Kate Spade Wins Trademark Dispute Against Saturdays Surf NYC

Photo: Glamour.com

Kate Spade's new diffusion line, Kate Spade Saturday which debuted in the Spring came across resistance and opposition from Saturdays Surf NYC who complained that the name was too similar to its own. Saturdays Surf said the names would cause confusion since the logo fonts are very similar and they are both in the business of selling apparel even though marketed towards different demographics, Saturdays Surf said they planned on starting a women's line at some point.

Kate Spade Saturday is a new global lifestyle brand created to evoke the spirit of Saturday seven days a week and has lower prices compared to Kate Spade New York but contains the same colorful and optimistic vibe. Whereas, Saturdays Surf is a retailer selling surf gear and ready-to-wear accessories for men in SoHo and West Village as well as in Tokyo.

Fifth & Pacific Rumored to be Selling Juicy, Lucky Brand

Photo: Juicy Couture and Lucky Brand Ads

Rumor has it that Juicy Couture and Lucky Brand which are owned by Fifth & Pacific Cos Inc. (f/k/a Liz Claiborne Inc.) is on the market.  Juicy Couture which popularized velour track suits about ten years ago has since been in a decline from its peak.  Lucky Brand, known for their jeans and leather products with a bohemian feel, has also been in a slump.  

The company has been quietly shopping the labels to prospective buyers, including some located in Asia, to better determine the level of interest in Juicy.  Meanwhile, private equity firms Sycamore Partners and TSG Consumer Partners have expressed interest in Lucky Brand as both firms specialize in consumer and retail investments.  It's good news for Fifth & Pacific that this is likely turning out to be an active sales process.

Is Kate Spade Taking its Fragrance Business In-House?

Photo: Kate Spade's ad for in-house fragrance Live Colorfully

The answer isn't clear.  If Kate Spade is taking its fragrance business in-house, it would be following the footsteps of other top fashion houses.  Oscar de la Renta took his fragrance license back in 2009 from L'oreal after a lawsuit and settlement.  Burberry also terminated its license with Interparfums SA, a French company last year but having to pay almost $300 million as an exit payment to take back its license by this April. The companies signed a transition agreement where Interparfums SA will continue operating the fragrance and beauty business for Burberry until March 31, 2013, at which time the business will be turned over.