Return policy comparison · 2026
Aéropostale vs DSW
Policy data verified July 21, 2026 (Aéropostale) and April 17, 2026 (DSW)
Aéropostale
B
3.2 / 5.0 · Good
Winner
DSW
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
The verdict
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Aéropostale's B (3.2/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus free in-store; mail may cost.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
AéropostaleDSW
Return window · worth 2.0
Restocking fee · worth 1.0
Return shipping · worth 1.0
Holiday window · worth 0.5
Transparency · worth 0.5
Key terms side-by-side
| Aéropostale | DSW | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 60 days (unworn, tags attached, with receipt) | ✓ 90 days |
| Free returns | In-store only | ✓ Yes (in-store) |
| Restocking fee | — | None |
| Return shipping | $7 deducted from refund for mail returns | Free mail returns for VIP members |
| Holiday extension | — | ✓ Yes (holiday extension) |
| Non-returnable | Washed or worn merchandise, items without original price tags or receipts, online-only items, online purchases made in Canada, room merchandise (bedding and accessories), fragrance (fragrance and online-only items cannot be returned to stores) | Final sale items, worn shoes showing significant use |
| Watch-out items | Defective items must be returned within 30 days | Standard 90-day window |
Aéropostale tip
Paying with Klarna or PayPal and returning in-store gets you store credit only, not a refund to your original payment method - use mail return if you want your money back on those orders.
DSW tip
VIP members tracked automatically. Shoes can be lightly worn.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Aéropostale or DSW?
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Aéropostale's B (3.2/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus free in-store; mail may cost.
What is Aéropostale's return window?
Aéropostale's return window is 60 days (unworn, tags attached, with receipt).
What is DSW's return window?
DSW's return window is 90 days.
Does Aéropostale or DSW offer free returns?
Aéropostale: In-store only. DSW: Yes (in-store).