Fashion Law

At Nonaj Law, our Fashion Law practice is tailored to the unique needs of designers, brands, retailers, manufacturers, and creative professionals operating within the global fashion industry. With offices in New York and Milan—two of the world’s foremost fashion capitals—we are strategically positioned to advise clients on both U.S. and European legal frameworks that shape the business of fashion.

Intellectual Property Protection

Fashion is built on creativity, and safeguarding that creativity is paramount. We counsel clients on the protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights, including:

  • Trademark registration and enforcement for brand names, logos, and trade dress

  • Copyright protection for original designs, patterns, and creative works

  • Design patents for unique, ornamental features of apparel and accessories
  • Anti-counterfeiting and brand protection strategies across global markets
  • IP licensing, assignments, and portfolio management for fashion houses and designers

Our attorneys also represent clients in infringement litigation, opposition proceedings, and customs enforcement actions, ensuring that their intellectual assets remain secure.

Commercial Transactions & Business Structuring

We assist fashion industry clients with the full range of commercial and corporate transactions, including:

  • Formation of fashion startups, joint ventures, and partnerships

  • Drafting and negotiating manufacturing, distribution, agency, and retail agreements

  • Advising on supply chain management, import/export regulations, and international trade compliance
  • Counseling on mergers, acquisitions, and investment transactions involving fashion brands and retail entities

Our goal is to ensure that every transaction is legally sound, commercially viable, and strategically aligned with the client’s business objectives.

Employment, Labor & Model Contracts

The fashion industry relies on a diverse workforce, from creative talent to models and production staff. We provide legal support in:

  • Drafting and reviewing employment contracts, independent contractor agreements, and model releases

  • Advising on union compliance, workplace safety, and labor law regulations in the U.S. and EU
  • Addressing disputes involving wage and hour compliance, workplace discrimination, and intellectual property ownership in employee-created works

Regulatory & Compliance Matters

Fashion companies face growing scrutiny with respect to sustainability, advertising, consumer protection, and data privacy. We advise clients on:

  • Labeling and advertising compliance (FTC, EU directives)
  • Sustainability and ESG regulations, including supply chain due diligence requirements
  • Customs and import/export law compliance
  • E-commerce, data protection, and privacy laws, including GDPR and U.S. regulations

Litigation & Dispute Resolution

When disputes arise, we represent fashion clients in litigation, arbitration, and mediation across jurisdictions. Our experience includes handling cases involving contract breaches, licensing disputes, employment claims, intellectual property infringement, unfair competition, and consumer protection matters.

Why Nonaj Law

The fashion industry demands counsel that understands both its creative spirit and its commercial realities. At Nonaj Law, we combine legal acumen with industry insight to deliver solutions that protect intellectual property, strengthen brand value, and support business growth. Whether advising emerging designers or established fashion houses, we are committed to advancing our clients’ success in an increasingly global and competitive market.

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