A french clothing label has drawn the attention of pop stars Beyonce, Jay Z, Kanye West, Pharrell Williams, and Rihanna, but for all the wrong reasons.
Bey and company went to a New York federal court to file a total of 58 complaints including dilution and violation of publicity rights, trademark infringement, and unfair competition against the clothing line known as ElevenParis.
The suit claims that the company used their unauthorized likeness and slogans on backpacks, hats, phone cases, t-shirts, and tank tops among other items. According to the lawsuit, the company ignored numerous cease and desist warnings from the plaintiffs and continued to use their likeness.
“Even after receiving warning to cease selling the infringing goods, defendants continue to sell unauthorized products and to trade upon the goodwill associated with the plaintiffs, all for defendants’ profits,” says the lawsuit.
In Beyonce’s case, the singer acknowledged at one time having an agreement with the company but the partnership was terminated on Bey’s end after ElevenParis allegedly “breached the terms and conditions of the agreement.” Her reps say that she’s “suffering damage” to her reputation and the “goodwill of their respective trademarks” because of the company.
A look at the ElevenParis website reveals that all merchandise bearing the plantiff’s work has since been removed.
