Nothing beats a shoe sale. I'm the type of person who can always make room for something new in my closet, especially in the shoe category. Even better: I did the work to find the best shoe deals so you didn't have to.

I found everything you need to elevate your shoe wardrobe, from this year's trendy sneakers to strappy sandals you can wear even in extreme heat. Plus, we've got all the boots you need for the fall and winter seasons. Add a selection of ballet flats and enough heeled shoes to make me want a second shoe closet, and my dreamy list of recommendations is complete.

For those of you who are new to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, I'll also answer the questions you're most curious about. From how to shop to how long the discounts will last, this is your unofficial guide to the hundreds of shoes included in the sale. When you're ready to go shopping, you can jump directly to the section or shop our top picks from each category.

Nordstrom's massive sale section includes some of the best sneakers on the market. Our favorites are On's sporty black sneakers, but Adidas' white sneakers (fresh, not Sambas!) ) and Vince slip-on sneakers, as well as some chunky sneakers from P448 that would work well as work sneakers.

Ballet flats are at the center of this summer's fashion buzz, and Nordstrom's sale section has some of the best pairs on the market. There are classic pointed-toe flats for the office, Stuart Weitzman's pearl-embellished mary jane styles, and silver flats from Chinese Laundry, a brand recognized by Taylor Swift.

Summer is sandal season. Even if you don't like to show your toes around town, you should always have a pair or two in your vacation capsule wardrobe. We found chunky sandals that are supportive and comfortable, chic flip flops, and wedge sandals perfect for sundresses.

The cold weather will be here before you know it, so this is the perfect time to invest in a pair of black boots. Plus, it rains a lot in New York City, so I have my eye on Hunter rain boots that go with all my outfits, regardless of the season. But this year I also found knee-high and ankle boots.

No matter how you wear your heels, they are never a bad investment. I found the perfect kitten heels to wear to the office, in addition to some heeled sandals that you can wear to your next formal event.

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale opened for Icon cardholders on July 9, for ambassadors on July 10, and for influencers on July 11.

The sale opened for all on July 15. The deals will run through August 4, but be warned.

Many of Marie Claire's favorite brands will be on sale during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Adidas, Mansur Gavriel, Free People, Levi's, and many more. Designer brands such as Veronica Beard and Kate Spade will also be included. On the beauty side, there are Augustinus Bader, Byredo, La Mer, Clinique, etc.