Everlane, the retailer that bucked the fast-fashion industry by promising affordable ethically sourced and sustainable clothing, is being acquired by the king of fast-fashion Shein.

Shein’s acquisition of Everlane isn’t its first attempt to boost its brand credibility — but it's unclear how its efforts fit together.

Everlane's finances have faltered in recent years. But will the merger alienate Everlane's existing shoppers — or sway droves of Shein fans to trade up?