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Forever 21 never lets us down when it comes to buying a last-minute emergency need-it-now clothing item or trying out a new questionable trend at the start of every season. Its racks are always stocked with the hottest new items and deals. In fact, there’s not much we don’t like about the popular store! From cheap daily markdowns to the fresh merchandise that is added super frequently, Forever 21 rocks.
The only drawback to the trendy brand used to be its outdated and inconvenient return policy. In case you don’t remember, although how could you not, Forever 21’s return policy used to be really, really annoying. Like really. They were actually known for having one of the strictest return policies among fashion retailers–not exactly a great rap to have. Originally, you could only get store credit when you wanted to return an time. While we’ll admit store credit is better than absolutely nothing, getting your money refunded is just hands down way better.
Luckily, our shopping prayers were answered and the retailer quietly changed their return policy for the better a few months ago. “One of the key successes we’ve had as a company is adapting to change and listening to our customers’ needs and wants. Updating our return policy is something we are pleased to give our customers in order for them to have the best shopping experience possible,” said Linda Chang, VP of merchandising at Forever 21.
If you aren’t up to date on Forever 21’s latest return and exchange policy, don’t worry. We’re here to fill you in on the ins and outs of the retailer’s guidelines.
Here are four things you need to know about Forever 21’s return policy before you shop there next.
1. You Have 30 Days To Return All Purchases
All merchandise, whether you buy it online or in stores, can be returned within 30 days of purchase. When you return an item within the 30 day time period, you can get a full refund on your original form of payment. This means if you paid in cash, you can get a full cash refund. It works the same for a debit card, gift card, and all other payment methods. Or if you prefer, you are still eligible to exchange the unwanted merchandise for another Forever 21 item, should you choose that instead. This means you can get all of the impulse buys your little heart desires at the retailer and still get your money back later on if you regret any of them. That’s a win if you ask us.
2. Merchandise Must Be Brand New
As long as the merchandise has not been worn, washed, or altered in any way, you should have no problem getting your money back. Given, of course, that you can also provide proof of purchase by a receipt. That step is super important in avoiding any last minute frustration at the register. Let me say it again for the people in the back--always save your receipts. You never know when you might need them. Also, make sure you never take the tags off your items until you are absolutely certain you want to keep it. There's nothign worse than realizing you don't want to keep a shirt, right after you ripped the tag off.
3. Returns And Exchanges Are Only Possible Within The Same Country
The one potential snag (if you would even call it that) is all purchases have to be returned to stores within the original country you purchased them in. This means that if you went a little crazy on a shopping spree to Forever 21 in Europe, you won’t be able to return those items in the United States--if by any chance you actually did that. We don't judge here at SHEfinds.
4. Certain Merchandise Is Never Acceptable For Returns, Ever
Certain merchandise, such as sale items, clearance items, cosmetics, underwear, swimwear, food items, and jewelry may be exempt from this return policy. This is because those items are final sale. Final sale items mean they cannot be returned or exchanged in any form, under any circumstance. This is understandable because let’s be honest, no one wants a pair of underwear or body jewelry that’s been opened returned and put back on store shelves. No one.
Wondering about the return policies at some of your other favorite stores? We've got the latest at SHEfinds on Glossier, Zara, Nordstrom, Sephora, and L.L. Bean.
