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Everlane, Shein and the Decline of Millennial Optimism

Jun 19, 2026 · 19m

Summary

This episode examines Shein’s $100 million acquisition of struggling sustainable brand Everlane, highlighting the clash between their opposing values. Host Sarah Holder and Bloomberg reporter Amanda Mull discuss how pandemic shifts and waning millennial optimism hurt Everlane’s direct-to-consumer model. The analysis suggests Shein aims to replicate the success of competitor Quince by applying its efficient logistics to Everlane’s customer base.

Topics discussed

Sponsors: Venture Global, Chase, and IBM Everlane acquired by Shein and customer backlash Everlane's rise as a millennial ethical brand Pandemic impact and shifting consumer values Shein's fast fashion model and controversies Sponsors: IBM, Public, and Chase Sapphire Shein's strategy to compete with Quince Differences in materials and supply chain tech The end of millennial optimism in retail DTC model struggles and Everlane founder's view Credits and sponsors: Hex, 4imprint, Hartford
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