If you’ve ever bought something that didn’t fit quite right or just wasn’t what you expected, you know how important a good return policy is. Understanding the return policy Aerie offers can save you time and ensure you’re happy with your purchase. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits to condition requirements, so you can shop with total confidence.
Return Policy Aerie
Aerie’s return policy is designed to be straightforward and customer-friendly. They want you to love what you buy. In most cases, you can return items for a full refund, an exchange, or store credit, depending on how long you’ve had them and the payment method you used.
This flexibility is a big reason why so many people trust the brand. Whether you shopped online or in a physical store, the process is generally simple. Let’s look at the key details you should keep in mind before initiating a return.
Key Timeframes for Returns
The clock starts ticking from the day your order is delivered or the day you buy in store. Here are the main deadlines:
- 60 Days for a Refund: Items returned within 60 days in their original condition are eligible for a refund to your original payment method.
- 61 Days to 1 Year for Store Credit: If you miss the 60-day window, you have up to one full year from the purchase date to return items for an Aerie merchandise credit.
- Beyond 1 Year: Returns are typically not accepted after one year has passed.
Condition of Items
To be accepted, your returns must meet specific condition guidelines. This is standard for most retailers.
- Unworn and Unwashed: All items must be in their original state. They should not show any signs of wear, washing, or damage.
- Original Tags Attached: The product tags and any packaging (like hygiene liners in swimwear) must still be attached.
- In Original Packaging: For certain items, like bras, having the original packaging helps the process.
Special Considerations for Swimwear and Intimates
For hygiene reasons, swimwear and intimates have the strictest rules. They must have the original hygienic liner intact and be completely unworn. If this liner is removed, the item cannot be returned. This is a common practice to ensure safety and quality for all customers.
How to Start a Return
You have a couple of easy options to begin your return, depending on where you made your purchase.
For Online Purchases
Returning something you bought online is simple. You can choose to send it back by mail or take it to a store.
- Go to the Aerie Returns page on their website.
- Enter your order number and email address to access your order.
- Select the items you wish to return and choose your reason.
- Print the provided prepaid return label and attach it to your package.
- Drop the package off at a designated carrier location (like USPS).
Alternatively, you can take your online order, with the packing slip, to any Aerie or American Eagle store for a faster return. This is often the quickest way to get your refund processed.
For In-Store Purchases
Simply bring the item and your original receipt to any Aerie or American Eagle store. The associate will handle the transaction for you right there. If you’ve lost your receipt, they may be able to look up the purchase if you used a credit card or rewards account.
Refund Methods and Timing
How you get your money back depends on your return method and timing.
- Original Payment Method: Returns within 60 days to a store or by mail usually get refunded to the card or PayPal account you used. This can take 5-10 business days to appear on your statement after the return is processed.
- Aerie Merchandise Credit: Returns made after 60 days but within one year will receive a merchandise credit, typically issued as an e-gift card.
- In-Store Credit for Mail Returns: If you return by mail without a receipt, you may receive store credit for the item’s lowest selling price.
Exchanges Made Simple
Need a different size or color? Exchanges are easy, especially in-store. You can bring the item to a store for an immediate exchange if they have the new item in stock. For online exchanges, it’s often faster to process a return and then place a new order for the desired item. This ensures you get the correct size before it sells out.
What About Final Sale Items?
Some items are marked as “Final Sale.” These are typically deeply discounted clearance pieces. Final sale items cannot be returned or exchanged, so be sure of your choice before buying them. This policy is usually clearly stated on the product page and in your cart.
International Returns
If you’re shopping from outside the United States, the return policy is different. International orders often need to be returned by mail to a specific address, and you are usually responsible for the return shipping costs. It’s best to contact Aerie’s customer service directly for instructions tailored to your country.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
A little preparation can make the return process effortless. Here are some pointers:
- Keep Your Receipt: Always file or photograph your receipt. It’s the easiest way to prove purchase.
- Inspect Items Quickly: Try on or inspect your items soon after they arrive to ensure you’re within the 60-day window.
- Use the Original Box: When possible, use the original shipping box for mail returns.
- Track Your Return: When mailing a return, keep the tracking number until you see the refund on your account.
Common Questions and Clarifications
Even with a clear policy, specific situations can pop up. Here are answers to some frequent questions.
Do I need the original packing slip?
It’s highly recommended for mail returns, as it speeds up processing. For in-store returns, a receipt is better, but the packing slip can often work in its place.
Can I return a gift?
Yes, gift returns are accepted. You’ll need the gift receipt to receive store credit for the item’s current price. Without a receipt, the store may offer merchandise credit for the lowest selling price.
Are there any return fees?
Returns by mail are free within the U.S. when you use the prepaid label from Aerie’s returns portal. Returns to a store are always free.
What if my item is defective?
If an item arrives with a manufacturing flaw (like a broken seam or a stain), contact Aerie Customer Service immediately. They will usually provide a prepaid label and offer a replacement or refund, even outside the standard return window for such cases.
The Aerie Real Rewards Program
Being a member of the free Aerie Real Rewards program can simplify returns if you lose your receipt. Your in-store purchases are linked to your account, making them easier to look up. Plus, you earn points on every purchase that lead to rewards, which is a nice bonus.
Contacting Customer Service
If you have a unique situation or your return is giving you trouble, Aerie’s customer service team is there to help. You can reach them through:
- The “Contact Us” form on their website.
- Direct messaging on their social media platforms.
- By phone, with the number listed on their website’s help section.
Having your order number ready will help them assist you much faster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is Aerie’s return policy?
Aerie gives you 60 days for a full refund to your original payment method. After that, you have up to 1 year from purchase to return items for store credit.
Can I return Aerie items to American Eagle?
Yes, you can. Since they are sister brands, you can return Aerie purchases to any American Eagle store, and vice versa. This makes returns very convenient if you have one of their stores nearby.
Does Aerie accept returns without a receipt?
They do, but the process is different. Without a receipt, you may receive merchandise credit for the item’s current or lowest selling price. Having a receipt or using your Real Rewards account is always the best option.
What is Aerie’s return policy on swimwear?
Swimwear can be returned only if the hygienic liner is fully intact and the item is unworn and unwashed. Once that liner is removed, the swimsuit is not eligible for return due to health regulations.
How do I return an online Aerie order?
You can start a return through the Returns page on their website using your order number. You’ll get a prepaid label to mail it back, or you can take the item and packing slip to an Aerie or American Eagle store for faster processing.
How long do Aerie refunds take?
Once your return is received at their warehouse, it takes about 5-10 business days for the refund to post to your original payment method. In-store returns often process the refund immediately, though it still may take a few days to show on your bank statement.
Can you exchange Aerie items?
Absolutely. Exchanges are easily done in-store if they have the new size or color you want. For online exchanges, it’s often recommended to return and re-order to ensure you get the item you want quickly.
Knowing the details of the return policy Aerie has in place makes shopping so much easier. You can try new styles with the knowledge that if something isn’t perfect, you have options. Always remember to check the tags and act within the timeframes, and you’ll have a positive experience. Keep your receipts, and don’t hesitate to ask in-store associates for help—they’re there to make sure you leave happy.