SHEIN is a go-to for extremely budget-conscious shoppers seeking trendy, disposable fashion, but it comes with ethical and quality concerns. H&M offers a slightly more expensive but more sustainable and ethically conscious option, with a broader range of styles and a focus on improving its environmental impact, though it still faces challenges in consistency and customer service.
| Attribute | SHEIN | H&M |
|---|---|---|
| Price Point | $5 to $50 | Apparel ranges from around $20 to $300, with sales offering items as low as $5. A significant number of products are priced between Rs. 1000 and Rs. 3000, with a peak around Rs. 1800. |
| Fabric Quality | Mixed reviews, often synthetic materials | Uses a variety of materials, including cotton (organic, recycled, and Better Cotton), linen, and synthetic fibers. Around 60% of their materials are cotton. Increasing use of recycled synthetics and aim to source only recycled polyester by 2025. |
| Size Accuracy | Inconsistent, check size chart | Generally runs true to size, offering a comfortable and flattering fit for most body types. However, sizing can be inconsistent, and some pieces may require sizing up or down. |
| Style Variety | Vast selection of trendy items | Offers a wide variety of styles, from basics to trendy pieces. They carry apparel, accessories, shoes, and makeup. H&M has different lines for different customers, such as COS and & Other Stories. |
| Shipping Speed | Standard 7-20 days, Express 3-7 days | Some customers have reported issues with shipping, including delays and lost packages. |
| Return Policy | 30-45 days, first return free | Offers returns in-store or online. Some customers have experienced difficulties with returns, including being charged for online returns and having returns declined in stores. |
| Customer Service Responsiveness | Contact within 24 hours for damaged items | Some customer reviews mention negative experiences with customer service, including long wait times for refunds and unhelpful responses. Other reviews state that customer service is good and that the staff responds quickly. |
| Ethical Sourcing Practices | Scrutiny regarding labor practices | Has policies in place regarding workers' rights, including payment of living wages and freedom to join unions. They publish their direct and some indirect suppliers. However, there have been criticisms and investigations into labor abuses in their supply chain. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | evoluSHEIN line, emissions reduction pledge | Aims for all materials to be sustainably sourced or recycled by 2030. In 2024, approximately 89% of materials used were recycled or sustainably sourced. The company is working to reduce emissions and increase the use of renewable energy. |
| Durability | Inconsistent | The durability of H&M garments varies. Basics tend to last longer than trend-driven pieces. Some reviewers have had H&M pieces for years. However, some garments may show wear and tear quickly. |
| Trendiness | Known for trendy items | A fast-fashion brand that offers the latest styles and trends. They are known for quickly adapting to seasonal trends and consumer demand. |
| Inclusivity of Sizing | Offers plus-size clothing. | Has expanded its size range to include up to 2XL in stores and up to 4XL online for women and 3XL for men. They have also introduced a Curvy Denim collection designed for curvier body shapes. |