Back Row with Amy Odell

What Everlane's Sale to Shein Means for 'Sustainable' Fashion

June 3, 2026·35 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

Sustainable fashion darling Everlane just sold to Shein, the industry's least sustainable company. What does this shocking deal say about both companies, along with the state of "sustainable" fashion? I spoke with Ken Pucker, former Timberland COO and professor at Tufts University, one of my favorite experts on this topic. He explains why Everlane was never all that "sustainable," why Shein would want this, and why it's hard to be optimistic about the future of fashion. CHAPTERS: 01:05 – Breaking Down the Shein Everlane Acquisition 04:30 – Shein’s Innovative Instant Fashion Model 07:20 – How Everlane Ended Up in Bed with L Catterton 12:00 – Ken’s Take on the Future of “Sustainable” Fashion 16:00 – The Greenwashing Problem 18:45 – Everlane’s Radical Transparency Promise 22:15 – The Status of the New York Fashion Act 27:35 – Why Does Shein Even Want Everlane? 30:00 – Which Brands Could Be Next? 34:00 – Ken’s Advice for Sustainable Consumers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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