Returns process sucks

I bought sandals and a jump suit from ZARA store in V&A Waterfront in Cpt on Dec 20 2021 for my daughter who is in P. E. Unfortunately the sandals were small, should have bought a size bigger. OK so there's no ZARA store in P. E anymore so had wait until I return back to Cpt for me to exchange the sandals. Went to store yesterday 20/01/2022 and explained what my issue is and I had lost the receipt but have proof of purchase as I used my bank card, explained I'm not looking for a refund but to exchange for a bigger size. Was given Zara's customer service email address. Sent the email and their response shocked me that they can't do anything, no exchange, no refund and no gift card 😡.