The Best Shoes to Buy from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale in 2026
Bad shoes are the most expensive things in your closet if you never wear them because they pinch. Life’s too short for cheap soles and blister Band-Aids, which is why comfortable, high-quality footwear’s my absolute non-negotiable.
When the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale opens in a few hours, I will be there, and my first stop is always the shoe department. I’ve already combed through the preview, weeded out the painful and impractical pairs, and curated the absolute best shoe buys from the sale. You can find them all ready to shop in my Nordstrom storefront right now.
I’ve included a few sandals and sneakers you can wear right now, plus some great flats, loafers, and boots that’ll carry you through fall and winter.
Just a heads-up: popular sizes are already selling out fast since early access is open to cardholders. If you don’t have a Nordstrom card, don’t worry, public access opens on July 18th.
We chat a lot about comfortable shoes here on AWSL, and you may enjoy these posts:
- How to Make Your Shoes More Comfortable
- Most Comfortable White Sneakers for Women Over 60
- Best Women’s Walking Shoes for Travel
Sandals
You can see my complete sandal edit here.
ECCO Soft Two Strap Sandal
You’ve seen my ECCO sandals in more than a few outfits this summer, so it shouldn’t surprise you that these ECCO Soft Two Strap Sandals caught my attention. ECCO consistently makes some of the most comfortable sandals I own, and the Anniversary Sale is a great time to add another pair to your collection while you can still enjoy them this season. These come in 2 colors, sizes 4-10.
Naturalizer Brie Sandal
Every now and then, it’s fun to step away from tan and metallic sandals. The Naturalizer Brie Sandal in red adds just enough color to brighten an outfit, but the simple design keeps it from feeling overdone. The rich red leather is an added bonus because it transitions easily into fall. These come in 5 colors, sizes 5-12.
Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Slide Sandal
I’ve lost count of how many women have told me Birkenstocks are the only sandals they can wear all day. The Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Slide Sandal has adjustable straps for a comfortable fit, and the cork footbed is supportive. They’re available in 5 colors, sizes 5-10.
Flats and Loafers
My Nordstrom Storefront has all the flats and loafers that caught my eye.
Vince Olivette Flat
Mary Jane styles are still going strong this fall, and I find them a more modern alternative to a ballet flat. These Vince Olivette Flats have a simple silhouette that doesn’t compete with the rest of your outfit, and that’s exactly what makes them so versatile. These come in 3 colors, sizes 5-11, and are going fast.
Blondo Waterproof Penny Loafer
If you aren’t familiar with Blondo, they’re best known for making weather-friendly shoes that don’t look like weather shoes. I like having a waterproof loafer on hand because fall weather can be unpredictable. This Blondo Waterproof Penny Loafer has a cushioned footbed and lug sole for long days on your feet. These come in 7 colors, sizes 5-11.
Veronica Beard Ellie Perforated Mary Jane Ballet Flat
The Veronica Beard Ellie Perforated Mary Jane Ballet Flat doesn’t feel overly sweet. The perforated leather makes it lighter for the transition into fall, while the strap keeps it securely on your foot, so you’re not gripping the shoe with your toes as you walk. These come in 3 colors, sizes 5-12, and are selling out fast.
Franco Sarto Rosalee Ballet Flat
The Franco Sarto Rosalee Ballet Flat has a very similar look to my Margaux ballet flats, which I’ve worn for years. The clean lines and classic shape make them incredibly versatile. These come in 4 colors, sizes 5-11.
Boots
Here are all the comfortable flats and booties I liked.
Munro Flora Bootie
I had pretty much given up on ever seeing Munro again after the brand disappeared for a while, so I was happy to spot them back in the Anniversary Sale. The brand is now under new ownership, but I’m hopeful they’ll continue making the comfortable, well-crafted shoes so many of us have relied on over the years. I’m tempted to get these Munro Flora Booties before they sell out! They come in narrow or wide, in sizes 6-11.
PIKOLINOS Malaga Bootie
If comfort is high on your list, Pikolinos is a brand worth knowing. This Malaga Bootie comes in 3 colors, in sizes 5-11. Its soft leather will mold to your foot over time, and its cushioned footbed keeps you comfortable.
UGG Ultra Mini Braid Genuine Shearling Bootie
I know UGGs aren’t for everyone, but I have to admit they’re hard to beat when the temperatures really drop. These Ultra Minis are in my cart for nasty mornings or casual days when comfort is the order of the day. They’re available in 3 colors, size 5-11.
Franco Sarto Luella Bootie
If you’ve been wearing black ankle boots for years, this may be your season to try brown, because I’m seeing it everywhere. These Franco Sarto Luella Booties have a low, modern heel that’ll elevate everything you pair them with. They come in 2 colors, sizes 5-11.
Sneakers
I think this is one of the largest sections on my storefront because sneakers are so comfy.
Vince Oasis Runner Sneaker
If you’re ready to retire your bright white sneakers for fall, the Vince Oasis Runner Sneaker is a great alternative. The mix of soft neutrals with just a hint of silver feels fresh for the season. I love the pair I bought at the sale last year, and I wear them all the time! They come in 3 color combos, sizes 5-11.
rag & bone Retro Trainer Sneaker
Another favorite sneaker of mine…I have 2 black pairs from years past, and they get worn all the time. Retro-inspired sneakers aren’t going anywhere, and this rag & bone Retro Trainer Sneaker gets the look just right. Rag & Bone is known for making elevated basics, and these have a nice mix of suede and leather that adds a touch of luxury. They come in sizes 5.5-10.5.
Ilse Jacobsen Tulip Perforated Slip-On Sneaker
I’ve worn Ilse Jacobsen shoes for years, so I was happy to see the Ilse Jacobsen Tulip Perforated Slip-On Sneaker included in the Anniversary Sale. The perforated upper keeps them breathable, the flexible sole makes them comfortable for walking, and they’re machine washable.
What Shoes Are You Adding to Your Wardrobe This Fall?
I’m long past suffering for fashion. If a shoe pinches my toes, it’s not coming home with me. That’s why I don’t mind spending a little more on well-made shoes that are comfortable enough to actually walk in.
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is one of the few times you can buy these kinds of shoes without paying full price. Unlike most sales filled with leftover summer merchandise, this one marks down brand-new styles for fall. It’s a smart time to replace a worn-out pair of boots or try a premium brand you’ve been curious about before the prices go back up.
I’m off to shop…the doors open at 8 am!
Those IIlse Tulipu Slip-on Sneakers are one of my all-time favorite purchases. I bought them last year based on your newsletter and literally get compliments every time I wear them. They work with dresses, capris, everything. I’ve even put them to work as house slippers at an Air BnB. Thanks for the tip.
I LOVE mine too
I ordered the Ilse Jacobsen slip on sneakers last year in the blue-grey color and loved them. Sadly I had to return them because they made an extremely loud suction type noise when I walked around my house in them. I don’t know if it was just that pair or if they are all like that. I’m tempted to order them again this year to test them out. Just wondering if anyone else has a pair and noticed them making a strange sound.
I’ve never heard a sound so I’m guessing it was your floor or that particular pair. I have 3 pairs that are silent.
I have large feet and comparatively short legs. I have always been under the impression that ankle straps or anything horizontal on the foot makes my legs look shorter. I don’t understand the fixation on these Mary Jane shoes, although they look cute on others.
They’re just on trend. Ankle straps do shorten the look of the leg, but Mary Jane straps are across the foot, which makes the feet look shorter.
No apologies needed for Uggs!! As a scout leader I can tell you if your feet are warm, you are warm! I am eyeing the Tazette and some of the Vionoc, the red loafers and the mesh mary jane. Also that classic Naturalizer Banks sling back that I keep meaning to get. Also my best tip is to leave everything on your wishlist, in multiple sizes if necessary. Even if it sells out, there is a good chance it will pop back when the influencers return their stuff, and lots goes on sale in September.
lol! So true. We tend to over purchase to ensure we get the sizes we need!
On a different topic – how do you launder your linen? I’ve tried delicate cycle, regular cycle, cold water, warm water, no dryer, low heat dryer, medium heat dryer. I’ve made peace with the slightly rumpled look but no matter how I wash/dry it, the fabric feels stiff. I want it to be soft and flowing. What do you recommend?
Thanks
I machine wash I’m cold and dry mine on medium. I used to hang dry but it does get too stiff
Great suggestions for all our different shoe needs, but what does everyone wear around the house? I used to wear moccasins, but after two bouts of plantar fasciitis I need something more supportive. I have very narrow feet and have trouble buying any shoe. I just returned a pair from Ortho feet because my heel was slipping back and forth even in a narrow width.
I wear a pair of sheepskin lined Birkenstock Ariona sandals that are dedicated house shoes.
Barbara, I wear Easy Spirit Traveltime clogs with socks when it’s cold, and Olukai Ohana flip flops when it’s warm. Good luck to you!
I have great difficulty finding footwear that can handle low arches and plantar fasciitis. I find cork soles have good cushioning for walking with the heel 1 inch higher than the rest of the sandal. I don’t even need to use orthotics in my sandals. Joseph Seibel and Dragonfly are excellent choices.
I’ll have to try Dragonfly. I’m more and more impressed with the comfort of my Naot sandals.
Unfortunately for me the majority of the shoes you highlight only come in M width. I have a small wide foot and have always had problems finding cute shoes that fit.
Wides are as elusive as narrow. I’ll see what else I can find.
Not sure if any of these would accommodate bunions … or a wide foot. For these realities, the front strap on sandals must be adjustable or at the very least not ride on top of the bunion. For others with one or both of these conditions, I recommend also the brand Vessi, which is also waterproof, and of course the wide version of any Hoka running/walking shoe. (Vessi may be a Canadian brand.).
Thanks Susan.
This post could not be timelier!!!
My, live in them every day flip-flops are Clark’s Cloudstepper, of which I have 4 colors in rotation. This year, something has changed, and my feet ache constantly!!! I am encouraged to try Birkenstocks but really prefer a flip flop… my boys as adolescents were horrified when I suggested they needed new summer thongs years ago… who knew??? hahaha
Anyway… do you have a comfortable, supportive flip flop to recommend, something that you described in the Birkenstock as “comfortable to wear all day”?
These Olukai flip flops are amazing, and these are a personal favorite.
Leslie, you might also try FitFlops. Very comfortable and Nordstrom has them online.
Yes!
Leslie, I second the suggestion to try Fitflops. My favorite is their simple flip flop look. So comfortable! I wear them everywhere. Has a leather look, but not sure if it’s truly leather.
Clarkes are winners for me, too, for now….sounds like our feet can change. Ugh