Last updated: 11 February 2026
Alterist is a curated marketplace where customers can purchase limited-edition upcycled pieces directly from independent designers based in the UK and EU.
This Buyer Policy forms part of our Terms of Use.
By placing an order on Alterist, you agree to this policy and our Terms.
Alterist provides a platform that connects customers with independent designers. When you purchase an item on Alterist:
You are buying directly from the designer, not from Alterist.
Alterist facilitates payment and shipping.
Each designer manages their own listings, processing times, and return policies.
Designers are responsible for the accuracy of their product descriptions, images, and representations.
Alterist pre-screens designers to maintain quality standards. However, we do not guarantee, certify, or endorse individual products beyond the information provided by the seller.
If you provide your own materials for a custom order, you assume responsibility for the suitability and quality of those materials.
If you believe a listing violates our policies, you may report it confidentially by emailing:
info@alterist.com
You may contact designers via Alterist’s messaging system to ask questions about products, sizing, production timelines, or your order.
Messages must not be used to:
Send unsolicited advertising or promotions
Harass, intimidate, or abuse another member
Circumvent the Alterist checkout system
Exchange contact or payment details for transactions outside the platform
All transactions must take place through Alterist’s secure checkout system.
Misuse of the messaging system may result in suspension or removal from the platform.
By purchasing an item on Alterist, you confirm that you have:
Read the product description and any designer-specific policies
Submitted full and accurate payment
Provided accurate delivery information
All payments are processed securely via Stripe.
For security and fraud prevention, transactions conducted outside of the Alterist checkout system are not protected and may result in account suspension.
Designers are required to dispatch in-stock items within 2 working days.
Made-to-order items may have longer production timelines, which will be confirmed by email following your order.
All shipments are tracked. You will receive a tracking number once dispatched.
If your parcel appears lost or significantly delayed, please contact:
info@alterist.com
Alterist will investigate with the relevant carrier and work toward an appropriate resolution.
If you experience an issue with your order, you must first contact the designer directly and allow them reasonable time to respond.
If the issue cannot be resolved, you may escalate the matter by emailing:
info@alterist.com
Please include:
Order number
Date of purchase
Description of the issue
Supporting evidence (if applicable)
Alterist will review the matter and determine appropriate next steps in line with marketplace policies and applicable consumer law.
A non-delivery may occur if:
There is no proof of dispatch
The item was not sent to the address provided at checkout
Carrier delays outside the seller’s control do not automatically qualify as non-delivery.
An item may be considered not as described if it is materially different from the listing, including:
Incorrect size, colour, or model
Undisclosed damage
Incorrect quantity
Misrepresented condition
Minor variations in colour or material due to screen differences or the nature of upcycled materials do not automatically qualify as misrepresentation.
Each designer sets their own return and exchange policies. These are stated on the designer’s profile or product listing.
As Alterist promotes responsible consumption and sustainable practices, we encourage customers to review sizing and product details carefully prior to purchase.
For made-to-order or personalised items, returns may not be accepted unless the item is faulty.
Where applicable, consumer rights under UK or EU law may apply.
Return shipping costs are typically the responsibility of the buyer unless the item is faulty or materially misrepresented.
Only sellers may cancel transactions.
Buyers may request cancellation by contacting the designer via Messages. Approval is at the discretion of the seller unless otherwise required by law.
All purchases must be completed through Alterist’s secure checkout system.
Transactions conducted outside the platform are not protected and may result in suspension.
For further details, please refer to our Terms of Use.
For assistance, please contact:
info@alterist.com