Policies & Procedures

Returns and Exchanges

As of September 1st 2022, we no longer provide refunds.

All merchandise must be clean, unworn, in excellent condition and in its original packaging. Merchandise may not have been worn; shoes may not have been customized, ribbons sewn, or soiled by wearing them at home or taking them for a 'trial spin' in the studio. All returns and exchanges are inspected and approved by the owner.

*Receipts are required for ALL returns and exchanges*

If your purchase has been made within 14 days and the merchandise has not been worn, tags are attached and/or product is in original packaging, we will either exchange your purchase or give you store credit. We do not offer refunds. Shoes returned without their original box/packaging will be charged a $10 re-boxing fee. If returned merchandise is worn or in used condition, or past the maximum 14 day time period, we will not accept it. 

Return postage is the responsibility of the customer. 

All sales are final on special orders, limited edition products, tights, intimate apparel and clearance items.

Mail Order Returns

All mailed returns or exchanges need approval and a Return Authorization number from a staff member of Empire Dance Shop. Failure to do so will result in a 20% restocking fee or denied store credit on Manager's discretion. All shoes returned without its original box will be charged a $10 re-boxing fee.

Mail-Ordered pointe shoe returns with purchase elsewhere (from another dance store/website) will be charged a 20% restocking fee and the $35 fitting fee per tracing/dancer. This includes shoes ordered via Foot Tracing as well as Virtual Fittings.

For mailed returns, please allow 7 - 12 business days for processing.

Special Orders

A special order is any item we don't carry as regular store stock. This includes made-to-order (special maker pointe shoes, certain high-end tap shoes and costumes). ALL special orders are non-returnable.

Shipping & Handling

Shipping is calculated by weight of the package, however cost this may increase based on total weight and destination. If the total of your order exceeds $50, your package will automatically be insured for the full amount.

Package insurance includes lost, misplaced or damaged packages. All refunds go through the United States Postal Service and are at their discretion. We are not responsible for stolen packages. Tracking numbers can be provided at the request of the customer through email at the time of ordering to help prevent these incidences.

Packages that need to be shipped overnight MUST be called in before 12:00 PM Pacific Standard Time, otherwise they will go out the following business day.

Defective Items

Any items which are deemed to be defective must be sent back to Empire Dance Shop either by mail or brought in-person for review with the producing Vendor. Once the item is rendered defective by the Vendor, a replacement will be sent in the same size, style and color. We are not responsible for replacement items being on back-order by the Vendor, and delayed shipping times from Vendors. Vendor replaced shoes cannot be returned or exchanged.

Fittings Without Purchase

All fittings without the intent of purchase are charged a $35 fitting fee. If you decide to purchase the shoes we fit you in within one year, the fitting fee will be applied to your purchase. This includes in-store, Virtual Fitting services and calling for shoe sizes. We do not fit for your online discounted purchases.