Christian Louboutin shoes are known around the world for their signature scarlet red soles. They've been seen on celebrities, such as Victoria Beckham at the Royal Wedding, and on popular TV shows, like Sex and the City. However, can one company monopolize this popular color?
I’ve discussed a proposed law to copyright fashion designs, but can color be seen as distinct?
Christian Louboutin and Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) have been locked in a legal battle since April 2011 over the use of the color red, specifically on the soles on shoes. Louboutin has been using red soles since 1992 when the designer saw an assistant painting her nails red, according to the Telegraph. In its 2011 resort collection, YSL included four shoes that were completely red, including the sole. However, the exact shade of red is different from that which Louboutin uses, according to the Telegraph. When Louboutin saw the shoes, he sued alleging that the shoes were virtually identical. Louboutin sought an injunction on the sale of the shoes and damages of at least $1 million.
