Dsw.com Return Policy

If you’ve ever bought a pair of shoes that just didn’t fit right when you got home, you know how important a good return policy is. That’s why understanding the dsw.com return policy is the first step to shopping with confidence. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from time limits to condition requirements, so you can handle any return or exchange smoothly.

The core of the DSW return policy is straightforward. You can return most items within 60 days of purchase for a refund to your original payment method. For the most part, the items need to be in their original, unworn condition with all tags and packaging. It’s a generous window that gives you plenty of time to decide if your purchase is right for you.

This policy applies to purchases made both online at dsw.com and in their physical DSW store locations. Having that flexibility is a huge plus for customers who shop across both channels. Remember, the 60-day clock starts on the day your order ships or the day you buy in store.

What Items Are Eligible for Return?

Most items you buy from DSW qualify for a return. This includes:

All shoes (athletic, dress, casual, boots, sandals)
Handbags and wallets
Backpacks and luggage
Socks and shoe care items (unopened)
Accessories like jewelry and sunglasses

There are a few exceptions, however. Always double-check your specific item at the time of purchase.

What Items Are Final Sale (Non-Returnable)?

To avoid surprises, know that some items cannot be returned. These final sale purchases are clearly marked on the product page online or on your receipt. They typically include:

Clearance items with a price ending in $.97 or $.99
Special event or collaboration items marked as final sale
Opened or used shoe care products (like insoles or cleaners)
Gift cards (these are non-returnable by law)
Items damaged due to misuse or wear after purchase

Condition Requirements for Returns

For a return to be accepted, the item must be in its original, resalable condition. This means:

The shoes or items have not been worn outside.
All original tags are attached and packaging is included.
There is no damage, dirt, or scuffs on the item.
For hygiene reasons, socks must be unopened and in their original packaging.

A good rule of thumb is to try shoes on indoors on a clean surface. If you take them for a test walk on pavement or in the rain, they will likely be considered worn and your return may be denied.

Return Timeframe: The 60-Day Window

You have 60 days from the ship date (for online orders) or purchase date (for in-store) to initiate a return. This is a full two months, which is more generous than many other retailers. It’s important to note that this is a return window, not a exchange window. Exchanges follow the same timeline.

What happens if you miss the 60-day deadline? DSW may, at their discretion, offer you merchandise credit instead of a refund. But this is not guaranteed, so it’s best to act within the 60 days to get your full money back.

How to Return an Online Purchase from DSW.com

Returning something you bought online is simple. You have two main options: mailing it back or taking it to a store. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown for each method.

Option 1: Return by Mail (Prepaid Label)

This is the most common method if you don’t live near a DSW store. Follow these steps:

Go to the DSW Returns Center on their website. You’ll need your order number and the email address used for the purchase.
Select the items you want to return from your order. You’ll be asked to provide a reason for the return, which helps DSW improve.
Print the prepaid return shipping label that is generated. DSW provides this label for free within the 60-day period.
Securely package the item in its original box, if possible. Place the return label on the outside, covering any old labels.
Drop the package off at a USPS location or schedule a pickup. You’ll get a tracking number to monitor the return.

Once DSW receives and inspects the return, your refund will be processed. This usually takes 7-10 business days after they get the package, plus additional time for your bank to post it.

Option 2: Return In-Store

This is often the fastest way to get your refund. You can return any dsw.com purchase to a physical DSW store, even if it was an online order.

Bring the item you want to return in its original condition, with all tags and packaging.
Bring your packing slip or the original order confirmation email. If you don’t have it, the store can often look up the purchase using the credit card you used or your DSW Rewards account.
A store associate will process the return at the register. You’ll get your refund on the spot to your original payment method if you have the card with you. If not, they may issue store credit.

The in-store return is instant, so you don’t have to wait for shipping or processing. It’s a great option if you need the funds back quickly or want to exchange for something else immediately.

How to Return an In-Store Purchase

If you bought something at a physical DSW location, the process is just as easy. You have two choices for these returns as well.

Option 1: Return to Any DSW Store

This is the simplest method. Just take the item and your original receipt to any DSW store. The associate will handle the return in minutes. Without a receipt, they can try to look up the purchase with your DSW Rewards account or the card used to buy it. If they can’t find it, you may only be eligible for the current selling price as store credit.

Option 2: Return an In-Store Purchase by Mail

Yes, you can mail back something you bought in a store. The process is slightly different than an online return:

You must start the return online at the DSW Returns Center. You will need the store receipt number.
Follow the prompts to generate a prepaid return label. Note that for in-store purchases, a $7.95 return shipping fee may be deducted from your refund total.
Package and ship the item back as described in the mail return section above.

Because of the potential fee, it’s almost always better to return an in-store purchase to another store if you can.

Understanding Refunds and Credit

Knowing how and when you’ll get your money back is key. The method depends on how you paid and how you returned the item.

Refund Methods and Timing

Credit/Debit Card: Refunds go back to the original card. Processing takes 7-10 business days after DSW receives the return, plus 3-5 business days for your bank to show it.
PayPal: The refund goes to your PayPal account. Timing is similar to card refunds once DSW processes it.
DSW Gift Card or Merchandise Credit: The refund is reissued as a new eGift Card or credit, usually within 24 hours of processing.
Store Credit: If you return without a receipt or after 60 days, you may get store credit for the item’s current price. This is issued instantly in-store or via email if processed online.

Return Shipping Fees and Deductions

DSW provides free return shipping for online orders within the 60-day window. However, there are a few cases where you might see a fee:

Returns for in-store purchases mailed back may incur a $7.95 shipping deduction.
International returns (from Canada) may have shipping costs that are the customer’s responsibility.
If you return only part of an order that qualified for free shipping, DSW may deduct the original shipping cost from your refund.

Exchanging Items at DSW

Sometimes you just need a different size or color. DSW’s exchange policy is flexible.

How to Do an Exchange

The easiest way to do an exchange is to visit a DSW store. You can return the original item and immediately purchase the new one. 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 or color before it sells out.

If you want to exchange by mail, you can contact DSW customer service. They can guide you, but it usually involves returning the original item and then placing a separate order. Exchanges are subject to the same 60-day and condition rules as returns.

DSW Rewards Members Get Extra Perks

If you’re a free DSW Rewards member, you get a significant benefit: an extended return window. Rewards members have 90 days to return items instead of the standard 60. This extra month is a huge advantage for gifts or items you’re unsure about.

Additionally, having an account makes returns smoother because all your purchase history is stored. Even without a receipt, a store associate can easily find your in-store or online purchases linked to your account, speeding up the process.

Special Situations and Exceptions

Returning Gifted Items

If you received a gift from dsw.com, you can return it. You’ll need the gift receipt. With a gift receipt, you’ll receive merchandise credit for the item’s paid price. Without any receipt, you may get store credit for the item’s lowest recent selling price.

Damaged or Defective Items

If your item arrives damaged or has a manufacturing defect, contact DSW Customer Service immediately at 1-866-379-7463. They will arrange a free return and replacement or refund for the defective product. This is handled outside the standard return process and you shouldn’t be penalized for it.

International Returns (Canada)

Canadian customers shop at dsw.ca, which has a similar but separate policy. Generally, returns from Canada may have different timeframes and the customer is often responsible for return shipping costs. Always check the dsw.ca website for the most accurate Canadian policy details.

Tips for a Smooth DSW Return Experience

Keep the original box and tags until you’re sure you’re keeping the item.
Take a photo of your receipt or save the confirmation email in a special folder.
Sign up for the free DSW Rewards program to get the 90-day return window.
For online returns, drop off the USPS package and get a receipt with the tracking number.
If you’re close to the 60-day limit, opt for an in-store return to ensure it’s processed on time.
Always inspect items as soon as they arrive to check for any defects right away.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long do I have to return something to DSW?

You have 60 days from the purchase or ship date. DSW Rewards members get an extended 90-day return window.

Does DSW have a return policy for worn shoes?

No, shoes must be in unworn, original condition to be eligible for a refund. Light indoor try-ons are acceptable, but any signs of outdoor wear will void the return.

Can I return DSW items without a receipt?

Yes, but it’s harder. With a valid DSW Rewards account or the original payment card, they can look it up. Otherwise, you may only recieve store credit for the item’s current lowest price.

What is DSW’s return policy for online orders?

The dsw.com return policy for online orders allows free returns by mail or in-store within 60 days. You use a prepaid label from their Returns Center.

Are DSW returns free?

Returns for online orders are free within 60 days. Returns for in-store purchases mailed back may have a $7.95 fee deducted. Always check the specific terms for your purchase.

Can I return clearance items to DSW?

Typically, clearance items marked with a price ending in .97 or .99 are final sale and cannot be returned. This should be clearly marked on the product page and your receipt.

How long does a DSW refund take?

After they receive your return, it takes 7-10 business days to process, plus additional time for your bank or PayPal to post the funds. In-store returns are refunded instantly at the register.

Does DSW accept returns after 60 days?

It’s not guaranteed. After 60 days, you might be offered merchandise credit instead of a refund to your original payment method, depending on the store manager’s discretion.

Knowing the details of the dsw.com return policy makes shopping there risk-free. With a generous time window, multiple return options, and clear condition guidelines, you can buy your next favorite pair of shoes with total peace of mind. Just remember to keep your receipt, try items on carefully indoors, and act within the timeframe that applies to you. Happy shopping!