If you’ve ever bought something from Hollister and realized it’s not quite right, you need to know the Hollister return policy. This guide will walk you through everything, from time limits to condition requirements, so you can shop with confidence.
Returns are a normal part of shopping, and Hollister aims to make the process straightforward. Whether you bought an item online or in a store, there’s a clear path to getting your money back or making an exchange. Let’s break down all the details you need to know.
Hollister Return Policy
The core of the Hollister return policy is simple. You have 60 days from the date of purchase to return most items for a refund or exchange. The items must be in their original, unworn, and unwashed condition, with all tags attached. This applies to purchases made both online and at Hollister retail stores.
It’s a good idea to keep your receipt or packing slip. Having your proof of purchase makes the return process much faster and ensures you get the correct refund amount.
What Items Are Eligible for Return?
Most items from Hollister and Gilly Hicks can be returned. This includes:
- Jeans, tops, and dresses
- Swimwear and loungewear
- Outerwear like jackets and hoodies
- Accessories such as bags and hats
- Footwear (must be in pristine condition)
What Items Are Final Sale?
Some items cannot be returned. Always check the product description online or ask in-store. Typically, final sale items include:
- Items marked “Final Sale” at checkout or on the tag.
- Gift cards (these are non-refundable).
- Personalized or altered merchandise.
- Items purchased during certain clearance events (this will be clearly stated).
Condition of Returns
This is crucial. For a return to be accepted, the item must look like it’s never been used. Here’s what Hollister looks for:
- Tags Attached: The original hang tags and price tags should still be on the item.
- Unworn & Unwashed: No signs of wear, perfume, deodorant, or washing.
- Original Packaging: For footwear, the original shoebox is part of the product. Returns without the box may be denied or subject to a fee.
- Hygiene Liners: For swimwear and intimate apparel, the hygiene liner must be intact and untouched.
Time Frame for Returns
You have a generous 60 days to decide if you want to keep your purchase. The count starts from the day your order shipped (for online orders) or the day you bought it in the store. After 60 days, returns are generally not accepted, so it’s best not to wait to long.
How to Return an Online Order
Returning something you bought on the Hollister website is easy. You have a few different options to choose from.
Option 1: Return by Mail (Free)
This is the most common method. Follow these steps:
- Log into your Hollister account and go to “My Orders.”
- Select the item(s) you wish to return and choose a reason.
- Print the prepaid return label that is generated. If you don’t have a printer, you can have the QR code sent to your phone for a drop-off.
- Pack the items securely in the original shipping box or any sturdy box. Attach the return label.
- Drop the package off at any USPS location or schedule a pickup.
Once the return is received and processed, your refund will be issued to your original payment method. This usually takes 7-10 business days after the warehouse scans your package.
Option 2: Return in Store
This is often the fastest way to get your refund. You can return online purchases to any Hollister or Gilly Hicks store in the same country.
- Bring the items you want to return with all tags attached.
- Bring your packing slip or the order confirmation email (digital or printed).
- A store associate will process the return at the register. You’ll get your refund on the spot if you paid with a card or cash. For other payment methods, like PayPal, the refund is typically processed electronically but may still initiate faster than a mail return.
Option 3: Using a Drop-Off Location (UPS or USPS)
Hollister sometimes partners with carriers for easy drop-offs without needing to package the item yourself. Check your return instructions online. You might be able to take your item and QR code to a participating UPS or USPS store, where they will pack and ship it for you for free.
How to Return an In-Store Purchase
If you bought something at a physical Hollister store, you have two main options.
Return to Any Store
Simply take the item and your original receipt back to any Hollister or Gilly Hicks store. The process is quick, and you can choose a refund or an exchange immediately. If you don’t have the receipt, they may be able to look up the purchase with the card you used or offer store credit at the current selling price.
Return by Mail
Yes, you can also mail back an in-store purchase. You’ll need to contact Hollister customer service to get a return authorization and a prepaid label. The process is similar to an online return, but it’s less common since returning in person is quicker.
Refund Methods and Timing
Understanding how and when you’ll get your money back is key.
Refund to Original Payment Method
This is the standard. If you paid with a credit or debit card, the refund goes back to that card. For PayPal orders, it goes back to your PayPal account. Processing times vary:
- Credit/Debit Cards: 7-10 business days after the return is processed.
- PayPal: 3-5 business days after processing.
- Gift Card: Refunds are issued back to a Hollister gift card, usually within 24 hours of processing.
Store Credit or Gift Card
If you don’t have a receipt, or if you’re returning a gift, you’ll likely receive the refund as store credit on an e-gift card. The amount will be based on the item’s current selling price at the time of the return.
Exchanges
For a different size or color, an exchange is simple. In-store, you can do it directly. Online, the easiest method is to process a return for the unwanted item and then place a new order for the correct item. This ensures you get the right size before it sells out.
Returning a Gift
Hollister makes gift returns relatively painless. You’ll need the gift receipt. Without a gift receipt, the return is much more difficult and may only be eligible for store credit at the lowest recent price.
- Take the item and the gift receipt to a Hollister store for instant store credit.
- To return a gift by mail, you’ll need to use the order number from the gift receipt to initiate a return online. The refund will be issued as a Hollister gift card.
International Returns
If you’re outside the United States, the return policy may differ. Generally, you can still return items within 60 days, but you might be responsible for the cost of return shipping. Always check the specific country’s website where you made the purchase for the most accurate instructions. Duties and taxes are often non-refundable.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
- Keep the Tags On: Avoid removing tags until you’re sure you’re keeping the item.
- Save Your Packaging: Keep the shoebox and any original bags for at least the return window.
- Act Within 60 Days: Mark your calendar so you don’t forget the deadline.
- Inspect Items Quickly: Try on clothes as soon as they arrive to ensure fit and quality.
- Use a Tracked Service: When mailing a return, always use the provided label or a service with tracking. This protects you if the package gets lost.
Common Issues and How to Solve Them
Lost Receipt or Packing Slip
Don’t panic. If you made the purchase in-store with a card, the associate can often look it up. For online orders, log into your account—the order history is there. If you checked out as a guest, use the order number and email from your confirmation. Without any proof, store credit at the current price is your best option.
Item Arrived Damaged or Defective
Contact Hollister customer service immediately. They will usually provide a prepaid return label and send out a replacement item as soon as the return is initiated, so you don’t have to wait. Take photos of the damage as proof, just in case.
Past the 60-Day Window
The policy is strict, but it never hurts to contact customer service or speak with a store manager. In rare cases, they might make an exception, especially if the item is clearly unused and you have the receipt. However, you should not count on this.
Return Shipping Costs
Returns within the U.S. are typically free when you use the prepaid label. For international returns or if you lose your label, you may have to pay. Always use the official return portal to get the correct label.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the Hollister return policy give you?
You have 60 days from the purchase date to return items.
Can I return Hollister items without a receipt?
Yes, but you will likely receive store credit for the item’s current selling price, not the price you paid. A receipt or packing slip guarantees your original payment refund.
Does Hollister have free returns?
Yes, returns by mail in the U.S. are free when you use their prepaid return label. Returns to a store are always free.
Can I return swimwear to Hollister?
Yes, but the hygiene liner must be completely intact and untouched. If it’s removed or damaged, the return will be denied.
What is Hollister’s exchange policy?
Exchanges are easy in-store. For online orders, it’s fastest to return the unwanted item and place a new order for the correct size or color.
How do I return something to Hollister I got as a gift?
With the gift receipt, you can return it to a store for store credit or process it online for a gift card refund. Without the gift receipt, store credit at the current price is the only option.
How long do Hollister refunds take?
Once the return is processed at their warehouse, refunds to a card take 7-10 business days. Refunds to PayPal or as a gift card are usually faster.
Knowing the ins and outs of the Hollister return policy makes shopping there risk-free. By following the guidelines on condition, timing, and process, you can ensure that every return or exchange goes smoothly. Always double-check your items when they arrive and keep your proof of purchase handy, and you’ll have no problems.