Credit: Aimee Wyatt

China-based Shein, a popular online clothing retailer clouded by recent controversy, will hold a pop-up at downtown San Antonio’s Shops at Rivercenter from Friday, Sept. 9 through Sunday, Sept. 11, according to a company announcement.

Over the past year, Shein has been accused of violating labor laws and stealing intellectual property from other designers — both claims that it denies. Last year, a CBC Marketplace investigation reportedly found elevated lead levels in its clothing for toddlers.

Shein’s stop in the Alamo City is part of the brand’s “#SHEINTexas” tour, which has so far made stops in Dallas and Houston. Despite the controversy, shoppers have been lining up to buy clothing from the retailer popularized by TikTok stars. One shopper who attended the Houston pop-up said in a TikTok video that she waited in line for three hours and added that inventory was limited.

@iamkandacemarie My honest review of the Shein pop up store #sheinbigsale #sheintexas #shein #sheinpopup2022 #sheinpopup #sheinfashionweek #sheinhaul #sheingals ♬ Mind Yo Business – Lakeyah

“I think if I were to do it all over again, I would sleep in, maybe get cute and just take pictures outside with the little photo ops and stuff versus waiting in this long line and shopping,” said TikTok user @iamkandacemarie.

Shein officials said they anticipate the Shops at Rivercenter pop-up to be open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. However, a Facebook post for the event said store closing times are subject to product availability.
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This article appears in Sep 7-20, 2022.

Michael Karlis is a multimedia journalist at the San Antonio Current, whose coverage in print and on social media focuses on local and state politics. He is a graduate of American University in Washington,...