Remember when I discussed my disgust over counterfeit bags?  If not, you can catch up here.  I recently found this article on The High Low and I thought it would be a great  connection to start another conversation on the topic of artistic license.

We’ve all heard about the YSL v. Louboutin case.  It’s a known fact that Zara mimics the runways and has it in stores 3 weeks later.  We also know about how Forever 21 likes to have eerily similar pieces to other famous designers. Case in point below: Anna Sui vs. Forever 21 knockoff.

Where do we draw the line? While I agree that the majority of the population cannot afford designer fashion, does that give fast fashion retailers the right to infringe on a designer’s vision? It’s a very thin line that calls for the professionals, aka the law.  I am very interested in the difference between an inspiration, say a color scheme or silhouette, versus blatant copying.

I think you all know my feelings on this subject.  My viewpoint: get your own ideas.  I see it no different than plagiarism.  I understand the motives. I get it.  Companies want to make money.  The trickle down effect has been in place for centuries and will probably never go away.  However, using a print that is barely indistinguishable (such as above) should be cause for major reparations.  There are other ways to go about portraying a trend and capturing “the look” of the season.  C’est la vie!  Until major legal changes are made, I believe this will continue to happen.

What are your feelings on the matter?