Vetements has escalated its ongoing trademark dispute to the highest legal authority in the United States. The fashion powerhouse recently petitioned the US Supreme Court to review a case that questions the trademark eligibility of the French word for ‘clothing.’ This bold legal move could set a new precedent for how generic foreign terms are protected under US trademark law.
Why Vetements is Taking Action
Vetements, known for its edgy designs and streetwear influence, faces a unique challenge. The brand wants exclusive rights to use the word ‘Vetements’—French for ‘clothes’—in the US fashion market. However, trademark officials argue the term is too generic for protection. By taking the fight to the Supreme Court, Vetements aims to prove that a foreign word, even if generic in its native language, can serve as a distinct brand identity in another country.
What This Means for the Fashion Industry
This case could reshape how fashion brands trademark names, especially those derived from other languages. A Supreme Court ruling in Vetements’ favor might inspire more international brands to pursue US trademarks for common words in their own languages. If the court rules against Vetements, it may limit creative branding strategies for global fashion labels.
Sources:
Source