Return policy comparison · 2026
MICAS vs Zara
Policy data verified July 24, 2026 (MICAS) and April 17, 2026 (Zara)
MICAS
C+
2.4 / 5.0 · Fair
Winner
Zara
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
The verdict
Zara has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading B+ (3.4/5.0) against MICAS's C+ (2.4/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free in-store; mail may cost versus customer pays return shipping.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
MICASZara
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
| MICAS | Zara | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days (unwashed, unaltered, original tags attached) | 30 days |
| Free returns | No - customer pays return shipping | ✓ Yes (in-store) |
| Restocking fee | None published | None |
| Return shipping | Customer pays all return shipping costs unless the item is defective | $4.95 per item for mail |
| Holiday extension | None published | ✓ Not specifically extended |
| Non-returnable | Gift cards, surprise/mystery boxes, sale items, shoes, bikinis, bodysuits, and accessories other than scarves; orders paid for with store credit from a prior return cannot be returned again | Underwear/swimwear without hygiene seal, pierced jewelry, opened cosmetics/perfume |
| Watch-out items | — | Sale items: same 30 days but clearance may be stricter |
MICAS tip
Taking store credit instead of cash gets you a 20% bonus on the refund amount - a cash refund to your original payment method also has the original shipping fee subtracted.
Zara tip
Return in-store for free — mail returns cost $4.95 PER ITEM which adds up fast on hauls.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, MICAS or Zara?
Zara has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading B+ (3.4/5.0) against MICAS's C+ (2.4/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free in-store; mail may cost versus customer pays return shipping.
What is MICAS's return window?
MICAS's return window is 30 days (unwashed, unaltered, original tags attached).
What is Zara's return window?
Zara's return window is 30 days.
Does MICAS or Zara offer free returns?
MICAS: No - customer pays return shipping. Zara: Yes (in-store).