DEFECTIVE ITEM TRAP: Store Refused Return

I’m writing this because I want to warn fellow shoppers about my absolutely terrible online shopping experience. I purchased a lovely dress, only to find a significant tear upon arrival. I followed all the instructions to initiate a return, but the store flat-out refused, making me feel completely ignored and cheated.
They won't accept a return even if the item is defective. Yes, it was on sale, but defective merchandise is supposed to be able to be returned.
When I escalated the issue in the store,
the manager didn't even come out to talk
. That’s why I felt compelled to contact customer service—I needed someone to acknowledge that selling damaged goods is unacceptable and that their in-store policy enforcement was appalling.
Customer: I need to speak to someone about a recent purchase. I received a defective item—a dress with a seam completely ripped—and your store staff flat-out refused to process the return, claiming it was final sale.
CS Rep: I am very sorry to hear that, receiving defective merchandise is unacceptable. Can you please provide your order number so I can review the transaction and the specific return policy applied?
Customer: The order number is [12345]. The associate insisted that because it was on sale, the policy prohibits returns. Defective items are legally supposed to be an exception! Should you beloved this short article and you desire to acquire more details about https://www.gracequeens.com i implore you to check out the site. I was standing there expecting a manager to address this, but nobody would even speak to me.
CS Rep: I understand your immense frustration. You are absolutely correct; our policy
does
make exceptions for manufacturing defects, regardless of sale status. I sincerely apologize for the incorrect information provided and the poor management support you received.
Customer: So what is the resolution? I have this damaged item and wasted my money because of confusing internal policies. I just want my full refund processed.
CS Rep: I am authorizing a full refund right now, and I will personally email you a prepaid shipping label immediately to send the defective item back. Please allow 3–5 business days for the credit to reflect on your original payment method
>The reason I left this review on the website is to hopefully prevent others from falling into the same trap

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