Steve Madden and Alexander McQueen seem to have strikingly similar visions when it comes to footwear. McQueen is suing Madden for trade dress infringement (the industry term for copying a design that evokes that of another brand in consumers' minds)- stating that the Seryna bootie is a direct knock-off of his Faithful bootie - the only difference being the missing skull zipper pull that is McQueen's trademark. McQueen's version sells for $1,155 - Steve Madden's just $129.95. McQueen is seeking for Madden to stop selling the low-end version. It's been pulled from the website but as of last week, the Steve Madden store on Broadway in Soho was still carrying the shoe - at 30% off.
Trovata and Forever 21 recently settled after two years of litigation regarding trade dress infringement and intellectual property rights. Many in the industry had hopes that this trial would set a precedent preventing fast fashion retailers from the now commonplace copying of designer goods. This trial came after over 50 lawsuits had been brought against Forever 21 - all settled out of court.
It seems luxury brands are falling into two camps - those fighting for exclusivity and those willing to extend a hand to the masses. Should designers be forced to play nice and cater to the fast fashion set? It's not a new trend that some are choosing to embrace fast fashion in order to bring their luxe designs to the masses - on their own terms. Stella McCartney, Comme des Garcons and Viktor and Rolf have all produced lower priced-items for H&M - the company that perhaps started the phenomenon. The latest to produce a special line is Jimmy Choo - with shoes, handbags and apparel - most in the $100 range. If anyone and everyone can get a pair of Jimmy Choos at H&M- purchasing a pair a few blocks away at Saks for $1000+ feels a little less special.
Halloween 2009
With less than two weeks until the 31st - it's time to get creative. In the past few years, consumers have been shying away from Halloween store ensembles in favor of original and pop-culture costumes. This, in part due to the economy, has caused estimated total Halloween spending to fall 18% from $5.77 billion in 2008 to $4.75 billion in 2009 (CNN Money).
According to news sources, popular options this year will be inspired by TV (MadMen, Gossip Girl, Jon and Kate Plus 8), movies (Twilight, Bruno), recently deceased celebs (Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett) and tabloid headlines (Bernie Madoff and David Letterman). New York Magazine has put its money on Lady Gaga, with an eight-page spread on how to emulate her most shocking looks (None involve pants).
In my opinion, the only must-haves for a successful Halloween are creativity and commitment - bonus points if you don't break character all night! The best costumes do not come pre-assembled- instead scour vintage stores, TopShop/H&M, eBay and the garment district. Admittedly - supplements from Halloween stores are sometimes necessary, and between Ricky's NYC (East 8th street and Greene or Broadway between Prince & Houston) and American Apparel (Bleecker and 6th Ave or Broadway and 4th Street) you should be able to find everything you need to win the top prize at SCORP's annual Halloween fete.
Not the costume type? Get into the spooky spirit with these items:
Blood red lips courtesy of Twilight Lip Venom - $16 at Sephora
EEK! Tee - $58 at French Connection
Let the Wild Rumpus Start! K.W. Boxy Coat - $575 at Opening Ceremony
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