Is It Okay To Buy From a Company With a Bad History of Labor? Functionality vs Ethics.

Tote bags. They’re the unacknowledged heroes of my carry-all world. Spacious, sturdy, and infinitely customizable. They’re my go-to accessory for everything from grocery shopping to impromptu picnics. But lately, I’ve found myself in a moral dilemma.

My current tote bag obsession?

It's a fantastic number from Shein, complete with the perfect amount of pockets for a phone, keys, and that random pack of gum.

Photo by Mediamodifier on Unsplash

However, Shein has a well-documented history of labor rights violations, environmental concerns, and questionable business practices.

Moreover, supporting them goes against everything I believe in — fair treatment of workers, sustainable production, and ethical sourcing.

So, why did I cave and buy the Shein tote bag?

Photo by Joshua Hoehne on Unsplash

Here’s the (slightly shameful) truth: Functionality won out. The pockets! The perfect size! The price tag wouldn’t break the bank! It ticked all the boxes on my practical wish list. Don’t cancel me for this…