Patent on glossy, red-soled shoes leads to a lawsuit between designers

The intellectual property law has caused problems for many different businesses ever since it became established. While no one wants to have their creations stolen, companies may accidentally develop a product that already has a patent on it. Firms in such situations may need to rely on a business lawyer with expertise in these matters.

Two weeks ago, designer Christian Louboutin defended his product in a trademark infringement lawsuit against Yves Saint Laurent and its parent company PPR. Louboutin claimed that these companies stole the design of his patented glossy red-soled shoes. In the midst of a patent claim among fashion designers, small business attorneys may have their hands full, as these shoes are known worldwide and have even been worn by celebrities like Angelina Jolie and French first lady Carla Bruni.

A panel of judges is still in the midst of deciding whether a patent infringement did take place in this case, according to Arizona Central. Lawyers surrounding this lawsuit compared this patent infringement claim to the Tiffany & Co. blue boxes trial. This further spread the dispute on whether a designer can have a patent on a color.

"What PPR does via Yves Saint Laurent is breaking my trademark, which I find incredibly offensive," Louboutin told The Associated Press.

While the plaintiffs argue that Louboutin is monopolizing the color red, he claims that the patent covers the specific color on the sole of the shoes as well as the five inch heels.

Along with the fashion industry, many other companies may find themselves in the midst of an intellectual property law violation. For businesses located in Phoenix, speaking to a lawyer for small business claims could provide the necessary steps for addressing these issues.

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