You, ladies, know by now, after following my Saturday posts, that I’m a big fan of drugstore makeup. But after 20+ years as a professional makeup artist, I’ve also learned that there are plenty of prestige beauty products that really do earn their higher price tags.
The short version: The 2026 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is open to everyone from July 18 through August 9, and it’s one of the only sales all year where luxury beauty brands like La Mer, YSL, Trish McEvoy, and Clarins offer exclusive sets at real discounts — on new stock, not leftovers. Below are the beauty deals I’d recommend to my own clients.
Nordstrom’s customer service is truly remarkable, and they offer free shipping and returns – which makes shopping a huge pleasure and easy breezy.
Every July, I look forward to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale—not because I think we all need more “stuff,” but because it’s one of the few sales where you’re shopping new arrivals and beauty exclusives at discounted prices, instead of leftover inventory. I also hold a special place in my heart for the retailer, because I did an internship with their buying program while I was in college at UGA in 1999. Then I went on to work on the cosmetics floor of their Perimeter Mall location right out of college before I figured out what I wanted to do with my life!!
Why Shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale for Beauty?
Here are a few reasons to shop a major sale like this when it comes to our beauty routines:
- It’s the perfect opportunity to replace a beauty favorite you’ve been meaning to repurchase,
- invest in a high-quality beauty tool you’ve had your eye on,
- or finally splurge on a luxury product that’s rarely marked down
I also love using this sale to get a head start on my holiday and Christmas shopping for my glamour girlies! If you have someone on your list who appreciates beautiful skincare, makeup, or cozy accessories, this is one of the best times all year to buy a more luxurious gift without paying full price (they’ll never know).
Think of it as shopping smarter, not just shopping more! Below, I’ll be sharing the beauty products that I believe offer the best value this year and that I would happily recommend to my own clients, friends, and family, or add to my own collection.
When Does the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale End? (Key Dates)
Before you shop, here are a few important reminders. Popular beauty sets and shoe sizes tend to sell out quickly and many of the best deals won’t be restocked. If you have a Nordstrom card, you’ll get early access in future sales, but as of July 18th, the sale is open to everyone—so don’t wait too long if something catches your eye. It’s a terrible feeling to really want to pull the trigger on something, but hold off for a few days, only to come back and the dreaded SOLD OUT appears! This sale will end on August 9th.
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Alright, here are the highlights in the beauty category, in no particular order….
Best Luxury Skincare Deal: La Mer Most Loved Mini Essentials Set — $98 (Value $208)
If you’ve always wanted to experience La Mer without committing to full-size prices, this set is the perfect introduction. I bought it last year, then realized how much I loved their Renewal Oil and bought another mini size! The travel sizes are ideal for vacations and let you discover why this iconic skincare line has such a loyal following.
Best Eye Cream: Kiehl’s Avocado Creamy Eye Duo Set — $69 (Value $102)
I am rarely impressed by eye creams…until I bought this one! Trust me, ladies, you’ll see a difference in hydration the minute you apply this stuff. Worn underneath your concealer, it’s a winning duo.
Best Eyeliner for Mature Eyes: Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Jewel Eyeliner Box Set — $183 (Value $215)
VB Beauty liners are some of my faaavvvoorite luxury eyeliners because they create soft, smoky definition with incredible pigment and do not tug on mature eyes! This collection contains all the shades I don’t own yet, but I’m sure this will be a box set to treat myself to, with wearable festive tones of smoky quartz (mink with gold sparkle), khaki green, gold lamé, silver, and black with silver sparkle!
Best Beauty Tool: Simplehuman Sensor Mirror — $150 (Value $200)
I’ve had mine going on 8+ years now, and it’s a keeper. Truly great makeup starts with great lighting, and this mirror delivers exactly that. It helps you see true color and detail, whether you’re applying eyeliner or blending foundation. Do yourself a favor and grab this must-have beauty tool at $50 off!
Most Universally Flattering Lip: Clinique Black Honey Lipstick & Pop Lip + Cheek Oil — $38 (Value $52)
Black Honey continues to be one of the most universally flattering lip shades ever created, back in 1971. Pairing it with the coordinating lip and cheek oil gives you an easy, fresh-faced look in minutes.
Best Brushes for Mature Skin: Angie Hot & Flashy 7-Piece Makeup Brush Set — $79.99 (Value $130)
Designed and tailored with mature skin in mind, these brushes make blending cream and powder products so stinking effortless. Quality brushes truly make your makeup look better, regardless of the products you’re using, and I stand behind the BK Beauty brand of brushes 100% and own more than half their collection! The best-selling kitten paw concealer brush is included in this set, by the way!
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Best Overall Makeup Value: Trish McEvoy Every Mood Makeup Collection — $285 (Value $883)
Probably the very best deal when it comes to makeup from this sale, and it’s always the first thing to sell out. I love collections of palettes that simplify getting ready, and this one does exactly that. This 22 pc wardrobe set includes top sellers from her brand in shades that are wearable, timeless, and perfect for everyday makeup.
Best Beauty Gift Under $30: Blissy Silk Sleep Mask — $25.99 (Value $39.95)
100% Mulberry silk is much gentler on both skin and hair than cotton, making this a luxurious upgrade to your bedtime routine. It’s also a wonderful and affordable gift idea for anyone who values their beauty sleep – isn’t that everyone?? Comes in so many color options with a cute box and bag.
Rarely-on-Sale Luxury: YSL Make Me Blush & Loveshine Lip Oil Slick Set — $60 (Value $91)
YSL beauty rarely ever goes on sale, kind of like Chanel beauty. And this duo gives you that effortless, iconic dusty satin pink color, along with hydration for the lips and cheeks. They’re luxurious little treats that you’ll actually want to apply daily. I don’t often like to spend lots of money on lip products, but there is something special about a tube of this stuff.
Best Skincare Device Investment: Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro — $340 (Value $455)
This LED mask combines red + blue light therapy in a quick, hands-free treatment. It’s one of the few beauty devices I think is worth investing in if you’re serious about improving your skin over time. Although the initial cost may seem like a splurge, it quickly becomes a smart investment. Instead of paying for repeated treatments at a doctor’s office or med spa, you can enjoy professional-quality LED therapy whenever it’s convenient for you—all from the comfort of home. Which means you’ll use it more and see results faster.
Best Anti-Aging Serum Deal: Clarins Double Serum Set — $221 (Value $324)
Doubling up on a discount of a skincare product that performs is a money-saving hack! This is one of Clarins’ most beloved anti-aging products (and mine) for good reason. The formula hydrates, smooths, and leaves skin looking healthier with consistent use. I apply it daily underneath any moisturizer, and it is pure gold.
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Fragrance Exclusives (Various Pricing)
Fragrance is very personal, and it’s also a category that rarely goes on sale at prestige brands, so take advantage of this if your favorite scent is included. I’ll be buying my old school and iconic favorite Angel by Theirry Mugler set for sure.
Smartest Stock-Up Buy: Mascara Duo Sets
Mascara Duo Sets from Lancome Lash Idole, $38 (value $74), Clinique High Impact, $32 (value $54), Lancome Definicils, $45 (value $82), Too Faced Better than Sex, $39 (value $58),
The Anniversary Sale is my favorite time to stock up on mascara because you’re essentially getting a backup at a discount. Since mascara should be replaced every few months, these sets of two are one of the smartest beauty buys!! I’m wearing my Lash Idole in this post, as a matter of fact.
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A Few Non-Beauty Items Not to Miss
Moonlight Eco Shorts Pajamas, $38.99 (value $65)
This pj shorts set gets high ratings and comes in a variety of color options. I always do my makeup in my favorite pajamas, so it makes sense to invest in a nice pair like these.
The Sak Tess Shoulder Bag, $92.99 (value $139)
Treating yourself to a nice handbag for the fall and winter is kind of a must in my opinion. And this bag is THE perfect shape/size that fits comfortably under the arm and comes in a metallic shade that will totally go with anything!
Natori Bliss Perfection Tshirt bra, $47.99 (value $72)
When was the last time you bought yourself a nice bra?? That long, huh. Well, now’s the time to update your lingerie drawer, and this is my favorite one I own. You don’t like underwire? I also own this Wacoal highly rated one.
A leopard print funnel coat by Avec le Filles, $149 (value $228) count me in. A fun jacket print that acts like a neutral, but isn’t boring!! MUST HAVE this!
Key Takeaways: Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty 2026
- Sale dates: Public access runs July 18 – August 9, 2026; the best beauty sets sell out early, and most are not restocked
- Best overall makeup value: Trish McEvoy Every Mood Collection — $285 for an $883 value, historically the first beauty exclusive to sell out
- Best luxury skincare entry point: La Mer Most Loved Mini Essentials Set at $98 (value $208)
- Smartest repeat buy: Mascara duo sets (Lancôme, Clinique, Too Faced) — a discounted backup for a product you replace every few months
- Worth the device splurge: Dr. Dennis Gross SpectraLite LED mask — replaces repeated med-spa treatment costs over time
Final Thoughts
I know the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale can feel overwhelming for some, but remember this: the best purchase isn’t the trendiest one — it’s the product you’ll actually use and wear. If any of these favorites have been on your wish list, now is an excellent time to save before they’re gone! And thank you to all who left me a comment on my European Vaca Beauty Breakdown post last week — it means a lot that you enjoy the personal peek into my sweet family I’m so proud of!
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