As reported by WBLS, Pharrell Williams and Louis Vuitton are currently entangled in a legal battle over their upscale "Pocket Socks." Allegations have been made by a California company asserting that it has been utilizing the same name for more than a decade. Pocket Socks Inc. has taken legal action in Los Angeles federal court, claiming trademark infringement. They argue that their product, a sock featuring a zippered pocket, has been in the market since 2012. The company contends that Louis Vuitton's recently launched product, which made its debut at Paris Fashion Week and is marketed at $530, is encroaching upon their established trademark rights.
According to Pocket Socks Inc.'s lawyers, the June 20th complaint states, "Much attention and publicity has been generated for Louis Vuitton’s 'Pocket Socks,' including defendants, the press, and consumers using the name 'Pocket Socks' for their product which irreparably injures Pocket Socks’ longstanding brand and trademark rights."
Pharrell Williams was recently announced as the men's creative director for Louis Vuitton in February 2023. His inaugural collection for the brand was showcased at Men’s Fashion Week in Paris, which included the controversial Pocket Socks – knitted socks featuring a pocket embellished with a pearl.
The socks garnered attention in January when Jermaine Dupri wore them during his Super Bowl halftime performance. Although currently unavailable, the socks are listed on Louis Vuitton’s UK website for £420, approximately $530 in U.S. currency.
Pocket Socks Inc. alleges that Louis Vuitton’s product is undermining their brand. CEO Evan Papel stated, "This massive luxury brand and their designer Pharrell Williams should know better and behave within the law." The lawsuit claims both trademark and trade dress infringement, asserting that the similar-looking socks under the same name are "likely to cause confusion, or to cause mistake, or to deceive consumers."
One potential defense for Williams and Louis Vuitton could be arguing that the name "Pocket Socks" is too descriptive to be trademarked. Under U.S. trademark law, descriptive terms cannot be used as exclusive brand names.
As the case moves forward, it will be intriguing to observe how the court addresses the issues of trademark and trade dress infringement.
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