Cider and SHEIN: Are They the Same? Discover the Truth

No, Cider and SHEIN are not the same companies, but they share some key similarities, particularly in their target audience and overall business model. This article will delve into the world of these two fast-fashion retailers, exploring their histories, ethics, and sustainability practices.

A Brief History of Cider and SHEIN

SHEIN, founded in 2008, is a giant in the fast-fashion industry. The China-based company exploded in popularity for its trendy, ultra-affordable clothing. Cider, a relative newcomer, emerged in 2020 and quickly gained traction on social media, especially TikTok, with its similar approach to fashion.

Is Cider a Fast Fashion Brand?

While Cider positions itself as a “social-first” brand and uses terms like “smart fashion,” it falls squarely into the fast-fashion category. Here’s why:

• Similar business model to SHEIN: Both brands release frequent clothing drops, often with limited stock, creating a sense of urgency to buy.
• Copied designs from other brands: Cider has been criticized for copying designs from established brands and viral trends, mirroring a strategy often used by SHEIN.

Examining Cider’s Ethical Practices

Cider, like many fast-fashion brands, lacks transparency when it comes to ethical practices. Here are some areas of concern:

• Labor practices: There’s little information about the working conditions in Cider’s factories.
• Sourcing practices: The origin of materials and manufacturing processes remain unclear, raising questions about potential environmental and labor exploitation.
• Animal welfare: Cider doesn’t disclose its use of animal-derived materials or commitment to animal welfare practices.
• Cultural appropriation: Some of Cider’s designs have been accused of cultural appropriation, raising concerns about respect for different cultures.

The Sustainability of Cider

Fast fashion, by its very nature, is unsustainable. The constant churn of new clothes often leads to low-quality garments that end up in landfills. Here’s how Cider compares to other fast-fashion brands:

• Comparison to other fast fashion brands: Cider likely shares similar sustainability challenges as other fast-fashion companies.
• Ways to find ethical and sustainable fashion brands: Look for brands that prioritize eco-friendly materials, fair labor practices, and transparency in their supply chain. Certifications like Fairtrade or Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) can be helpful indicators.
• Tips for shopping sustainably: Consider buying second-hand clothes, supporting local designers, or investing in high-quality pieces that will last longer.

Conclusion

Cider and SHEIN may have some stylistic differences, but they operate within the same fast-fashion model. While Cider may use trendier language, concerns remain regarding its labor practices, environmental impact, and ethical sourcing. If you’re looking for sustainable and ethical fashion choices, consider exploring alternative brands and shopping practices.pen_sparktunesharemore_vert