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ASOS is one of the most popular online fashion retailers, offering trendy clothing at various price points. But what do customers really think about the quality, fit, and service?
ASOS reviews1 are generally positive, with praise for trendy styles and frequent discounts. However, some customers report issues with inconsistent sizing, quality, and slow returns processing.
Let’s explore how ASOS compares to other fast fashion brands and whether it’s worth shopping there.
Is ASOS like Shein?
Both ASOS and Shein sell affordable fashion, but are they the same?
ASOS and Shein are different in quality, pricing, and target audience. ASOS offers better quality and more established brands, while Shein focuses on ultra-cheap, fast-changing styles.
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Key differences between ASOS and Shein
| Feature | ASOS | Shein |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | Higher, includes premium brands | Lower, mostly fast fashion |
| Sizing Accuracy | More consistent | Runs small, inconsistent |
| Shipping Speed | Faster (especially in the UK & US) | Slower (ships from China) |
| Sustainability | Some eco-friendly brands | High waste, unsustainable |
Which is better?
- For better quality and known brands: ASOS
- For ultra-cheap, trendy fashion: Shein
Are ASOS returns free?
Online shopping comes with risks—so does ASOS offer free returns?
ASOS offers free returns in many countries, but not all. Some regions require customers to cover the return shipping cost.
ASOS return policy2 by region
| Country | Free Returns? | Return Window |
|---|---|---|
| UK | ✅ Yes | 28 days |
| US | ✅ Yes | 28 days |
| Australia | ✅ Yes | 28 days |
| Canada | ❌ No | Customer pays return shipping |
| EU | ✅ Yes | 28 days |
Important ASOS return details
- Items must be unworn and in original packaging.
- Refunds can take up to 14 days to process.
- Some items, like lingerie and swimwear, are non-returnable for hygiene reasons.
What is the difference between Shein and ASOS?
Shein and ASOS both cater to budget-conscious shoppers, but they have key differences.
The main differences between ASOS and Shein are quality, pricing, and shopping experience. ASOS offers better-quality clothing and well-known brands, while Shein focuses on ultra-cheap, fast-fashion trends.
ASOS vs. Shein: Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | ASOS | Shein |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Identity | UK-based, carries multiple brands | China-based, own label |
| Product Range | Wide variety, including designer brands | Mostly trendy, fast fashion |
| Shipping Speed | Faster (especially in Europe) | Slower (ships from China) |
| Return Policy | Free in many regions | Customer often pays return shipping |
| Sustainability | Some eco-conscious brands | High waste production |
When to shop ASOS vs. Shein
- Choose ASOS if: You want better quality, name-brand fashion, and reliable shipping.
- Choose Shein if: You’re looking for ultra-cheap, trendy pieces and don’t mind lower quality.
Is ASOS like Zara?
Zara and ASOS both sell trendy clothing, but do they target the same customers?
ASOS and Zara both follow fast fashion trends, but ASOS is an online marketplace with multiple brands, while Zara produces its own exclusive collections with slightly higher quality.
ASOS vs. Zara
| Feature | ASOS | Zara |
|---|---|---|
| Store Type | Online marketplace | Brick-and-mortar & online |
| Brand Selection | Carries multiple brands | Own-label only |
| Style Focus | Trendy, casual, diverse options | Chic, structured, fashion-forward |
| Quality | Varies by brand, mid-range | Generally higher quality than ASOS |
| Sustainability | Some eco-friendly brands | Improving but still fast fashion |
Who should shop at ASOS vs. Zara?
- Shop ASOS if you want variety, multiple brands, and affordable fashion.
- Shop Zara if you prefer high-street fashion with a focus on modern, structured designs.
Conclusion
ASOS receives mixed reviews, with praise for its wide selection and stylish designs, but complaints about sizing inconsistencies and return delays. Compared to Shein, ASOS offers better quality, and compared to Zara, ASOS has more variety but lower consistency. If you want budget-friendly fashion with free returns in most countries, ASOS is a solid choice.
