Return policy comparison · 2026
FWRD vs SSENSE
Policy data verified July 24, 2026 (FWRD) and April 17, 2026 (SSENSE)
FWRD
A-
3.9 / 5.0 · Very Good
SSENSE
A-
3.9 / 5.0 · Very Good
The verdict
FWRD and SSENSE are in a dead heat: both grade A- (3.9/5.0) on Thrifle's five-axis return-policy scale. Pick by what you buy: the tie-breakers live in the fine print below.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
FWRDSSENSE
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
| FWRD | SSENSE | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days (unworn, original tags attached) | 30 days (from ship date) |
| Free returns | Yes | Yes |
| Restocking fee | None published | None on returnable items |
| Return shipping | Free prepaid return mailing label included on all domestic orders. | Free DHL return label |
| Holiday extension | Returns accepted after the standard 30-day window during the holiday season (Nov 1 - Dec 25 purchases) as long as the item is received back by January 10. | Not specifically extended |
| Holiday deadline | 2027-01-10 | — |
| Non-returnable | None published beyond items outside the 30-day/holiday window | Final sale items (clearly marked), swimwear/underwear (seal broken), beauty (opened), fine jewelry (opened), gift cards |
| Watch-out items | — | Final sale clearly marked on product page |
FWRD tip
Want an exchange instead of a refund? Call or email customer service to put the replacement size/style on hold first - otherwise it can sell out while your return is in transit back to their Cerritos, CA warehouse.
SSENSE tip
Luxury online retailer. 30 days from SHIP date (not delivery). Items must be unworn with all tags. Final sale items clearly labeled.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, FWRD or SSENSE?
FWRD and SSENSE are in a dead heat: both grade A- (3.9/5.0) on Thrifle's five-axis return-policy scale. Pick by what you buy: the tie-breakers live in the fine print below.
What is FWRD's return window?
FWRD's return window is 30 days (unworn, original tags attached).
What is SSENSE's return window?
SSENSE's return window is 30 days (from ship date).
Does FWRD or SSENSE offer free returns?
FWRD: Yes. SSENSE: Yes.