Vancouver Fashion Week’s decision to feature fast-fashion giant Shein as one of its designers has ignited controversy within the fashion community. Critics argue that Shein’s inclusion contradicts the event’s mission to support local and Canadian designers.
Shein has faced numerous allegations of copying independent designers’ work and mass-producing low-cost imitations. Many in the industry believe this practice undermines emerging talents who rely on platforms like Vancouver Fashion Week to gain recognition.
Fashion marketing student Marciana Romero, a former Vancouver Fashion Week volunteer, expressed disbelief at Shein’s participation. “It’s unbelievable that Shein was given a platform that primarily supports small designers,” Romero stated. “Shein is notorious for stealing from independent designers.”
Romero further criticized the decision, stating that it felt like “a spit in the face” to designers who invest significant resources to showcase their work. She argued that allowing Shein to present alongside independent creators disrespects their dedication and originality.
Following the backlash, Shein was discreetly removed from the Vancouver Fashion Week schedule. However, the brand’s designer page remains active on the event’s website. Vancouver Fashion Week has not issued a public statement addressing the controversy and has not responded to media inquiries. Shein also declined to comment.
Beyond concerns about intellectual property, Romero questioned Shein’s classification as a “designer.” “Shein isn’t a designer. It’s not like Marc Jacobs or a well-known fashion house with a creative director and a design philosophy,” she said.
Raman Singh, owner of contemporary clothing brand Esthique, warned that Shein’s inclusion could harm small businesses and independent designers. “Vancouver Fashion Week has traditionally been a space for small business owners,” Singh explained. While he does not advocate an outright ban on fast-fashion brands at fashion weeks, he believes Shein is a special case due to its history of unethical practices. “Multiple designers have sued them for copying their designs,” Singh noted.
Vancouver Fashion Week has a long-standing partnership with local institutions like Vancouver Community College, offering student designers a global platform. Sarah Murray, the college’s program coordinator for fashion and creative courses, highlighted the importance of Vancouver Fashion Week in providing industry exposure. “It’s a great platform for our students. They bring in media and industry professionals from around the world,” she said.
Murray acknowledged that design theft is widespread in fashion, with fast-fashion brands frequently replicating high-end runway looks at lower price points. “The reality is, as soon as you showcase your work, there’s a risk of it being copied. Shein isn’t the only offender,” she said.
She also pointed out that featuring larger brands helps sustain Vancouver Fashion Week financially. “If it were only Vancouver-based brands, the event wouldn’t have lasted 25 years.”
Despite the controversy, Murray emphasized Vancouver Fashion Week’s role in the industry. “Without this platform, many local designers wouldn’t have international exposure,” she concluded.
While Shein’s participation has been rescinded, the debate over the ethics of fast fashion at prestigious events like Vancouver Fashion Week continues to stir discussion within the fashion community.
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