Shein, a global fast-fashion giant, has captured the hearts of millions with its trendy, affordable clothing, including $12 dresses that dominate social media feeds. But a more complex narrative lies behind the glossy marketing campaigns and influencer endorsements. The success of Shein is intolerably linked to its supply chain—a network of factories in China that operate at breakneck speed to meet consumer demand.

Shein’s business model revolves around offering stylish clothing at rock-bottom prices. For consumers, a $12 dress represents affordability without compromising on style. This is achieved through direct-to-consumer sales, minimal marketing costs, and rapid production cycles. However, such low prices often come at a hidden cost—the conditions under which these clothes are made.

Shein’s supply chain primarily relies on a vast network of small to medium-sized factories in China, particularly in Guangzhou. Unlike traditional fashion brands that operate on seasonal schedules, Shein uses a real-time retail model. This means it constantly monitors fashion trends and produces clothing in small batches, scaling up only when items prove popular. While this approach minimizes waste and overproduction, it places immense pressure on factory workers to produce high volumes at lightning speed.

Reports from investigative journalists and labor rights organizations have painted a troubling picture of working conditions in some of these factories. Workers are often subjected to long hours, minimal pay, and limited breaks to meet the company’s tight deadlines. In some cases, they work in cramped, poorly ventilated spaces, with little regard for health and safety standards. These conditions enable Shein to maintain its competitive edge but raise ethical concerns about the true cost of its clothing.