Shein is officially moving forward with its acquisition of Everlane, as both companies have now confirmed, following months of industry rumors. The ultra-fast fashion giant will purchase a majority stake in Everlane from LVMH-backed private equity firm L Catterton for an undisclosed amount, pending regulatory approval.
As Puck reported in March, L Catterton had been looking for an investor to help clear about $90 million in debt that Everlane had accumulated. This included a $25 million loan from investment firm Gordon Brothers and a $65 million asset-based revolving credit line.
The news comes after nearly a week of intense speculation, with leaks, unconfirmed reports, and strong opinions flying around. Behind the scenes, Shein and Everlane were busy conducting due diligence.
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Does the Everlane Sale Mark the Death of Millennial Sustainability?
By Sophie Benson and Bella Webb
Everlane employees were officially informed on Friday morning. In a message to staff—obtained by Vogue Business—Everlane CEO Alfred Chang addressed the moral conflict many might feel about the change in ownership. “This past week has been a hard one. Seeing our company in the media, and in that light, was painful. Needing to stay silent per standard process in these matters has been even harder. I want you to know I’ve felt the weight of that alongside you,” he wrote. “I want to be clear: Everlane remains Everlane. I will continue as CEO, our leadership team will stay in place, and we’ll continue operating independently, with our design standards, brand philosophy, and values intact. Moving forward, Everlane will unlock key opportunities by increasing our competitive advantage and reaching more customers around the world.”
The sale marks a major shift for the sustainable fashion movement. For many, Everlane represents the optimistic millennial idea that consumers could shop their way to sustainability. With this sale comes the overdue recognition that customer behavior alone won’t push the fashion industry toward better practices; that sustainability can’t rely on moral arguments to justify higher prices; and that deeper, political action is needed to raise the standards of the entire industry, rather than putting all the pressure on a well-meaning but under-resourced minority.
Some experts say there could be benefits to this unlikely partnership. Shein—whose emissions are skyrocketing—is highly stigmatized in the industry, even though many brands share similar practices. But the company has always responded to criticism that its business model drives overproduction by pointing to its data-driven, on-demand supply chain—an ecosystem Everlane could now tap into. This could lead to greater operational efficiency and meaningful impact if the companies can align their growth goals with absolute emissions reductions.
“Like many brands, we’ve faced increasing pressure in a rapidly changing retail landscape. This partnership allows us to remain independent, and gives us the stability and resources to make a larger impact, without compromising on the quality and standards that make Everlane, Everlane,” said Chang. “It means we can invest more in our product, innovation, our people, and our craft—ultimately delivering on our founding mission to make everything that Everlane stands for more accessible.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of FAQs about Shein confirming it is selling Everlane written in a natural tone with clear direct answers
BeginnerLevel Questions
1 Wait is Shein actually selling Everlane now
Yes Shein has confirmed that it is selling Everlane products on its platform This means you can buy Everlane items directly from the Shein website or app
2 Why would Everlane a brand known for ethical fashion sell on Shein
Thats the big question Everlane hasnt given a full explanation yet but its likely a business move to reach a much larger younger audience and boost sales Its a controversial decision given Sheins very different reputation
3 Are the Everlane items on Shein real or fake
They are real authentic Everlane items Shein has an official partnership or distribution deal to sell these products so they arent knockoffs or counterfeits
4 Will the prices be the same as on Everlanes own website
Not necessarily Prices on Shein for Everlane items may be differentsometimes discounted to clear old stock or sometimes slightly higher Its best to compare prices directly
5 Does this mean Everlane is going out of business
No This is just a new sales channel for Everlane Its like a brand deciding to also sell through a big department store or marketplace Their own website and stores are still operating
IntermediateLevel Questions
6 How does this affect Sheins reputation for fast fashion
Its complicated Shein is trying to add more recognizable quality brands to its platform to seem more legitimate However critics say its greenwashingusing Everlanes ethical image to distract from Sheins own sustainability issues
7 Does this mean Everlane is now a fast fashion brand
Not automatically Everlanes core business model hasnt changed But selling on Shein creates a major contradiction If Everlane is now helping Shein profit it weakens its own radical transparency and ethical messaging
8 What kind of Everlane products are available on Shein
So far it seems to be a mix of pastseason styles basics
