Alice McCall has launched a second collection with Chinese fast fashion brand Shein and commented on limited sizes.
The once high-profile Australian designer caused a stir last year after announcing his partnership with the global fashion brand.
Despite the backlash, stocks sold out and the latest Spring/Summer 2024 collection is expected to do the same.
The limited edition range includes 65 garments in a variety of patterns, florals and bold colours in sizes from six to ‘combination’ size 12/14.
The limited range has drawn the ire of larger customers, with others claiming its 12/14 model “is too small”.
Founder Alice McCall told FEMAIL that expanding the size range is always a possibility and that she is “open to catering” for larger sizes.
“Stay tuned to this space. I think it’s important to cater to all women, that’s something that’s important to me,” McCall said.
The collaboration also offers shoppers a selection of affordable pieces, McCall confirmed on August 22 in Sydney while wearing vintage Gucci shoes to showcase the budget-friendly collection.
Australian designer Alice McCall (pictured) has teamed up with Shein to launch a second collection
![Australian designer Alice McCall defends Shein's new budget collection and promises "bigger sizes" in the future: "Stay tuned" 7 The limited edition range includes 65 garments in a variety of patterns, florals and bold colours in sizes six to 12/14.](https://whatsnew2day.com/wp-content/uploads/cwv-webp-images/2024/08/Australian-designer-Alice-McCall-defends-Sheins-new-budget-collection-and.jpg.webp)
The limited edition range includes 65 garments in a variety of patterns, florals and bold colours in sizes six to 12/14.
![Australian designer Alice McCall defends Shein's new budget collection and promises "bigger sizes" in the future: "Stay tuned" 9 Founder Alice McCall told FEMAIL that expanding the size range is always a possibility and that she is open to catering for larger sizes (sizes pictured)](https://whatsnew2day.com/wp-content/uploads/cwv-webp-images/2024/08/1724357212_704_Australian-designer-Alice-McCall-defends-Sheins-new-budget-collection-and.jpeg.webp)
Founder Alice McCall told FEMAIL that expanding the size range is always a possibility and that she is open to catering for larger sizes (sizes pictured)
![Australian designer Alice McCall defends Shein's new budget collection and promises "bigger sizes" in the future: "Stay tuned" 11 1724357213 246 Australian designer Alice McCall defends Sheins new budget collection and](https://whatsnew2day.com/wp-content/uploads/cwv-webp-images/2024/08/1724357213_246_Australian-designer-Alice-McCall-defends-Sheins-new-budget-collection-and.jpeg.webp)
“Keep an eye on this space. I think it’s important to cater for all women, it’s something that’s important to me,” McCall told FEMAIL (pictured at a Shein pop-up stand in Sydney).
The Alice McCall brand was founded in 2004 but struggled during the Covid-19 pandemic before entering liquidation in February owing $1m to creditors.
The pieces regularly appeared on red carpets and in high fashion editorials for Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and Elle and the brand was beloved for what many described as its “playful sensibility”.
The second collection is part of Shein X, Shein’s program to support independent brands, artists and designers.
Shein will also be opening a pop-up showroom in Sydney from August 23-26 to offer customers an exclusive look at the latest collection.
Visitors will be able to purchase items on display via a QR code and enjoy free daily giveaways.
“Following the success of my first collection with Shein, which was available across the Australia and New Zealand region and the United States, I am excited to have my latest global collection and newest designs featured at the SS24 show in Sydney,” said Alice.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the latest collection, she added: ‘The concept of dopamine dressing, which is all about finding happiness in our sartorial choices, was a significant influence.
![Australian designer Alice McCall defends Shein's new budget collection and promises "bigger sizes" in the future: "Stay tuned" 13 The second collection is part of Shein X, Shein's program to support independent brands, artists and designers.](https://whatsnew2day.com/wp-content/uploads/cwv-webp-images/2024/08/1724357213_732_Australian-designer-Alice-McCall-defends-Sheins-new-budget-collection-and.jpg.webp)
The second collection is part of Shein X, Shein’s program to support independent brands, artists and designers.
![Australian designer Alice McCall defends Shein's new budget collection and promises "bigger sizes" in the future: "Stay tuned" 15 Shein has also launched five other collections ranging from vacation essentials, bold looks, unlimited styles and eclectic looks.](https://whatsnew2day.com/wp-content/uploads/cwv-webp-images/2024/08/1724357214_244_Australian-designer-Alice-McCall-defends-Sheins-new-budget-collection-and.jpg.webp)
Shein has also launched five other collections ranging from vacation essentials, bold looks, unlimited styles and eclectic looks.
Shein has also launched five other collections ranging from vacation essentials, bold looks, unlimited styles and eclectic looks.
Last year, X fans called the partnership “embarrassing” and “devastating.”
“Alice McCall x Shein is so embarrassing… why would you criticize your own brand like that?” wrote one.
“A designer who went bankrupt decides to collaborate with a factory where workers work in exploitative conditions,” said another.
“It’s absolutely devastating to see what has become of Alice McCall,” added a third on X.
On Instagram, one user wrote: “Alice McCall brand makes one of the most disappointing moves in a desperate attempt to make money. Having to disable comments on Instagram post just an hour after posting is the icing on the cake.”
Another said he was “shocked and enraged” by the decision.