Shein is Colonization 2.0 – A Threat to India’s Fashion Industry

Shein is Colonization 2.0 Isha Ambani stuns in a custom, hand-embroidered lehenga—an example of India’s rich craftsmanship. Yet, she is bringing Shein to India, a brand notorious for dumping cheap, mass-produced fashion that threatens local artisans and businesses. The irony? India has 50 lakh+ tailors, boutique owners, and fashion designers who have kept custom clothing alive for generations. From everyday stitched wear to exquisite bridal couture, India thrives on personalized fashion. But with Shein’s entry: ⚠ Custom clothing could become a luxury only for the richest. ⚠ Millions of Indian fashion professionals risk losing their livelihoods. ⚠ India’s textile heritage faces replacement by mass-produced, disposable fashion. At Darzee, we are building technology for India’s 15M+ fashion professionals, ensuring they thrive in the digital age instead of being wiped out by fast fashion. India doesn’t need Shein—it needs policies, technology, and investment that empower our skilled workforce, not replace them. The question is: Will we support our own industries, or let fast fashion erase them?