Return policy comparison · 2026
The Dessy Group vs Nordstrom
Policy data verified July 24, 2026 (The Dessy Group) and April 17, 2026 (Nordstrom)
The Dessy Group
C-
1.4 / 5.0 · Below Average
Winner
Nordstrom
A+
5.0 / 5.0 · Exceptional
The verdict
Nordstrom has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against The Dessy Group's C- (1.4/5.0). It wins 4 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: no time limit versus 30-day window (industry standard).
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
The Dessy GroupNordstrom
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
| The Dessy Group | Nordstrom | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days (ready-to-ship free of restocking fee; special order 25% fee) | ✓ No time limit (case-by-case) |
| Free returns | No - $12.95 shipping fee | ✓ Yes |
| Restocking fee | 25% on special order (made-to-order) items; none on ready-to-ship items | ✓ None |
| Return shipping | $12.95 flat return shipping fee deducted from refund; original shipping fees are non-refundable | Free prepaid label |
| Holiday extension | None published | ✓ Yes - Oct 6 to Dec 24 through Jan 15 |
| Holiday deadline | — | Jan 15 |
| Non-returnable | Fabric yardage and swatches, face masks, edible gifts and skincare gifts (all final sale) | Final sale items (rare), some third-party products |
| Watch-out items | — | Nordstrom Rack: 30 days in-store / 40 days online with stricter rules |
The Dessy Group tip
Dessy doesn't do exchanges — if the color or size is wrong, you return the original and place a brand-new order rather than swap directly.
Nordstrom tip
Most generous in retail — no strict time limit, gently worn OK. Rack has separate policy (40 days online).
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, The Dessy Group or Nordstrom?
Nordstrom has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against The Dessy Group's C- (1.4/5.0). It wins 4 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: no time limit versus 30-day window (industry standard).
What is The Dessy Group's return window?
The Dessy Group's return window is 30 days (ready-to-ship free of restocking fee; special order 25% fee).
What is Nordstrom's return window?
Nordstrom's return window is No time limit (case-by-case).
Does The Dessy Group or Nordstrom offer free returns?
The Dessy Group: No - $12.95 shipping fee. Nordstrom: Yes.