Lou Lou

Review: I've shopped at Lou Lou a two or three times before (always the [redacted] location), but it wasn't until I attempted to return an item that I was informed of their no return policy. I purchased 2 items in their [redacted] location, I attempted to return to their new 14th St location in DC. The clerk informed me that items could not be returned for a refund, but only exchanged for merchandise or store credit. I was surprised and disappointed that a $50+ purchase was not refundable. I asked if that had always been their policy and she said it was and that the store clerk should have informed me of the policy, but I was told nothing at the time of any of my prior purchase, including this one. She said there should also be a sign up at the counter that states the policy, but I recalled nothing. I scanned her counter and asked where her sign was and she claimed because they were a new store, they were still waiting for theirs. I find this suspicious and an attempt to deceive customers, and really an excuse as the store was obviously fully set up and functioning, yet missing this one important caveat to their policy. While minor, b/c I purchased the item in MD @ 6% sales tax, but returned the item in DC @ 5.75% tax, I was only 'credited' the 5.75% tax, so Lou Lou has taken a profit on the sales tax difference I paid. I asked the clerk about the difference but she claimed that was not possible for her to override and return my full purchase price + tax.I'm a conscious and reasonable consumer and I can understand a business such as this has to protect themselves because jewelry could be worn and returned, but if this is policy, informing a customer with a small line at the bottom of their receipt AFTER the purchase is complete, is not sufficient. The woman in line behind me was also trying to return an item and was not made aware of the policy either. This is not common practice and really should be examined. Thank you.Desired Settlement: Full refund of original purchase of $53