Nordstrom's big Anniversary Sale at Save on fall fashion

With summer just beginning to hit its stride in Seattle,Nordstrom is already looking ahead to fall fashion -- and tempting you with some great deals on the newest clothing, shoes and accessories for women, men and children that this local retail powerhouse has to offer.

Since the 1960s, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, which starts on July 15, has been a ritual for shoppers nationwide. It’s not unheard of for customers to arrange their summer plans around it and queue up before the doors open to get the cream of the crop from big name designers like Trina Turk, Hudson, Eileen Fisher, Alexis Bittar and Kate Spade. (Although in this day and age, bargain-hunters can shop online at Nordstrom.com from the privacy of their own homes and avoid the crowds.)

You might not know exactly what direction your wardrobe will go this fall, but you know you’ll need the staples, like boots, sweaters and jackets. Excellent deals in those categories include on-trend Frye boots for men and women at up to 35 percent off; a splurge-worthy vintage lambskin jacket in ochre from Lafayette 148 New York for $498 (regularly priced at $748) and a dramatic and cozy knit ruana (poncho-wrap) with faux-fur trim from Nordstrom Collection for $98 (regularly priced at $148).

Be aware that merchandise is available for a limited time, and once an item is sold out, it’s gone.

The Anniversary Sale is also a great time to sneak a peek at fall makeup, with special, limited-edition, preview products from Chanel, La Mer, Kiehl’s and NARS. MAC will have MAC Cine-Matics Triple Feature Lip Bags with Lipstick, Cremestick, Lip Liner, Dazzlecreme Lipgloss and a bag for $38, plus Cine-Matics Brush Musts All Over Brushes Sets (5 brushes) and Face Brushes Set (4 brushes) for $49.50.

Nordstrom is making shopping even easier, with daily chances to win a $400 Nordstrom gift card, now through July 31. Just check out the Anniversary Sale tab on Nordstrom's Facebook page, pick your favorite items and share them with your Facebook friends for your chance to win.

The big sale starts on Friday, July 15, and runs until Sunday, July 31, at local Nordstrom stores and online, but you can check out what to expect in the online sale catalog.