For years, Shein has been a go-to shopping destination for students looking to keep up with the latest fashion trends without breaking the bank. But that era may be ending.
In May 2025, the U.S. government officially removed the “de minimis” tax exemption for low-cost imports from China, hitting e-commerce platforms like Shein and Temu with high tariffs. These new rules, originally proposed during the Trump administration and revived concerns about trade imbalances and labor practices, now mean that even orders under $800 are subject to import taxes—some as high as 145%.
Prices Skyrocket Overnight
For students, the impact has been immediate. “I had this whole cart full of cute summer stuff—dresses, sandals, sunglasses. It was going to be $52 total,” says Diana R. (12). “Then I go to check out and it’s over $90. I emptied my cart and just shut the app.”
An $18 top might now total nearly $45 once taxes and shipping are included. And it’s not just the prices: delays at customs have become more common, leading to longer wait times and rising frustration.
“I paid extra for express shipping and still didn’t get my clothes for three weeks,” said Leo Martinez, grade 9th . “It sat in customs forever. I could’ve just gone to the mall.”
The End of Fast Fashion? Or Just a Shift?
While many students are disappointed by the changes, others see them as an opportunity to rethink their shopping habits.
“I think we got too comfortable with fast fashion being so cheap,” said Bryan H, grade 10th. “It’s not just about the money—it’s about labor conditions, waste, and quality. These tariffs might be a wake-up call.”
Some have shifted to thrifting or shopping secondhand online.
“I’ve started buying stuff from Depop and vintage stores,” said Zara M, grade 11th. “It’s more expensive sometimes, but at least I know the clothes won’t fall apart after one wash.”
Others are turning to community-based solutions.
“My friends and I do clothing swaps now,” says Taylor B, grade 11th. “We bring stuff we don’t wear anymore, and everyone leaves with something new. It’s fun and we’re not spending anything.”
Retailers Respond, but Uncertainty Remains
To adapt, Shein and Temu are reportedly working to shift production and distribution outside of China to avoid the steepest tariffs. Shein has announced plans to open warehouses in the U.S. and explore manufacturing options in other countries. However, these changes will take time—and for now, students are stuck paying more or looking elsewhere.
“I used to be able to do a whole back-to-school haul for under $100,” said Jordan B, grade 10th. “Now I’ll have to rewear stuff from this school year and trying to find sales at local stores.”
Even students who continue to shop with Shein say their habits have changed.
“I still like their clothes,” said Brianna E, grade 11th. “But instead of buying ten things, I’ll get maybe two. I guess I’m more careful now.”
Economists suggest the tariffs could reshape how fast fashion companies operate—and how young consumers spend.
“Fast fashion thrived on cheap global supply chains and ultra-low prices,” said Dr. Carla Nguyen, a consumer economics professor at Ohio State University. “Now that costs are rising, companies either need to adapt or risk losing a large portion of their audience—especially students who can’t absorb the price hike.”
Some students say the change has already led to more thoughtful purchases.
“I used to buy things just because they were cheap,” said Riley C, grade 12th. “Now I think, ‘Will I actually wear this?’ That’s a good shift.”
Still, others hope prices will eventually drop again.
“I’m waiting for them to figure it out,” said Aaliyah M, grade 10th. “Maybe they’ll have more sales or move factories or something. Until then, I’m just watching my cart grow and not checking out.”
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Conclusion
As tariffs reshape the landscape of fast fashion, students are among the first to feel the squeeze. While some mourn the loss of ultra-cheap outfits, others are embracing the opportunity to shop smarter, more sustainably, or more creatively. Whether Shein adapts or not, one thing is clear: the era of endless, affordable online hauls may be fading—and a new chapter in student fashion is beginning.
