News Summary
The boutique eyewear brand Krewe du Optic has filed a federal lawsuit against the Chinese manufacturer Guangzhou Jingboshi Glasses Co. for allegedly copying their iconic eyewear designs. The lawsuit targets Carfia Frames, accusing them of selling cheap knockoffs of Krewe’s exclusive styles, particularly the well-known ‘St. Louis Frame.’ Krewe seeks damages and profits from the alleged infringer, while Carfia argues that the design is not unique. This legal battle highlights tensions in the fashion industry over originality and brand integrity.
New Orleans Eyewear Maker Takes a Stand Against Copycats
New Orleans is buzzing with excitement and legal tension as the beloved boutique eyewear brand Krewe du Optic has taken a bold step. This stylish company, known for its high-end designs, has filed a federal lawsuit against a Chinese manufacturer for allegedly copying its iconic eyewear styles.
The Heart of the Matter
The lawsuit targets Guangzhou Jingboshi Glasses Co., which operates on Amazon under the name Carfia Frames. Krewe du Optic claims that Carfia is selling what they describe as cheap knockoffs of their exclusive eyeglass designs and marketing materials. The stakes are high, and Krewe is seeking damages and sales profits from the alleged infringer.
Claims of Malicious Intent
The lawsuit makes strong assertions, stating that Carfia’s use of Krewe’s distinctive trade dress was “intentional, willful and malicious.” They argue that the similarities between Krewe’s genuine products and Carfia’s offerings are too striking to ignore, indicating a lack of good faith in Carfia’s actions.
A Dispute Over Design
Krewe has a specific bone to pick, pointing out that Carfia has replicated their well-known “St. Louis Frame”, a design that hit the market in April 2014 and has sold more than 250,000 units, each priced at a whopping $335. Krewe applied for federal registration for this particular trade dress back in December 2016, making it clear they want to protect their clever design.
The St. Louis Frame, which showcases a distinctive bold metal bridge, draws inspiration from the cast-iron balconies that grace the streets of New Orleans’ historic French Quarter. This connection to local culture plays a big role in Krewe’s identity as a luxury eyewear brand.
Carfia’s Defense
In response, Carfia has shrugged off Krewe’s claims, arguing that the double-bridge design isn’t unique or protected. Their legal team insists that this style has been part of the eyewear landscape for many years, pointing out that larger manufacturers have been utilizing similar designs long before Krewe’s rise to fame.
State of Affairs
As of now, if you peek into Carfia’s Amazon storefront, you’ll still find a pair of shades resembling Krewe’s beloved St. Louis Frame, with prices ranging from $29.99 to $55.99. This price range is a fraction of Krewe’s luxury price point, raising eyebrows and concerns within the industry about brand integrity and customer confusion.
A Growing Brand with Star Power
Krewe du Optic, founded in 2012, has quickly made a name for itself in the realm of luxury eyewear, with most of its products ranging between $300 and $400. The brand has even attracted celebrity attention, with stars like Beyoncé, Selena Gomez, and Kendall Jenner sporting their stunning frames. Krewe’s growing popularity underscores the importance of protecting their designs in a competitive market.
The Legal Journey Ahead
This lawsuit was officially filed in November 2024 in the Eastern District of Louisiana, with Krewe’s attorneys laying the groundwork for their case. Initially, Krewe requested a preliminary injunction against Carfia, but as of February 2025, that motion was withdrawn as both parties seem to be looking to resolve factual disputes before charting the way forward in court. For now, the next hearing date in this intriguing case remains a mystery.
As this situation unfolds, the eyes of the fashion world will be on New Orleans, watching how this boutique eyewear brand fights to maintain its creativity and integrity in the ever-evolving landscape of fashion and design.
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Additional Resources
- Fox8 Live: Krewe du Optic Sues Chinese Firm
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- WWLTV: Lawsuit Claims NYX Captain Led Lavish Lifestyle
- Axios: NYX Krewe Parade Permit Controversy
- KATC: Family of Woman Killed in Float Accident Sues
- Wikipedia: Intellectual Property
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lawsuit
- Google Search: Eyewear Design Infringement
- Google Scholar: Trademark Infringement Law
- Google News: Mardi Gras Lawsuits
