🇫🇷 Shein’s Bold Move Stirs Controversy
The French fashion world erupted after Shein announced its advisory committee appointments, which include Christophe Castaner, a former interior minister. The French Federation of Women’s Ready-to-Wear accused Shein of using ex-politicians to greenwash its image. On December 6, Shein announced the creation of strategic committees to enhance corporate responsibility, but the timing—just before the Senate reviewed anti-ultra-fast fashion laws—sparked outrage. The National Assembly unanimously passed these laws in March 2024.
🌍 Industry Criticism of Shein’s Practices
The federation slammed Shein’s environmental and social impact. Yann Rivoallan, its president, criticized the brand’s disruption of sustainable efforts, calling the partnerships “shameful.” Shein, which caters to 3M daily users in France, undermines local brands by pushing low-cost clothing, according to the federation. Despite Shein’s claim of contributing €1.1B to Europe’s GDP in 2023, Rivoallan emphasized that its growth, projected at 30% in 2024, risks destroying thousands of jobs in the French fashion industry.
🛑 Call for Action Against Ultra-Fast Fashion
In a statement, the federation urged stakeholders, citizens, and lawmakers to stand against Shein. “We cannot allow companies like Shein to trample on our industry’s efforts toward responsibility,” said Rivoallan. The push for legislation aims to limit ultra-fast fashion’s environmental and social harm. Critics view Shein’s hiring of public figures as a strategy to block meaningful regulation and legitimize its practices in the European market.
🧩 The Broader Impact on Fashion and Policy
Shein’s influence extends beyond economics. Its strategy to integrate former political leaders threatens policy advancements on sustainability. France has led the EU in proposing measures to curtail ultra-fast fashion, but this lobbying complicates enforcement. The controversy highlights a deeper tension: balancing economic growth with ethical practices. With the Senate debate looming, the outcome could set a precedent for global fashion policy and corporate accountability.
Should ex-politicians work for fast-fashion giants like Shein?
