Global e-retailer Shein launches evoluSHEIN recycled clothing line

By shopping the evoluSHEIN line, customers support the work of Vital Voices, a leading international non-profit that invests in women leaders taking on challenges including gender-based violence, climate crisis, economic inequities, and more.

The first release of evoluSHEIN clothing will feature recycled polyester, a fibre obtained from plastic waste. To produce the fabric, materials such as used plastic bottles are carefully cleaned, shredded into pieces, melted down, and spun into polyester fibre. Compared to virgin polyester production, the recycled polyester process requires less source materials and significantly reduces the amount of water and energy needed. Reducing waste and introducing recycled materials are key pillars of Shein’s vision of a circular economy and a sustainable future for accessible fashion. EvoluSHEIN will serve as a testing ground for new purpose-drive innovations Shein will be adopting throughout its greater collection, the company said in a press release.

These evoluSHEIN recycled polyester pieces and packaging have been produced exclusively with suppliers certified to the Global Recycled Standard (GRS). This globally recognised certification supports traceability of recycled material through all stages of the supply chain, and sets strict social and environmental requirements. The GRS is managed by Textile Exchange, a global non-profit leading the apparel industry toward a more sustainable future. With more than 700 members representing leading brands, retailers, and suppliers in the industry, Textile Exchange is a force for collaboration and positive impact, and Shein is proud to be a member of this community.

Founded in 2012 as an e-commerce retailer with the mission of making the beauty of fashion accessible to all, Shein’s strategic small-batch production and digital retail model have helped the brand avoid many of the environmental impacts associated with traditional retail store footprints. Over the last ten years, Shein has advocated for a fashion revolution and developed tools to help suppliers with advanced technologies that support the planet. These collective efforts include turning traditional factories into agile supply chains with collaborative technology systems that drastically reduce inventory waste and help conserve natural resources in the production process.

The initial evoluSHEIN product line will feature women’s tops, dresses, and bottoms, with extended sizes dropping early this summer. Shein plans to expand the line to more than 1,500 product SKUs by the end of September 2022, with future evoluSHEIN styles featuring additional preferred materials options, including forest-safe viscose, consciously cultivated cotton, and additional certification programmes for recycled fibres.

“We are committed to building a more responsible fashion ecosystem. Launching evoluSHEIN is one important step in our sustainability commitments this year, which touches on each of our key focus areas - protecting the environment, supporting communities, and empowering entrepreneurs. We invite all our partners and customers to join us in the journey,” said Adam Whinston, global head of environmental, social and governance at Shein.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (GK)