Return policy comparison · 2026
Bluffworks vs DSW
Policy data verified July 21, 2026 (Bluffworks) and April 17, 2026 (DSW)
Bluffworks
C+
2.4 / 5.0 · Fair
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 Bluffworks's C+ (2.4/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus customer pays return shipping.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
BluffworksDSW
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
| Bluffworks | DSW | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days for refund (unworn); 90 days for exchange (unworn) | ✓ 90 days |
| Free returns | No - customer pays return shipping | ✓ Yes (in-store) |
| Restocking fee | — | None |
| Return shipping | Customer pays both domestic and international return shipping | Free mail returns for VIP members |
| Holiday extension | — | ✓ Yes (holiday extension) |
| Non-returnable | Items marked Discontinued: Final Sale or FINAL SALE (exchange only for size/color/fit if available) | Final sale items, worn shoes showing significant use |
| Watch-out items | — | Standard 90-day window |
Bluffworks tip
If you're past the 30-day refund window but within 90 days, exchange for a different size/color instead of trying to get money back - Bluffworks' refund cutoff is much shorter than its exchange cutoff, and international orders can't be exchanged at all.
DSW tip
VIP members tracked automatically. Shoes can be lightly worn.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Bluffworks or DSW?
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Bluffworks's C+ (2.4/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus customer pays return shipping.
What is Bluffworks's return window?
Bluffworks's return window is 30 days for refund (unworn); 90 days for exchange (unworn).
What is DSW's return window?
DSW's return window is 90 days.
Does Bluffworks or DSW offer free returns?
Bluffworks: No - customer pays return shipping. DSW: Yes (in-store).