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    Frequently Asked Questions



    What is your Return Policy?

    RETURN POLICY: "Special Order" items, including all Social Occasion Evening Gowns, Prom Dresses, Cocktail Dresses, Bridesmaid Dresses, and other related Special Order items are nonrefundable and no returns will be accepted, as is customary in the industry.

    Because we cannot stock every item in every color and size, most of the styles featured on our website are Special Order items. When you select your style and place your order for your specific size and color, we will determine whether we have your dress in stock. If not, we will contact the vendor to special order your dress.

        EXCEPTIONS:
          1. IMMEDIATE DELIVERY
    items available in our store inventory including our Bridesmaid Dress-In Stock,  Church Suits In-Stock, and Evening & Prom In-Stock dresses may be returned for store exchange or credit WITH PRIOR AUTHORIZATION provided you pay shipping each way on item returned. Return Authorization must be requested within 48 hours of receipt.

         2. CHURCH SUITS ordered from Ben Marc, Divine Apparel, Donna Vinci, Lily & Taylor, and Terramina Collections may be returned for exchange or store credit provided you pay shipping each way on item returned. Return Authorization must be requested within 48 hours of receipt. There will be a 30% RESTOCK FEE in addition to the shipping costs. STORE CREDIT will be issued for any balance, if any. Store Credit will be valid for 90 days of issue. Once exchange occurs a final sale condition exists for that item.

         3. DAMAGED ITEMS:  Although we do our best to inspect each item before it is shipped, we stand behind the warranties given to us by our vendors. If you receive an item that you feel is damaged, please CONTACT US IMMEDIATELY so we may notify the vendor to repair or replace the item.


    Any item eligible for return must be approved by our customer service representatives within 48 hours of receipt. Once approved, you will be issued a Return Authorization (RA) number.

    Any Packages returned to us without an RA number may be returned to you at your expense or subject to a restocking fee of 50% of the original retail price before any discount or coupon, in addition to any shipping charges incurred.

    Any item returned to us must be in the same new and unworn condition that it was received, including hangers, packaging, and original tags attached, as well as cologne and smoke free.  



    HOW do I know What SIZE to Order?

    Most dress manufacturers provide size charts to aid in choosing the correct size. Be sure to measure carefully as size charts are helpful, but not always perfect. Remember that you can always take in a gown that is too large, but it is not always possible to let it out if you order a size that is too small. If your measurements are on the border it is usually better to take the larger size and plan on having it altered. Most girls need alterations to get a perfect fit.



    WHEN will my Credit Card be charged?

    YOUR CREDIT CARD WILL NOT BE CHARGED until we determine that your dress is available to be shipped to you by your "wear date." You will receive an email confirming your order and that it will be shipped to you before your wear date, together with a receipt of your charges. You will also receive an email when your dress is actually shipped to you. It is important that you provide us with a "wear date" and be sure to allow yourself ample time to have your gown altered, if necessary. Paypal customers please note: Paypal will place a hold on your funds in the amount of your order until we either process your order, or if your item is unavailable, void the transaction. If voided, it may take your bank up to 3 days to make those funds available to you. We apologize for any inconvenience but this is a Paypal policy that is beyond our control.


    What are the details about receiving FREE SHIPPING on an order?

    All special occasion and formal evening dress orders of $150 or more will receive free ground shipping within the CONTINENTAL U.S. Shipping charges for purchases up to $59.99 will be $19.95 and purchases up to $149.99 will be $14.95. More Shipping Information


    What are the shipping charges for INTERNATIONAL orders?

    We guarantee the most efficient shipment for all international orders. Cost of international shipments depend on destination and can be broken down as follows: Special occasion and formal evening dress orders shipped USPS Priority Mail International to Canada or Mexico will be $39.95, and orders to the UK, Europe or Australia over $150.00 will be $49.95. Shipping charges for purchases up to $59.99 will be $59.95 and for purchases up to $149.99 will be $54.95. Of course, expedited orders or other carriers can run significantly higher. For information about shipment costs to other destinations, please contact us at [email protected] or (904)-779-9000 or 1-866-594-7766. Please note that all international shipments will take additional time, as they travel through customs. More Shipping Information


    What is your 125% BEST PRICE GUARANTEE?

    You can be confident that you will receive the best price on the internet. Our 125% BEST PRICE GUARANTEE includes COMPETITORS' REBATES, COUPONS or other special offers! If you find a lower price on an identical item from an authorized retailer within 30 days of your purchase, we will not only match their price but beat it by 25% of the difference. (Competitor's shipping and handling as well as any other up-charges must be included.) This guarantee does not apply to sale or clearance items.
    Order Today with Confidence!


    What do you mean by TAX FREE?

    You will not be charged any State Sales Tax on Special Occasion and Formal Evening Dresses. (If we are shipping within the state of Florida, we will pay the Florida Sales Tax for you. Please note that the Florida tax will be calculated on your invoice if you live in Florida but your credit card will not be charged.)

    On international orders you will be responsible for any custom duties or import fees that may be charged.


    How does your LAYAWAY PLAN work?

    When you place a 50% initial non-refundable and non-cancelable deposit, we agree to place and hold your special order in layaway for a period not to exceed 60 days. Upon final payment of the balance, provided we have already received your special order from the vendor, we will ship your dress to you. All of our other terms and Policies apply to layaway purchases. (Please contact us if you have any other questions.)


    How long does a SPECIAL ORDER take?

    Every dress is different. If the dress is in stock at the company, we can get it in 3-10 days. If the dress needs to be made, it can take from 6-14 weeks. If the dress is already in production, it can be 2-3 weeks. Please note that all international special order will take additional time (up to a few weeks), as they travel through customs.


    How do I know which size is best for me?

    Each company has a unique sizing guide with measuring instructions that include bust, waist, and hips. It is suggested that you take into consideration the type of fabric and style of the dress, as this also influences sizing. If you are still unsure after viewing a size chart for your dress, please contact us at (904)-779-9000 or 1-866-594-7766.


    Are you an AUTHORIZED RETAILER for all of the designer brands on your site?

    French Novelty is an Authorized Retailer for every designer brand that we offer on our site. You should find our name listed on the respective designer's website under Authorized Retailers. French Novelty is proud to be celebrating our 112th year in the retail industry with a reputation for integrity and excellent customer service.