FAQ
What makes Mary Frances bags so special?
Every Mary Frances bag is a wearable work of art. Each piece is a hand-beaded handbag embellished with rhinestones, crystals, studs, and trims sourced from around the world, and every single one is set by hand by skilled artisans. No two bags are exactly alike. When you carry a Mary Frances, you're carrying a truly unique, one-of-a-kind purse that no one else will have.
Are the bags really handmade?
Every single one. We work with carefully vetted, ethically certified artisan partners who craft each handmade designer bag using traditional hand workmanship. That means fair wages, dignified working conditions, and an educational fund for their children. When you buy Mary Frances, the good vibes go a lot further than your outfit.
Will my favorite style always be available?
Not necessarily ~ and that's part of what makes Mary Frances special. New styles are always being introduced, and others are retired to make room for them. If a beaded evening bag or novelty clutch catches your eye, don't wait. Once it's gone, it's gone.
How much does shipping cost, and how long will it take?
Domestic orders over $200 ship free. For orders under $200, exact shipping costs will be calculated and displayed in your cart at checkout, so no surprises. Orders are processed in 1-4 business days before heading out (weekend orders kick off Monday). We ship via UPS or USPS: see our shipping page for transit time estimates by region.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! Mary Frances ships worldwide via USPS or UPS. You'll see exact shipping costs in your cart before you check out.
What about customs duties and taxes?
International orders may be subject to customs duties and taxes upon arrival. These vary by country and are solely the customer's responsibility. Occasional shipping restrictions may apply in certain regions; check our shipping page for the latest. When in doubt, reach out and we'll help you figure it out.
What does "Pre-Order" mean?
When you see an item listed as Pre-Order, it means it's not in stock just yet, but it's on its way. Go ahead and place your order and we'll ship it to you as soon as it arrives. Good things are worth the wait!
What if an item I ordered is on backorder?
We process and ship most orders within 1–4 business days. If something you've ordered isn't available to ship within that window, you'll receive an email notification letting you know it's on backorder. Backordered items typically ship within 1–4 weeks. For more specific timing, give us a call at 800.616.7776 . We're happy to help!
What is your return policy?
We want you to love your bag. If something isn't right, we'll happily refund or exchange new, unused, and undamaged merchandise within 15 days of the ship date (minus shipping costs). Email customerservice@maryfrances.com with your name, contact info, and order number to get the process started. Items must be returned with original tags, bead pack, dust cover, and packaging. Bags signed by Mary Frances are final sale.
What if my order arrived damaged?
Not the grand entrance your bag deserved. Please contact us right away at customerservice@maryfrances.com so we can take care of you.
Does my purchase make a difference beyond my closet?
It really does. Every order supports artisans in ethically certified, fair-trade working conditions and contributes to an educational fund for their families. We’ve planted over 34,915 trees through our tree-planting program, partner with the Pachamama Alliance to protect the Amazon rainforest, fund women entrepreneurs through Kiva, and support NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). It’s a lot of good packed into one beautiful embellished handbag.
Who is Mary Frances?
Mary Frances Shaffer founded her women’s accessories brand in 1989 in the San Francisco Bay Area, drawing inspiration from global cultures, nature, and art. The brand has been named to the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in America five times, and has been recognized for over a decade as one of the Top 100 women-owned businesses in the Bay Area. Along with her talented team, each handbag is designed in-house to give you a bespoke feel. When fast fashion moves on, a Mary Frances bag endures. Every collection is designed with care, made to last, and meant to become a cherished part of your story.
How do I get in touch?
We're always happy to hear from you. Reach us at customerservice@maryfrances.com or call 800.616.7776.