Shein opened its first-ever physical store in Paris this week, drawing long lines of eager shoppers and equally vocal protesters outside the BHV department store. Police were deployed as chants of “shame” clashed with bargain hunters queuing for deals.
Shien’s Physical Store in Paris
The launch coincided with the French government’s announcement that Shein’s online site would be suspended amid investigations into controversial products, including childlike sex dolls.
Inside, the store offered DJ sets, mocktails, and racks of fast-fashion items, while outside, critics condemned Shein’s labor and environmental practices. The event highlighted the brand’s polarizing presence in the world’s fashion capital.
