Launched in 2021, the SHEIN X Designer Incubator Program was created to democratize fashion by providing unparalleled access to resources; the program has become a beacon of empowerment for designers, artists, and brands worldwide.
Shein X provides unprecedented access to Shein's extensive supply chain, technology, and marketing expertise. This support has allowed designers to navigate the complexities of product development, manufacturing, and logistics, culminating in releasing over 25,000 original creations to Shein's global audience and disbursed over $5.37 million in commissions to designers since the program's inception.
We had the unique opportunity to sit down with seven talented designers who have been instrumental in launching these pioneering collections. Each designer brings a unique perspective, having been handpicked for their passion for fashion design. They share their experiences working within the Shein, from the initial concept stages to the final product launch and discuss how the program's resources have enabled them to bring their creative visions to life.
Join us as we explore SHEIN X and get an insider look into the designer incubator program, where innovation, creativity, and sustainability intersect to create a more responsible and inclusive fashion industry.
What is SHEIN X Designer Program?
The SHEIN X Designer Incubator Program is a dynamic initiative that fosters the growth and creativity of independent fashion designers and artists. Launched by SHEIN, a global fast fashion retailer, this program provides a emerging talents to bring their innovative ideas to fruition by guiding them through the entire process of bringing their ideas to life. This includes product development, manufacturing, marketing, and supply chain logistics.
SHEIN recently committed an additional investment of $50 million for designers in September 2023. This funding is part of a strategic five-year plan, which will see the company's total investment in the SHEIN X program reach $105 million by the year 2028.
"We’re currently looking to onboard additional designers to the program, and our participants come from a wide range of backgrounds and experience– from those who design custom gowns to fashion illustrators who create the designs printed on a t-shirt. As long as an artist or designer exhibits certain technical skills and can convey their professional vision, we’re willing to give them a shot.," said Dulce MariaLara, SHEIN Corporate Communications. "Once onboarded, the designers are paired with a dedicated SHEIN X coordinator who helps bring their ideas to life and guide them through the process - from product development to manufacturing, to marketing and supply chain logistics."
Designers who collaborate with SHEIN have the option to license their work and earn fees on products sold, ranging from stickers to T-shirts and leggings. This commission-based model also allows them some control over the products that feature their designs.
Who should apply for SHEIN X Designer Program?
To be eligible to apply for the SHEIN X program, individuals must be at least 18 years of age and possess a professional and creative mindset aimed at launching capsule collections. The program has already kickstarted the careers of nearly 3,000 designers and artists globally, enabling them to utilize SHEIN's cutting-edge, on-demand production capabilities to introduce over 25,000 unique designs to an international audience.
Although the SHEIN X program is marketed as an incubator program for aspiring/emerging designers, Fashion Designer and Author of Threading the Needle, Kadeem Alphanso Fyffe says, "I find the term emerging designer misplaced, especially because most of the SHEIN X designers have years of industry experience and run their own label."
A common misconception for designers looking to apply may think they are too established in their careers to join the program. Fyffe added, "The SHEIN X program does allow us to have our names and designs seen and sold on a global platform - it's the first time my work has been seen on this scale, but I have a decade of international industry experience, and I've established myself as an expert in my field, so I wouldn't consider myself "emerging", I prefer the term: "evolving".
SHEIN X is ideal for designers who are ready to take their fashion careers to the next level, commit to sustainable practices, and are looking to leverage SHEIN's extensive resources, including its on-demand production model, fabric libraries, supply chain technologies, and global audience.
Those who are driven, innovative, and ready to engage with a global marketplace are encouraged to apply here.
What is evoluSHEIN?
Earlier this year, SHEIN X unveiled its inaugural collections under the evoluSHEIN by Design. This initiative is SHEIN's concerted effort to promote environmentally friendly materials and enhance responsible manufacturing practices within the fashion industry.
SHEIN employs a small-batch, on-demand production approach to create these pieces, reducing waste and ensuring the products are made as needed. To align with the sustainability goals, each garment in these collections must comprise at least 30% sustainable materials - including recycled polyester, viscose sourced without harming ancient forests, and salvaged deadstock fabrics.
The production of these garments is entrusted to suppliers who have passed rigorous social and environmental compliance checks, verified by independent third-party audits. Lastly, products are delivered in packaging that incorporates recycled materials, reflecting SHEIN's commitment to reducing its environmental footprint across all stages of production and distribution.
Q&A with SHEIN X Designers
We reached to the SHEIN team to coordinate interviews with current SHEIN X designers to get their perspective on the Designer Incubator Program and here is what they had to say:
SHEIN X Designers
- Danielle Brion (Tampa, FL)
- Veronica Ramirez (Atlanta, GA)
- Kadeem Fyffe (New York, New York)
- Chanel Scales – (Charlotte, North Carolina)
- Melike Firat (Washington, DC)
- Amiko Simonetti (Long Island, NY)
- Sire Lamar-Becker ( New York, NY)
1. What motivated you as a designer to join the SHEIN X Incubator Designer program?
"I first joined the program with a spring collection. It was enjoyable because I had the freedom to design whatever I wanted. I joined the program because I loved the idea of leveraging SHEIN’s manufacturing resources and customer base to create a collection I was passionate about at an affordable price point." said Amiko Simonetti. "My passion has always been to make amazing fashion at an accessible price point. Through SHEIN’s mentorship, I’m learning how to execute that."
"When I was working in Istanbul as a fashion designer with fast fashion textile company, my boss suggested I follow the example of Shein’s success. We belived and still believe Shein is the leader of online retail,so it was essential to be inspired by Shein. Then I moved to the US and when I was looking for job opportunities, I saw a Shein X designer job posting. I was excited to apply for it. Designing for SHEIN was a great opportunity for me. It was the first step in my career as a promising designer in the US." said Melike Firat. “God doesn’t place dice” Albert Einstein said, so it was meant to be…" she added.
"There are many reasons why I have chosen to stay designing for SHEIN for the last three collections. One is the way they run the program now, we are given a budget and from that budget we have to set money aside for future collections and we can see the cost of what we design. This has taught me so many valuable and valid points." said Dani B.
"Joining Shein X was a way for me to design with my aesthetic in mind. Typically, when designing it is to meet the brief of the brand I work for. My initial experience was amazing," said Sire Lamar-Becker.
"For the opportunity to see my work come to life. To be able to go on shein.com and see my profile, click my products and read the reviews and see photos of customers in my designs is the most grand validation to the decision," said Veronica Ramirez.
2. What is the most valuable lesson that you have learnt working with SHEIN?
"The most important lesson I've learned so far has been on understanding consumer trends and effectively making data-driven design decisions. When I set out to design my collection, I started by researching the best-selling styles/categories and following the internal seasonal suggestions/guidelines. I wanted to create pieces that would be sure-fire hits with the SHEIN consumer - given that most of my pieces have sold out, it's safe to say that I succeeded," said Kadeem Alphanso Fyffe.
"I learned, and am still learning, what customers look for when shopping online. For example, colors, prints, and details that are eye-catching and emotional," said Amiko Simonetti.
"It’s a rewarding learning experience; having access to a global consumer base has shined a light on my design process, which has become even more detail-oriented. Sometimes you tend to do what pops in your head but putting more realistic reasoning to why am I placing this seam there, why am I choosing this fabric or trim so improving that process to best attend to my consumer," said Veronica Ramirez. "Having due dates is also a great part of the process, it sounds like a basic concept but when you’re working on your own managing time and meeting deadlines can get blurry, but it’s essential to running a business."
"You have to design with the customer in mind. Sometimes we have all these ideas as designers, but knowing when to edit is key to being attractive to a wide range of customers," said Sire Lamar-Becker.
3. What advice would you give someone interested in the SheinX Designer Program? Would you recommend the program to others?
"I'd highly recommend anyone interested in fashion design to apply," said Veronica Ramirez.
"For aspiring designers contemplating the SHEIN X program, I recommend it if you have a passion for self-expression, connecting with fellow designers, and exploring new creative paths. Devoting time to drawing and designing has been highly rewarding," said Amiko Simonetti.
"My advice would be to just jump. There’s nothing to lose," said Sire Lamar-Becker. "This program will enable designers that do not have access to traditional schooling to get real world experience working with the process of production. This opens up the industry for those with talent, but not as much experience."
"Confidence is key. Before reaching an international audience, designers must have faith in their unique style and creative abilities. Embrace your individuality and let it shine through in your designs," said Chanel N. Scales. "Ensure the quality of your designs and maintain consistency across your collections. This builds trust among your audience, whether they're local or international."
"I only see a positive impact / net gain from this type of exposure and sales. At the moment, SHEIN's global reach is unmatched. Our role as designers is to create clothing. Generally, we hope that everyone has access to our work and can wear our creations - this Incubator is a stepping stone and makes this possible," said Kadeem Alphanso Fyffe.
4. How has the feedback from SHEIN's massive global consumer base shaped the direction of your fashion label?
"The general response has been great. I think it enables me to express myself more and know that my customer will find me." said Sire Lamar-Becker.
"Because SHEIN has a massive online customer base, there’s access to customer feedback through the comments. This is very helpful as a designer because I can evaluate what resonates with customers," said Amiko Simonetti.
"Designer programs help introduce designers to the textile industry. Designers can show their creativity to the public. Moreover, working with such programs helps to grow the portfolio and resume of young and aspiring designers. If I had a chance to support young and ambitious designers in their career path, I would definitely go for it! I really feel deepest respect for Shein X for that!" said Melike Firat.
Dani B says, "I also appreciate tremendously the way SHEIN X treats us. They did a PR event for designers and influencers in my area (Tampa, FL) which was phenomenal. I had the opportunity to showcase my original designs at their designer summit in LA. My name was mentioned in the article that the LA times wrote, I was hand-picked my Laura Kim from Oscar De La Renta for a mentorship. Laquan Smith actually critiqued my collection!"
She added, "After the designer summit I was filled with certainty and now I know that I do have what it takes. We all go through self (especially in this industry) doubt and this industry is saturated. There are so many brands and so many amazingly creative people. The competition is high. So after the summit all that self doubt went out the window! Without being a part of the SHEIN X program I don't know if I would have ever been able to position myself in that way. I'm a smaller brand and paying for big PR firms and things of that nature does not come easy. I am extremely grateful for all that I have learned and all the opportunities this program has blessed me with!"
"There are constant shifts happening in the fashion industry, I think opening the floor to creatives who may not have access to the traditional routes only offers opportunity for more real authentic creativity," said Veronica Ramirez.
"Don't succumb to the pressure of following trends or trying to imitate other successful designers. Originality often stands out and attracts attention. Set your own trends and create a distinctive design identity, said Chanel N. Scales. "Know your audience. Define the characteristics of the people who would be interested in and appreciate your designs. This involves creating a detailed customer profile, considering factors like age, lifestyle, preferences, and cultural influences."
5. In light of the various challenges faced by the fast fashion industry, what strategies have you implemented to make your fashion designs more sustainable and ethical?
"Within the SHEIN X program, I can leverage SHEIN’s on-demand business model to test new products with initial small batches of around 100 pieces. This way, designs can restock in proportion to demand and prevent overproduction and waste." said Amiko Simonetti.
More information, including the SHEIN X program application, can be found on our dedicated SHEIN X page here.
