A Complete Beginners Guide On How To Order Clothes From SHEIN With Confidence

Shopping online has transformed the way we buy clothing, and platforms like SHEIN have made fashion more accessible than ever. With thousands of styles updated daily and prices that seem too good to be true, it's no wonder millions turn to SHEIN for trendy wardrobe additions. But for first-time shoppers, the process can feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to sizing, delivery times, and return policies.

This guide breaks down every step of ordering from SHEIN with clarity and precision. Whether you're buying your first dress or building a full capsule wardrobe, you'll gain the knowledge needed to shop confidently, avoid common pitfalls, and get the most value from your purchase.

Understanding SHEIN’s Product Range and Pricing

SHEIN offers an expansive catalog spanning women’s, men’s, and children’s apparel, along with accessories, shoes, and even home goods. The platform is known for fast fashion—trend-driven pieces inspired by runway looks and social media aesthetics at a fraction of retail prices.

Pricing typically ranges from $3 to $15 for basic tops and bottoms, with dresses averaging $10–$25. Outerwear and specialty items may go higher but still remain budget-friendly compared to traditional retailers.

Tip: Use the “Under $10” filter in the app or website to discover hidden gems without overspending.

While low prices are appealing, keep in mind that affordability often reflects fabric quality and production ethics. For occasional wear or seasonal experimentation, SHEIN delivers excellent value. For long-term staples, consider layering purchases with higher-quality investments elsewhere.

Step-by-Step: How to Place Your First Order on SHEIN

1. Create an Account: Visit shein.com or download the SHEIN app (available on iOS and Android). Register using your email or social media account for faster checkout later.
2. Browse by Category or Trend: Use filters such as size, color, price range, and customer ratings to narrow results. Try searching terms like “workwear,” “cottagecore,” or “bodycon dress” for curated options.
3. Check Size Charts Carefully: Never assume your usual size fits across brands. Scroll down on any product page to view SHEIN’s detailed size chart, which includes measurements in centimeters and inches.
4. Read Customer Reviews and Photos: Real buyers often upload photos showing fit, stretch, and fabric texture. Pay attention to comments about “runs small” or “see-through”—these can save you a return.
5. Add to Cart and Proceed to Checkout: Enter shipping address, choose delivery method, and apply any active promo codes before confirming payment.

Tip: Save multiple items to your wishlist first. This allows time to compare styles and wait for flash sales or coupon drops.

Decoding SHEIN’s Sizing System

One of the biggest challenges new shoppers face is inconsistent sizing. Unlike standardized systems in some countries, SHEIN uses international conversions that don’t always align perfectly.

SHEIN Label	US Women’s Size	Bust (in)	Waist (in)	Hip (in)
XS	0–2	31–32	24–25	33–34
S	4–6	33–34	26–27	35–36
M	8–10	35–37	28–29	37–39
L	12–14	38–40	30–32	40–42
XL	16	41–43	33–35	43–45

Always measure yourself with a soft tape and compare directly to SHEIN’s chart—not your typical US or EU size. If you're between sizes, especially in waist or hips, sizing up is generally safer.

“Many customers make the mistake of ordering their usual mall size. At SHEIN, measuring your body and trusting the chart beats brand loyalty.” — Lena Park, E-commerce Fashion Consultant

Shipping, Delivery Times, and Customs

SHEIN ships globally from warehouses in China and regional hubs. Standard shipping is free on orders over a certain threshold (varies by country), otherwise costing $4.95–$9.95.

• United States: 6–10 business days
• Canada & Europe: 8–15 business days
• Australia & New Zealand: 10–20 business days
• Rest of World: Up to 25 business days depending on customs

Expedited shipping options are available at checkout for faster delivery (3–7 days), though they cost extra. Tracking information becomes active once the package leaves the warehouse, usually within 1–3 days after placing your order.

Tip: During holidays or major sales (like Black Friday), processing times may extend by 3–5 days due to high volume.

Be aware that packages entering some countries may be subject to import duties or VAT. In the EU, taxes are now collected at checkout, so no surprise fees upon delivery. In other regions, check your local customs policy to avoid delays.

Smart Shopping Checklist Before You Buy

To ensure a successful first experience, follow this checklist before completing your order:

• ✅ Measured your bust, waist, and hips and matched them to SHEIN’s size chart
• ✅ Reviewed at least 3 customer photos for real-life fit reference
• ✅ Checked fabric content (e.g., polyester, spandex blend) for stretch and care needs
• ✅ Confirmed shipping address and estimated delivery window
• ✅ Applied a working coupon code (check SHEIN’s homepage banners or subscribe to emails)
• ✅ Verified return eligibility based on your country’s policy

Real Example: Maria’s First SHEIN Dress Order

Maria, a college student in Texas, wanted a floral midi dress for a spring wedding. She’d heard mixed reviews about SHEIN but decided to try with one item. Instead of guessing her size, she pulled out a measuring tape and recorded her bust (34\"), waist (27\"), and hips (38\").

The dress she liked had a size S listed as fitting bust 33–34\", waist 26–27\". That matched perfectly. She scrolled through customer photos and noticed two reviewers mentioned the straps were adjustable—good news for her shoulder width. One reviewer said the fabric was slightly sheer, so Maria planned to wear a slip underneath.

She placed her order using a 15% off welcome coupon and chose standard shipping. Ten days later, the dress arrived. It fit well, looked identical to the photos, and received compliments at the event. Encouraged, Maria now shops SHEIN monthly for casual wear and uses the same careful selection process every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return items if they don’t fit?

Yes, SHEIN accepts returns within 45 days of delivery for most countries. Items must be unworn, unwashed, with tags attached. A prepaid return label is provided in eligible regions. Refunds are issued to the original payment method once the item is received.

Are SHEIN clothes of decent quality?

Quality varies by item, but many customers find SHEIN ideal for trendy, short-term wear. Look for garments with lined construction, double stitching, or thicker fabrics in reviews. Avoid very thin, static-prone materials if durability matters to you.

How do I know if a deal is legit?

SHEIN runs frequent promotions: daily deals, clearance sections, and site-wide sales during events like SHEIN Anniversary or Back-to-School. Always verify discount percentages manually by comparing original vs. sale price. Beware of third-party sites claiming SHEIN discounts—they may be scams.

Final Tips for Confident SHEIN Shopping

Ordering from SHEIN doesn’t have to be risky. Success lies in preparation: measure accurately, read reviews thoroughly, understand shipping timelines, and use tools like wishlists and coupons wisely. Over time, you’ll learn which categories run true to size (like denim) and which require caution (such as swimwear).

Stay informed by following SHEIN’s official social channels for restock alerts and styling ideas. And remember, one great purchase builds confidence for the next.

💬 Ready to refresh your wardrobe? Open SHEIN today, apply what you've learned, and place your first confident order. Share your haul in the comments—we'd love to hear your story!