If you’ve ever bought a pair of shoes that just didn’t fit right once you got home, you’ll want to know the answer to a common question: what is DSW return policy? Understanding the rules before you buy can save you time and ensure you’re happy with your purchase. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about returning items to DSW, both in-store and online, so you can shop with total confidence.
DSW, which stands for Designer Shoe Warehouse, is a popular destination for footwear, accessories, and more. Their policy is designed to be customer-friendly, but like any store, it has specific guidelines and timeframes. Whether you’re dealing with an online order, a gift, or a used item, we’ll cover all the details.
What Is DSW Return Policy
At its core, the DSW return policy is quite straightforward. 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 condition with all tags and packaging. This applies to purchases made both in DSW physical stores and on their website, DSW.com.
There are a few important nuances to remember. The 60-day window is for regular-price items. For clearance or “Last Act” items, the return period is shorter, typically 30 days. Also, the policy can differ for DSW Marketplace items, which are sold by third-party sellers through the DSW site. We’ll get into those specifics later.
The 60-Day Return Window Explained
The 60-day clock starts ticking on the day you receive your order or the day you buy in the store. DSW is generous compared to many retailers who only offer 30 days. This gives you ample time to try on your shoes at home, walk on different surfaces, and make sure they’re truly comfortable.
To process your return, you’ll need your original receipt or packing slip. If you don’t have it, don’t panic immediately. If you used a DSW Rewards account or a credit card for the purchase, store associates can often look up your transaction. However, having your receipt makes the process much faster and smoother.
Condition of Items: Unworn and Original Packaging
This is the most critical part of any return policy. DSW requires that all returned merchandise be in its original condition. This means:
* Shoes should not show any signs of wear. No scuffs on the soles, no dirt, and no creasing in the leather or fabric.
* All original tags and labels must be attached.
* Items should be returned in the original shoebox, which is considered part of the product. A damaged box might result in a restocking fee or a denied return.
* Accessories like handbags or jewelry should have all protective coverings and be unused.
Essentially, the item should look exactly as it did when you first opened the box or took it off the store shelf.
How to Return Items to DSW
DSW offers several convenient return methods. You can choose the one that works best for your situation.
Returning Items to a DSW Store
This is often the fastest way to get your refund, especially if you have your receipt.
1. Gather Your Items: Bring the shoes or merchandise, the original shoebox, all tags, and your receipt.
2. Visit Any DSW Store: You can return online purchases to a physical store, which is a major convenience.
3. Go to the Customer Service Desk: An associate will inspect the items and process your return.
4. Choose Your Refund Method: If you have the receipt, you’ll typically get a refund in the original form of payment. Without a receipt, you may receive store credit at the current selling price.
Returning Items by Mail
If you don’t live near a DSW, you can mail your return back.
1. Initiate the Return Online: Log into your DSW account on their website and go to “Order History.” Select the item(s) you wish to return and follow the prompts to generate a prepaid return label. You can also start a return by calling customer service.
2. Pack the Items Securely: Place the item in its original box, and then place that box inside a shipping box. Attach the provided return label to the outside.
3. Drop Off the Package: You can drop it off at any UPS location. DSW typically uses UPS for returns.
4. Track Your Return: Use the tracking number on your return label to monitor the package.
5. Wait for the Refund: Once the return is received and inspected at the warehouse (which can take 5-10 business days), your refund will be processed. It may then take additional time for the refund to appear on your bank or credit card statement.
Exchanges at DSW
If you need a different size or color, an exchange is simple.
* In-Store: Just bring the item you wish to exchange to a store. If they have the desired size/color in stock, they can process the swap right there. If not, you may need to return the original item and place a new order.
* Online: The easiest method is to process a return for the original item and then place a separate order for the new item. This ensures you get the correct product and can use any new promotions.
Special Cases and Exceptions
Not every purchase follows the standard rules. Here are some important exceptions to the DSW return policy.
DSW Marketplace Items
DSW Marketplace features products from third-party sellers. The return policy for these items is set by the individual seller, not DSW. Always check the product listing page for the specific seller’s return window and conditions before you buy. Returns for Marketplace items are usually handled through the DSW return portal, but the timeline and rules may differ.
Clearance and “Last Act” Items
These deeply discounted items have a shorter return period of 30 days from the purchase date. They must still be in unworn, original condition. This is clearly marked on receipts and product pages, so its good to double-check.
Final Sale Items
Some items are marked “Final Sale” or “Non-Returnable.” These cannot be returned for any reason unless they are defective. This is common for certain promotional items or extremely discounted products.
Defective or Damaged Items
If you receive an item that is damaged, defective, or incorrect (wrong shoe in the box), contact DSW immediately. They will cover the return shipping and provide a full refund or replacement. You have a longer window to report these issues, but it’s best to do so as soon as you open the package.
Return Without a Receipt
Yes, DSW will often accept returns without a physical receipt, but there are conditions.
* The return is subject to approval by store management.
* You must provide a valid government-issued photo ID.
* The refund will be issued as merchandise credit at the item’s current selling price, which could be lower than what you paid.
* DSW tracks returns without receipts, and excessive returns may be refused.
Returning Gifted Items
If you received a gift from DSW, you can return it. You’ll need the gift receipt that was hopefully included. With a gift receipt, you can return the item within 60 days for merchandise credit. Without any receipt, the above “return without receipt” rules apply.
Worn or Used Items
The policy is clear: items must be unworn. However, if you wore shoes once indoors on a clean surface and discovered a manufacturing defect (like a seam ripping), you should contact customer service. They may make an exception for a defective product, but they are not obligated to accept returns for shoes worn outside.
Refund Methods and Timing
How you get your money back depends on how you paid and how you returned the item.
* Original Form of Payment: This is the standard for returns with a receipt. If you paid by credit/debit card, the refund goes back to that card. PayPal purchases are refunded to your PayPal account. This is the fastest refund method.
* DSW Merchandise Credit: Issued for returns without a receipt, gift returns with a gift receipt, or sometimes for expired return periods as a courtesy. This credit is typically issued as an e-gift card.
* Cash: For in-store purchases paid with cash, you may receive a cash refund if you have the receipt. For online orders returned in-store that were paid with cash, you’ll likely get merchandise credit.
Refund Timing:
* In-Store Returns: Refunds to a card are usually processed within 24 hours, but it can take 3-10 business days for your bank to post it.
* Mail-In Returns: After DSW receives your return (5-10 business days for shipping and processing), they initiate the refund. It can then take 10-14 additional business days for the refund to appear on your account. Always allow for this full timeframe before contacting customer service.
DSW Return Policy Tips and Best Practices
Follow these tips to ensure your return experience is hassle-free.
1. Keep the Original Box: The shoebox is part of the product. Never throw it away until you’re sure you’re keeping the shoes.
2. Try On Shoes Indoors: On a clean, carpeted surface to avoid marking the soles.
3. Save All Receipts and Tags: Create a folder in your email for online order confirmations, or take a photo of physical receipts.
4. Act Within the Timeframe: Mark your calendar 50 days after purchase to decide on keeping an item.
5. Check Marketplace Seller Policies: Always read the fine print before buying from a third-party on DSW.com.
6. Use Your DSW Rewards Account: Every purchase linked to your account creates a digital record, which helps with returns if you lose your receipt.
7. Pack Mail Returns Well: Use a sturdy outer box to protect the shoebox from damage in transit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does DSW take to refund?
For mail-in returns, please allow 10-14 business days after DSW receives your package for the refund to post to your original payment method. In-store refunds are faster, but your bank may still take a few days to show the credit.
Can I return DSW shoes after wearing them?
No, the DSW return policy requires items to be in unworn, original condition. Shoes with signs of wear, dirt, or sole scuffing will not be accepted for a refund or exchange.
What is the return policy for DSW online orders?
The policy is the same: 60 days for regular-price items in unworn condition with original packaging. You can return online orders either by mail using a prepaid label or in any DSW physical store for added convenience.
Does DSW have a return policy for used shoes?
DSW does not accept returns on used shoes. The policy is strictly for unworn merchandise. An exception might be considered only for a verified manufacturing defect, but this is not guaranteed.
Can I return DSW items without the receipt?
Yes, but with conditions. You’ll need a valid ID, and the refund will be issued as merchandise credit at the item’s current selling price, which might be lower than what you paid. Excessive receipt-less returns may be flagged.
What about the DSW exchange policy?
Exchanges are simple in-store if the new size or color is in stock. For online exchanges, it’s usually easiest to return the original item and place a new order to ensure you get the right product and any current promotions.
Are DSW clearance items returnable?
Yes, but they have a shorter return window of 30 days instead of 60. They must still be in new and unworn condition with all original tags and packaging.
Knowing the answer to “what is DSW return policy” empowers you to shop smarter. The 60-day window is generous, and the ability to return online orders in-store is a major benefit. The key is to keep items pristine, save your proof of purchase, and act within the timeframe. By following these clear guidelines, you can enjoy shopping at DSW with the peace of mind that if something isn’t quite right, a fair and process is in place to make it better. Always double-check your specific item’s details, especially for Marketplace or clearance goods, to ensure a smooth return if you need it.