Irony of Ironies: H&M Is Suing Forever 21 for Copyright Infringement

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In a strange turn of events, H&M is suing Forever 21 for copying the design on one of its bags, The Fashion Law reports. The Forever 21 tote in question features a palm tree design with the text "Beach Please," which even we have to admit looks virtually identical to the original bag produced by H&M.

However, the irony, of course, is that looking to and copying other, typically high-end, brands, designers, and labels is the bread and butter for fast-fashion companies like H&M and Forever 21. Yet, H&M believes that the copycat bag is harming its brand image and reputation. The company alleges in the lawsuit that the item has "secondary meaning in that H&M is recognized as the original source of the tote bags."

To support its argument, H&M adds, "the Defendant has also been accused of copyright violations in the past."

H&M wants the court to prevent F21 from making, marketing, and selling the "Beach Please" bag. The Sweden-based company also wants F21 to hand over the profits it has made off the bag.

Photo: The Fashion Law