DSW's return policy is 90 days standard, with an extended 365-day window for their highest loyalty tier. Here's the complete breakdown.
Standard policy
- 90 days from purchase for a full refund to original payment method
- 365 days for VIP Elite members (DSW's top loyalty tier)
- Items must be in original condition with original shoebox
- Receipt or order confirmation preferred
The 90-day standard window is generous for footwear retail. The 365-day extension for VIP Elite members is significant if you shop DSW frequently.
Final sale
Items marked "Final Sale" or "Clearance" at DSW may be non-returnable. Check the product listing or receipt for the designation. DSW's clearance section has a higher proportion of final sale items than their standard inventory.
DSW Rewards tiers and return windows
DSW VIP has three tiers:
- VIP Club: 90-day return window (standard)
- VIP Gold: 90-day return window
- VIP Elite: 365-day return window
VIP Elite status requires $500 in annual purchases. If you shop DSW regularly, tracking your tier matters for return planning.
How to return in-store
Bring the item with the shoebox and receipt to any DSW store. Refunds process to the original payment method. No appointment needed.
Shoes must come in the original shoebox. Don't use the shoebox as the outer shipping container — it should arrive intact.
How to return online
In-store: Return DSW.com orders at any DSW store. Free, immediate processing.
By mail: Start the return at dsw.com. A prepaid return label is available; a $8.50 return fee is deducted from your refund. Refunds process within 7–10 business days.
DSW Rewards members get free return shipping for online orders — the fee is waived.
What about worn shoes?
DSW expects shoes to be unworn for standard returns. Shoes that have been worn outside (scuffed soles, signs of wear) will generally not be accepted for return. The exception is a manufacturing defect — bring evidence if you're claiming the shoes failed.
Shoe condition check
Try shoes indoors on carpet only before deciding to keep them. Outdoor wear — even briefly — creates marks on soles that classify the shoes as worn and disqualify them from return.
The honest read
DSW's 90-day window is good for footwear. The VIP Elite 365-day extension is a real benefit for loyal customers. Free returns for Rewards members makes online ordering low-risk. The main watch-outs are final sale clearance items and the condition requirement for unworn shoes.
DSW brands and resale
DSW carries a mix of brands — from mass (Naturalizer, Madden Girl) to contemporary (Sam Edelman, Steve Madden, Vince Camuto) to occasionally higher-end finds in their clearance. Resale value varies widely by brand.
If you have footwear you've outgrown or no longer wear, Cove can show you what various brands are worth on the secondary market. Quality footwear in good condition often sells well.