Understanding the WHBM return policy is key to a stress-free shopping experience. Whether you bought something that didn’t fit or you simply changed your mind, knowing the rules helps you get your money back smoothly. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about returning items to White House Black Market.
We’ll cover the time limits, condition requirements, and different methods for sending things back. You’ll also learn about exchanges, refund timelines, and what to do with final sale items. Let’s get started with the most important details.
WHBM Return Policy
The standard WHBM return policy gives you 30 days to return most items for a refund or exchange. Your purchase must be in new, unworn condition with all original tags and packaging attached. It’s a good idea to keep your receipt or packing slip, as you’ll need proof of purchase.
Key Timeframes and Conditions
You have 30 days from the date your order shipped to initiate a return. This is a strict deadline, so don’t wait too long. The item must be in its original state—not worn, washed, or altered in any way.
- Tags Attached: All garment tags and labels must be still on the item.
- Original Packaging: If the item came in a special box or bag, include it.
- Proof of Purchase: Always include your receipt, packing slip, or order confirmation email.
What Can Be Returned?
Most full-price and sale items from WHBM are returnable within the 30-day window. This includes clothing, shoes, and accessories. However, there are important exceptions you should be aware of.
- Dresses, tops, pants, skirts, and blazers
- Shoes (must be in original shoe box)
- Jewelry and handbags
- Swimwear with the hygienic liner intact
What Cannot Be Returned?
Certain items are final sale and cannot be returned for a refund or exchange. Always check the product description before buying these categories.
- Items marked “Final Sale” at the time of purchase.
- Gifted items without a valid proof of purchase.
- Items that have been worn, washed, or damaged after arrival.
- Personalized or monogrammed merchandise.
- Face masks for health and safety reasons.
Return Methods: In-Store vs. By Mail
You have two main options for returning your WHBM purchases: taking them to a store or shipping them back. The faster option is usually the in-store return, as your refund is processed immediately.
In-Store Returns
Bring the item, all tags, and your proof of purchase to any WHBM retail store. A store associate will help you. You’ll get your refund on the spot, typically to your original payment method. This is the best way to avoid return shipping fees.
Mail Returns
To return by mail, you need to start the process online. Go to the WHBM website and find the returns section. You’ll enter your order number and email to generate a prepaid return label. Pack the item securely, attach the label, and drop it at a carrier location.
Step-by-Step Guide for Mail Returns
Follow these steps carefully to ensure your mail return is accepted without any delays.
- Visit the WHBM website and navigate to “Returns & Exchanges.”
- Enter your order number and the email address used for the purchase.
- Select the items you wish to return from your order list.
- Choose your reason for the return from the dropdown menu.
- Print the prepaid return shipping label that is generated.
- Securely package the item with all tags and the original packing slip.
- Attach the return label to the outside of the package.
- Drop the package at a USPS location or schedule a pickup.
Understanding Refunds and Credit
Once WHBM receives your return, it takes about 10-14 business days for them to process it. Your refund will then be issued to your original payment method. The time it takes for the credit to appear on your account depends on your bank or card issuer.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Refunds appear within 3-10 business days after WHBM processes.
- PayPal: Refunds are usually credited to your PayPal balance within 24 hours of processing.
- WHBM Gift Cards: Refunds to a gift card are almost instant once processed.
- Store Credit: If you don’t have a receipt, you may be offered store credit at the current selling price.
The WHBM Exchange Policy
If you need a different size or color, an exchange is often the simplest solution. You can process an exchange in a store or by mail. For mail exchanges, you might need to return the original item and place a new order, so check the website for the current procedure.
In-store exchanges are straightforward. Just bring the item you wish to exchange to any store, and an associate will help you find the correct size or style. The price difference will be charged or refunded accordingly.
Special Cases and Exceptions
Some situations require a bit more attention. Here’s how to handle common special cases.
Returns Without a Receipt
If you’ve lost your receipt, you can still often make a return. The store may look up your purchase using the credit card you used or your phone number if you’re a WHBM Insider. Without any proof, you may be offered store credit for the item’s current lowest selling price, which could be less than you paid.
Returning Gifted Items
To return a gift, you’ll need a gift receipt. The refund will be issued as a WHBM gift card. Without a gift receipt, the store may offer store credit at the item’s current price. It’s polite to let the gift-giver know if your planning to return their present.
International Returns
If you shipped your order to an address outside the United States, you cannot return it by mail to the U.S. warehouse. You must contact WHBM customer service to arrange an international return, which may involve additional shipping costs and duties that are non-refundable. The process takes longer too.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
A little preparation can make your return go perfectly. Follow these tips to avoid common pitfalls.
- Inspect Items Immediately: Try on clothes as soon as they arrive to ensure you have time to return.
- Save All Packaging: Keep the original box, tags, and packing slip until you’re sure you’re keeping the item.
- Track Your Return: When mailing a return, use the tracking number on your label to confirm delivery.
- Know the Sale Dates: Be extra mindful of return deadlines during big sales like Black Friday, as the 30-day clock starts on the ship date.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
These errors can lead to your return being denied or delayed. Try to steer clear of them.
- Removing tags before deciding to keep the item.
- Waiting until day 29 to start the online return process.
- Using a non-prepaid shipping label instead of the official WHBM one.
- Forgetting to include the packing slip inside the return box.
- Returning a final sale item expecting a refund.
WHBM Insider Benefits for Returns
Being a free WHBM Insider member can make returns easier. Your purchase history is stored under your profile, which can serve as proof of purchase if you lose your receipt. Insider’s also get extended return windows during certain promotional periods, so it’s worth signing up.
Contacting Customer Service
If you run into a problem with a return, WHBM customer service can help. Have your order number and details ready before you call or email. You can find the contact information on the bottom of the WHBM website. They’re usually able to resolve issues quickly if you have all your information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does WHBM take to refund?
After WHBM receives your return, processing takes 10-14 business days. The refund then takes 3-10 more business days to show on your card statement. So, the whole process can take up to three weeks from the day you mail it.
Can I return WHBM items to a White House Black Market outlet store?
No, you cannot return items purchased from a full-price WHBM retail store or online to a WHBM outlet store. Outlet purchases must be returned to an outlet location, and retail/online purchases must be returned to a retail store or by mail.
What is WHBM’s return policy on sale items?
The standard 30-day return policy applies to most sale items. The key exception is anything marked “Final Sale” at the time of your purchase. These items are not eligible for return or exchange, so read the product details carefully.
Does WHBM offer free returns?
WHBM provides a prepaid return label for mail returns, so you don’t pay out-of-pocket for shipping. However, the cost of return shipping is sometimes deducted from your refund amount, depending on the promotion or reason for return. Check the terms on your return label.
Can I return worn shoes to WHBM?
No. Shoes must be in new, unworn condition with the original shoe box to be eligible for return. The soles must be completely clean and free of any marks or scuffs. Trying them on on carpet is fine, but wearing them outside voids the return policy.
What if my WHBM return is lost in the mail?
It’s your responsibility to get the return package to WHBM. Always use the provided label with tracking and keep your drop-off receipt until you see the package is delivered. If the tracking shows it was delivered but WHBM hasn’t processed it, contact customer service with your tracking number as proof.
Final Thoughts on Navigating Returns
Knowing the ins and outs of the WHBM return policy gives you confidence to shop. The main things to remember are the 30-day window, the importance of keeping tags on, and using the correct return method. Always double-check your items when they arrive and start the return process early if something isn’t right.
By following the guidelines outlined here, you can handle any return or exchange without hassle. Keep your receipts, use the prepaid labels, and don’t hesitate to ask store associates for help—they’re there to ensure you have a positive experience with the brand.