Obtaining a refund from an independant boutique?

Question

I have purchased a dress from an independant boutique not a high street store and am unhappy with it. It is not faulty jut a mistake buy - wrong colour, style etc.

I have asked the owner for an exchange and she has said she will have to inspect the dress before she will agree. If I do not find anything elsein the shop I like am I entitled to a refund?

Answer 1

There is no legal reason the shopkeeper needs to give you a refund unless it was faulty.[or even a credit note]

Look at it from the shops point of view.

My wife used to work at Debenhams, they had people who would buy a dress for a party and then take it back for a refund on Monday. This used to annoy my wife, she would not have given a refund. We think that is criminal. I dont blame the shop they have probably had that done to them as well.

Answer 2

No....you're only entitled to a refund if its faulty......you cant get a refund just cos you changed your mind.

Altho if its independent, its up to the owner, she might give you a credit note.

Answer 3

You are only entitled to a refund if the dress is faulty. I can understand why the owner needs to inspect the dress - it has been known for unscrupulous customers ( not you, I am sure!) to buy a dress one day, wear it out that night, and take it back the following day for exchange, or even a refund if the shop owner will go that far.

The best you can hope for is a credit note or exchange.

Unfortnately, because of the refund culture started by the major chain stores, a lot of people think it is their right to demand a refund - sometimes after an extended period.