As the UK braces for more heatwaves this August, one retail returns management specialist has warned that the summer of high temperatures may be shaping how people choose their occasionwear – and how much of it is sent back.
ReBound Returns, which processes millions of return transactions every year for retailers globally, saw a 55% rise in sparkly item returns between March 2026 and June 2026.
A snapshot of the sparkly items returned via ReBound’s warehouses this summer found that occasionwear dresses were commonly returned with prices ranging from approximately £30 to £160, showing that the trend for sending back sparkles is happening across price points.
Liselotte Reijrink, sales director UK & EU at ReBound Returns, said: “Sparkles look incredible in the sunshine and in photos, and we’ve seen a 55% jump in sparkly, embellished, glitter and sequinned items over spring and early summer this year. With record-breaking temperatures, it’s tempting to assume that customers are returning these pieces because they are too hot or restrictive for the heat, but the warmer weather could also be encouraging people to buy more fun, statement outfits for events. More items being bought means more being returned.
“Early summer is peak season for exactly the kind of events where people reach for something special: weddings, proms, graduations, award nights, charity galas and pop concerts. Adding some shimmer to an outfit can be the perfect touch, but customers could be more likely to buy multiple items in different styles and sizes to try on at home. Sparkly items are more typically bought for a single occasion rather than everyday wear, which makes it more important that the fit, comfort, and overall look are right for the buyer. It also means that retailers need to be alert to wardrobing: buying an item for an occasion, wearing it once and then returning it for a full refund. Wardrobers aren’t taking a summer holiday, and snagged embellishments, frayed hem lines or even make-up or tan stains are tell-tale signs on “unworn” items. Some wardrobers even send the items right back after the event before they even go to sleep.
“The bigger question for retailers is what happens next. Rather than assuming that this year’s sparkly trends will follow the same pattern, they should use their data to understand what returns have been driven by, such as the changing weather or event schedules. If selling increased numbers of sparkly items, they need to prepare for increased numbers coming back and get them back on shelves quickly for other customers. There’s also an opportunity to think about repurposing some of the stock for the Christmas party season.”
