New Balance is taking legal action over Michael Kors as the luxury design brand’s sneakers pose a striking similarity to Boston-based brand’s “N” logo.
The lawsuit, which was filed on August 11, states that Michael Kors’ use of a logo that is similar to New Balance’s “is likely to cause confusion among consumers and/or suggest an affiliation, connection, or association between New Balance” and “dilutes the distinctive quality of New Balance’s famous N Marks.”
New Balance states that its “N” logo has been in use since the 1970s and is well associated with the brand. In addition to the “N” heritage, the lawsuit states that Kors himself has been a well-documented “fan” of NB with quotes from Harper’s Baazar, The New York Times, and Vogue that capture his affinity towards the brand.
The Michael Kors Olympia (seen below) and the Pippin are the two designs in which New Balance is suing the luxury label.
Stay tuned at SoleSavy as we await to hear a ruling and/or settlement.
New Balance 574
Michael Kors Olympia