One of our favorite categories that always sells out FAST in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is dresses and skirts. There’s something for every budget in here, from easy under-$100 pieces you’ll reach for on repeat to those special-occasion splurge: brands like STAUD, Veronica Beard, and Cinq à Sept, which almost never go on sale anywhere else, actually get marked down. It’s the perfect window to snag those pieces you’ll wear all summer and straight into fall.

The Best Dresses & Skirts In The 2026 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: Shirt Dresses, Denim, Lace & Under $100 Finds

We just added a fresh batch of dresses to the top of this list, including so many fun under-$100 finds you won’t want to miss. And don’t worry – some of our early sale favorites are still in stock too, so this list keeps getting better the more we shop. A few we can’t stop talking about: this under $100 Ruched Midi Dress, which somehow works for everything from a daytime event to dinner plans, this striped shirtdress we can’t get enough of, and this Pleated Midi Dress that feels perfectly elevated. We’re still trying things on and adding to this list as the sale goes, so keep checking back.

We will be updating both this post and our Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Cheat Sheet in real time as we test more and more pieces, so you have a chance to snag them before they sell out.

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1. Steve Madden Melinda Sleeveless Fit & Flare Denim Dress

The Dress: Steve Madden Melinda Sleeveless Fit & Flare Denim Dress (M)
Other Pieces: Boots | Earrings

LENGTH: Midi
FABRIC: 94% cotton, 4% polyester, 2% spandex
COLORS: Dark wash denim
FIT NOTES: TTS

IN LOVE with this under $100 Steve Madden dress. I have no clue how it’s still in stock, so grab it while you can. The dramatic flared denim midi skirt is so flattering for all body types, and the ruched back bodice adds extra stretch so it never feels too rigid. If you’re still shopping the sale, this is a must-have.

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2. Open Edit Print Long Sleeve Drape Back Dress

The Dress: Open Edit Print Long Sleeve Drape Back Dress (S)
Other Pieces: Kitten Heel Mules

LENGTH: 50″ (size S)
FABRIC: 100% polyester
COLORS: Brown Animal Print
FIT NOTES: TTS

Oooh la-la! I just got this Print Long Sleeve Drape Back Dress from Open Edit  It is well-made and flattering and the best part is it’s only $65.99. It has a romantic draped open back with a tie at the neck, flared sleeves and a bandeau neck. Also, I’m still loving these Dolce Vita Kitten Heel Mules, I am so glad I kept them.

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3. Beyond Yoga Around the World Front Twist Midi Dress

The Dress: Beyond Yoga Around the World Front Twist Midi Dress (M)
Other Pieces: Shoes (not NSale) | Earrings

LENGTH: 48″ (size M)
FABRIC: 94% lyocell, 6% elastane
COLORS: Nocturnal Navy
FIT NOTES: TTS

I am so surprised this Beyond Yoga dress is still in stock! It’s basically the sporty cousin of Shana’s famous “Taco Dress” (IYKYK). It has a front twist with stretchy open sides in the lightest, airiest fabric. t’s totally bra-friendly: wear it with a strapless, a racerback sports bra, whatever you’ve got. No pockets which is always a bummer, but the thin, stretchy material makes it a dream for summer and an easy pack for your next trip.

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4. Halogen Patterned A-Line Dress

The Dress: Halogen Patterned A-Line Dress (M)
Other Pieces: Boots | Earrings

LENGTH: 35 1/2″
FABRIC: 100% polyester
COLORS: Multicolor Paisley
FIT NOTES: TTS

At 5’3″, this ran a little long for my liking. It’s better suited to taller frames or if you prefer more leg coverage. The paisley print is such a fun way to add a pop of color while staying in the typical fall color palette. It’s very nice quality and looks so cute styled with boots.

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5. Nordstrom Ruched Midi Dress

The Dress: Nordstrom Ruched Midi Dress
Other Pieces: Shoes (7, TTS) | Tote | Bracelet | Earrings

NECKLINE: Spread collar
SLEEVE LENGTH: Long sleeve
LENGTH: Mini
FABRIC: 98% cotton, 2% spandex
COLORS: Dark Olive Stripe
FIT NOTES: TTS. 

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6. Free People Lolita Floral Ruffle Maxi Skirt 

The Skirt: Free People Lolita Floral Ruffle Maxi Skirt (S)
Other Pieces: Similar Shoes | Cami (S) (not NSale) 

LENGTH: 39″ (size M)
FABRIC: 100% viscose with 100% polyester contrast
COLORS: Wash Black Combo & Mauve
FIT NOTES: TTS

This Free People skirt was at the top of my wishlist this year and wasn’t available in store when I did my try-on but I am so glad I ordered it because it definitely does not disappoint. It is the perfect, boho maxi skirt that I’ve been wanting. Plus, it has a comfy smocked weight. It’s lightweight enough that it works for summer and the dark browns make it the perfect transitional skirt for the fall. It looks so cute paired with moto boots, ballet sneakers and of course, clogs.

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7. COS Puff-sleeve Cotton Mini Dress

The Dress: COS Puff-sleeve Cotton Mini Dress (8)
Other Pieces: Shoes (not NSale) | Earrings (not NSale)

NECKLINE: Scooped
SLEEVE LENGTH: Puff sleeve
LENGTH: 82.1cm back length (size EU 36)
FABRIC: 100% cotton poplin
FIT NOTES: Regular/relaxed fit, tie closure at back, best for those who like a shapeless silhouette

I love the shape of this COS Puff-sleeve Cotton Mini Dress – it would be really cute styled with boots. The fabric is a swishy 100% cotton, it has a cute tie detail in the back, and sweet puff sleeves. If you like a more relaxed, shapeless silhouette, this could be great for you. Wearing a size 8.

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8. Nordstrom Lace Midi Skirt

The Skirt: Nordstrom Lace Midi Skirt (M)
Other Pieces: Shoes | Bag

LENGTH: Midi
FABRIC: 78% polyamide, 9% elastane
COLORS: Black
FIT NOTES: TTS (Shana is wearing a size M)

This Nordstrom Lace Midi Skirt is perfect for both daytime warm-weather looks and the cozied-up date night ones. The floral lace overlay gives it that pretty, whimsical detail without feeling overly formal, and since it’s a straighter cut, the 9% elastane gives it just the right amount of stretch to keep it comfortable all day.

The Skirt: Nordstrom Lace Midi Skirt (M)
Other Pieces: earrings | jacket (S) | bag | shoes | Right: sweater tee (S) | bag | boots

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9. STAUD Rocco Stripe Long Sleeve Mini Shirtdress

The Dress: STAUD Rocco Stripe Long Sleeve Mini Shirtdress (size up to 8)
Other Pieces: Boots (7) | Bag

NECKLINE: Spread collar
SLEEVE LENGTH: Long sleeve
LENGTH: Mini
FABRIC: 98% cotton, 2% spandex
COLORS: Dark Olive Stripe
FIT NOTES: Runs small – Shana sized up to an 8

Consider this STAUD Rocco Stripe Long Sleeve Mini Shirtdress our updated take on the classic shirtdress. A banded waistband defines the silhouette of this crisp poplin shirtdress. Love the lively stripes + flared skirt. It runs a little small, so Shana sized up to an 8.

The Dress: STAUD Rocco Stripe Long Sleeve Mini Shirtdress (size up to 8)
Other Pieces: Coat (S) | Boots (7) | Bag

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10. Veronica Beard Jordyn Mixed Media Stretch Cotton Midi Dress

The Dress: Jordyn Mixed Media Stretch Cotton Midi Dress
Other Pieces: Bag | Earrings

NECKLINE: Scoop neck
SLEEVE LENGTH: Sleeveless, cutaway shoulders
LENGTH: Midi
FABRIC: 96% cotton, 4% elastane
COLORS: Pine White
FIT NOTES: Linzi’s wearing in a size small – true to size

This Veronica Beard Jordyn Mixed Media Midi Dress gives you a two-piece look with one-and-done easy dress. A hidden side-zip closure, pockets, and a removable belt. There was a dress just like this in last year’s sale with short sleeve but this tank version is much more practical and easy to wear. Linzi is in her usual size small here.

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11. Reformation Bryson Floral Midi Dress

The Dress: Reformation Bryson Floral Midi Dress (4)
Other pieces: Kitten Heels (7.5) | Necklace | Ring

NECKLINE: Sweetheart neck
SLEEVE LENGTH: Cap sleeves
LENGTH: Midi
FABRIC: 55% viscose, 47% Lenzing™ EcoVero™ viscose
COLORS: Night Bloom, Lia
FIT NOTES: TTS

Honestly, this dress didn’t do much for me on the hanger but I should have known better, coming from Reformation because wow, this dress fits like a dream. It is so flattering and well made.

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12. STAUD Calluna Organza Gown

The Dress: STAUD Calluna Organza Gown (XS)

NECKLINE: Mock neck
SLEEVE LENGTH: Short sleeves
LENGTH: Floor-length
FABRIC: 100% polyester
COLORS: Twilight Foliage
FIT NOTES: TTS

If you’re not afraid of a little drama, I bought this dress in the early spring to wear to my partner’s firm gala, and it’s since become one of my most treasured pieces!! The organza outer layer is vol-um-in-ous in the Very Best Way (according to me). I just looove the way it moves, keeping it’s shape and airiness without feeling (or sounding) swooshy. Just GIVE ME an excuse to wear this in the fall with tall boots… I beg you.

Wearing an XS (0-00); note, the inside slip layer is non stretch and has no zipper, so it fits tightest over the hips. I found it fit loose across the bust, but I also have 0% goin on there.

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13. Short Sleeve Wells Dress

The Dress: Short Sleeve Wells Dress (6)
Other Pieces: Flats (not NSale)

NECKLINE: Square neck
SLEEVE LENGTH: Short sleeve
LENGTH: Midi
FABRIC: 98% cotton, 2% spandex
COLORS: Dark Olive
FIT NOTES: Shana in size 6 – runs tight through the midsection, sizing up made the bust too big/low

This STAUD Short Sleeve Wells Dress has all those pretty seam details going for it – the square neckline and tailored bodice are so flattering, and the short sleeves and fit-and-flare shape are timeless. But the fit is worth knowing before you buy. If you carry any weight in your midsection, true-to-size ran tight through there for Shana; sizing up fixed that but made the chest area too big, with a lower, looser cut that didn’t sit right. So, this one’s more of a maybe depending on your shape.

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14. AllSaints Rayanna Sunray Pleated Dress

The Dress: AllSaints Rayanna Sunray Pleated Dress (S)
Other pieces: Sandals (7.5) 

NECKLINE: Funnel neck
SLEEVE LENGTH: Cap sleeves
LENGTH: High-low hem
FABRIC: 100% Polyester
COLORS: Forest Green
FIT NOTES: TTS

So this Allsaints Dress caught me completely by surprise. It’s not something I usually go for but I love the soft green color and the interesting pleats so I thought why not and it turned out to be so flattering on! It’s also a gorgeous shade for both summer and even fall and winter. A very versatile and fabulous dress!

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15. Paris Asymmetric Mesh Dress

The Dress: Paris Asymmetric Mesh Dress (4)
Other Pieces: Earrings

NECKLINE: One shoulder neck (slips over head)
SLEEVE LENGTH: Single short sleeve
LENGTH: Full
FABRIC: 100% polyester (lined)
COLORS: Chocolate
FIT NOTES: TTS

I thought I grabbed a size 8, but it turned out to be an AU size 8, aka a US size 4. So… way too tight. Aside from that mishap, though, this dress is genuinely so comfy and stretchy, and I can tell the ruching through the midsection would’ve looked so much more forgiving in the right size. My one real downside: it’s 100% polyester, but for a stretchy occasion dress like this, honestly that’s fine with me.

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The Dress: Socialite Bias Cut Satin Floral Dress (M)
Other Pieces: Necklace

NECKLINE: Deep V-neck
SLEEVE LENGTH: Sleeveless
LENGTH: Full
FABRIC: 100% Polyester
COLORS: Black Green Floral
FIT NOTES: TTS

I practiced dancing in this one, even squatting, to make sure it could handle a wedding guest workout, and it passed with flying colors. I’m wearing a size M. This bias-cut dress is in a really pretty watercolor floral print. It’s 57″ long in a Medium, has a hidden side-zip closure, deep V-neck, and it’s sleeveless. It’s so easy to move (and dance!) in, sexy without trying too hard, and that print is just beautiful.

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17. Zoe and Clare Topstitch Detail Sleeveless Denim Dress

The Dress: Zoe and Clare Topstitch Detail Sleeveless Denim Dress (M)
Other pieces: Bracelet | Earrings

NECKLINE: Jewel neck
SLEEVE LENGTH: Sleeveless
LENGTH: Midi
FABRIC: 75% cotton, 23% polyester, 2% spandex
COLORS: Denim with seams
FIT NOTES:

I’m always so intrigued by a denim dress – they’re some of my hardest-working, longest-wearing dresses in my closet. The dark wash on this one was calling to me – along with the flattering vertical seams. How stunning?! It was really lightweight and the skirt had a good amount of swish. I want to wear it with tall suede boots ASAP.

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18. Topshop Gathered Fit & Flare Maxi Dress

The Dress: Topshop Gathered Fit & Flare Maxi Dress (10)
Other Pieces: Shoes (not NSale) | Earrings

LENGTH: Maxi
FABRIC: 89% viscose, 8% polyester, 3% linen
COLORS: Red
FIT NOTES: Best for longer torso & smaller bust

This under $60 dress has real potential thanks to its major drop-waist silhouette. It’ll work best if you’ve got a longer torso. Pockets run all the way down the side seam, so you’ve got somewhere to stash your stuff (you’ll just have to reach a bit haha). A cool, different option if you’re after something outside the typical maxi silhouette.

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19. Julia Jordan Plaid Pleated Midi Dress

The Dress: Julia Jordan Plaid Pleated Midi Dress (10)
Other Pieces: Bag | Boots

NECKLINE: Mock neck
SLEEVE LENGTH: Cap sleeves
LENGTH: Midi (50″ length)
FABRIC: 81% polyester, 17% rayon, 2% spandex
COLORS: Navy Brown
FIT NOTES: TTS

I was hoping I would get to try this dress from the catalog and I’m so glad I did. It’s so freaking cute. No idea where I actually have to wear it, but I love love it. They didn’t have an 8 in store, but the 10 was comfy and only a bit big up top. It seems super long on the rack but turned out to be the perfect length.

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20. Halogen® Sleeveless Belted Trench Coat

The Dress: Halogen® Sleeveless Belted Trench Coat (6)
Other Pieces: Boots

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21. Vince Camuto Mixed Media Rib Funnel Neck Midi Dress

The Dress:  Vince Camuto Mixed Media Rib Funnel Neck Midi Dress (M)
Other Pieces: boots | necklace 

NECKLINE: Funnel neck
SLEEVE LENGTH: Cap sleeve
LENGTH: Midi (48″)
FABRIC: 70% rayon, 30% polyester
FIT NOTES: Runs tight through neck/shoulders/bust, flowy through the body; best for smaller-framed upper body

This one almost had it. The funnel neck and cap sleeves look so cute in photos, but on me it was tight through the neck, shoulders, and bust, then went full flowy-parachute on the bottom –  a weird top-to-bottom mismatch. If you’ve got a smaller shoulder/bust/neck situation, this could work great for you. Bonus: it does have pockets. Wearing a Medium, under $100 in the sale.

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22. Reformation Kristine Floral Sleeveless Georgette Minidress

The Dress: Reformation Kristine Floral Sleeveless Georgette Minidress

LENGTH: Mini
FABRIC: 100% viscose
COLORS: Nicole (dark red)
FIT NOTES: Runs SMALL!! Sized up 2 sizes to a 10 but probably needed a 12?

Reformation’s sizing runs seriously small – lesson learned. I usually wear a size 6 or 8 but I sized up to a 10… could not get this dress over my chest… just really bad scenes 😂. So, if you’ve got more up top, size way up. Other then that, it’s such a little cute dress. It has a convertible neckline so you can wear it off either shoulder or both, love the color and the light weight material.

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Sold Out (For Now) — But Keep Checking Back

The best part of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is the amazing finds at amazing prices… the worst part is the sell-outs. These are the pieces that keep popping in and out of stock, so you might click through and find it’s gone. BUT restocks happen all the time thanks to returns, so it’s always worth checking back.

1. STAUD Wells Stripe Stretch Cotton Poplin Dress

The Dress: STAUD Wells Stripe Stretch Cotton Poplin Dress (size 4)
Other Pieces: Earrings

NECKLINE: Square neck
SLEEVE LENGTH: Sleeveless
LENGTH: Midi
FABRIC: 98% cotton, 2% spandex, cotton lining
COLORS: Twilight Stripe
FIT NOTES: Linzi in a size 4 – would need straps shortened

The STAUD Wells Stripe Stretch Cotton Poplin Dress has been a long time favorite of Linzi’s. The stripes create an illusion on this structured midi dress, fitted through bodice before flaring into a twirl-worthy, pleated A-line skirt with a hidden back-zip closure. Linzi thought this stripe and colorway might read a little “circus” in photos, but in person it’s way more muted and sophisticated than expected.

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2. Nordstrom Leather A-Line Midi Skirt

The Skirt: Nordstrom Leather A-Line Midi Skirt (M)
Other Pieces: Tee (S) | Bag

LENGTH: Midi
FABRIC: Leather
COLORS: Black
FIT NOTES: TTS (Shana is wearing a size M)

This Nordstrom Leather A-Line Midi Skirt skims the waist and flares out just enough for a look that’s edgy but still polished. Such a cool skirt, and the length is just right – not too long, not too short. We’re loving it with an easy tee and fall booties for that effortless, everyday-with-a-little-edge vibe.

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3. Cinq à Sept Tina Belted Stretch Denim Midi Sundress

The Dress: Tina Belted Stretch Denim Midi Sundress (6)
Other Pieces: Bag | Earrings

NECKLINE: Notched square neck
SLEEVE LENGTH: Sleeveless, adjustable straps
LENGTH: Midi
FABRIC: 77% cotton, 21% polyester, 2% elastane
COLORS: Indigo
FIT NOTES: Linzi in a size 6; runs a touch big through the chest, size down if in between

This Cinq à Sept Tina Belted Stretch Denim Midi Sundress is a standout pick for the 2026 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Contrast stitching outlines the fitted bodice, flared skirt, cinched at the waist with a buckled and removable belt. Linzi found it ran a bit big through the chest (a size down could work if you’re in between), but loved that the straps are adjustable. The denim itself feels substantial and luxe without ever being stiff or scratchy.

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4. L’Agence Belted Cotton Blend Shirtdress

The Dress: L’Agence Belted Cotton Blend Shirtdress (6)
Other Pieces: Shoes (6.5) | Ring

NECKLINE: Spread collar
SLEEVE LENGTH: Sleeveless
LENGTH: Midi
FABRIC: 62% cotton, 35% nylon, 3% spandex
COLORS: Deco Rose
FIT NOTES: TTS

This would be gorgeous on someone tall. I’m too short-waisted for it and it was tight in the waist. The belt surprised me…it was made with some serious metal hardware.

The Dress: L’Agence Belted Cotton Blend Shirtdress (6)
Other Pieces: Shoes (6.5) | Ring

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5. Steve Madden Bailee Floral Halter Neck Maxi Dress

The Dress: Steve Madden Bailee Floral Halter Neck Maxi Dress (S)
Other Pieces: Shoes

LENGTH: 50″ (size S)
FABRIC: 100% polyester
COLORS: Dusty Teal
FIT NOTES: TTS

Okay, I am so impressed with this Steve Madden dress! The fabric is such a nice, thick (yet soft) mid-weight that feels exactly like satin. I love the bold abstract floral print combined with the dusty teal color. The halter neck gives this dress a sophisticated yet flattering look. It is such great quality for the under $100 price!

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NSale Dresses & Skirts FAQ

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Stay tuned for more updates as the sale goes on. If you want a quick hit list, head to our cheat sheet for top picks in every category. For curated roundups delivered daily, sign up for our newsletter here. And for all the unfiltered NSale chatter you won’t want to miss, join our exclusive group chat.

xo,
Aliya