TOP 20 FASHION BRAND TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT STATISTICS 2025

When I first started diving into fashion brand trademark infringement statistics, I honestly didn’t expect the numbers to feel this overwhelming. I knew counterfeits were common, but seeing how deeply they impact brands, designers, and even independent creators gave me a whole new perspective. It reminded me of how something as small and personal as a pair of socks can spark identity—imagine if someone copied your exact style and sold it as their own. That sense of frustration is magnified for fashion houses whose entire legacy rests on originality. For me, going through these stats was less about law and numbers and more about realizing how much protection creativity truly needs.

Top 20 Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics 2025 (Editor’s Choice)

 

 

Top 20 Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics 2025

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #1 Fashion Industry Accounts For 10% Of Trademark Cases

The global fashion industry contributes to around 10% of all trademark disputes filed in 2023. This highlights how brand identity is one of the most valuable assets in the sector. Unlike other industries, fashion thrives on logos, patterns, and unique symbols, making them frequent targets for imitation. The high percentage also shows how legal enforcement has become a standard part of operating for major brands. It suggests that fashion will remain at the forefront of intellectual property litigation in coming years.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #2 Louis Vuitton Faces 2–3 Million Counterfeits Annually

Louis Vuitton faces the challenge of 2–3 million counterfeit items produced each year, nearly double its authentic output. To combat this, the company invests nearly 5% of its revenue in brand protection. Its legal team handles about 1,500 cases annually to block and punish counterfeiters. The sheer scale of this issue illustrates both the desirability of the brand and the profitability of counterfeit markets. Louis Vuitton has become one of the most active litigants in fashion law worldwide.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #3 Nike Holds 276 Trademarks And 259 Oppositions

Nike aggressively protects its trademarks, with 276 registrations and 259 oppositions filed against others. This shows how the company prioritizes its brand image and iconic swoosh logo. In 2024 alone, Nike filed 16 oppositions to block competing marks. Such actions prevent dilution of its identity and reinforce the value of exclusivity. It highlights the scale of trademark management for a global sportswear giant.

 

 

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #4 The North Face Has 155 Trademarks And 88 Oppositions

The North Face maintains 155 trademarks and filed 88 oppositions, with 8 recorded in 2024. Its legal actions demonstrate a proactive strategy against copycat outdoor brands. The company ensures that competitors cannot use confusingly similar marks or product names. By keeping strong legal oversight, The North Face safeguards its reputation in adventure and lifestyle markets. This activity also reveals the competitive intensity in outdoor fashion branding.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #5 Gucci Manages 147 Trademarks With 80 Oppositions

Gucci holds 147 trademarks and filed 80 oppositions to block imitators. The brand’s iconic interlocking G logo is among the most contested in luxury fashion. In recent years, Gucci has targeted retailers and designers for unauthorized logo usage. These actions reinforce its status as a premier fashion house with strict brand guardianship. It demonstrates how heritage brands remain aggressive in maintaining exclusivity.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #6 Levi’s Filed 162 Trademark Oppositions

Levi’s has a long history of protecting its denim stitching patterns and brand image. With 95 registered trademarks and 162 oppositions, it is among the most active U.S. fashion litigants. Levi’s red tab and arcuate stitching design are often copied by rival labels. This shows how distinctive product features become trademarks in themselves. The company has built legal protection into its brand legacy.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #7 Louis Vuitton Holds 16,849 Trademarks Globally

Louis Vuitton has the largest trademark portfolio in fashion, with 16,849 marks worldwide. This extensive filing strategy covers categories from jewelry to accessories and apparel. By securing so many protections, the brand blocks potential misuse across diverse markets. It also demonstrates its financial capacity to invest heavily in global IP rights. Such widespread coverage strengthens its luxury dominance.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #8 Adidas Awarded $305 Million In Payless Case

Adidas is known for aggressive enforcement of its Three-Stripes design. The company initially won a $305 million jury award against Payless for infringement. Though later reduced to $64.4 million, it remains one of the biggest trademark awards in fashion. Adidas continues to pursue cases against Walmart, H&M, and Thom Browne over stripe usage. This reflects the brand’s uncompromising stance on visual identity protection.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #9 Ralph Lauren Vs USPA Dispute Since 1984

The Ralph Lauren versus USPA case has lasted for decades over horsemen logos. It shows how deeply logo similarity can impact brand perception. In 2015, the conflict with Arvind Limited, USPA’s Indian manufacturer, ended in a $3.2 million settlement. Despite the settlement, disputes continue over magazine branding and imagery. This is one of the longest-running legal battles in fashion history.

 

 

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #10 Guess Ordered To Pay $4.7 Million To Gucci

Gucci sued Guess for copying its interlocking G logo and patterns. The court awarded $4.7 million in damages, far less than the $221 million Gucci demanded. This case shows how courts balance damages based on evidence and scope. Guess was found guilty of infringement, though Gucci’s broader claims were limited. The ruling underscores the risks brands face when designs resemble luxury marks.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #11 Lululemon Sues Costco Over Dupes

In 2025, Lululemon launched a lawsuit against Costco for selling look-alike versions of its apparel. The case focused on trade dress infringement and even a trademark on the color “tidewater teal.” Lululemon alleged Costco’s products mimicked its Scuba hoodie and Define jacket. This reflects growing tensions around “dupe” culture in mainstream retail. It shows how retailers are entering direct conflict with premium brands.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #12 Shein Faces RICO Act Lawsuits

Shein has been targeted by multiple lawsuits under the RICO Act. Designers accuse the company of systematic copying and large-scale trademark infringement. These lawsuits highlight the brand’s controversial role in fast fashion. The scale of alleged violations sets Shein apart from smaller infringement cases. Its legal challenges could reshape the way courts treat mass fashion copying.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #13 60% Of Chinese Designers Report Knockoffs

A survey revealed that 60% of Chinese designer brands have faced plagiarism or counterfeit labeling. This emphasizes how domestic designers are vulnerable to IP theft. Many emerging labels lack the resources to fight back legally. The scale of copying threatens creative innovation in the region. It signals the urgent need for stronger local IP enforcement.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #14 Independent Creators Turn To Schedule A Litigation

Independent creators increasingly rely on Schedule A litigation against online infringers. These mass suits allow them to target dozens of sellers at once. While effective, the process is costly and overwhelming for smaller brands. This trend highlights how systemic dupe culture impacts independent designers. It reveals the growing gap between enforcement tools and creative resources.

 

 

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #15 Burberry And Gucci Partner With Resale Platforms

Burberry and Gucci have partnered with resale platforms to protect their trademarks. With resale now accounting for 27% of wardrobes in 2023, brand integrity is at risk. These partnerships help authenticate products and filter out counterfeits. They also show how luxury houses are adapting to secondhand markets. The collaboration approach contrasts with aggressive lawsuits.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #16 Chanel Sues The RealReal Over Counterfeits

Chanel accused The RealReal of selling counterfeit products under its name. The lawsuit claims deceptive marketing practices under the Lanham Act. This case is significant because it targets a major resale platform, not small sellers. It highlights tensions between luxury brands and secondhand platforms. The outcome may set precedents for authenticity obligations in resale.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #17 Adidas Vs Thom Browne Stripe Dispute

Adidas pursued legal action against Thom Browne for stripe-based designs. The court rejected Adidas’ claims, but the company appealed. Judges showed skepticism toward Adidas’ arguments in 2024. The dispute reflects how design elements, not just logos, are now contested. It underscores Adidas’ persistence in guarding even minimalist marks.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #18 Hermès Battles Counterfeit Birkin Bags

Hermès continues to combat counterfeit Birkin bags worldwide. Thousands are seized annually through customs and enforcement raids. The exclusivity of the Birkin makes it one of the most copied luxury items. Hermès invests heavily in monitoring online marketplaces and shipping channels. This fight demonstrates how ultra-luxury goods remain counterfeiters’ top targets.

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #19 Supreme Wins Against Trademark Squatting In Europe

Supreme faced widespread squatting with “Supreme Italia” selling fake goods. The brand fought legal battles to reclaim its rights in the EU. Courts ultimately strengthened protections, confirming Supreme’s ownership. This shows how trademark squatting can exploit slow international filings. Supreme’s case is a warning for other global streetwear brands.

 

 

Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics #20 Prada Faces Counterfeiting In Asia And Online

Prada experiences widespread counterfeiting across Asia and digital platforms. Millions of fake items are circulated every year. The company works closely with customs authorities to seize shipments. Prada’s enforcement strategy highlights the scale of the counterfeit economy. This ongoing battle shows that luxury visibility attracts imitation at global levels.

Final Thoughts On Fashion Brand Trademark Infringement Statistics

After walking through all these cases, I feel like I’ve just traveled through the courtroom side of fashion, which isn’t always glamorous but definitely eye-opening. It makes me think about how much energy brands put into not just designing but also defending their work—something we as consumers rarely consider when we pick up a shirt or pair of shoes. I personally can’t help but feel a mix of admiration and sadness; admiration for the relentless fight to keep originality alive, and sadness because it shows how often that originality is stolen. For me, it’s a reminder to value authenticity more deeply, and maybe even pay attention to where my own clothes come from. Because at the end of the day, fashion isn’t just fabric—it’s identity, and identity deserves to be protected.

SOURCES

https://fashionunited.com/news/retail/louis-vuitton-is-the-most-counterfeited-luxury-brand-according-to-new-report/2025061266565 

https://www.bullivant.com/landmark-trademark-infringement-awarded-to-adidas/ 

https://www.finnegan.com/files/Upload/Incontestable_Oct08_1.html 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Three_stripes

https://www.abajournal.com/news/article/adidas_award_of_305m_in_trademark_infringement_case_may_be_record 

https://blog.acviss.com/protecting-luxury-brands-from-counterfeits-in-the-export-market 

https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/deja-vu-olympics-push-france-ramps-up-war-fakes-2024-07-09/ 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Counterfeit_consumer_good 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louis_Vuitton