Return policy comparison · 2026
ModCloth vs Nordstrom
Policy data verified July 24, 2026 (ModCloth) and April 17, 2026 (Nordstrom)
ModCloth
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
Winner
Nordstrom
A+
5.0 / 5.0 · Exceptional
The verdict
Nordstrom has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against ModCloth's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: no time limit versus 30-day window (industry standard).
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
ModClothNordstrom
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
| ModCloth | Nordstrom | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days (from delivery, opened via Loop portal) | ✓ No time limit (case-by-case) |
| Free returns | Yes (with Checkout+) | Yes |
| Restocking fee | None beyond the $12 processing fee for non-Checkout+ orders | None |
| Return shipping | Domestic returns get a prepaid label through the Loop portal; a $12 processing fee is deducted unless you purchased Checkout+ at checkout, which waives it. International orders in Australia, Canada, and the UK have carrier shipping fees deducted from the refund, and other international customers pay their own shipping and must email tracking within 5 business days. | Free prepaid label |
| Holiday extension | None published | ✓ Yes - Oct 6 to Dec 24 through Jan 15 |
| Holiday deadline | — | Jan 15 |
| Non-returnable | Final sale items (store credit only via ModCloset program), gift cards, items missing original tags or the original plastic bag with barcode, worn or washed merchandise, shoes without their original box, swimwear with the hygienic liner removed | Final sale items (rare), some third-party products |
| Watch-out items | — | Nordstrom Rack: 30 days in-store / 40 days online with stricter rules |
ModCloth tip
Any discount code or coupon you used gets forfeited once you return the item, so a heavily discounted order might not be worth returning piece by piece if you're trying to keep that code active.
Nordstrom tip
Most generous in retail — no strict time limit, gently worn OK. Rack has separate policy (40 days online).
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, ModCloth or Nordstrom?
Nordstrom has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against ModCloth's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: no time limit versus 30-day window (industry standard).
What is ModCloth's return window?
ModCloth's return window is 30 days (from delivery, opened via Loop portal).
What is Nordstrom's return window?
Nordstrom's return window is No time limit (case-by-case).
Does ModCloth or Nordstrom offer free returns?
ModCloth: Yes (with Checkout+). Nordstrom: Yes.