Tees, Shorts, and Sunglasses: 26 Best Summer Essentials in Madewell’s Sale Section
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As a college sophomore ten years ago, Madewell’s clothing seemed like such a status symbol to me, and one that was only reachable through its sale section. But alas, every time I browsed the brand’s clearance rack at San Francisco’s Westfield Mall (RIP), I was dismayed to find very little in stock or, to be honest, even worth looking at.
Thankfully, these days, Madewell always has a sale. Its standard sale section is reliably full, and there’s usually some kind of promotion on full-price items. Right now at Madewell, select items are either 25 percent off or 40 percent off,both with the code MADEBETTER. Additionally, you can frequently find Madewell products in the sale section at both Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack, many times for even better discounts. I’ve rustled up the best Madewell things — many of which, this time around, are great summer essentials like jean shorts, cotton tees, and sunglasses — I’ve seen on sale lately, and I’ll be updating this story often with the best current deals. Consider it your cheat sheet to the Madewell sale section.
One note: I did earnestly dig through the men’s sale section, but sadly most of the items suffer from one of two issues: not enough sizing or poor reviews. So, although my selection is slim, know that it’s the best of the bunch.
Women’s tops
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A staple white tee with some extra-soft texture.
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If fitted and cozy isn’t your vibe, this relaxed cotton crewneck also has a nice discount.
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Every tomboy knows that raglan tees are summer-wardrobe essentials.
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Madewell’s Softfade Boxy-Crop shirt is one of our favorite white tees. Today, a tank version is just $10 in plus sizes and a handful of colors.
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A classic cropped denim jacket for cooler summer nights.
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Cheaper than a Cou Cou cardi and available in all sizes at Nordstrom.
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The only thing better than stripes is two types of stripes.
Women’s bottoms
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The perfect comfortable, breathable, and high-waisted shorts do exist—and they’re just $44 right now.
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Boxer-esque shorts for casual fits (and extra breathing room).
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These “slouchy” crêpe shorts are quite polished, in my humble opinion.
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A great-length skirt to pair with knee-high boots this summer. The rounded hem is a nice design detail.
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If you’d like to try a slimmer leg, but don’t want to fully commit to skinny jeans, go for the stovepipe. This dark wash is 40 percent off (a good deal for Madewell denim), but the same wash is on sale for $28 at Nordstrom Rack in limited sizing.
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The side paneling and seams are making me think of barrel jeans, without serving Yosemite Sam.
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Our best jeans for tall women are now on sale in black — with black buttons (a rarity for Madewell jeans) — and a few other colors with limited sizing.
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Madewell’s Harlow pants have become a Strategist staple ever since Victoria Justice mentioned them in her list of things she can’t live without. They’re $40 in this neutral khaki.
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The Harlows are also on sale in denim!
Women’s shoes and accessories
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A mod pair of sunnies, if you like the London look.
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Madewell discontinued its leather Transport tote earlier this year, but you can still get it at Nordstrom Rack. It’s a favorite among Strategist writers, famous cooks, graphic designers, and more.
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Madewell The Darcy Ankle Boot
An unthinkable price for Madewell booties. They’re sold out in white, but the cinnamon brown is fully in stock and just $50.
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Madewell The Ophelia Slingback Flats
Five-foot-ten Strategist contributor Abigail Gray recently named these some of her favorite flats for going out. Her suede green pick isn’t on sale, but this neutral woven-leather pair is 25 percent off and great for summer.
Men’s apparel and accessories
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I found a versatile vacation shirt on sale at Nordstrom rack for 37 percent off, dropping it down to just $50.
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A true “all day” tank you can wear from the park to dinner.
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A cotton-and-Tencel-blend button-up you can wear all summer. It comes in several colors, but this baby-blue shade has the best size availability.
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Madewell’s 1991 straight-leg men’s jeans have the best relaxed fit, according to our associate editor Jeremy Rellosa. This pant version has the same comfortable and flattering silhouette and is made of 99 percent cotton and one percent elastane.
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Asics GT-2160
Name-brand shoes are rarely included in Madewell promotions, so I’d grab this pair of Asics while they’re 25 percent off.
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Gramicci O.G. Long Bill Baseball Cap
The uniform for climbers everywhere.
The Strategist is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about here. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
