Let’s just say, I earned this Nordstrom try-on session. After waking up at 4 a.m. (3 a.m. Chicago time!) to catch a flight with the kids and then driving to Nordstrom through a full-on winter storm—where highway traffic crawled at 18 mph—it felt like a victory just to walk through the doors. But honestly? Totally worth it.
The Best of Nordstrom’s Black Friday Deals, 2024: A Try-On
Nordstrom’s Black Friday deals are usually next-level, and I couldn’t wait to share my favorite finds with you. I snapped some selfies of the pieces I loved most, with all the details to help you decide what’s worth snagging before it sells out. Let’s dive in!
First Up: Cashmere Sweaters
I was on a mission to uncover the real difference between Nordstrom’s signature cashmere and Caslon’s cashmere—since Caslon is Nordstrom’s in-house brand, I wasn’t sure how they’d stack up. So, I tried on about 20 sweaters (yes, really) to get to the bottom of it. And? I’ve got answers. (Spoiler alert: Caslon’s cashmere is the winner for me!)
sweater (s) | jeans (28, 25% off!)
I was honestly surprised that the Caslon sweater ended up being my favorite, but it all came down to a few key details. While the Nordstrom sweater was softer, thicker, and definitely warmer, I preferred the fit of the lighter Caslon option. It draped better on me, and the neckline was more my style—I liked the wider fit and thinner collar. It just felt like the better match overall. Here’s a detailed picture of the different necklines to compare:
The Nordstrom sweater isn’t a total miss—especially paired with the matching scarf (also on sale)! This combo is actually my favorite way to style it. The scarf gives those cozy turtleneck vibes but can be removed for more versatility. (OMG, genius idea: can someone start making detachable turtlenecks already?) Plus, it comes in a variety of gorgeous colors.
sweater (s) | scarf | jeans (28)
Now back to my favorite: For sizing reference, I tried all the sweaters in multiple sizes to make sure I got the perfect fit. Turns out both sweaters are TTS. The small fit best in both Caslon and Nordstrom sweaters, while the extra small was too tight across my chest.
sweater (s: left, m: right) | jeans (28, 25% off!)
The only exception was the striped pattern. For the striped version, I sized up because I didn’t want to tuck it in—the stripes created some weird patterns when tucked. The medium gives a beautiful drape without any awkward bunching at the bottom.
sweater (s) | jeans (28, 25% off!)
The same didn’t hold true for the Nordstrom stripes. For comparison, I also tried sizing up in that one, but the drape just wasn’t as flattering–in both my regular size small and sizing up to a medium.
sweater (s:left, m:right) | jeans (28, 25% off!)
I also liked the Caslon version of the v-neck sweater better because of the lower neckline. It’s perfect if you like a more open neckline. The Nordstrom v-neck, while still lovely, is much higher—I honestly didn’t even try it on after I saw how high it was. It would be great for those who prefer a bit more coverage!
That said, my ultimate favorite cashmere sweater is Vince’s Boiled Cashmere Funnel Neck Pullover. While it’s a bigger investment than Caslon’s or Nordstrom’s cashmere, the elevated quality is undeniable. It’s incredibly soft, luxuriously thick, and warm, with a durability that keeps it looking like new wear after wear. I always keep an eye out for sales (like the one happening now!) to snag it at a better price—it’s truly worth it.
(I love the fact that it looks good tucked in or left undone.)
Aaaaand More Sweaters
Ok, on to my other favorite sweaters from Nordstrom’s Black Friday sale! There are a ton included in the sale, but there were three that stood out after trying them on.
1. Free People’s Cocoa Rib Henley Sweater
I saw this one online a number of times but it wasn’t until I actually tried it on that I saw how much I liked it. The adjustable neckline and the overall slouchy fit won me over. (It’s normally $108, on sale for $75!)
2. Halogen Sequin Mock Neck Sweater
sweater (m) | jeans (28) | pants (6–my typical size but they were too small!)
This is another sweater that I overlooked on the website because the pictures don’t do it justice. In person, the sparkles on this sweater are gorgeous. It’s a perfect option for the holidays because it’s so comfy but sparkles. And the fact that it can be worn with everything from jeans to skirts to pants is a huge plus.
3. 1.STATE Mixed Stitch Crewneck Sweater
The fit of this one sold me. It doesn’t specify that it’s cropped, but I found it to be slightly shorter than most sweaters–and therefore perfect to pair with high-waisted jeans. It’s also slightly boxy in the best way…perfect for when you’re not interested in wearing something tight. (Thanksgiving, perhaps? 😉)
Two Dresses I Love
I tried on a bunch of misses, but there were two that stood out: one that’s totally my style, and one that absolutely surprised me.
1. Chelsea28 Organza Minidress
dress (m)
Obsessed. I grabbed it in the wine color and wore it straight to the gala we were attending—it’s that good. The fabric is comfy and stretchy, and the long sleeves and high neck make it ideal for dressing up in colder weather. The shoulder pads add just the right amount of structure (unlike a certain J.Crew dress that had me feeling like a linebacker), and the ruching on both the front and back is super forgiving, even with the body-hugging fit. While the black is always a flattering choice, I couldn’t resist that stunning red!
dress (s)
And yes, this one isn’t typically my style, but how adorable is it?? I love the bow and flirty hemline–and the fit drapes nicely without clinging at all. The color reads more teal in this photo, but the color is more of an emerald green in person…beautiful! It also comes in a pretty blue or light pink…and I could totally see Ariana Grande in that one (although she’s probably not a reader). 🤣
And a Shirt with Sparkly Details & a Faux Fur Coat
Once again, my phone isn’t doing this color justice. IRL it’s a gorgeous emerald green…not as teal as it looks here. And another one I totally overlooked when I saw it online. The crystal buttons are so much better in person–super sparkly and gorgeous (and not tacky). This is another perfect option for the holidays!
coat (s)
Okay, yes, this looks a little dumpy—but hear me out! It’s a size too big. They only had a small left, so I couldn’t try on my actual size. BUT I’m obsessed with the fact that it’s grey! I’ve got a solid collection of faux fur coats at this point, but somehow…not a single grey one. Clearly, a gap in my wardrobe I needed to fill.
Hope this helps you shop Nordstrom’s Black Friday deals! Happy holidays, friends!
XOXO,
Scotti
