Shein And Everlane Combination Tests The Limits Of Sustainable Consumers

BusinessRetailShein And Everlane Combination Tests The Limits Of Sustainable ConsumersBySharon Edelson,Senior Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I write about retail and the forces that are redefining shopping.Follow AuthorMay 21, 2026, 01:13pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Shein, which has been called the world's biggest fast fashion polluter is reportedly acquiring Everlane, a darling in sustainable circles. (Photo by Julie SEBADELHA / AFP) (Photo by JULIE SEBADELHA/AFP via Getty Images)AFP via Getty ImagesA gut punch, is how Disney Petit described feeling when she heard that fast fashion giant Shein was reportedly acquiring Everlane, known for sustainability and transparency, for $100 million. The CEO of LiquiDonate, which offers liquidation and donation solutions, said, “There’s opportunity on the table. Shein has the infrastructure, the capital and now they have a brand. It’s just difficult to believe that it’s going to materialize sooner rather than later. Their entire supply chain is very destructive.”The two cultures couldn’t be more different. It’s an extreme case of strange bedfellows, mismatched brands and clashing ethoses. Shein’s potential acquisition of Everlane was first reported by Puck News, and is said to have been approved by the board of L Catterton, the majority owner of Everlane, whose members include LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton chairman and CEO Bernard Arnault and his family.Shein is considered one of, if not the most, polluting fashion brands in the world. It emitted 16.7 million metric tons of C02 in 2023 and Shein’s emissions went up in 2024. Scope 3 emissions are up 170% over the past two years, according to Earth.org. The Chinese brand has the lowest possible rating on commitments, renewals advocacy and clean shipping, and a D-minus in materials and circularity. Yale University has called She...