DSW is a go-to for brand-name shoes at everyday low prices, and you can push those prices even lower with a few smart moves. In this guide, you'll join VIP the right way, stack rewards with promos, and time your buys so you always land the best deal.
🔥 Looking for This Week's Hottest Deals?
These strategies are for long-term savings, but for the most up-to-date, limited-time offers, your weekly deals page is the place to be.
➡ See All Current DSW Deals
💡 Hack #1: Join DSW VIP (It's Free and Essential)
Sign up for DSW VIP and you immediately unlock core perks. You earn 1 point per $1 and receive a $5 reward every 100 points. VIP members also get free shipping when logged in, plus birthday rewards by tier (Base/Gold get $5; Elite gets $10). If you shop semi-regularly, VIP pays for itself fast.
💡 Hack #2: Stack Smart - Promo + Rewards + Markdown
The power play is simple: find pairs in Sale/Clearance, apply one promo code at checkout, then use your $5 rewards. You typically can use rewards and a single promo together unless excluded in the fine print - that combo drops branded styles far below list.
💡 Hack #3: Work the Clearance Aisles
In store, clearance shelves turn over quickly. Hunt for final-markdown stickers and check both ends of each aisle. Online, sort by Highest Discount and filter by size to surface hidden gems that other shoppers miss.
💡 Hack #4: Birthday Freebie - Don't Skip It
Make sure your birth date is set in your profile. You'll receive a birthday reward during your month - it's an easy $5 (or $10 for Elite) to shave off your next pair.
💡 Hack #5: Donate Shoes + Earn Weekly Points
Bring new or gently used pairs to a DSW store and earn 50 points. It's typically limited to 50 points per week, so regular donations can steadily top up your next $5 reward while doing something good.
💡 Hack #6: Quick Wins With Email & Text Opt-ins
Look for welcome offers like 20% off your first VIP purchase and SMS sign-up bonuses (often 15% off, limit one per customer). Stack these on top of a sale for your strongest first order.
🚚 Shipping & Returns
- Shipping: VIP members get free standard shipping when signed in. Elite may see faster-shipping perks during select promos.
- Returns: Most unworn items are returnable within 60 days. Your refund reflects the final price paid after rewards and offers.
✔️ FAQ
Can you stack rewards with a promo code? Yes - you usually can use one promo code and still apply rewards, unless the offer excludes stacking.
How fast do points turn into rewards? Every 100 points becomes a $5 reward; rewards post to your VIP account.
Are clearance items excluded from promos? Sometimes. Check each offer's exclusions. If excluded, you can still apply rewards dollars to clearance.
🎯 The Takeaway
Join VIP, watch for a welcome offer, and build carts from Sale/Clearance. At checkout, apply one promo and your $5 rewards. With free VIP shipping and steady points from purchases + donations, you'll keep your footwear budget under control without sacrificing brands you love.
P.S. Want more ways to save? Explore our always-fresh Deals & Coupons, sharpen your strategy with Savings Tips & Hacks, and stretch your budget with quick wins in Earn Cash Rewards.