Return policy comparison · 2026
DSW vs Flag & Anthem
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (DSW) and July 24, 2026 (Flag & Anthem)
Winner
DSW
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
Flag & Anthem
C+
2.4 / 5.0 · Fair
The verdict
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Flag & Anthem'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.
DSWFlag & Anthem
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
| DSW | Flag & Anthem | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ 90 days | 30 days (unworn, tags attached) |
| Free returns | ✓ Yes (in-store) | No - $7 fee deducted |
| Restocking fee | None | None |
| Return shipping | Free mail returns for VIP members | $7 return processing fee deducted from the refund when using the returns portal, whether you choose instant credit or a refund to your original payment method. Original shipping charges are non-refundable. |
| Holiday extension | ✓ Yes (holiday extension) | None published |
| Non-returnable | Final sale items, worn shoes showing significant use | Items marked FINAL SALE |
| Watch-out items | Standard 90-day window | — |
DSW tip
VIP members tracked automatically. Shoes can be lightly worn.
Flag & Anthem tip
The $7 fee applies whether you take store credit or a refund, so if you're on the fence, instant credit at least gets you the full remaining balance toward a new purchase right away instead of waiting on a bank refund.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, DSW or Flag & Anthem?
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Flag & Anthem'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 DSW's return window?
DSW's return window is 90 days.
What is Flag & Anthem's return window?
Flag & Anthem's return window is 30 days (unworn, tags attached).
Does DSW or Flag & Anthem offer free returns?
DSW: Yes (in-store). Flag & Anthem: No - $7 fee deducted.