The Fashion Version of David and Goliath
City Merchandise, Inc. (“City”), a New York souvenir company, is suing Balenciaga, a high-priced luxury designer brand creatively led by Demna Gvasalia.
City claims that Balenciaga copied the “total concept and feel” of one of its souvenir tote bags. City’s tote bag sells for USD $19.99 at JFK, while Balenciaga’s purse retails for USD $1950.
Balenciaga has previously been criticized for allegedly copying other brands (on more than one occasion). Indeed, Gvasalia has admitted taking inspiration from existing garments.
Now that City is suing Balenciaga, other brands may follow suit.
Author: Hassan Rasmi, 2018/2019 Articling Student-at-law
Photo Credit: https://unsplash.com/@mayemusic