How the fashion trend cycle shapes effective IP strategy – The Lawyer

In an industry where speed-to-market, trend responsiveness and distinctive aesthetics are everything, understanding how design law can protect your latest collection is crucial. A recent CJEU ruling in Deity Shoes v Mundorama Confort & Stay Design (Case C‑323/24) offers timely, commercially important guidance for fashion and footwear brands.

The judgment confirms that:

• Fashion trends do not limit a designer’s freedom, and
• Design protection does not require creativity or originality, only novelty and individual character.

Although a decision of Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), the judgment is highly relevant for UK designers too.

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