Shein On? Successful Shopping at Shein.com

Friends have been asking me about my recent posts, showing some products from Shein.com, a website that is showing up on Insta and Facebook feeds. Their main drawing cards? Low prices, special deals, and free shipping on minimal orders. But how is the quality? Is the sizing consistent? I’m here to answer all these questions and more!

1.Read reviews carefully

The best way to know how an item fits is to read the reviews left my others. Most reviewers will comment on the fit of the item (too large, small, etc) and the quality. It helps to sort the reviews by most recent- otherwise the “top” reviews show first by default. I find their sizing is pretty spot-on, but the reviews give even more specific information.

2. Look at the photos that reviewers post

This has been the most helpful for me. It’s amazing how much different an item looks on a “real” person, instead of the models online. There’s also a style gallery, where people post photos of themselves in the clothes. The actual review photos are a bit more honest, however, because the “style gallery” is geared more toward getting likes than giving honest reviews.

3. Read fabric information

Many items are polyester; for example, I ordered a t-shirt that I love, but when I received it, I was a little surprised because it was polyester and not cotton. Just be aware that you might be expecting a thick cotton, but you’ll receive a thin polyester. Reading the material composition can avoid any unrealistic expectations.

4. Be aware of shipping information and return information

I haven’t returned any items, so I’m relying on the website for their information. The main things I see are that you’re going to pay return shipping- and that’s to China. Since their prices are so cheap, you might find it easier just to keep the item or give it away, rather than hassle with a return. Also, unless otherwise specified, the return goes to an account called a “wallet,” rather than directly to your method of payment. You can then request a Paypal transfer to get your money back.

5. You get what you pay for

The old adage is true. Shein is best suited for items you don’t plan on keeping forever- it’s great for trying new trends, or just getting some inexpensive jewelry that you don’t plan on leaving as a keepsake. When the items arrive, they are squashed into plastic bags. Each item looks much better after a good wash/dry (read the labels first!) and I even ironed most of my clothes before wearing.