Shein Reviews 2021: Safe Buy or Scam Alert? - Anchored In Elegance (2024)

Have you been searching “Shein Reviews 2021”? You’re not alone! Earlier this month, SHEIN topped Amazon as the most downloaded shopping app for Android/IOS in the U.S. That’s according to data from app tracking firms App Annie and SensorTower. Shein is valued at $15 billion, yet you really have to dig to find information on this company (that’s part of the strategy). In fact, many in the 30+ crowd have never heard of it.

How then is SHEIN challenging a behemoth like Amazon?

  • Shockingly low prices
  • Extensive choice – (tens of thousands of new products dailymind boggling, right?)
  • Complete control of its own production chain (design, prototype, procurement, manufacturing)
  • Innovative use of algorithms to understand/respond to shopper habits in real time

Hunting for “SHEIN Reviews 2021” but want something that goes a little deeper? You’ve come to the right place!

Dress ($23) | Dress (Same Print Different Style)

First, let’s get the big question out of the way.

Is Shein legit?

Yes, this is a real company… and a big one. It is not some phishing scam looking to steal your credit card information. The items you order will match the photos on the website. I say this from experience, as I’ve placed many Shein orders. I’ve tried everything from swimwear to sweaters (some better than others). All of the clothing I’m wearing in these photos is from Shein. I’ve found the more familiar you get with this retailer, the more you understand how to shop it, and begin to increase your odds of loving what you buy.

Pro tip: If you want to try Shein with the safety net of free returns/lightning fast shipping, it now has a store on Amazon with hundreds of options.

Dress ($23) | Dress (Same Print Different Style)

I’ve written about SHEIN before, back in the early days of my blog. At the time, I could find precious little information about the company. So, I simply shared my personal shopping experience. There is a lot more info available now. Forbes wrote about SHEIN in February and several online writers have explored its rapid success in detail (this one is super comprehensive).

In this post, I’ll summarize the new details I’ve learned about this ultra fast-fashion company + the pros/cons of buying from SHEIN. I’ll also touch on why I’ve continued to shop the brand and partner with them on Instagram.

Note: SHEIN is not sponsoring the blog post, I am writing this solely to be a resource and to answer questions I’ve personally had about the brand. I’m hoping this information helps you formulate your own opinions and assists you as you make your shopping decisions.

Shein Reviews 2021: Safe Buy or Scam Alert? - Anchored In Elegance (4)

Dress ($20) | White Purse | Earrings | Similar Heels

Shein Reviews 2021: Company Origin?

Shein describes itself as an international B2C fast-fashion e-commerce platform. Although it heavily downplays its roots (there is no mention of China on its website), Shein is a Chinese company headquartered in Nanjing. It services more than 220 countries and has warehouses around the world, including in Los Angeles.

What does B2C mean? Basically, cutting out the middlemen…

According to internet analyst Matthew Brennan, Shein controls its entire production chain, utilizes competitors websites, Google Trend Finder, and in-app user behavior to forecast demand… then recruits its own designers to create a robust/responsive product catalog. This allows the brand to pump out thousands of new products daily, all tailored to the tastes of the various regions it serves.

Interestingly, Shein does not sell in China. It is export only, so most Chinese consumers have never heard of it. That’s one of the reasons for its low media profile within China. Instead, Shein targets the U.S. market, Europe, South America, and the Middle East. Little is known about its CEO, American-born Chris Xu. He doesn’t give interviews, nor does Shein itself.

But enough about background and strategy…

If you’re here looking for 2021 Shein reviews, you’re probably here for details on the shopping experience! So, let’s break down those pros and cons…

Paisley Dress ($14) – I wear this all the time!

The Shopping Experience – Shein Reviews 2021

First, let’s be realistic… When shopping Shein, you need to consider what you’re spending. We can’t possibly expect haute couture at an under $25 price point. If you’re looking for high quality, durable garments you’ll wear for decades… Shein isn’t for you. However, it does have its uses. And from my perspective, is continually improving!

When to Shop Shein…

  • To test out something trendy
  • When you’re looking for something specific you can’t find elsewhere (it offers every style under the sun and has a very effective search tool)
  • To source a style similar to designer duds
  • When you’re hunting for interesting vacation wear
  • Those one-time wear scenarios (e.g. formal event)

Although Shein’s website is broad and a touch overwhelming, it has an uncanny ability to offer suggestions that match what I’m looking for. Sometimes I feel like it’s reading my mind! I’ve had the most luck with dresses, skirts, and blouses/blazers.

While Shein sizing has been getting more consistent over the years, I still don’t recommend purchasing pants or any super slim cut styles. In general, Shein runs smaller and shorter than U.S. retailers. As a petite, that’s a positive for me! However, taller ladies should pay close attention to the lengths on sizing guides so you don’t have any unpleasant surprises.

Shein Reviews 2021: Safe Buy or Scam Alert? - Anchored In Elegance (8)

Ruffled Dress ($43)

It has super fun/super cheap swimwear. If you want something daring, this is a great place to test new swim styles (below are a few styles catching my eye). On the flip side, Shein isn’t the place I’d turn for wardrobe staples or classic pieces. Shein fabrics can be sheer and stiff. I’ve had some pieces that feel amazingly high quality, while others seemed scratchy and rough. This is a tough thing to gauge based on product and customer photos alone.

Shein Reviews 2021: Safe Buy or Scam Alert? - Anchored In Elegance (10)

That’s where reviews come in. Read… them… carefully!

Additionally, keep in mind that quality increases along with the price point on Shein. For example, the beautiful bridesmaid/event dress pictured above is $43. That’s expensive for Shein. Consequently, the dress was remarkable in quality. It has padded cups, a secondary lining, and the fabric moves beautifully.

Shein has also launched a premium collection, MOTF. MOTF offers better construction/higher quality fabrics and unique designer silhouettes. When shopping Shein, I typically stick to the $15-40 price range. Unless it’s swimwear, I don’t recommend buying anything under $10 from Shein. Under $10 finds are pretty lackluster in quality. Shein also has a growing line up of plus size styles and children’s clothing.

Puffed Sleeve Blouse (on sale for $11.49)

How About Shipping & Returns?

Shipping has gotten a lot faster since I first began ordering from Shein. I live in Lafayette, Ind. and typically receive my Shein orders within 1-2 weeks.

I haven’t ever returned anything from Shein, so I can’t personally speak to the return process. Because of the super low price point, if something doesn’t work out, I usually donate it. Here is what Shein’s website says about returns:

You must send back and postmark your return packages within 45 days after the purchase date. No returns made after 45 days from the purchase date will be accepted.

Shipping is free on your 1st return for any order. You must use the shipping label they provide.

If you are returning something beyond that 1st free return order, then $7.99 in shipping will be deducted from your refund. You also have to option to use your own shipping method and cost to get your return back to Shein.

Have you shopped at Shein?

Would love to hear your perspective on the experience! Drop me a note in the comments and please pass along any questions you may have.

Related

Shein Reviews 2021: Safe Buy or Scam Alert? - Anchored In Elegance (2024)

FAQs

Is it safe to order from Shein 2021? ›

Thousands of online shoppers and fashionistas want answers to the same question: Is SheIn legit? While plenty of online reviews say otherwise, the short answer is: Yes. SheIn is a legit clothing brand, but you should always shop with caution.

What is happening with Shein? ›

The company was reportedly working with about 2,000 Indian influencers alone before the Indian government banned the app in 2020 as a retaliatory move against China. An Extinction Rebellion protestor holds a placard reading "SHEIN = 22% of warming gas emitted for youths" in front of a pop-up store.

Is Shein a Chinese company? ›

Shein (/ˈʃiːɪn/ SHEE-in; styled as SHEIN; Chinese: 希音; pinyin: Xīyīn) is a Chinese online fast fashion retailer headquartered in Singapore.

Should you wash the clothes you get from Shein? ›

Yes, for the most part, some —not all— Shein clothes can have toxic elements like lead and chemicals from dyes; thus, wash your Shein clothing hauls before wearing. Washing dilutes these dyes and chemicals, reducing the chances of an allergic reaction.

Is Shein 100% safe? ›

Is Shein Reliable and Safe? All else aside, it's totally safe to order from Shein. You don't need to worry about it being caught up in some elaborate phishing scam. The only thing you risk when placing an order from Shein's official website is that you might face disappointment in the future.

Why is Shein asking for verification? ›

For your and your account's security, we can only use the phone and/or email you've provided in your account, which is one of the reasons why it is required that this information is up-to-date and valid. When contacted, we usually ask you to submit select payment details or, in some cases, identification documents.

Why are people not supporting Shein? ›

More violations of the Chinese labour law. Shein workers are paid per item. So the more items they make, the more they get paid. This system encourages employees to work long hours, but this also means that if a garment doesn't pass the quality check, they don't get paid for it.

Why is Shein shutting down? ›

SHEIN is likely violating the UFLPA, federal law that states “any goods, wares, articles, and merchandise mined, produced, or manufactured wholly or in part” in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) of China should be assumed to be the product of forced labor unless proven otherwise by “clear and convincing evidence ...

Is Shein working in USA? ›

The Shein branded goods, although based in China, can be found in the US and Canada through several online shop fronts. The supremely successful brand usually targets the Gen Z crowd and has been successfully profiting through this marketing scheme.

How does Shein sell so cheap? ›

Shein saves money and can price their clothes so low because they outsource their labor to countries where the wages are cheaper. Shein also sells their products directly to consumers and doesn't have physical stores, which keeps their operational costs low.

Where does Shein get their clothes from? ›

Originally, everything on the site shipped directly from China. Now, the clothing on Shein comes from several wholesale warehouses around the world. Although many items still ship directly from Chinese factories, local places offer shorter waiting times for the same products.

Where is Shein located in USA? ›

If you are from the US and ordering through the app, Shein will automatically get your orders from their warehouse in the US. It is located in Los Angeles. The clothes from their warehouse in Foshan are shipped to their LA warehouse.

How do you remove toxins from clothes? ›

Sprinkle one small-sized box of baking soda (or 1 cup) into the washing machine. Soak the clothes overnight. When convenient during the soaking, agitate the machine for a few minutes. Launder as usual.

Is Shein true to size? ›

Based on my many years of shopping experience in Shein, Shein's clothes are small in size. Although it is not the case, it is found that about 90% of the clothes are small in size. Therefore, when you shop in Shein, we suggest that you must check the size of the product.

How do you remove lead from clothing? ›

If you are exposed to lead and your employer does not launder your clothing, you should take the clothing home in a plastic bag and put the clothing directly into the washing machine. You should use detergents to remove lead. Other clothing should not be washed with the work clothing.

What is a size 22 in Shein? ›

At Shein, 0XL is the equivalent of a size 12 instead of the usual size 16, and a 5X is a size 22, not the expected size 30 to 32. Shein Curve's selection includes more than 75,000 clothing options, ranging from dresses and workwear to swimwear and lingerie.

How long does Shein take to deliver? ›

Shein also ships to the USA and offers multiple shipping methods for delivery. The estimated delivery time with standard delivery is 7 to 11 days. It takes 3 to 7 days in case of express shipping. You can track your order using your order tracking information.

What does 100 mean in Shein? ›

US size 4 = 100. US size 5 = 110. US size 6-7 = 120. US size 8 = 130. Shein sizing used to run small but do not size up anymore.

Does SHEIN sell info to dark web? ›

There have been rumors and concerns circulating online about Shein selling users' information on the dark web. However, there is no concrete evidence to support these claims, and Shein has denied any involvement in such activities.

Is SHEIN a secure website to order from? ›

Is Shein a scam? Shein is a reputable online retailer. If you're shopping from the US they have a great return policy (free return shipping on the first return package from your order within 30 days). Shein is one of the fastest growing online retailers (making the front page of the Wall Street Journal in summer 2021).

How do I remove my credit card from SHEIN? ›

If you want to delete your payment information on your SHEIN account, e.g. bank card info, please log in to your SHEIN account and select [My Account] - [ My Payment Options ]. If you want to delete other data you provided to SHEIN, you can submit a request .

Why are people boycotting Shein? ›

Shien's issues are certainly not unique to the brand, but Shein's unsustainable practices of overproduction are exceptionally bad. Wired found that, in 2021, Zara and H&M, the two largest fast fashion companies besides Shein, listed 35,000 and 25,000 different items, respectively. Shein listed 1.3 million.

How much does Shein pay their workers? ›

The documentary reported Shein garment workers are paid as little as four cents per clothing item in work shifts that can last up to 18 hours.

What problems is Shein facing? ›

According to a report by the Business and Human Rights Resource Centre, Shein has been linked to several factories in Bangladesh and India that have been found to violate workers' rights, including low wages, long working hours, and unsafe working conditions.

Is Shein taking over Amazon? ›

The China-based company surpassed Amazon in terms of global app downloads in 2021, but the first half of 2022 marks the first time it's eclipsed Amazon in the US—with 22.4 million Shein downloads versus 22 million for Amazon, according to a new report from Apptopia(Opens in a new window).

Who bought Shein? ›

Chris Xu, the founder and billionaire behind the company, primarily owns SHEIN. SHEIN leverages a real-time retail business model, where fashion trends are created out of social media platforms like TikTok, which are quickly turned around as products available for shopping online.

Will Shein ever come back? ›

Shein is making a comeback in India through Amazon after its app was banned | CNN Business.

What does Shein mean? ›

Jewish (Ashkenazic): nickname or artificial name from Yiddish sheyn 'fine beautiful'.

Does Shein no longer ship to the US? ›

-Yes, Shein USA ships to package forwarders with no issue. In fact, Shein is one of MyUS' top stores in terms of shipment volume.

Where does Shein sell the most? ›

Shein US users

The US is Shein's second largest market by total usage (behind Brazil) and its largest by revenue.

Why are clothes so cheap on Amazon? ›

Well, most of the time, Amazon Fashion — the apparel retail arm that the massive eCommerce giant launched a few years ago as a way to segue into the fashion retail biz — is selling steeply discounted clearance items that it can afford to discount lower than most competitors because it is the dominant online seller.

Why is Shein so expensive to send? ›

While orders typically ship for free with the use of a coupon, Shein requires customers to ship returns directly back to China at the cost of the customer. Because shipping from the U.S. to China is so costly — often, the price of postage exceeds the original cost of the order — customers are reluctant to do it.

Who is the CEO of Shein? ›

Xu is the founder and chief executive of Shein Group, the Chinese fashion retailer that was valued at $100 billion in an April 2022 funding round. The online seller was founded in Nanjing, China in 2008 and by 2022 was the largest fast fashion company in the US market. Shein Group had revenue of $22.7 billion in 2022.

Do all clothes from Shein come from China? ›

Most SheIn items are coming from China, however they do have a warehouse in the United States. I've had items come as quickly as 2 business days and take as long as 15 business days. It usually depends on the number of items you order, but if you need an outfit quickly, I would make sure you order early.

How does Shein have so many items? ›

It relies on third-party suppliers in China to produce small batches of clothes, about 50-100 per item. If an item does well, more batches are commissioned; if not, the lines are immediately discontinued.

How does Shein treat their workers? ›

Shein launched an investigation after U.K. Channel Four documentary Untold: Inside The Shein Machine alleged that workers were subject to 16-hour-long days, got one day off a month, and earned wages of around 4,000 yuan ($572) per month to produce hundreds of garments for the online retailer each day.

What is the company name of Shein? ›

Nanjing Lingtian Information Technology Co. Ltd. is the parent company and the owner of Shein.

How does Shein deliver in USA? ›

SHEIN uses China Post and deliveries are handled by the United States Postal Service for Standard Shipping method to the United States. SHEIN typically works with national postal services also for Asian and European countries. For international express shipping the nominated carrier is FedEx.

What kills bacteria on clothes? ›

To kill the germs in your laundry, wash your clothes on the hot cycle, then put everything in the dryer for 45 minutes. Wash whites with bleach, and use peroxide or color-safe bleach for colors. Do your laundry in water that's at least 140 F to kill any viruses or bacteria.

How do I know if my clothes are toxic? ›

Look for GOTS-certified, OEKO-TEX and BlueSign fabrics.

Although there isn't a regulatory group for textile manufacturing, the OEKO-TEX and BlueSign standards focus specifically on eliminating toxic chemicals added during the garment manufacturing process.

What are the symptoms of toxic clothing? ›

The chemicals in clothing have been linked to health issues that can include neurotoxicity, liver, kidney, and lung disorders, and cancer – however, these symptoms are associated with long-term exposure. Whereas short-term exposure can lead to allergic reactions, skin irritation, and respiratory irritation.

What size is China XL in USA? ›

As a general rule, Asian XL sizes are roughly equal to US large sizes. However, the conversion depends on if you're converting for men, women or children.

Is a 2XL the same as XXL? ›

A 2XL garment is cut differently. In fact, it's half a size bigger than an XXL. The cut of the garment is also different. The 2XL is cut to be roomier for those who are obese and have larger curves.

Is Shein true to size XL? ›

In my experience, clothes from Shein run small. While this isn't true across the board, 90% of the time I have found this to be the case. This is why checking the sizing is important. When you hover over a certain size on the page of the item you're interested in, measurements come up.

Does Shein jewelry have lead in it? ›

Shein's products have been tested for toxic chemicals and metals and found to contain phthalates, PFAS, and lead - all of which can harm human health and the environment.

Do Clorox wipes get rid of lead? ›

To clean up Lead dust you must use disposable wipes with surfactant-containing detergent. Clorox Wipes or Lysol Wipes or any similar brand have been proven to work well for this.

How do you wash toxins out of clothes? ›

Sprinkle one small-sized box of baking soda (or 1 cup) into the washing machine. Soak the clothes overnight. When convenient during the soaking, agitate the machine for a few minutes. Launder as usual.

How should I wash my Shein clothes? ›

I wash these items on COLD and GENTLE Cycle. I do NOT dry these items. I hang them up and allow them to air dry. I also recommend using a mild detergent when washing these items.

Where does Shein get their clothes? ›

Originally, everything on the site shipped directly from China. Now, the clothing on Shein comes from several wholesale warehouses around the world. Although many items still ship directly from Chinese factories, local places offer shorter waiting times for the same products.

What size is 3XL? ›

Big and Tall Size Guide
SizeCMInches
2XL119 -125 cm46" - 48"
3XL127 -132 cm50" - 52"
4XL135 - 142 cm54" - 56"
5XL145 - 152 cm58" - 60"
3 more rows

Does Shein fit true to size? ›

In my experience, clothes from Shein run small. While this isn't true across the board, 90% of the time I have found this to be the case. This is why checking the sizing is important. When you hover over a certain size on the page of the item you're interested in, measurements come up.

Is dress size 14 plus-size? ›

Some departments may designate a size 12 as plus-size while others use a size 14. But according to Modeling Wisdom, plus-size models often fall into the range of sizes 8 to 12. Sometimes, even a size 6 can be considered.

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