Return policy comparison · 2026
DSW vs Princess Polly
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (DSW) and July 24, 2026 (Princess Polly)
Winner
DSW
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
Princess Polly
C+
2.4 / 5.0 · Fair
The verdict
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Princess Polly'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.
DSWPrincess Polly
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 | Princess Polly | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ 90 days | 30 days (from delivery) |
| Free returns | ✓ Yes (in-store) | No - $6.95 fee deducted (waived for store credit) |
| Restocking fee | None | None published |
| Return shipping | Free mail returns for VIP members | $6.95 domestic return fee deducted from your refund, waived entirely if you choose store credit instead; international customers cover their own return shipping |
| Holiday extension | ✓ Yes (holiday extension) | None published |
| Non-returnable | Final sale items, worn shoes showing significant use | Cosmetics, earrings, undergarments, beauty tools including hair tools, final sale items, gift cards; swimwear needs its hygiene liner intact |
| Watch-out items | Standard 90-day window | — |
DSW tip
VIP members tracked automatically. Shoes can be lightly worn.
Princess Polly tip
Pick store credit instead of a refund and Princess Polly waives the $6.95 return fee completely — an easy way to keep the full value if you already plan to reorder.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, DSW or Princess Polly?
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Princess Polly'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 Princess Polly's return window?
Princess Polly's return window is 30 days (from delivery).
Does DSW or Princess Polly offer free returns?
DSW: Yes (in-store). Princess Polly: No - $6.95 fee deducted (waived for store credit).