I Tried Nordstrom’s New Summer Fashion Arrivals to Find the 7 Best

Online shopping is one of life’s greatest simple pleasures, but the fact is that it can sometimes be tricky to be sure that you’re going to be happy with your purchase IRL. From fit to feel, there are just some things that you need to experience in person to know if an item of clothing is going to be right for you. And let’s be real—returning clothes that you ordered online can be such a hassle. 

Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not suggesting you give up on online shopping altogether. There’s no beating the convenience of giving your closet a refresh from the comfort of your own home. So, to help you feel more confident in your purchases, I decided to spend an afternoon trying on a dozen new arrivals at Nordstrom so you don’t have to. Two hours and 12 items later, I narrowed down my finds to seven stylish essentials that you won’t regret adding to your summer wardrobe. Keep scrolling for my tried-and-true picks, from a breezy maxi dress and an unbelievably soft tank to surprisingly comfy denim.    

Editor-Approved Nordstrom Summer New Arrivals

Avec Les Filles Smocked Sleeveless Fit & Flare Maxi Dress

Sundresses are my summer shopping kryptonite, so I had high hopes when I picked out this lemon-printed maxi dress—and it didn’t disappoint. Made from a surprisingly soft, stretchy fabric, the flattering smocked bodice fit like a glove, while the trendy drop waist added an elegant touch. If your calendar is packed with engagement parties, birthdays, and other seasonal soirées, you’re bound to get tons of use out of this cute and comfy maxi.     

Petal & Pup Fairfax Variegated Rib Sleeveless Sweater

If you’re looking for an elevated alternative to a basic white tank, this sleeveless ribbed sweater is just as versatile and lightweight. At less than $50, the knit fabric feels way more expensive than it actually is; plus, it has tons of stretch for a curve-hugging fit.    

Madewell Airy Denim Drawstring Waist Low Slung Baggy Jeans

I’m obsessed with baggy low-rise jeans (it’s seriously becoming a problem), and I fell in love with the sweatpants-like drawstring detail on this Madewell pair. As the name suggests, their airiness makes them ideal for summer when the last thing you want is to be overheating in too-tight denim. I can see myself throwing these on with a bikini, tank top, and flip-flops to go to the beach.  

Lioness Carrie Stripe Knit Camisole

Trust me when I say that the buttery-soft material of this striped camisole needs to be felt to be believed—I was stunned by how cozy it felt against my skin. Hitting at the perfect cropped length, this is the kind of wardrobe staple that you’ll reach for several times a week. 

Frame Timeless Raw-Hem Denim Bermuda Shorts

ICYMI: Bermuda shorts are back, and this Frame pair is a totally approachable way to embrace the divisive dad trend. Frame’s long-lasting, high-quality denim more than justifies the slightly steep price tag, and I was especially impressed with the true-to-size fit, as I sometimes struggle with the sizing of jeans.

Reformation Lavena Organic Cotton-Blend Crop Top

I’m a huge fan of Reformation’s intricate, vintage-esque pieces, and this cotton-blend cropped blouse was no exception. Between the puff sleeves and stunning floral lace trim, the details of this splurge-worthy top exude summer romance. I styled it with Petal & Pup red gingham pants, which are unfortunately out of stock online, but I found two similar styles from Cotton On and BDG Urban Outfitters.        

Farm Rio Sweet Bloom Cotton Eyelet Shift Dress

The material of this floral eyelet shift dress was so lightweight and gauzy that it felt like it was practically floating around me. In other words, it’s a great option for when it gets so hot that it feels impossible to be chic and comfortable at the same time. You can wear it as a shift dress or tie it at the waist like I did for a cinched effect.   

Whether I should be saying “you’re welcome,” or apologizing for the hit to your bank account, these covetable summer styles are sure to make you as happy as they made me. Head over to Nordstrom to check out more irresistible new arrivals.