X
• Pros and Cons: machine washable and dryer safe, multiple color options, not every color is on sale

A flowy midi skirt is a great wardrobe staple you can reach for any time of year. This pull-on style comes in seven cute colors, but I’m partial to this subtle blue-and-white floral which feels more fun than solid hues, but will still mix well with both bright and neutral hues, as well as other prints. Be sure to snap it up now, while it’s 30 percent off, before it sells out.

• Discount: 59 percent off
• Size Range: XS to L
• Pros and Cons: sweat-wicking material is great for summer, fits true to size, limited size range

True, this cute, cropped tee was designed for working out, but it’s definitely chic enough to wear out on the town as a regular top too. The sweat-wicking material will help keep you cool and dry, whether you’re working your quads in a cycling class or working your way through a pitcher of margaritas at brunch, and is both machine washable and dryer safe for easy care. Reviews say it runs true to size and that the material has ample stretch in addition to being soft and comfy.

• Discount: 30 percent off
• Size Range: XXS to XL
• Pros and Cons: top trend for summer ’23, can be dressed up or down, hand-wash only

This flowy midi is right on trend for summer 2023, thanks to both the button-up silhouette and the blurred dip-dye print. And don’t worry about the fact that it has long sleeves, the cut is super breezy and the material is lightweight so you won’t run the risk of overheating, even come peak summer. “Wow, this dress is perfect for a step up from casual and looks even better in real life,” raves one reviewer. “The fabric is really beautiful and the detailing, especially the back waist seam, is gorgeous.”

• Discount: 30 percent off
• Size Range: XS to XL
• Pros and Cons: made from 100 percent wool, made in the U.K., dry clean only

I love that this sweater vest can be worn as a layering piece or on its own as a sleeveless knit, and the stripes on the back are a different width from those on the front for a funky twist. It’s made from 100 percent wool, which is a surprisingly great fabric for summer because wool doesn’t hold onto moisture, but will need to be dry cleaned only.

• Discount: 40 percent off
• Pros and Cons: made from real leather, made in Italy, few color options

Wandler is a brand phenomenal at combining structure and fluidity, just like this gorgeous, minimalist tote bag. It has a flat bottom to make it easy to put down without having to lean on anything, and the straps have an eight-inch drop do you can drape it over your shoulder or carry it in the crook of your arm. The top also has a magnetic closure for easy access, and the supple Italian leather will only get better over time.

• Discount: 52 percent off
• Size Range: XS to XL
• Pros and Cons: made from breathable, lightweight material, can be dressed up or down, may not work with a regular bra

We love Farm Rio for its bold, vibrant prints, but turns out the brand’s solid-colored pieces are every bit as fabulous. Case in point, this long-sleeve midi with an asymmetrical cutout in the bodice that’s sexy without being too overt. Add some statement earrings and heels in a contrasting vivid hue, and you’ve got yourself a stunning wedding guest look.

• Discount: 35 percent
• Size Range: 28 to 32
• Pros and Cons: made from organic cotton, flattering high rise, limited sizes available

Looking to pick up some new everyday jeans? Agolde has something of a cult following for its impeccable fit, and this pair has the added bonus of an edgy asymmetrical waist for a high-fashion twist. They’re also made from organic cotton, for an eco-friendly bonus.

• Discount: 35 percent off
• Size Range: 00 to 14
• Pros and Cons: smocked fabric in back allows for extra room in the bust, dry clean only

I’m calling it, the “going out top” is coming back in style. This gorgeous satin halter feels like the ultimate modern version of the early aughts trend, with the small cutout detail at the bust and extra long neck ties. Unfortunately, I suspect that most (but not all) strapless bras would show through that sexy cutout. But because the top is fully lined, you won’t feel quite so exposed if you decide to go braless.

• Discount: 20 percent off
• Size Range: S to L
• Pros and Cons: 100 percent cotton, machine washable, limited size range

This gorgeous beach cover-up is so breezy and beautiful, I may just have to find a way to make it work for weekend strolls through the park as well. The straps are adjustable via a tie at the back, and the 100 percent-cotton material is wonderfully lightweight to prevent you from overheating. And while it is intended as a cover-up, and is slightly sheer, it isn’t entirely see through, giving you a bit more coverage than your average airy maxi dress.

• Discount: 27 percent off
• Size Range: US 5 to 10
• Pros and Cons: comfortable, trendy silhouette, limited color options

It was the green accents that first drew my attention to these everyday sneakers, but it was the fuzzy terrycloth lining that pushed them into must-have territory. Per one reviewer on the Tory Burch site, “Very comfortable. Runs pretty much true to size. I normally order 9.5 in my sneakers so that’s what I did for these and they fit perfectly. The lining is perfect and so soft. Love them!” They also have a vintage appeal that’s right on trend for the summer. Some reviewers found these ran a little big, but most assure they run true to size.

• Discount: 40 percent off
• Size Range: XS to L
• Pros and Cons: made from 100 percent organic cotton, machine washable, made in the U.S., not dryer safe

Standout blooms are proving to be a big trend this year, and while there are plenty of dresses, pants and blazers adorned with oversize flowers in superbright hues, I find the easiest way to sport the trend is with more casual staples, like easy T-shirts. This artsy tee is made from organic cotton, and features a painterly print that’s cute without being too twee.

• Discount: 39 percent off
• Size Range: 5 to 11
• Pros and Cons: adjustable straps, rubber sole, runs small

In an attempt to ditch the flimsy flip-flops, I'll be giving these plush platform sandals a go for days at the beach and beyond. Adjustable velcro straps give them a cool, sporty silhouette that's particularly supportive, while sawtooth rubber soles should be grippy enough for sand and soft terrain. And honestly, they just look super cushy—who can resist wearable marshmallows for your feet?