Return policy comparison · 2026
DSW vs Maidenform
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (DSW) and July 24, 2026 (Maidenform)
Winner
DSW
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
Maidenform
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
The verdict
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Maidenform's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 90-day window (above average) versus 45-day window (industry standard).
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
DSWMaidenform
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 | Maidenform | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ 90 days | 45 days (unused items) |
| Free returns | Yes (in-store) | Yes |
| Restocking fee | None | None |
| Return shipping | Free mail returns for VIP members | Free - Maidenform provides a prepaid USPS/DHL return label for US orders. |
| Holiday extension | ✓ Yes (holiday extension) | None published |
| Non-returnable | Final sale items, worn shoes showing significant use | — |
| Watch-out items | Standard 90-day window | — |
DSW tip
VIP members tracked automatically. Shoes can be lightly worn.
Maidenform tip
Maidenform doesn't do exchanges at all - if a bra doesn't fit, you return it for a refund and place a brand-new order for the size you actually need, so order the size you're unsure about as a backup rather than waiting on an exchange.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, DSW or Maidenform?
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Maidenform's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 90-day window (above average) versus 45-day window (industry standard).
What is DSW's return window?
DSW's return window is 90 days.
What is Maidenform's return window?
Maidenform's return window is 45 days (unused items).
Does DSW or Maidenform offer free returns?
DSW: Yes (in-store). Maidenform: Yes.