Why is Shein so cheap?

Shein sells more than ever, but its low prices hide a dark secret. Apart from Amazon, Shein is an online store gaining customers worldwide. One of its main strengths is its reasonable prices, focusing on the sale of clothing, which is one reason for all this.

When we look for an online store where we will buy different types of products, one of the sections that we consider the most is everything related to price. That is precisely one of the great secrets of what could be considered a reference in selling clothing online, Shein.

Both men and women currently use this e-commerce proposal focused on clothing to receive their orders comfortably at home. Without a doubt, one of the great attractions of Shein is the low prices that they offer us on most of their products. In this sense, they even compete with the giant of commerce Amazon, which in most sectors is unattainable.

For many, the clothes purchased in this online store offer us something fundamental when shopping: good, pretty and cheap. Let’s start by saying that this store rose to fame by promoting cheap products. We could even find clothes for as little as 30 cents. But of course, at this point it may happen that some of its customers, or others who are thinking about it, wonder why these prices are low. This is precisely what we are going to show you below.

How is Shein so cheap?

The first thing to consider is that working conditions and quality standards are not the same in all countries. Also, salaries can vary greatly from one place to another. In some eastern regions, the minimum wage is much lower than in countries such as the United States, Canada and other European countries. This is something that companies are fully aware of.

By outsourcing labour, clothing wholesalers can thus reduce costs and increase profits by paying workers less. Product costs can also be reduced by reducing labour, resulting in affordable clothing. Shein thus produces its clothing in generic wholesale factories to keep its costs minimal. While this allows us to buy clothing at very cheap prices, it poses an ethical dilemma for some. The working standards of Shein seamstresses are, to say the least, controversial. According to reports, some Shein warehouse workers work more than 75 hours weekly. Shein is a Chinese company, but although it has a base in this country, no physical store manages orders. It started as an online retailer, and everything was shipped directly from China. Now, its clothes come from wholesale warehouses worldwide to shorten delivery times.

On the other hand, we find the quality section. And as they say, you get what you pay for in the end. This is also true for the store we discuss in these lines, Shein. The company often offers low-cost clothes because the quality leaves much to be desired. With this, we want to tell you that on many occasions, the clothes received cannot be considered durable or made by experts.

In short, if we combine the working conditions in some regions and the materials’ quality, we obtain clothing at the low prices offered by this online store.

Is Shein Good Quality?

So the old saying goes: you get what you pay for. This is incredibly relevant in the case of Shein. The company offers low-cost clothes because they are often of low quality. You should not expect clothes you get through Shein to be super durable or expertly made.

If it’s long-lasting pieces you’re looking for, it’s safer to opt for more expensive products made with the right materials by highly reputable brands.

Shein’s clothes are inexpensive for a reason, but not every Shein purchase will be a tragic rip-off. Sometimes, you end up with clothes that last for years. Other items lose shape or colour after several trips through the washing machine. Shopping at Shein can often be hit-or-miss, so keep this in mind.

Remember to pay close attention to the reviews when looking for something on Shein. You should also commit yourself to researching the type of garment that’s caught your eye and any drawbacks associated with the material used or the cut.

If you’re concerned about Shein’s practices, consider trying other affordable and sustainable options, such as online thrift stores.

Should I Buy Clothes From Shein?

Buying clothes from Shein is a personal choice, with many factors to consider. Many shop regularly from Shein and are happy with the service, while others are disappointed.

There’s nothing better than grabbing a deal, but if you want to shop sustainably or ethically, Shein likely isn’t the right choice. Plenty of other stores focus on sustainable and ethical practices you can use instead.