How Gen Z is finding quality clothes on a budget

Shein, the online fast-fashion Chinese retailer which went public on the Hong Kong stock exchange this week, has built its success by courting young, budget-conscious consumers with ultra-low prices and massive variety.

But just because Shein's products are inexpensive doesn't mean they have to lack good value. Uchenna Chukwuka, a 29-year-old data analyst and part-time stylist based in Atlanta, says she's developed a "cheat code" for finding good quality at low costs.

Chukwuka has been shopping on the platform since high school and says the quality of clothes has only improved. "I've come to know the stores through trial and error," she says of the different suppliers that advertise on the platform. Over time, she's learned that "there are definitely some good ones if you find them." While in college, Chukwuka recalls buying a $20 trench coat that surprised her with its heavy material — one that she still wears years later. 

Chukwuka's vetting process is meticulous: she examines the composition of the garments, their construction, and whether the piece of clothing is double-lined for durability. She also leans heavily on the reviews of other buyers, especially those with photos.

Chukwuka estimates that shopping on Shein has saved her thousands over the years and has allowed her to redirect those savings to other financial goals, like buying her first home and travelling to bucket-list destinations like Bali.

"We don't want to have to wait until we're in our 40s, 50s, or 60s, and we've climbed the corporate ladder to be able to put together an outfit that looks nice, or travel to a place where we would want, or to be able to get a home," she says.

THE WIDER TREND

Shein narrowly beat Amazon as the online site where Gen Z apparel shoppers were most likely to complete a purchase, according to a 2025 study by the marketing agency Tinuiti, while 12% of millennials named Shein as their likeliest online apparel checkout site.

Andrew Huynh, founder of financial planning firm Pink Planning, encourages young people to distinguish between cheap and good value. "It's really important to think about when you're looking at a more costly piece, "How much use am I going to get out of this?" he says. 

Huynh also recommends setting a dedicated spending allowance so discretionary purchases don't raid your savings or emergency fund.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Spend intentionally, not just cheaply. Before buying, ask yourself: how often will I wear this? Will it serve multiple purposes? Cheap purchases are costly if they go unworn. And make sure to check the clothing's fabric composition and quality — a higher price tag or boutique label does not guarantee better value.

Prioritise savings and goals before spending. Set a fixed monthly budget for discretionary spending like clothes shopping. This is more sustainable than cutting it entirely. Make sure essentials, emergency savings, and financial goals are covered first and then decide what's left to spend.

Use savings to fund bigger goals. Keep your financial priorities — whether that's travel, homeownership, or emergency savings — at the forefront. Every dollar saved on fast fashion can move you closer to what actually matters.