The French government has initiated proceedings to prohibit the popular online fashion retailer Shein. This decision followed only an hour after Shein opened its first in-person store in the country. Today the store continues to prominently occupy the 6th floor of the BHV department store in Paris. This is a big move for the brand, which has existed almost exclusively online until this point.
The announcement about the suspension follows a coordinated effort by prosecutors to investigate Shein’s website. Such dolls, routinely referred to as pedo-dolls or childlike sex dolls, are increasingly under the scrutiny of authorities. They have raised moral, ethical, and legal concerns. This alarming find has raised the ire of several advocacy organizations. Now, they’re holding the fashion giant’s feet to the fire.
The opening of the Shein pop up in Paris was a historic day for the brand. Everyone rejoiced at Shein’s rapid rise in popularity—for making cheap, fashionable clothing that was cute and trendy. The store’s location in a prominent department store signifies Shein’s ambition to expand its physical presence and engage directly with customers. Yet, the delight at the successful launch was soon overcast by the Indian government’s aggressive response.
Witnesses described a festive scene at the shop’s opening. Customers with a Shein kamen Abundant, eager customers stood in line to check out Shein’s wares. This enthusiasm is a world away from the federal government’s effort. More broadly, it underscores the prevalent tension and controversy surrounding fast fashion retailers, their business models and labor practices. Environmental and labor advocates have criticized fast fashion brands like Shein for prioritizing unsustainable production practices. They’re drawing attention to the harmful social impact of targeted products marketed to underserved communities.
Investigations continue. As the first suspension of its kind ordered against Shein, it will be instructive to follow how Shein addresses these allegations and what this suspension means for its activities in France and across the globe. The company has not issued an official response directly acknowledging the crisis.