What is the return policy for formal dresses?

Understanding return policies before purchasing formal dresses helps you shop with confidence. Whether you’re buying for a gala, wedding, prom, or special event, knowing your return options protects your investment and ensures you can make changes if the dress doesn’t meet your expectations.

This comprehensive guide explains Azazie’s return policy for formal dresses, including return windows, fees, conditions, and step-by-step instructions. You’ll learn which items are returnable, how to process returns through different methods, what refund timelines to expect, and how exchanges work. 

We’ve included detailed tables, clear guidelines, and answers to common questions about returning formal dresses. By the end, you’ll understand exactly how to return or exchange your formal dress if needed.

Quick Answer

Azazie accepts returns for standard-size formal dresses within 30 days of delivery. Dresses must be unworn with original tags attached. The return fee is 6.99 dollars per dress (Except Wedding and Suits) for US customers. Refunds take 1 week with Happy Returns or 3–5 weeks with mail-in returns.

Custom-sized dresses, try-on dresses after purchase, and final sale items cannot be returned. Jewelry and headpieces must be returned within 7 days of delivery.

Return Policy Overview Table

Item Type	Return Window	Returnable?	Conditions
Standard Size Formal Dress	30 days	Yes	Unworn, tags attached
Custom Size Formal Dress	N/A	No	Made to order, non-returnable
Try-On Sample Dress	7 days	Yes (must return)	Sample program only
Purchased Try-On Dress	N/A	No	Non-returnable after purchase
Jewelry & Headpieces	7 days	Yes	Original packaging required
Shoes & Accessories	30 days	Yes	Unworn, original packaging
Final Sale Items	N/A	No	Marked as final sale at purchase
Clearance Formal Dresses	30 days	Varies	Check product page

 

What Items Are Returnable?

Returnable Items

Standard Size Formal Dresses:

• Any formal dress ordered in standard sizes (0–30W)
• Must be unworn with original tags attached
• No alterations or modifications
• In original condition (no stains, tears, odors)
• Returned within 30 days of delivery

Accessories:

• Shoes (unworn, in original packaging)
• Wraps and shawls
• Most hair accessories (within 7 days for headpieces)
• Belts and sashes

Try-On Sample Dresses:

• Must be returned within 7 days of delivery
• Prepaid return label included

Non-Returnable Items

Custom-Sized Dresses:

• Made to your specific measurements
• Cannot be resold to other customers
• Non-returnable for any reason including fit issues
• Always choose standard sizing if unsure

Purchased Try-On Dresses:

• Once you purchase a try-on dress to keep, it becomes non-returnable
• Different from returning try-on samples

Final Sale Items:

• Clearly marked as “Final Sale” at checkout
• Heavily discounted items
• Cannot be returned or exchanged

Altered Dresses:

• Any dress that has been altered (hemmed, taken in, adjusted)
• Professional or at-home alterations void return eligibility

Worn or Used Items:

• Dresses worn to events
• Items with stains, tears, or odors
• Dresses with tags removed
• Items in damaged packaging

Jewelry (After 7 Days):

• Jewelry and headpieces must be returned within 7 days
• After this window, they become non-returnable

Return Conditions and Requirements

Condition Requirements

Your formal dress must meet all these conditions to be eligible for return:

Physical Condition:

• Unworn and unused
• No signs of wear (no makeup stains, deodorant marks, perfume smell)
• No alterations or modifications
• No tears, pulls, or damage to fabric
• Original tags still attached
• Clean and in sellable condition

Packaging:

• Original garment bag (if provided)
• Original packaging materials
• All accessories that came with the dress

Timeline:

• Returned within 30 days of delivery date
• Postmarked within the return window
• Tracking number provided for proof

Items That Will Be Rejected

Azazie will not accept returns that fail to meet requirements:

Automatic Rejection Reasons:

• Tags removed or damaged
• Evidence of wear (stains, odors, stretching)
• Past 30-day return window
• Custom-sized items
• Altered or modified in any way
• Damaged packaging or missing components
• Final sale items

What Happens to Rejected Returns:

• No refund issued
• Item may be shipped back to you at your expense
• You keep the dress with no compensation
• Return fee may still be charged

Return Methods and Fees

US Customers: Two Return Options

Option 1: Happy Returns (Recommended)

Once the Happy Returns agent scans and accepts your item(s), your return will be processed within just a few minutes. Once your return has finished processing, the refund will take up to 24 hours to process on our end, plus the time your financial institution needs to return the funds to your account. We will send you a confirmation email once the refund has been sent to your financial institution.

Option 2: Mail-In Returns

Return Processing Time: 4-6 Business Days

Once your order has arrived at our warehouse, it usually takes 4-6 days for us to process your return. In this period, we carefully inspect the returned items and confirm that all necessary documentation is in place.

Refund Arrival in Your Account: 3-10 Business Days

Your refund should appear in your account within 3–10 business days after processing, depending on your financial institution. We will send you an email confirmation once the refund has been processed on our end.

International Customers

Return Method:

• Prepaid return label only (no Happy Returns option)
• Longer processing times due to international shipping
• May face customs delays

Return Fee Structure

Customer Location	Refund Method Impact
US (Happy Returns)	Deducted from refund
US (Mail-In)	Deducted from refund
International	Deducted from refund
Try-On Samples	N/A

Important Notes:

• Return fee applies to each item returned
• Fee is non-refundable
• Fee covers processing and handling
• Original shipping fees are not refunded
• Rush fees are not refunded

Step-by-Step Return Process

For US Customers Using Happy Returns

1. Log into your Azazie account. Navigate to “My Orders” section.
2. Select the order containing the formal dress you want to return. Click “Return Items.”
3. Choose items to return. Select the formal dress(es) and provide a return reason from the dropdown menu.
4. Select Happy Returns as your return method. You’ll receive a QR code via email within minutes.
5. Locate nearest Happy Returns location. Use the location finder in your return confirmation email.
6. Bring your items. No need to package or remove tags. Bring dress(es) on hangers if preferred.
7. Show QR code to the Happy Returns associate. They’ll scan and process your return immediately.
8. Receive confirmation. You’ll get instant email confirmation. Refund processes within 1 week.

For US Customers Using Mail-In

1. Log into your Azazie account. Go to “My Orders” and select the relevant order.
2. Click “Return Items.” Choose the dress(es) you want to return and select your return reason.
3. Choose mail-in return method. You’ll receive a prepaid return label and RMA form via email within 24 hours.
4. Print the return label and RMA form. If you don’t have a printer, you can show the label at shipping carrier for printing.
5. Package your items securely. Place dress(es) in original packaging or a sturdy box. Include the RMA form inside the package.
6. Attach the return label to the outside of the package. Make sure it’s visible and secure.
7. Drop off at designated carrier. Check your return label for the correct carrier (USPS, UPS, FedEx). Get a receipt with a tracking number.
8. Track your return. Use the tracking number to monitor your package’s journey to Azazie.
9. Wait for confirmation. Azazie will email you once they receive and inspect your return.
10. Refund processed. Allow 1–3 weeks total for refund processing after Azazie receives your package.

For International Customers

1. Log into your account and navigate to “My Orders.”
2. Select “Return Items” for your formal dress order. Choose items and return reasons.
3. Receive prepaid return label via email within 24–48 hours (international processing takes longer).
4. Print label and RMA form. Follow all packaging instructions carefully for international shipping.
5. Package securely. Use strong packaging for international transit. Include RMA form inside.
6. Complete customs forms if required. Follow all customs documentation requirements for your country.
7. Drop off at designated carrier. International returns typically use specific carriers (check your label).
8. Track your return. International tracking may be limited depending on carrier and country.
9. Allow 4–6 weeks for Azazie to receive and process your international return.

Refund Information

Refund Methods

Option 1: Azazie Account Balance (US Only)

How It Works:

• Refund credited to your Azazie account
• Available immediately after processing
• Use on future purchases
• Never expires

Advantages:

• No return shipping fee deducted
• Fastest refund method
• Convenient for repeat customers

Disadvantages:

• Can only use on Azazie.com
• Not transferable to cash
• Tied to your account

Best For:

• Customers planning future purchases
• Bridal parties ordering multiple times
• Regular Azazie shoppers

Option 2: Original Payment Method

How It Works:

• Refund processed to original credit/debit card or PayPal
• Return shipping fee deducted 
• Standard banking processing times apply

Advantages:

• Money returned to your account
• Not tied to Azazie purchases
• Available for all customers (US and international)

Disadvantages:

• Return fee deducted from refund
• Longer processing time
• Subject to banking delays

Timeline:

• 3–10 business days after Azazie processes refund
• May take longer for international banks

What’s Included in Refund

Refunded:

• Original dress 
• Applicable taxes on the item
• Swatch fees (if applicable)

Not Refunded:

• Original shipping fees
• Rush processing fees
• Taxes on shipping and rush fees
• Return shipping fee
• Try-on program fees 

Exchange Policy

US Customers Only

Azazie offers exchanges for US customers with Azazie accounts. Guest checkout orders are not eligible for exchanges.

Eligible for Exchange:

• Standard size formal dresses
• Different size of same style
• Different color of same style
• Different style entirely

Not Eligible for Exchange:

• Custom-sized dresses
• Final sale items
• Items past 30-day window
• International orders (must return for refund instead)

How Exchanges Work

1. Process as a return first. Select “Exchange” when returning your item.
2. Return fee applies
3. Select replacement item. Choose your new size, color, or style during the exchange process.
4. New order created. Your exchange is processed as a new order.
5. Production timeline applies. Allow 4–6 weeks for production and shipping of replacement dress.
6. Shipping fees may apply. Standard shipping is typically free, but rush shipping costs extra.

Exchange vs Return Decision

Scenario	Best Option	Why
Need different size of same dress	Exchange	Convenient, one process
Unsure about style	Return for refund	More flexibility
Need dress urgently	Return and reorder	Faster (can rush new order)
Want completely different style	Return for refund	Easier to browse full catalog
Between sizes	Return for refund	Can order custom sizing next time

 

Damaged or Defective Items

What Qualifies as Damaged or Defective

Damage Issues:

• Rips or tears in fabric
• Missing beads or embellishments
• Stitching coming undone
• Zipper malfunction or damage
• Holes or snags in fabric

Defect Issues:

• Incorrect size or measurements (for custom orders)
• Wrong color received
• Wrong style received
• Fabric not as described
• Construction flaws

Shipping Damage:

• Package arrived damaged
• Dress stained during shipping
• Missing items from order

How to Report Issues

Timeline:

• Report within 30 days of delivery
• Sooner is better for faster resolution

Required Information:

• Clear photos of the issue from multiple angles
• Photos of tags and measurements (for size issues)
• Order number
• Detailed description of the problem

Contact Methods:

• Live chat on Azazie.com (fastest)
• Email customer service with photos attached
• Phone support (available 24/7)
• Submit ticket through support portal

Resolution Options

Azazie will investigate and offer one of these solutions:

Full Refund:

• Return shipping fee waived for damaged items
• Full refund including original shipping
• Fastest resolution for severe issues

Replacement Dress:

• New dress produced and shipped
• No additional charge
• Same or faster production time
• Good for minor fixable issues

Partial Credit:

• Discount on future purchase
• Offered for minor cosmetic issues
• You keep the dress
• Credit applied to account

Repair Instructions:

• For minor fixable issues
• Azazie provides guidance
• You may receive partial credit for repair costs

Try-On Program Details

How Try-On Differs from Regular Returns

The Try-On Program lets you test dresses before committing to purchase. This has different rules than standard returns.

Try-On Program:

• Order up to 3 dresses at once
• Keep for 7 days
• Must return or purchase within 7 days
• Prepaid return shipping included

Standard Purchase:

• Full for dress
• Keep forever or return within 30 days
• Return shipping fee
• 30-day return window vs 7-day try-on window

Try-On Return Rules

Timeline:

• Must be postmarked within 7 days of delivery
• Delivery day counts as day 1
• Late returns may result in full charges

Condition:

• Try on at home
• Must be returned clean and undamaged
• Tags should remain attached
• Original packaging preferred but not required

Return Process:

• Prepaid return label included in package
• Use included packaging or your own box
• Drop off at designated carrier

If You Keep the Dress:

• Log into account within 7 days
• Click “Purchase Try-On Dress”
• Pay remaining balance
• Dress becomes yours but is then non-returnable

Special Circumstances

Bridal Party Orders

Coordinator Accounts:

• Bridal party coordinators can manage multiple orders
• Each bridesmaid’s order has independent return policy
• Returns processed individually per bridesmaid
• Coordinator cannot return on behalf of bridesmaids

Multiple Dress Returns:

• Can return dresses from different orders together
• Use one return label per order
• Track each order separately

Seasonal Considerations

Peak Wedding Season (May–October):

• Processing times may extend slightly
• Plan returns earlier in your timeline
• More customer service inquiries (longer wait times)
• Happy Returns is fastest option during peak season

Holiday Season (November–December):

• Shipping delays possible
• Allow extra time for returns to be received
• Customer service available 24/7 during holidays

COVID-19 and Health Considerations

Azazie maintains hygiene standards for returned items:

Inspection Process:

• All returns inspected for wear and cleanliness
• Items must be free of makeup, deodorant, perfume
• Dresses cleaned and sterilized before resale
• Health and safety protocols followed

Comparison: Azazie vs Other Retailers

Retailer	Return Window	Custom Returns	Refund Speed
Azazie	30 days	Not returnable	1–5 weeks
David’s Bridal	30 days	Not returnable	2–3 weeks
JJ’s House	14 days	Not returnable	3–6 weeks
BHLDN	30 days	Not returnable	2–3 weeks
Lulus	30 days	N/A (no custom)	1–2 weeks
Nordstrom	45 days	N/A (no custom)	1–2 weeks

Azazie Advantages:

• Competitive return window
• Reasonable return fees
• Two return methods (Happy Returns + mail)
• Try-on program option

Azazie Considerations:

• Custom dresses non-returnable (industry standard)
• Return fee per item adds up for multiple returns
• Mail returns take longer than competitors

Tips for Successful Returns

Before You Order

• Order standard sizes if unsure about fit. Custom sizing is non-returnable.
• Use the try-on program to test styles before buying full.
• Read size charts carefully and measure yourself accurately.
• Check if items are final sale before adding to cart.
• Order early to allow time for potential returns and reorders.

When Your Dress Arrives

• Inspect immediately upon delivery. Check for damage or defects within 24 hours.
• Try on carefully. Don’t remove tags until certain you’re keeping the dress.
• Take photos if there are any issues. Document before contacting customer service.
• Don’t alter or modify until you’re absolutely sure you’re keeping it.
• Keep packaging in case you need to return.

Processing Your Return

• Act within the return window. Don’t wait until day 29 to start the return process.
• Choose Happy Returns when possible for fastest refunds (US customers).
• Keep tracking information. Save receipts and tracking numbers until the refund is complete.
• Follow packaging instructions carefully. Secure packaging prevents damage during return shipping.
• Include RMA form for mail-in returns. This speeds up processing.

Maximizing Your Refund

• Choose account balance refund if ordering again. This waives the return fee.
• Return multiple items together using one return label when possible.
• Document everything if returning damaged items. Photos help customer service resolve issues faster.
• Contact customer service if you have questions. Better to ask before processing return.

Conclusion

Understanding Azazie’s return policy for formal dresses helps you shop confidently and avoid surprises. US customers benefit from two return options, with Happy Returns offering the fastest refund processing at just 1 week compared to 3–5 weeks for mail-in returns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return a formal dress if it doesn’t fit?

Yes, you can return standard-size formal dresses within 30 days if they don’t fit, as long as the dress is unworn with tags attached.Custom-sized dresses cannot be returned for fit issues. Always order standard sizing if you’re unsure about your measurements.

How long does it take to get a refund for a returned formal dress?

Refunds take 1 week with Happy Returns or 3–5 weeks with mail-in returns for US customers. International returns take 4–6 weeks. Add an additional 3–10 days for your bank to process the refund after Azazie issues it. Choose Happy Returns for the fastest refund processing.

 

What happens if my formal dress arrives damaged?

Contact Azazie customer service within 30 days with photos of the damage. They will investigate and offer a refund, replacement, or partial credit. Damaged items do not incur return shipping fees. Azazie covers costs for manufacturing defects and shipping damage. Report issues immediately for fastest resolution.

Can I return a custom-sized formal dress?

No, custom-sized formal dresses cannot be returned. They are made to your specific measurements and cannot be resold. Only order custom sizing if you are confident in your measurements. Use standard sizing when unsure about fit, or try the Try-On Program first to test styles.

How do I return a formal dress if I live outside the US?

International customers must use mail-in returns with prepaid return labels. Processing takes 4–6 weeks due to international shipping. Happy Returns is not available for international customers. Follow all customs documentation requirements when returning internationally.

Can I return a dress if I altered it myself?

No, any dress that has been altered—whether professionally or at home—is not eligible for return. Alterations void the return policy because the dress can no longer be resold in its original condition.

What if I miss the 30-day return window?

Dresses returned after 30 days of delivery are automatically ineligible for a refund. Azazie may return the dress to you at your expense, and no refund will be issued. Always start the return process early to avoid missing the deadline.

Are original shipping fees refundable?

No, original shipping fees, rush fees, and taxes associated with shipping are not refunded. Only the cost of the returned dress and applicable item taxes are eligible for refund.

Can I return multiple dresses from the same or different orders together?

Yes, you can return multiple dresses together, but each order requires its own return label and RMA form. Track each order separately to ensure proper refund processing. Using Happy Returns can simplify this process for US customers.