A UK-based women’s clothing retailer has initiated legal proceedings against Shein, alleging that the fast-fashion giant infringed on its copyright by replicating over 500 photographs in digital advertisements and listings on Shein’s retail website. The lawsuit, filed in a London court, underscores the ongoing challenges Shein faces regarding intellectual property rights.
This case adds to a series of legal actions against Shein by various fashion brands. In July 2025, Brandy Melville’s holding company, Bastiat USA, filed a lawsuit accusing Shein of copyright infringement and unfair competition. The complaint alleged that Shein copied multiple Brandy Melville product designs and used photos of the original products in its listings. Similarly, in October 2025, Swedish retailer Nelly won a court case against Shein for using Nelly’s photographs without permission on Shein’s Swedish website. The court ruled that Shein’s subsidiary, Infinite Styles Ecommerce, had infringed on Nelly’s exclusive rights to the photographs. ([fashiondive.com](https://www.fashiondive.com/news/brandy-melville-sues-shein/752201/?utm_source=openai))
The current lawsuit highlights the persistent issues surrounding copyright infringement in the fast-fashion industry. As Shein continues to expand its global presence, it faces increasing scrutiny and legal challenges from established fashion brands seeking to protect their intellectual property. The outcome of this case may have significant implications for how online retailers manage and display product imagery, as well as for the broader conversation about intellectual property rights in the digital age.