IMO The Best Labor Day Weekend Sales

Labor Day weekend has some of the best sales of the year – it's new product, and it's often what you actually need, yet it's the kind of pricing usually seen when brands want to get rid of last season's merchandise.  Below I share my picks of the best Labor Day Weekend sales and some suggestions on the best buys at each retailer.  Happy shopping!

The Best Labor Day Sales for the Wardrobe Oxygen Community

There are a LOT of Labor Day sales that are going on this weekend, and in fact many that have already started. I am focusing on sales that are most likely to be appreciated by you, the Wardrobe Oxygen community. I look at my analytics, I see where you shop, where you click but don't shop, and I see who you discuss in the comments, on Instagram, and in the Wardrobe Oxygen group on Facebook. So I won't waste your time, it will just be retailers you may be considering, especially if they have a nice deal going on this weekend.

However, to be sure you spend your money as wisely as possible check out my tips on the best items to purchase at end of summer sales. It doesn't matter how steep the discount if it's something you won't likely wear this time next year.

Retailers are in alphabetical order so it's easy to navigate, but don't putter out before you get to the end because order doesn't equal importance. For example, I have a promo code near the end to get $50 off your order at Universal Standard!

ABLE

ABLE offers leather goods and well-crafted apparel up to size 3X. I am trying out some of their apparel for an upcoming review and so far I am a fan. ABLE is offering their ambassadors the promo code CYASUMMER for 20% off pre-fall newness + 30% off everything else. This code is NOT on the ABLE site, so be sure to use this link and add the code at checkout! Discount code applies sitewide – including ABLE's Signature Collection and sale items. May not be combined with other promotions or Impact points. Not applicable on previous purchases. Exclusions apply. Valid through 9/5/23. 

Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor has 30% off your entire purchase, no code is needed. I am loving the latest offerings from Ann Taylor and have more from this retailer in my closet than I have had in almost a decade. The suiting fits me great, I am 99% of the time a 16 petite needing no alterations; when I'm not 16 P it's a 14 P.

• These pants and this blazer look on exactly like they do on the website in regard to color and fit. I wore this suit with a white tank and white Birkenstocks earlier this week.
• These jeans look and fit great. If in doubt, size down. I got a 14P and wish I got a 12.
• These pants are so cool and will elevate a simple black t-shirt, tank, or turtleneck. They would also look cool with cream, camel, with a graphic t-shirt or a silk blouse. If in doubt size down. I got 16P and wish I got 14P.

Athleta

I love the quality and style of Athleta for activewear, but also a lot of streetwear, loungewear, and great accessories. Athleta isn't a big sale store, but this weekend they have an extra 60% off sale which is AWESOME. Athleta also has select styles under $50 at this link.

Banana Republic Outlet

I personally find Banana Republic's factory apparel to rival their regular collection in regard to manufacturing. The difference is simpler styles and lower-cost textiles, which means more likely to be machine washable. Banana Republic Factory has 50-70% off everything plus an additional 20% off your order. No code is needed.

Bare Necessities

One of my favorite destinations for bras and swimwear, Bare Necessities has an extensive selection of high-quality brands and a fantastic size range. Customer reviews and Bare Necessities' tools for choosing items based on your specific body needs helps every customer feel informed and empowered. This weekend, Bare Necessities has 25% off everything at this link. I know I'll be stocking up on my favorite t-shirt bra and maybe another of one of my favorite shapewear pieces – no back bulge, no panty lines, and you can wear your own bra (sizes S-XXL).

Baublebar

My favorite destination for quality costume jewelry (seriously, I have pieces years old that still look great and are stylish), Baublebar has an additional 50% off sale. I'm partial to this ring that is available up to size 11, this collar necklace, this bold beaded necklace, and this bracelet that would also make for a lovely gift.

Boden

I know y'all love Boden. Quirky and colorful, while also being work- and social event-appropriate, Boden is available up to 20/22 with petite and tall options. Free shipping on orders $49+ and free returns. And this weekend they have 30% off sitewide! Shop soon, items are selling fast. My picks:

• Tulle skirts are back, and this one is elegant and sophisticated enough for us grown women. I'd wear this with a cashmere sweater and tall boots, with a button-down and flats, a Breton striped top and sneakers… 7 colors and sizes 0-20/22.
• This midi-length shirtdress is a basic that's not boring. I have Boden shirtdresses in my closet almost a decade old that still look chic and I think this is a similar concept with similar longevity.
• You know I love a good Breton striped top, and this one looks great. Heavyweight that will look great for seasons, wood buttons on the shoulder, non-boring color choices.
• Highly rated, well made, and great colors of these flexible ballet flats. I think leopard is a neutral and goes with most everything, especially this season. However, all the other color options are also excellent (10 to choose from).

Chico's

Chico's has several promotions this Labor Day weekend; I received a heads-up before they went live so check the site to ensure accuracy. But a little Chico's birdie told me this weekend they're offering an extra 30% off sale, 25% off swim, jewelry starting at $9.99, Flash Sales that will start as low as $29, and a free gift for orders of $175+.

Girlfriend Collective

A size-inclusive ethical activewear brand, Girlfriend Collective has 20% off sitewide and each purchase of $125+ will get a free recycled backpack of your choice. I'm loving the colors of this active dress available in sizes XXS-6XL and find these leggings to be pretty great.

J. Crew

J. Crew has 60% off sale and 40% off most everything else with promo code SHOPNOW. J. Crew has been hit or miss for me over the years, but lately I think they're doing a great job with cool yet versatile fashion with a mix of elevated neutrals and on-trend colors (and a bunch of beautiful brights). With sizes 000-24 with some lengths, J. Crew is a way to get quality pieces that you will enjoy wearing. My picks from this sale:

• I own these denim shorts, I went up one size and they're the only denim shorts I like. They only have larger sizes in stock (32 and larger) and the price is verrrry nice.
• This bucket hat is perfect for this summer and next; the white is great when you're sightseeing to keep you cool; the black is great when you're in water because it won't reflect the sun onto your face.
• This necklace is that piece that will take your not-so little black dress from work to wedding, will make a cashmere sweater and silk slip skirt cocktail attire, and will elevate a black pantsuit to holiday party fashion.
• I'm ordering one of these slip skirts with a sweater in the same color, thinking it will be cute with sneakers, chic with heels, and wintry with boots.
• Because I know you all love bright colors of blue, check out this sweater blazer!

J. Crew Factory

J. Crew Factory is a favorite for wardrobe basics that go up to 3X, and great pieces for older kids for back to school. Women, Men, and Kids, J. Crew Factory has it and this weekend J. Crew Factory is offering up to 70% off the entire site! My picks:

• I dig this black short-sleeved dress of suiting fabric. The belt gives shape and keeps it from being boring. This is a day wedding, funeral, work, interview, date night kind of dress with a switch of accessories and it's available to size 20 for less than $45.
• The Teddie sweater is a classic. A wool/cotton blend available to 3X with 10 colors to choose from, this is a crewneck sweater that isn't too relaxed, isn't too tight, will look great with jeans on the weekend, or a pair of trousers and loafers for the workplace. On sale less than $40.
• The Schoolboy sweater blazer is a workplace (and IMO, a WFH) must. More polished than a cardigan, but way more comfy than a traditional blazer, this highly-rated topper comes in three classic neutrals, sizes to 3X with petite offerings, and is on sale less than $70.
• The lady jacket is a HUGE trend for fall, and J. Crew Factory has it for less. Black tweed with the classic gold buttons, available in petites and misses to 24, this jacket looks elegant, timeless, and will update your wardrobe basics for $109.
• The Kallie straight leg pant is a wardrobe workhorse. A machine washable cotton blend available in three colors, petite, tall, and misses to 24; it is on sale for less than $50 this weekend.

Lands' End

Lands' End has up to 40% off full-price and 60% off sale with promo code HOLIDAY. Lands' End is a retailer I always shop during sales like this to stock up on summer items for next year, but also for basics that are year-round perfection. Also, if you or your students wear uniforms you can often find polos, skirts, and pants for way less during this sale. My picks:

• Lands' End makes great linens for bed and bath and a bunch are on sale. I am partial to their Supima bath towels which come in a gorgeous range of colors and are on sale for $20.97 each. Lands' End also has their 400 thread count Supima sateen sheets on sale 40% off and they come in good colors and every size (including split kings and those long twins for dorm rooms).
• I'm considering getting this packable down jacket; I love the silhouette and the colors and that it's 40% off this weekend. Here is the link for plus sizes.
• I know y'all love Lands' End Starfish pants, a pull-on refined knit that is great for lounging but can also dress up for business casual workplaces and weekend activities. On sale, seven colors with petite and tall offerings; here is the link for plus size.
• I bought these jeans last year and am so glad I did. Love the fit, the washes, and that they come in petite, misses, tall, and plus.
• Lands' End makes great t-shirts, and this short-sleeved crew is a wardrobe must-have with a great fit and a gorgeous range of colors and sizes. This sale makes them $20-$30 each!

Madewell

Madewell is a great destination for wardrobe basics like jeans, chinos, and casual jackets and tops. Offering up to size 3X with petite and tall options, Madewell is especially popular for their denim. Right now they have 30% off pre-fall styles at this link and an extra 30% off sale with promo code COOLDOWN. My picks:

• The Harlow Wide Leg Jean is something I ordered during this sale. I love their Harlow Pant so much I am excited to try this soft denim alternative.
• This silver cuff bracelet is so chic and such a great low price (less than $35!)
• Shiny silver penny loafers sophisticated enough for the workplace and classic enough to love for years.
• Elevate your favorite crossbody with a gold chain strap for less than $30.
• Leave the purse at home with this leather pouch with a carabiner to connect to your keys or even your belt loops. Less than $30, consider buying an extra to use as a stocking stuffer or to hold a gift card for a future gift!
• Hello 30% off Madewell's iconic washed leather moto jacket. Four colors and sizes XXS-3X.

Maya Fragrance

My signature fragrance, Maya Fragrance changes with your body chemistry and I have never received more compliments! Read my Maya Fragrance review. If you're interested or like me, stocking up, with code SUMMER2023 you'll get 20% off sitewide and free domestic shipping!

Nadaam

Known for high-quality cashmere in a great range of sizes and styles, Nadaam has 25% off this weekend sitewide. I'm partial to this cashmere tee (XXS-XXL), and of course, I'm drawn to this striped v-neck cashmere boyfriend sweater (XXS-3X).

Printfresh

My favorite organic cotton size-inclusive sleepwear (plus dresses, bags, and more) has up to 50% off with promo code BYESUMMER. Here you can read my Printfresh pajamas review and check out three generations of my family all in Printfresh!

Soma

I just visited my local Soma store this week to check my current size and see the latest offerings and was so impressed. Up to H cup with more sizes coming, styles updated with new innovation and technology, and gorgeous colors and styles! Soma has a bunch of sales going on this weekend with 2/$59 bras, $5 panty with every purchase, buy 3 get 2 panties for free, select dresses $39.99 and much more. I'm writing this before these sales are actually active so you best bet is to visit the Soma site to get all the details!

Talbots

I can't believe that when I first published this I forgot Talbots! So much of my closet is Talbots, I appreciate the quality, the size range, and I find that you can really style pieces beyond the traditional Talbots aesthetic (AKA the clothes are for everyone, not just preppy/classic folk). This weekend Talbots has 25% off new arrivals at this link and 70% off clearance at this link. My picks which are all available in Talbots' full size range (misses, petite, plus, and plus petite):

• Printed blouses and shirts: In the past few seasons, Talbots has had cool prints to rival Liberty of London. This tie neck blouse looks both designer and vintage. Style now with white jeans or linen trousers. Come fall, pair with dark wash wide leg jeans or denim trousers. For work, style with pants or a skirt picking up one of the dark and more subtle colors in the print. If a classic button-front is more your jam, this 100% cotton shirt is a gorgeous print that goes from denim cutoffs to suiting trousers to tied over a silk bias-cut slip skirt to your weekend jeans.
• I saw this blazer in-store and instantly fell in love. Made from knit so it's comfy but polished and sophisticated enough for the boardroom, it comes in great colors and the full size range. For a suit, grab a pair of these highly-rated legendary pants.
• Want to elevate a simple tank, t-shirt, or button-front shirt now and a turtleneck come cooler temps? How about this vest and matching oversized blazer? Wear separately or alone for a very on-trend suiting concept for fall. On the bottom, do black pants, jeans, or go high-low with a pair of track pants. Want to dress it up? Forego the base layer and have the vest as your top (or over a silky scoop or v-neck camisole) with black pants and boots or heels.
• These pants look polished but feel like yoga pants. Love everything about them.
• Love the lady jacket trend but prefer something longer? This longer cardigan incorporates the gold buttons and collarless style to update a wardrobe staple for fall.

Universal Standard

Universal Standard has $50 off orders of $120+ with promo code FIFTY. There are no exclusions. I thank you in advance for using my link to shop this sale if you so choose to, as it is a tracking link to gauge the success of partnering with me. I want them to know that y'all shop US because of me as it will help me get gifted merch for future reviews and early intel on what's coming down the pike with this size-inclusive fashion brand.

I attended the most recent Universal Standard trunk show in the DC area and got to see a lot of the newness in person and also try it on. My favorites from the new arrivals:

• The Breton stripe dress is quite lovely; you can see it on me here on Instagram. I got an S and an XS and while both fit, the S was… fine and the XS looked elevated and sophisticated. The fabric is heavier than a t-shirt fabric, but not as heavy as ponte. It skims the body, doesn't cling, and I washed gentle and line dried and it didn't shrink. All the colors are opaque.
• The Breton stripe top is also lovely. The XS is snug and best with wide-leg trousers, a full skirt, or under a layering piece. The S is far more my speed and I have worn it several times. Same fabric, which IMO is nicer than Saint James or J. Crew (or Boden, and it's silkier than Talbots).
• The Davis Leather Blazer is sooo luxe. So soft, so elegant, so well crafted. I found the XS a bit too snug on my arms and sized up to S at the trunk show.
• The Newport Pant looks better in person than on the website. I saw it at the trunk show on a range of bodies and everyone looked cute in them. I loved the look on one other attendee who styled them in the Tarragon color with the Breton top half-tucked wearing her clogs. I may get these myself!
• The Seine Ponte Pant is a great choice for those who want something heavier and more elevated than a legging, like skinny pants with longer tops or under boots, or wish their favorite Universal Standard jeans came in a non-denim fabric.

As I have mentioned in previous blog posts, with over 6,000 posts on Wardrobe Oxygen spanning almost two decades, it makes more sense to update old posts rather than make new ones. This is an old post from many years ago, but the only thing that remains from the original is the introductory paragraph and one of the original images. Everything else is brand-spanking new added by yours truly this week before Labor Day but this explains why there may be some weird comments below!

Whew!  If I missed any great sales, do share them in the comments so others can take advantage of the promotion.  And if you get any great deals this weekend, let me know!