
If you’ve ordered a dress from House of CB, you already know the brand delivers stunning pieces. But the return policy can feel like a whole other story. You have 14 days to ship your item back to the UK, and you’re paying for the shipping.
This guide walks you through every detail. We cover the rules, the costs, the step-by-step process, and the common pitfalls. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to do if your dress doesn’t work out.
Quick Answer
House of CB offers a 14-day return window from delivery. Return items unworn with tags attached. You pay return shipping to their UK warehouse.
Refunds take 5, 10 business days after they receive your item. No in-store returns exist in the US.
Why the House of CB Return Policy Feels Tricky (and What You Need to Know)
The biggest pain point is international shipping. You’re mailing a package from the US back to the UK. That takes time, costs money, and leaves you waiting longer for your refund.
The 14-day window is tight. If you order multiple sizes or styles, you have to decide fast. That’s not a lot of breathing room for a formal dress you might need for an event weeks away.
Return shipping isn’t free. You’ll pay for the label and tracking. Customs delays can stretch the process even further.
Our research shows that return-related frustration is one of the top reasons customers hesitate to buy from UK-based brands like House of CB. But if you know the rules upfront, it’s manageable.
House of CB Return Policy at a Glance
| Policy Detail | What You Get |
|---|---|
| Standard Return Window | 14 days from delivery |
| Refund Processing Time | 5–10 business days after item arrives at UK warehouse |
| Receipt Requirement | Order confirmation or email required |
| Online Return Availability | Yes, via their returns portal |
| In-Store Return Availability | No US stores; UK-only retail locations |
| Exchange Options | Yes (size/color) within same time window |
| Customer Support Availability | Email and live chat (Mon–Fri) |
The Full Breakdown: How the House of CB Return Policy Works
House of CB uses a standard UK-based return process. You submit a request online, print a label, package the item, and ship it to their UK warehouse.
Eligibility requirements
- Item must be unworn, unwashed, and in original condition.
- All tags must be attached, including security tags.
- Original packaging (poly bag, box, hanger) should be used.
- Returns must be initiated within 14 calendar days of delivery.
What’s not eligible
- Final sale or clearance items are marked non-returnable at checkout.
- Gift cards cannot be returned or refunded.
- Any item showing signs of wear, makeup, deodorant, or pet hair will be rejected.
Who pays for return shipping?
You do. House of CB does not offer free returns for US customers. The cost varies by carrier and weight but typically runs between $20 and $35.
The return label is prepaid through their portal, and the shipping cost is deducted from your refund.
International specifics for US customers
- Ship to their UK return address (provided after you submit the request).
- Use a tracked shipping method. House of CB is not responsible for lost packages until they arrive at the warehouse.
- Customs forms: Declare the item as a “Return” and mark the value correctly to avoid extra duties.
Refund and exchange options
You can choose a refund to your original payment method or an exchange for another size or color. Exchanges follow the same 14-day window. If the new item costs more, you pay the difference; if less, you get a refund for the difference.
Your Return Decision Tree: What’s Your Situation?
Not all returns are the same. Your best path depends on where you are, what you bought, and why you’re sending it back.
Are you a US customer or UK customer?
- US customer: Ship internationally. Expect longer transit times (7, 14 days) and higher shipping costs. Your refund will be in GBP, so currency conversion applies.
- UK customer: Use standard domestic shipping. Return costs are lower, transit is faster (2, 5 days). You can also visit a physical store.
Is the item full price or final sale?
- Full price: Return for refund or exchange.
- Final sale / clearance: No returns allowed. Check the label at checkout.
Is it a change of mind or a defect / wrong item?
- Change of mind: You pay return shipping. Must meet all condition requirements.
- Defect or wrong item sent: Contact customer support first. They may provide a prepaid return label or a free replacement. Do not use the standard returns portal for defects.
Are you within the 14-day window?
- Yes: Proceed with online return or exchange request immediately.
- No: You are outside the window. Contact support only if the item was delayed in transit.
Do you have the original packaging and tags?
- Yes: Good to go.
- No: Your return may be rejected. Contact support to ask. No guarantee.
Step-by-Step: How to Return a House of CB Order
If your situation is a standard change-of-mind return and you’re within the 14-day window, here’s the exact process.
Step 1: Log into your House of CB account
Go to their website and sign in. Navigate to “My Account” then “My Orders.” Find the order you want to return.
Step 2: Submit a return request
Click the “Return Items” button next to that order. Select which items you’re returning and choose your preferred outcome, refund or exchange. Provide a reason (e.g., too big, too small, changed mind).
Step 3: Print the prepaid return label
Once you submit, you’ll receive an email with a return authorization number and a prepaid shipping label. Print the label. The cost of the label will be deducted from your refund later.
Step 4: Pack the item securely
Place the item back in its original poly bag or box. Make sure all tags are attached. Use the original packaging if you still have it.
If not, use a sturdy box. Include the return authorization slip inside.
Step 5: Ship the package
Affix the label to the outside. Drop it off at the carrier location specified (usually USPS, UPS, or DHL). Get a tracking number and keep the receipt.
Step 6: Wait for processing
Once the package reaches the UK warehouse, House of CB inspects the item. This takes up to 5 business days. If everything passes, they issue the refund to your original payment method.
You’ll get an email confirmation.
After the refund
Allow another 3, 5 business days for the refund to appear in your account, depending on your bank or credit card issuer. Total time from shipping to refund can be 2, 4 weeks for US customers.
What It Actually Costs to Return (Shipping, Currency, and Timing)
Let’s talk real numbers. Return shipping from the US to the UK typically costs between $20 and $35. That’s for a standard tracked package.
Heavier items or multiple dresses can push it higher.
House of CB provides a prepaid label through their returns portal. The shipping cost is deducted from your refund. You don’t pay upfront, but the amount comes off the total they send back.
Currency conversion
Your refund is issued in British pounds (GBP). Your bank or card issuer converts it to US dollars at their exchange rate. You may lose a small amount on the conversion, typically 1% to 3%.
This is standard for international refunds.
Timeline breakdown
- Return label printed: same day.
- Package in transit: 7, 14 days to UK.
- Warehouse inspection: up to 5 business days.
- Refund issued: 1, 2 business days after approval.
- Refund appears in your account: 3, 5 additional business days.
Total wait: 2 to 4 weeks from the day you mail it.
Items That Can’t Be Returned (and How to Spot Them Before You Buy)
Some items are final sale. If you buy one of these, there is no return, no exchange, no refund. Here’s what to watch for.
Final sale items
- Marked clearly on the product page at checkout.
- Usually include clearance, sample sale, or heavily discounted pieces.
- The policy states “All sale items are final sale.”
Worn or altered items
House of CB does not accept returns on items that have been worn, washed, or altered. This includes removing tags, hemming, or any custom adjustments.
Gift cards
Gift cards are non-refundable and non-returnable.
How to spot non-returnable items before you buy
- Look for “Final Sale” or “No Returns” text on the product page.
- Check the order summary before clicking “Place Order.”
- Read the return policy link at the bottom of the page.
If you’re unsure, contact customer support before purchasing.
Common Return Problems — and How to Solve Them
Even when you follow every step, issues can pop up. Here are the most common problems and how to fix them.
Problem: Refund not received after 4 weeks
First, check your tracking number. If the package shows delivered, the delay is likely on the inspection or refund side. Contact House of CB customer support via email or live chat.
Provide your order number and return tracking number.
Problem: Return request rejected
Possible reasons: You tried to return a final sale item, the item showed signs of wear, or the tags were removed. Check the rejection email for the specific reason. If you believe it was a mistake, respond to the email with photos of the item and tags.
Problem: Item lost in transit
House of CB is not responsible for lost packages until they arrive at the UK warehouse. That’s why tracking is essential. If tracking shows no movement for 10 days, contact the carrier first.
If the carrier confirms the package is lost, file a claim with them. House of CB may offer a courtesy if you can prove shipping, but it’s not guaranteed.
Problem: Customs delays
Sometimes packages sit in customs for extra days. This is normal for international shipments. There’s not much you can do except wait.
If it’s been over 3 weeks and tracking hasn’t updated, contact the carrier.
Problem: Incorrect item received
If House of CB sent the wrong size, color, or style, contact support immediately. They will typically provide a prepaid return label and send the correct item. Do not use the standard returns process for this.
Problem: Exchange size not available
If you request an exchange but the size you want is out of stock, House of CB will likely offer a refund instead. You can also choose store credit if that’s an option.
Pro Tips for a Smooth House of CB Return
A little preparation goes a long way. Here’s what experienced shoppers recommend.
Before you order
- Check the return policy on the official House of CB website. Policies can change.
- Read the product description for final sale warnings.
- Order a size up if you’re between sizes. It’s easier to exchange down than up.
When trying on
- Try on clothes over clean underwear. Avoid makeup and deodorant.
- Keep all tags attached. Do not remove the security tag.
- Keep the original poly bag and box.
When packing
- Use the original packaging if possible.
- Include the return authorization slip.
- Seal the box securely. Use tape on all seams.
After shipping
- Save the tracking number and shipping receipt.
- Check tracking every few days.
- Note the expected refund date based on the timeline above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return a House of CB item after 14 days?
No. The policy is strict. Returns must be initiated within 14 calendar days of delivery.
If you miss the window, the return will be rejected. Exceptions are rare and only made for delayed delivery caused by the carrier.
How long does House of CB take to refund?
Once the item arrives at their UK warehouse, inspection takes up to 5 business days. After approval, the refund is processed within 1, 2 business days. It then takes 3, 5 business days to appear in your account.
Total from drop-off to refund: 2, 4 weeks.
Can I return opened products?
Yes, as long as the item is unworn, unwashed, and in original condition with tags attached. “Opened” means you removed the poly bag but haven’t worn the item. That’s fine.
But if you removed the security tags or worn it, the return will be rejected.
Can online orders be returned in stores?
No. House of CB does not have physical stores in the United States. There are a few retail locations in the UK, but US orders cannot be returned there.
All returns must be shipped to the UK warehouse.
Does House of CB offer free returns?
No. US customers pay return shipping. The cost is deducted from your refund.
There are no free return options at this time.
Can I exchange instead of refund?
Yes. When you submit your return request, you can choose an exchange for a different size or color. The same 14-day window applies.
If the new item costs more, you pay the difference. If less, you get a refund for the difference.
What happens if I receive a defective item?
Contact House of CB customer support directly. Do not use the standard returns portal for defects. They will likely provide a prepaid return label and send a replacement or issue a full refund including shipping costs.
Can I return a gift?
Yes, if the gift was ordered with a gift receipt or the original order details are available. The return follows the same policy. The refund will go back to the original payment method unless the buyer specifies otherwise.
Does House of CB charge a restocking fee?
No. There is no restocking fee for standard returns. You only pay the return shipping cost.
Final sale items are not eligible for return at all.
How do I contact House of CB customer service?
You can reach them through the “Contact Us” page on their official website. Options include an email form and live chat during business hours (Monday to Friday). Phone support is not publicly listed for US customers.
About This Guide
ReturnPolicys.com independently researches publicly available policy information to help consumers understand return, refund, and exchange processes. We are not affiliated with House of CB unless clearly stated. Always check the official House of CB website for the most current policy details, as terms may change without notice.
Final Thoughts
The House of CB return policy isn’t designed to punish shoppers. It’s a standard UK retail policy that works well for domestic customers. For US shoppers, the challenge is the international shipping cost and the short window.
Here’s what to remember:
- You have 14 days from delivery to start a return.
- You pay return shipping ($20, $35).
- Refunds take 2, 4 weeks total.
- Final sale items cannot be returned.
- Keep all tags and original packaging.
If you’re careful about timing and condition, returning a House of CB order is straightforward. Follow the steps in this guide, and you’ll get your refund or exchange without unnecessary hassle.