Shein accused of ‘shaming’ customers into buying more than they can afford
Guardian1 day
EU Consumer Group Files Complaint Against SHEIN Over Alleged Dark Patterns
Above: Close-up of the label of a pair of size M men s pants from the SHEIN brand manufactured in China in Valence, France, on June 3, 2025. Image copyright: Nicolas Guyonnet/Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
SHEIN's working patterns are predatory business practices that exploit consumers' psychological vulnerabilities to drive excessive spending on low-quality products, creating wardrobes full of barely-worn clothes while exposing them to harmful chemicals and fueling environmental destruction. The company must be held responsible for its deliberately harmful decision-making.
Narrative B
SHEIN operates a legitimate business model. The company has repeatedly attempted to engage constructively with consumer groups and regulators to address any concerns, but advocacy organizations like BEUC have refused dialogue while making unfounded accusations. These complaints ignore consumer choice and the genuine popularity of SHEIN's services across Europe.