Dsw Returns Policy

If you’ve ever bought shoes online, you know the worry. Will they fit? Will they be comfortable? Understanding the DSW returns policy is key to shopping with confidence. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about returning items to DSW, Designer Shoe Warehouse. We’ll cover timeframes, conditions, and the different methods available to make your return process smooth and simple.

The DSW returns policy is designed to be flexible for customers. You can return most items within 60 days of purchase for a full refund to your original payment method. This generous window gives you plenty of time to try on your shoes at home and ensure they’re perfect for you.

Items must be in new and unused condition, with all original tags and packaging. DSW also accepts returns on worn items within the 60-day period, but these are subject to inspection and may be denied or result in a partial refund. It’s always best to try shoes on a clean, indoor surface first.

What Items Can You Return to DSW?

Most products purchased from DSW, either online or in-store, are eligible for return. Here’s a quick list:

New, unworn shoes (men’s, women’s, and kids’)
New, unworn accessories like handbags and backpacks
Unused shoe care products
Unopened hosiery and socks
Gift items (with or without a receipt, under specific conditions)

What Items Are Final Sale?

Some items cannot be returned. It’s important to check your receipt or the product page online before buying. Final sale items typically include:

Clearance merchandise marked “Final Sale” at the time of purchase.
Personalized or monogrammed items.
Opened or used shoe care products (like insoles or cleaners).
Worn hosiery or socks.
Items purchased with a DSW gift card or merchandise credit are eligible for return, but the refund will be issued as merchandise credit.

Understanding Your Return Timeframe

The standard return window is 60 days from the purchase date. This applies to both online and in-store purchases. DSW tracks this from the date your order was shipped, not the day you received it.

For DSW VIP members, there’s a great benefit. Elite members get 90 days to return items, and Premier members enjoy a full 365-day return period. It’s one of the best perks of the loyalty program. Always check your membership level for your specific deadline.

What If You Miss the Return Window?

If it’s past the 60-day mark (or your member window), DSW may still offer you an option. They often provide a merchandise credit for the item’s current selling price. This credit is usually emailed to you and can be used on a future purchase. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s worth asking customer service about.

Step-by-Step: How to Return an Online Order

Returning shoes you bought online is straightforward. You have two main choices: returning by mail or returning in-store. Here are the detailed steps for each.

Option 1: Return by Mail (Using a Prepaid Label)

This is the most common method for online returns.

Initiate your return online. Go to the DSW Returns page and enter your order number and email address.
Select the items you want to return and state your reason.
Print the prepaid return shipping label that DSW provides. You will need access to a printer.
Pack the items securely in their original box, if possible. Include all tags and packaging.
Attach the label to the outside of the box and drop it off at a USPS location or give it to your postal carrier.

Refunds are processed once the return is received and inspected at the DSW warehouse. This can take 10-14 business days after drop-off.

Option 2: Return In-Store

This is often the fastest way to get your refund. You can return online purchases to any DSW store location.

Bring the item(s) you wish to return in their original condition.
Bring your packing slip or the original order confirmation email (digital or printed).
Go to the customer service counter. A store associate will process your return.
You will receive your refund on the spot to your original payment method if you have the card with you. If you don’t have the card, you’ll likely get merchandise credit.

Remember, returning in-store bypasses shipping delays and gets your money back immediately.

Step-by-Step: How to Return an In-Store Purchase

If you bought something at a physical DSW store, you should return it to a store as well. The process is simple.

Bring the item(s) in new, unused condition with all original tags attached.
Bring your original receipt. This is very important for a speedy refund to your card.
Visit any DSW store and head to the customer service counter.
The associate will handle the transaction. With a receipt, your refund goes back to the original payment method. Without a receipt, you’ll receive merchandise credit for the lowest selling price within the last 30 days.

How DSW Handles Refunds

Knowing how and when you’ll get your money back is crucial. DSW issues refunds to the original form of payment. Here’s the typical timeline:

In-Store Returns: Refunds to a credit/debit card are usually instant but may take 3-10 business days to appear on your statement, depending on your bank.
Mail-In Returns: The process begins once DSW receives and inspects your return. Allow 10-14 business days for the refund to post to your account after they get the package.

Shipping charges are non-refundable unless the return is due to a DSW error (like sending the wrong item). If you used a promo code, the refund amount will reflect the discounted price you actually paid.

Merchandise Credit and Gift Cards

If you return an item without a receipt, or if you used a gift card for the purchase, your refund will be issued as DSW merchandise credit. This credit is electronic and will be emailed to you. It never expires, which is a nice feature, and can be used online or in-store.

Exchanging Items at DSW

DSW encourages exchanges. The easiest way to do an exchange is to process a return and then make a new purchase for the item you want. This is because inventory varies between online and stores.

For a quick size or color exchange in-store, simply bring the item you wish to exchange with your receipt. If they have the new item in stock, they can often process it as a single transaction. For online orders, it’s usually faster to return by mail or in-store and then place a new order for the correct item.

Returning Gift Purchases

Returning a gift to DSW is simple, even if you don’t have the receipt. The key item you need is the gift receipt. If you have a gift receipt, you can return the item within 60 days for merchandise credit.

If you don’t have any receipt, DSW may still accept the return. They will look up the item and issue a merchandise credit for its lowest selling price in the last 30 days. This policy makes gift-giving at DSW low-risk for both the giver and receiver.

Common Return Issues and How to Solve Them

Sometimes, returns don’t go perfectly. Here are solutions to frequent problems.

Lost Return Label

If you lost your prepaid return label, don’t worry. You can go back to the DSW Returns page and re-enter your order information. The system will allow you to reprint the label. If that doesn’t work, contact DSW Customer Care for assistance.

Return Denied Due to Condition

If DSW receives a worn or damaged item, they may deny the refund or issue a partial refund. They will typically email you explaining the reason. If you believe this is a mistake, you can reply to that email or call customer service with your order details to discuss the situation.

Long Refund Delay

If it’s been over 14 business days since DSW received your mail return and you see no refund, first check your bank statement carefully. Then, contact DSW Customer Care with your return tracking number. They can investigate the status of your refund and often can resubmit it if there was a processing error.

Tips for a Smooth DSW Return Experience

Always keep your original receipt or packing slip until you are sure you’re keeping the item.
Try shoes on carpet or a clean, soft surface to avoid scuffs if you need to return them.
Use the original shoebox for returns by mail—it’s the right size and protects the shoes.
Take a photo of your return package with the label attached before you drop it off for your records.
For fast refunds, choose the in-store return option whenever possible.
Sign up for the DSW VIP program to enjoy extended return windows and other benefits.

DSW’s Policy on Defective or Incorrect Items

If you receive a defective product (like shoes with a broken strap or separated sole) or the completely wrong item, DSW will cover the return shipping. Contact customer service immediately in these cases. Do not use the standard return portal. They will often send you a replacement item right away and provide a special label to send the incorrect one back at no cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long do I have to return shoes to DSW?

You have 60 days from the purchase date for a full refund. DSW VIP Elite members get 90 days, and Premier members get a full year.

Can I return worn shoes to DSW?

Yes, but with conditions. DSW accepts returns on gently worn items within 60 days, but they are subject to inspection. If the shoes show excessive wear or damage, your return may be denied or you may recieve a partial refund.

Does DSW offer free return shipping?

For standard returns, DSW provides a prepaid USPS return label, but they deduct a $8.50 shipping fee from your refund amount. Returns due to DSW error or defect are free.

Can I return DSW items to a store?

Absolutely. You can return both online and in-store purchases to any physical DSW store location. This is usually the fastest method for getting your refund.

What is DSW’s return policy without a receipt?

Without a receipt, you can get merchandise credit for the item’s current selling price. You will need a valid government-issued ID, and DSW may limit no-receipt returns per person.

How do I return a gift to DSW?

With a gift receipt, you can return the item for merchandise credit. Without any receipt, you can still return it for merchandise credit based on the item’s lowest recent price.

How long does a DSW refund take?

In-store refunds appear on your card in 3-10 business days. For mail returns, allow 10-14 business days after DSW receives the package for the refund to post to your account.

Understanding the DSW returns policy takes the stress out of shoe shopping. With a 60-day window, multiple return methods, and clear guidelines, you can shop for your perfect pair knowing you have options if they don’t work out. Always remember to check your items quickly, keep your receipts, and choose the return method that best fits your needs. This knowledge helps you make the most of your DSW experience.