Returned dress but only option given was a credit note-is this legal?

Bought a dress in a boutique (not on sale) for a significant sum. At the time of purchase there was definately no mention of the returns policy of the shop & I cant recall the policy being on display. I dont think there was any mention of return options on the receipt either (too tired to check tonight)
Dress didn't suit me and I returned it within 7 days to be told that my only option was a credit note. I queried this ("Is this my only option?" was told "yes") but was too exhausted to demand any more, having travelled a distance from work. When I asked how long the credit note was valid for I was told "usually 3 months." In hindsight, I feel that I was badly treated and would like opinions on this situation.

It was more than they needed to offer.

You have no rights to change your mind.

You got more than your statutory rights so you have no comeback. While a lot of the high street shops allow you to return within 30 days no questions asked, it's a gesture of goodwill. Most of the more expensive shops only allow a credit note and that too is only a gesture of goodwill. You are entetled to a refund if the goods are faulty

Credit notes for those type of shops can be a pain but if you can't see anything else you like, invest in a few staples like a nice pair of trousers, skirts, blouses.

Sounds like a good shop as they gave you more than you were legally entitled to. There was no defect or fault with your purchase, you just changed your mind.

Sadly, all the previous posters are right. The same thing happened to me in an expensive boutique, was offered a credit note, valid for 3 months.
I hadn't seen anything else I liked within that 3 month period. Before the 3 months were up, I asked the shop manager to extend the credit note for a further 3 months and they kindly did for me. So keep an eye on that expiry date and they may do the same for you!

All of the above are correct, the shop has actually given you more than you are entitled to.

It's always worrth checking what the returns policy is, if it is not obvious to you. You can ask for an expection - I did this with an outfit I wasn;t 100% sure about as it was quite different to my normal style. I was told there was no returns policy at all, so I spoke to the manager and got her to agree to a full refund on the basis I had made the decision by close of business, the next day (she made a note of it on the reciept).

Happily, the outfit was fine & no need to return, but I would not have bought the outfit had she not being able to accomodate me.

Thanks for all replies