The Useful Influencers of Shein
On shame, Shein, influencers, sweatshops, and Soviet massacres: out now in The Spectator
“ Parker was pushed out of respectable journalism for his bootlicking, but fashion influencers love their boots, and there is no bar too low. The lack of apology is almost admirable, because she’s not going to change. Her entire personal business and public personality depends on these brands, and their cycle of constant, rabid overconsumption.
Through her styling videos, Dani advertises an endless amount of cheap affiliate-linked garbage, and tells you that, no matter your size, you’ll look fabulous in it. If you’re young, and sensitive about the way you look —particularly due to your weight — you’re the perfect prey for that. She’s not a “confidence activist,” but a tasteless marketer, getting rich off the insecurity of her followers, paid in dirty money.”
Out now in The Spectator: my piece on the Shien influencer tour, how morally disgusting it is, and how it reminds of the useful idiots of the USSR. Read it now!
(This is probably my favourite piece I’ve written this year)