If you’re thinking about buying something from Everlane, understanding their return policy is a smart first step. The Return Policy Everlane has in place is designed to be straightforward, but like any policy, the details matter. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from time limits and conditions to how to actually send something back. We’ll make sure you feel confident about your purchase, knowing exactly what to expect if an item doesn’t work out.
Return Policy Everlane
Everlane’s core return policy allows you to return most full-price items within 30 days of delivery for a refund to your original payment method. They also accept returns on sale items, which is a nice perk. All items must be in new, unworn condition with the original tags attached. It’s a pretty standard policy for a modern clothing retailer, focusing on simplicity and customer satisfaction.
What Items Are Eligible for Return?
Most things you buy from Everlane can be returned. This includes:
- Clothing (tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear)
- Shoes and accessories
- Sale and clearance items (with the same condition requirements)
What Items Are Final Sale and Cannot Be Returned?
There are a few key exceptions to watch for. These items are considered final sale and cannot be returned for a refund:
- Gift cards (though they are transferable)
- Items marked “Final Sale” at the time of purchase
- Underwear and socks for obvious hygiene reasons
- Swimwear if the hygiene liner has been removed or tampered with
- Personalized or monogrammed items
- Any item that shows signs of wear, damage, or has been altered
The 30-Day Return Window
The clock starts ticking from the day your order is delivered. You have 30 calendar days to initiate the return. It’s a good idea to start the process as soon as you know something isn’t right. Don’t let the box sit in your closet—those days go by faster than you think!
To initiate a return, you need to start the process online through your Everlane account. You can’t just ship a box back without notifying them first. This helps them track your return and connect it to your order.
Condition Requirements: “New and Unworn”
This is the most important part of the policy. “New and unworn” means:
- All original tags are attached and intact.
- The item has not been worn, washed, or altered in any way.
- It is free of stains, odors, makeup, or deodorant marks.
- It is returned in its original packaging if possible, especially for shoes.
Everlane’s team inspects every return. If an item shows any sign of wear or is missing tags, they may deny the refund and send the item back to you. So, if you try something on, be careful to keep it in pristine condition.
What About Shoes?
Shoes have specific requirements. They should only be tried on indoors on a clean, carpeted surface. The soles must be completely clean and unscuffed. Returning them in the original shoe box is highly recommended, as damage to the box can sometimes affect the return.
The Importance of Original Tags
Those little plastic tag fasteners are crucial. If you remove them, the item is almost certainly not returnable. If you’re unsure about keeping something, it’s safest to leave all tags attached until you make your final decision.
How to Start a Return: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to ensure your return is processed smoothly and quickly.
- Log into Your Account: Go to Everlane’s website and log into the account you used to make the purchase. If you checked out as a guest, you’ll need your order number and email address.
- Find Your Order: Navigate to “My Orders” or “Order History” in your account profile.
- Select the Item(s): Choose the specific item or items you wish to return from that order.
- Choose a Reason: Select your reason for the return from the dropdown menu (e.g., fit, style, etc.). This feedback is helpful for them.
- Select Refund Method: Choose to receive your refund back to the original payment method. For returns to an Everlane credit, the process may differ.
- Print Your Label: Everlane will provide a prepaid return shipping label. You must print this label. As of now, they do not offer QR code drop-off options at carriers.
- Pack Your Item: Securely pack the item with all tags attached in a shipping box. Attach the prepaid label clearly on the outside.
- Ship It: Drop off the package at the designated carrier (usually UPS or USPS). Get a drop-off receipt for your records, especially for higher-value items.
Understanding Return Shipping Costs
Everlane provides a prepaid return label for U.S. returns, but the cost is deducted from your refund. Typically, a flat fee (often around $5.95) is subtracted. This is clearly stated during the return process before you finalize it.
For international returns, the process and costs are different. Customers outside the U.S. are usually responsible for covering the cost of return shipping themselves. You should contact Everlane customer service for specific instructions before sending an international return.
How and When Will You Get Your Refund?
Here’s the refund timeline once Everlane receives your return:
- Receipt & Inspection: Once the package arrives at their warehouse, it can take 3-5 business days for them to process and inspect the item.
- Refund Initiation: After approval, they initiate the refund to your original payment method.
- Bank Processing: The time it takes for the refund to appear in your account depends on your bank or card issuer. This can take 5-10 additional business days.
You will recieve an email confirmation once your return is approved and again when the refund is issued. Always watch for these emails.
What About Exchanges?
Everlane does not offer direct exchanges. The process is to return the original item for a refund and then place a new order for the different size or color you want. This ensures you get the correct item quickly and secures the refund for the first one. While it might seem like an extra step, it’s often faster than a traditional exchange system.
If you need the new item quickly, it’s best to place the new order as soon as you ship the return, assuming you’re confident the return will be accepted. Just be mindful of your budget and cash flow.
Everlane’s Return Policy for Sale Items
Fortunately, Everlane’s policy does not discriminate against sale items. Items purchased on sale can be returned under the exact same conditions as full-price items: within 30 days, with tags, and in new condition. This is a customer-friendly approach that not all retailers offer.
The only sale items that cannot be returned are those explicitly marked “Final Sale” during the checkout process. Always double-check your cart before purchasing to see if any items have this designation.
International Return Policy Considerations
If you’re shopping from outside the United States, the return process involves a few more steps. International customers are responsible for the cost of return shipping and any applicable customs duties or taxes incurred on the returned goods. These fees are not reimbursed by Everlane.
It’s crucial to mark the package as a “Returned Good” on the customs form to try and avoid being charged import taxes again. Contact their customer service before sending anything back for the most up-to-date instructions and a possible return authorization.
What to Do If Your Return is Denied
If Everlane denies your return because the item doesn’t meet their condition standards, they will typically ship it back to you at your address on file. You will not receive a refund.
If you believe the denial was a mistake, your best course of action is to contact Everlane Customer Service directly. Be polite and provide photos if you have them. They may offer a one-time exception or a partial store credit, but this is not guaranteed.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Everlane Return Experience
- Act Quickly: Don’t let the 30-day window slip away.
- Preserve the Condition: Try items on carefully over a soft surface, avoid wearing deodorant or makeup when trying on light-colored tops, and keep all tags attached.
- Use the Original Packaging: Especially for shoes and knitwear, this helps protect the item in transit.
- Keep Your Receipt: Get a drop-off receipt from the carrier as proof you shipped the return.
- Read the Fine Print at Checkout: Always note if an item is marked “Final Sale.”
Everlane’s Quality Promise and Damaged Items
Everlane stands behind the quality of their products. If you receive an item that is damaged, defective, or incorrect (they sent the wrong thing), you should contact customer service immediately. Do not initiate a standard return.
In these cases, they will usually cover all shipping costs and send you a replacement or issue a full refund without requiring you to send the damaged item back. They might ask for photos as proof. This is part of their commitment to quality, separate from the standard return policy.
FAQs About Everlane’s Return Policy
Can I return Everlane items to a physical store?
Everlane has a limited number of physical retail stores. Returns to these stores are generally accepted, but it’s best to call your local store ahead of time to confirm their specific policy and hours. The 30-day and condition rules still apply.
Does Everlane offer store credit instead of a refund?
The standard return process issues a refund to your original payment method. They do not typically offer store credit as the primary option for standard returns. However, in some specific situations, like a very late return or an item with minor issues, they might offer credit as a courtesy.
What is Everlane’s return policy on underwear?
For hygiene reasons, all underwear and socks are considered final sale and cannot be returned. Make sure you are confident in the size and style before purchasing these items.
How do I return a gift from Everlane?
If you received an Everlane gift, you can return it using the gift order number found on the packing slip. The refund will be issued as Everlane store credit to the gift recipient (you), not to the original purchaser. The standard 30-day and condition rules apply.
What if I lost my return label?
You can log back into your Everlane account and re-print the return label from your order history. If you’re having trouble, customer service can help resend the label to your email.
Can I return an item after 30 days?
The 30-day policy is firm for standard returns. After 30 days, items are not eligible for a refund. However, it never hurts to contact customer service if you have a special circumstance, though approval is very unlikely.
Final Thoughts on Navigating Returns
Everlane’s return policy is clear and fairly standard, putting the onus on the customer to return items promptly and in perfect condition. The key to a successful return is attention to detail: mind the calendar, preserve the tags, and follow the online steps carefully. By understanding these guidelines before you buy, you can shop with greater confidence and enjoy Everlane’s quality basics without worry. Knowing the rules means you can focus on finding pieces you’ll truly love and keep for a long time.