Claire - you can always bring it back to where you purchased it. I would say the item is defective if you followed the washing instructions and it still bled. They have to take back defective items under the law although they may give you a hard time - don't ack down. And if you paid by a credit card that comes with purchase protection you may have another avenue to puruse. I know you want the skirt but you shouldn't be left with something that isn't wearable and no refund.