FASHION LAW BLOG

The Energy of Fabrics and Why It Matters

2024-04-03T09:21:00.000-07:00

The Energy of Fabrics & Why They Matter

Hello my dear readers! Fashion Legallaire is back and today we will discuss the energy of fabrics and why it matters. Fabrics we choose to wear can significantly impact our well-being.

Fabric materials have vibrational frequencies that can be measured in megaHertz (mHz). These frequencies are influenced by the fabric’s composition and properties.

In 2003, Dr. Heidi Yellen, a Jewish doctor, conducted a study on the frequencies of fabrics. She aimed to understand the significance behind the ancient instructions in the Torah (Deuteronomy 22:11) that advised against wearing clothes made of wool and linen woven together. Here’s what she discovered:

Signature Frequencies:

Dr. Yellen used a machine called the Ag-Environ machine to measure the “signature frequency” output of various fabrics. This machine had previously been used to measure the frequencies of plants and the human body.
The human body’s frequency varies based on its health. A healthy body registers a frequency of 100, while a very diseased body has a frequency as low as 15.
Here are the signature frequencies she found for different fabrics:

Linen: 5,000
Wool: 5,000
Mixed linen and wool: 0 (the frequencies cancel each other out)
Organic cotton: 100
Cotton: 70
Silk: 15
Polyester: 15
Rayon: 15

Interpretation:
- Linen and wool, with their high frequencies, may bring energy to the human body and support the healing process.
- Synthetic fabrics like rayon, nylon, and polyester, which measure less than 100 units of energy, could potentially compromise our well-being.
- Matter, including our bodies and fabrics, exists on a vibrational continuum. Vibrating atoms create what we perceive as “energy” or “frequency.” Even seemingly solid matter is 99% empty space due to atomic vibrations.
Natural vs. Synthetic:
- Many people intuitively gravitate toward natural fibers like cotton and cashmere. Dr. Yellen’s research reinforces this preference.
- When wearing synthetic fabrics, such as rayon and polyester, some individuals may feel a cloying or restrictive quality, even if the clothes are loose-fitting.

Remember, this information is intriguing but not scientifically conclusive. However, it encourages us to consider the fabrics we choose and their potential impact on our energy and well-being. So, next time you pick out an outfit, think about the frequencies it might carry! 🌟👚🌿

Sources:

Now that we have some scientific study, let’s explore some examples:

Organic Cotton: Organic cotton has a tested value of 110 mHz1. It’s a healthier fabric choice compared to synthetic materials.
Polyester: Polyester, made from petroleum, has a much lower frequency, around 10 mHz1. It’s commonly used in clothing but lacks the positive energy associated with higher-frequency fabrics.
Wool and Linen: Both wool and linen have a remarkable signature frequency of 5000 mHz1. These fabrics are considered super fabrics because they send positive vibrations that can help maintain health and well-being. However, it’s essential to wear them separately, as mixing wool and linen cancels out their healing effects 2.

Remember that these vibrational frequencies are fascinating features of fabrics and can impact our energetic state when we wear them. So, choose your fabrics wisely! 🌟👚👖🌟

Here are some healthier fabric options that are gentle on the body:

Bamboo: Bamboo fabric is naturally antibacterial and repels odor. Its fibers wick away sweat and moisture, keeping your skin cool and dry. Plus, it’s eco-friendly and doesn’t require pesticides 1.
Silk: Known for its hypoallergenic properties, silk has a natural protein structure that makes it gentle on the skin. It regulates temperature, absorbs moisture, and is recommended for those with skin conditions like eczema 1.
Hemp: Durable and breathable, hemp is warmer than wool and holds color well. It’s resistant to bacteria and fungus, making it a good choice for sensitive skin 1.
Linen: Linen offers protection against chemical exposure, noise, and dust. It also reduces exposure to harmful sun rays. Additionally, it relieves some effects found in skin conditions like eczema 1.
Lyocell: Made from sustainable wood pulp, lyocell is eco-friendly, soft, and antibacterial. It’s safe for sensitive skin and requires less chemical processing during dyeing 1.

Now that we have explored the higher vibrating fabrics, let's take a look at some moderate to lower vibrating fabrics.

Moderately Healthy Fabrics:
- Organic Cotton: Ranges from 70 to 110 mHz1 3. Organic cotton is a safer choice compared to non-organic cotton.
- Non-organic Cotton (bleached and/or dyed): Vibrates between 40 to 70 mHz1 3. Some sources suggest organic cotton can go as high as 400 mHz3.
Low Energy Fabrics (Less Beneficial):

Remember to choose fabrics that are lightweight, breathable, and hypoallergenic. Opt for natural, organic fibers whenever possible, and avoid heavy dyes and toxic chemicals 2. Your skin and energy vibes will thank you! 🌿👚 If the frequency of a sick body is 15 Mhz, then potentially wearing fabrics with a lower Mhz could make you sick (irritation, not feeling well, low energy, adverse reaction).

Until next time :)... ciao!

Do You Ever Wonder if Poshmark is Legal?

2023-01-21T16:51:00.005-08:00

It's our 2nd blog post of 2023 and I know y'all see the luxury products sold on Poshmark for extremely affordable prices and wonder if it is legal?

Well Poshmark says

Most pre-authenticated items are sourced and shipped directly from verified independent suppliers/resellers who have been carefully vetted by the Poshmark team. We stand by the authenticity of these items and the steps taken by the seller to ensure a safe, secure, and timely delivery to you.The order is authenticated directly through Poshmark HQ or via our trusted independent suppliers that source and pre-authenticate their items prior to shipment.

In order for Poshmark's sell of luxury goods here are a list of regulations that it would have to follow:

Poshmark is an online marketplace for buying and selling clothing and accessories, which allows individuals and small businesses to buy and sell items directly with one another. Poshmark is considered legal

if it operates within the framework of existing laws and regulations related to online marketplaces, consumer protection, and intellectual property.

if it is compliant with the regulations that govern online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms. This includes laws related to consumer protection, taxes, and shipping. Poshmark would have to provide a secure platform for transactions, which helps to protect buyers and sellers from fraud.

if it respects the intellectual property rights of its users and brands. Poshmark would need a strict policy against the sale of counterfeit items and will remove any listing that is reported as infringing on someone else's intellectual property rights.

if it has a team of Trust & Safety team who monitor and remove any illegal activities on the platform. They do have a user-friendly dispute resolution process, which allows buyers and sellers to resolve disputes in a fair and efficient manner.

In summary, Poshmark is considered legal if it operates within the framework of existing laws and regulations, respects the intellectual property rights of its users and brands, and has a user-friendly dispute resolution process.

Main Areas of Fashion Law in 2023

2023-01-21T16:09:00.001-08:00

As of 2023, here are some of the main areas that fashion law covers:

Intellectual Property: This includes trademarks, copyrights, and patents, which protect the creative work of designers, brands, and companies.
False Advertising: Laws related to false advertising protect consumers from being misled by false or deceptive advertising claims.
Consumer Protection: This includes laws that protect consumers from fraud, deceptive business practices, and other forms of consumer harm.
Labor and Employment Law: This includes laws related to wages, hours, and working conditions, which are particularly important in the fashion industry due to the widespread use of labor in developing countries.
Environmental Law: This includes laws related to sustainability, pollution, and waste management, which are becoming increasingly important in the fashion industry as consumers demand more eco-friendly and socially responsible products.
Import/Export Regulations: This includes laws related to the import and export of textiles, clothing, and other fashion items, which are subject to tariffs, quotas, and other trade restrictions.
Data Protection and Privacy: This includes laws related to the collection, use, and sharing of personal data by fashion companies, which is becoming increasingly important as the fashion industry relies more heavily on technology and digital platforms.

These are some of the main areas that fashion law covers, and there may be other areas that are relevant as well, depending on the specific context or legal jurisdiction.

That “Force Majeure” clause hits differently during CO-VID19 huh?

2020-03-27T08:21:00.001-07:00

During this grey time, where fear of CO-VID 19 mixes with actual sickness, the corona virus negatively affects many links of the fashion retail chain. From manufacturing, distribution, logistics, whole selling, retailing, and buying, many people are directly involved with the fashion of business.

Some of these affects include: manufacturer shut down due to global lockdown; little to no distribution; and trouble selling vast amounts of stock that won’t sell. The same is true with whole sellers and retailers who still have to pay rent. Moreover, clients and potential customers are not spending unnecessary money right now because of unemployment, lower pay, and fear of uncertainty.

How does this affect a legal contract between any of the parties on the retail chain when there are force majeure clauses set in place for the worst of times?

What is force majeure? It literally means superior force in strength; and is an unforeseeable circumstance that prevents someone from fulfilling a contract because the performance is commercially impracticable, illegal, or impossible. Not to be confused with an Act of God.

Acts of God are unpredictable natural events such as storm, earthquake, flood. Force majeure is human-initiated action that cannot be predicted or controlled by the party to the contract. However, many contracts include both terms to make sure that both natural and unnatural risks are covered.

How is it used? It removes liability for natural and unavoidable catastrophes that interrupt the expected course of events and restrict participants from fulfilling obligations.

What constitutes a force majeure? War, explosions, riots, strikes, slowdowns, lockouts, and blackouts- just to name a few.

How will the clause be interpreted and applied in court? It depends on the jurisdiction and judge. Some judges (and parties) may argue that this pandemic was no worse than the flu; while others may point to the government restrictions on commerce as dispositive. Other issues courts will look at include: whether this pandemic frustrated the entire purpose of the contract; whether it is impractical or impossible for one party to perform. Let’s face it, only necessary employees are allowed to travel to work outside of the home in many states so, it may be illegal for many to perform under their contract at this time.

Lastly, some contracts include actions that either party should take or not take in case of impossibility of risks occurring. In this fashion a mutually agreed upon backup plan is in place .

In the end, everyone must rethink their business structure, be flexible, negotiate, be creative, and have a backup plan in times of pandemonium. Reputation is always solidified in business, so going forward, companies and brands must do their part and work together because we are all affected. Kind negotiations will not be forgotten, but neither will stern ones.

Hair Industry Gems: Hair is a Scarce Commodity

2020-03-09T09:11:00.001-07:00

Still doing business in China and expanding into Southeast Asia, my hair distribution company, Hair By Akoni, went on a hair tour in the Philippines. Although our hair tour ran shorter than planned, due to Corona Virus (CO-VID19), we were able to get some great footage of Filipino hair manufacturing companies. We are taking on the every growing trillion-dollar hair industry. This week we are talking about how and why hair is a scarce commodity, and how manufacturers operate within such scarcity. Check our vlog series here.

For more information on entering the hair industry, stay connected:

website: www.hairbyakoni.com
Instagram: @hairbyakoni
Facebook: Hair By Akoni
What'sApp: +8618589250767
Email: info@hairbyakoni.com
Hashtag : #hairbyakoni

Hair By Akoni Visits Filipino Hair Factory: South East Asian Hair Factor...

2020-02-03T21:39:00.001-08:00

Urban Revivo's Brand DNA and Global Emergence

2019-09-28T15:53:00.000-07:00

Born in 2006, Urban Revivo (UR) is a trend-led, premium, fast fashion brand. Made in China, UR has begun its 2019 global emergence with headlining stores in Singapore, Bangkok, and London. This brand caught my eye because it offered a fashionable and affordable alternative to other fast fashion brands like Zara-but from a Chinese perspective. We sat down with Sookie Peng, one of UR's corporate visual merchandising managers, to find out more about UR's plan to hit the global scene.


Sookie Peng

1. Hi Sookie. Can you tell us more about your title and position at Urban Revivo?

I am the Series Visual Merchandising Manager. I manage the visual displays in all of the UR stores nation wide. Our series represents women, men, youth, and accessories. Once the buyers and designers present us with fashion and accessories, we curate our visual displays.

2. Did you have prior education and experience that helped you become the Series Visual Merchandising Manager? Is prior education and experience necessary for your career path?

I did have prior education and experience. I studied fashion merchandising. I definitely think that anyone who studied fashion, branding, or marketing has the initial skills to help him or her do what I do. It is not necessary, but it can really help advance one's career in corporate fashion.

3. Who is UR’s client? What does he or she wear?

If you are asking about our Brand DNA, we are a Chinese fast-fashion company that dresses the modern man, woman, and youth.

4. How does UR predict fashion trends for its collection?

Our buyers and designers work together to create our fashions. They travel all around the world, for months in advance, to look for inspiration. Some of these inspirations are birthed from different textiles, fabrics, trends, and styles from all around the world.

5. In the world of fast fashion, how does UR maintain a competitive advantage against the likes of Zara and H&M?

As of now, UR is mostly sold in China and has recently opened its first international stores in Singapore, Bangkok, Thailand, and London; so we don’t primarily compete with the global fast fashion market outside of China. China is our main market, however, we do plan on expanding into the global market soon.

To compete with Zara and H&M, a fashion company has to take larger risks when buying. These stores can afford to have a large back stock, which affects sales if it sells or not. We have less back stock, for instance, since we mostly focus on one market. Also, there may be one of a particular item available in a certain number of UR stores, versus multiples of a particular item in Zara or H&M.

6. How does UR maintain a competitive advantage in China, when most of the world’s textiles come from China?

I think we do a great job of knowing what our consumers want and making them feel special. That way, they choose us a lot.

7. In today’s world of social media and influencer culture, what makes a brand successful?

Creating something special and unique for the individual client is what makes a brand special. We don’t live in the time of famous or infamous brand names, such as Louis Vuitton, or Gucci. I mean, they definitely exist and will live on forever. However, today, many brands are successful because of their social media presence and following.

8. How important is your position?

It is quite important and can be very pressuring at times. I have to curate and delegate the direction to more than one thousand people. If I make a mistake, they must work very hard to fix it.

You can visit UR on Facebook, Instagram, or online at their website.

A few words from the desk of UR:

Founded in 2006, Urban Revivo is a trend-led
premium brand, upholding "play fashion" at the
heart of the brand concept. Challenging the
traditional retail model, Urban Revivo positions
itself as a pioneer of affordable luxury within the
high street fashion sector. With avant-garde designs, the brand also strikes
a perfect balance between quality and value. It
has always prided itself in creating a unique
shopping experience which is characterized by
contemporary, innovative and youthful product
offerings as well as award-winning luxury
shopping environments for its international
customers. Urban Revivo also strives to keep its
customers engaged with the latest trends
delivered into store twice per week. Urban Revivo has always been an unconventional
thinker in the industry, embedding the "play
fashion" attitude into its brand DNA. The brand
endeavours to inspire and share with its
international customers the most fun,
contemporary and cross-boundary ideas, so that
everyone can create and enjoy their own world of
fashion which is introduced and inspired by
Urban Revivo.

Hair By Akoni's Consults for Hair Companies in Guangzhou, China

2019-08-31T21:46:00.001-07:00

Get to know the story behind the brand of Hair By Akoni. This video features Stephanie, the founder and owner of Hair By Akoni, a hair sourcing company that creates hair tools for kinky curly hair.

Watch and see a short day in the life as a hair company and hair consultant helping many hair companies find quality affordable hair every single day in Guangzhou, China.

Whether you need hair for yourself or for your business, contact Hair By Akoni. Contact info below.

Stay Connected: website: www.hairbyakoni.com Instagram: @hairbyakoni Facebook: Hair By Akoni What'sApp: +8618589250767 Email: info@hairbyakoni.com Hashtag : #hairbyakoni

California Passes CROWN Act and Bans Natural Hair Descrimination

2019-07-18T06:24:00.001-07:00

Afro Kinky Coily Hair Clips Review Hair By Akoni

2019-05-17T16:58:00.001-07:00

Hair By Akoni Talks New York Hair Discrimination Ban Regulation

2019-04-27T01:33:00.001-07:00

My Visit to the Fake Supreme Store in China that is Legally Trademarked

2018-08-27T16:39:00.004-07:00

When I heard that there was a legal Chinese trademark in place to operate a Supreme store, I had to see it in person. Our voyage to Shenzen is quite far from home, but only a 45 minute train ride from my current location in Guangzhou, China- or so I thought.

According to Shenzen Daily, Shenzen plans to be a world class innovative city by 2035. One of the ways Shenzen plans to accomplish this is to strengthen the protection and use of the city’s intellectual property rights. The southern Chinese journal reports that Shenzen will improve rules and regulations related to intellectual property rights; and push harder against IPR infringement by raising the cost of IPR crimes.

From the train, I went to a popular shopping area named Coco Park, in Futian, a district of Shenzen with lots of foreign brand stores. However, to no avail, I couldn't find the Supreme store. I asked the locals and foreigners in the area if they knew where the store was located, but to my surprise, not many people knew.

Now it was time to exhaust my Wechat groups. WeChat is a popular Chinese social media platform, i.e., the lifeline of China. I asked about 1000 people in my network if they knew where the store was and yet, nobody gave me a positive or definitive location. After a few taxi rides following promising directions, I couldn't find it.

And then I saw a young man decked out in Supreme. He wore the red signature backpack with the white logo, a white supreme shirt, and a black and white Supreme face mask (not sure if those exist). He was my last hope before I really gave up and went home.

I asked him where the store was and he gave me directions to Nanshan, another district of Shenzen, twenty minutes away. Another taxi ride down and I got to another shopping complex named Coastal City and there the fake Supreme store sat on the second floor. Watch our experience inside of the Supreme store here. Watch our store experience here.

For now the store is only selling sweat shirts and t-shirts but they will soon start selling hats, which were already on display as samples.

As we know, China is no stranger to making and faking a lot of the world’s products and services. So if you plan to start a company and produce your goods, you may want to consider registering for a trademark here in China. But even then, IP registration may not deter another person or entity from infringing upon your intellectual property.

We spoke to Diana Shu of Guangzhou Huaao Intellectual Property Service to learn more about the process of filing for trademarks here in China and how a person or entity could still legally apply and register for a trademark in China for the same use, name, and purpose of a legally registered trademark in another country, i.e., The Supreme Store.

Primarily, Mrs. Shu says that filing for a trademark in China is fairly easy. Any person or company in China can apply for a trademark in a specific category, so long as the special logo or phrase hasn’t been applied for before. So in other words, the early bird catches the worm. However, Supreme, the real brand does not have a Chinese trademark in China, giving the fake Supreme store an entirely legal trademark for the name, logo, and use.

Honestly, the rules of filing for a trademark are pretty similar globally. Further, big brands that can afford IP registration and protection fees, typically register in many countries, especially countries they know their items will be counterfeited. But even then, registration does not stop infringement, just ask New Balance. It took them 10 years to finally win a legal battle it had against a Chinese company for using its name and selling counterfeit New Balance sneakers. Read about it here.

Young Designer Edition: Chief by Ubong

2018-02-17T20:01:00.000-08:00

1.What's your name and where are you from?

I am Ubong Daniel. A Nigerian man from Akwa Ibom. Born in Livingstone New Jersey Raised in Dallas Texas.

2. What is the name of your Fashion Design and or Company?

My Brand name is Chief by Ubong

3. What type of fashion does your brand specialize in?

I am more focused on making street wear, but I make customized one of a kind garments such as ball gowns

4. Did/do you study fashion? Or business?

I am currently a student at the University of North Texas studying Merchandising.

5. How did your journey begin?

In 9^th grade I made Pajama pants in my Theater class. Back then I was really big on being an Actor/ singer. My theater teacher told the class to be an actor it requires you to have many little skills and the skill she decided to teach us was how to sew. It was cool, but I never really thought much of it. Then in the 11^th grade me and some friends made up a club called Urban Arts of the future. The club was meant to showcase different artistic talents such as dancing, singing, art, and fashion. We had a showcase. At this showcase there was a mini fashion show. I helped out by and stitching some Ankara fabric on t-shirts. The fashion show was fun and I got a lot of compliments from sewing simple pockets and sashes on shirts. After that I was like oh this is cool I can make myself some one of a kind shirts that no one has. This was a big deal for me at the time because this means I can make African clothes that

weren’t so traditional to African events. So, I kept doing patch work and made simple things like bowties and scarfs. Then I went to college and decided fashion was the way to go. But, as a Nigerian man majoring in fashion isn’t normal, or really accepted in the African community. So, I started off majoring in marketing. More acceptable than fashion, but marketing wasn’t cut out for me and I ended majoring in merchandising, the business side of fashion. During this switch is also when I was asked by The UNT’s African Student Organization to make their dance outfits. There were about thirty plus dance members and I am an amateur sewer that really only knows how to put patches on shirts. Although my sewing skills where limited I said yes - let me make all these outfits. I made all 30 something outfits for the dance team by trial and error. That’s when making clothes took off. People started asking me to make clothes for them and I did it. The weird thing is these people put their trust in me and I hardly ever trusted myself. but I can honestly say I’m glad that people started to put their faith in me.

6. What's the story behind your brand?

My brand is honestly just a reflection of me. I was that kid that didn’t quite fit in to one box. I was told my name Ubong means Chief. So I named my brand after me and my culture. I will always remember my roots, but I’m not just some Nigerian man. Chief is a brand for people to accept themselves for who they are. They don’t try to change to fit the mold- they are living their best life in their own way.

7. How long have you been designing?

I have been professionally l designing for about 3 years.

8. What inspires you?

My Nigerian culture is always an inspiration, but so are other cultures. I get intrigued by people’s ideas; how their culture and how their upbringing influenced their mindset. So I do look at different cultures and history for inspiration.

9. Who are your fashion influences?

I honestly cannot pin point one person, but if I had to Rihanna. She is a style icon for a reason. She is unapologetic as to what she wears or does. She is so confident in everything and no one can tell her what she doing is wrong.

10. You are a young designer, so where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In ten years I see myself as an established designer with a good following.

11. Who and what motivates you?

Honestly what keeps me going is not disappointing my parents. I have to be able to make them proud, and be able to silence all the people who speak ill about me to them.

12. Do you listen to any particular music while working?

Any particular music, no not really. I listen to Chance the Rapper, Frank Ocean, Rihanna, and other alternative hip hop for the most part. But I also listen to anything that I’m feeling that day.

13. How has being a Nigerian American influenced your art and design?

It has a very strong influence. At on point I was told oh so you are just an African designer. I am not just an African designer. I don’t like being called that, I love my Nigerian culture, but saying that is putting me in a box and I am claustrophobic. With that being said, I do use a lot of Nigerian patterns and fabrics in my designs though.

14. What's special or different about your designs?

I Feel like my designs are daring. They are clothes that people are scared to wear or excited to wear. Your regular African tailor might not even let you think of wearing something like that.

15. Where can the public find your designs?

My website will be coming soon, but for right now it will have to be my social media.

16. Are you on social media?

Twitter: @chiefubong

Instagram: ChiefbyUbong

Shanghai Black Fashion Week Presents: Eggzekitive Rob Clothing

2017-12-04T03:08:00.002-08:00

Our second Shanghai Black Fashion Week designers are Chishimba Carvelo Katong and Karen Shula of Eggzekitive Rob Clothing.

1. What’s your name and where are you from?

Our names are Chishimba Carvelo Katongo & Karen Shula. We are from the rich continent of Africa in a country called Zambia.

2.What is the name of your Fashion Design and or Company?

Our brands called Eggzekitive Rob clothing

3. What type of fashion does your brand specialize in?

Our brand is a unisex Afrocentric brand that specializes in classic gentlemen’s casual and formal wear and elegant and funky feminine wear.

4. Did/do you study fashion? Or business?

None of us are studying fashion. Carvelo is a third year civil engineering student. Karen is a third year international trade and economics student.

5. How did your journey begin?

Well the journey begun in 2013 with me Carvelo. I had just completed my high school education and I noticed, all my life, whenever I had events, parties, weddings or even a mere Sunday church service, I always wanted to stand out from the crowd through my outfit. I strongly disliked common brands worn by my peers. When I had a piece of clothing I never wanted to find in with anyone else.

That was the moment I realized the only way to achieve that is having my own brand. I always had a unique sense of style which people found a little crazy; but I wanted to influence them with my style; and owning my own brand would be the only way to attain this dream.

6. What’s the story behind your brand?

I had just come to China early 2015 to begin my studies and I had been holding the dream within me for a while; until I met a young lady by the name of Karen Shula who had come to China at the same time as I did.

I got to know her and was emotionally attracted to her. We went on as friends and I later expressed my feelings. With luck on my side I was accepted. As the new relationship unfolded I shared the dream with her. She loved the concept because she grew up knitting clothes for her dolls and also participated in a lot of d.i.y competitions in school and artistic fashion sketching.

The name Executive Rob spelled Eggzekitive Rob means a high class garment worn by high profile people. The word Rob is derived from a very important garment which symbolized royalty in the bible.

7. How long have you been doing business in China?

We have been doing business in China for almost 3 years now

8. Which Chinese city do you live in?

I live in Linan city, a small city about 40 minutes from Hangzhou.

9. How and why did you start in China?

I believe that everything that’s important should be written down or scribbled somewhere. We first made sure we had a proper plan. We made connections with affordable and high quality suppliers and manufactures to give us the materials we needed to equip ourselves.

Why did we start the brand in China- there a lot of reasons as towhy; but one of the key most reasons is China is a really friendlyplace to start a business. Materials are readily available and allinfrastructures are in place in terms of internet connectivity, whichmakes advertising very easy. Also, there are secure modes of payments and very reliable courier services.

10. What is it like doing business in China?

Doing business in China has been an interesting journey that has enabled us to travel the country and mingle with different kinds of people and cultures. Because of these factors we strive to make sure we produce a very satisfactory product that our clients can be happy with. We deal with people of different classes, connections, students, expatriates, business men and women.

11. Do you speak Chinese?

Yes I do speak Chinese, which is my strength, while my partner Karen reads and writes Chinese- her strength in the Chinese language.

12. How does speaking Chinese affect you doing business in China?

Being able to speak Chinese is very important as a business person in China. It has been of great help in terms of explaining what I really want from the suppliers, negotiating with suppliers, bargaining, and also dealing with courier companies when dispatching clients' orders. I would advise anyone looking at starting a business in china to make sure they polish the Chinese speaking skills.

13. How does being a foreigner affect you doing business in China?

Being a foreigner doing business in China really affects us in certain ways like limitation in participation at expos and trade shows due to lack of interest in the goods that we produce. Secondly, using high marketing platforms like Taobao, J.D., and Tmall, you may not possess all the relevant documents that Chinese nationals have, but nonetheless, things are beginning to open up.

Another disadvantage is, as Africans, we are seen to be from one country and not separate countries; and a bad experience of one Chinese national with an African lets them carry the stereotype that all Africans are bad.

14. How was your experience showcasing at Shanghai Black Fashion Week?

Showcasing at the Shanghai Black Fashion Week is a great experience for us. We really learned a lot from the the event- connected with different people, shared ideas with other designers, and also interacted with customers.

We would like to thank the organizers Benjamin, TaVanni, Hu John, and everybody who worked hard to make the event a success. We are already preparing for SBFW 18 and wish the event can grow and expand to be bigger and better every year.

15. Are you afraid that your products and or designs may be counterfeited and or knocked-off in China?

We are certainly not afraid of any one duplicating our work because we take that as a compliment of our work. Early this year a customer from Zambia duplicated our male kaftan for his wedding. He contacted us about 3 to 4 months prior to his wedding requesting we make him a kaftan.

We sent available designs and he stole the designs and submitted them to a tailor who tried to make the same garment but failed to produce it as it should have been. We weren’t hurt- we were motivated. People will only duplicate it if it's good and attractive.

16. How do you control and maintain the quality of your products
during the manufacturing process?

At Eggzekitive Rob clothing, we always strive to give customers value for their money and total satisfaction. We closely assess our fabric choices for every design. We also pay precise attention to our design choices. Some designs make look fancy when illustrated on paper but would not fit perfectly into a person’s daily life. Our third quality control measure is to make sure we test every new design by having our own personal outfits first before we can roll them out on the market.

17. What's special or different about your designs?

Wow awesome question. It kind of reminds me of one of the reasons I ventured into fashion- to enable my mind to think beyond its perimeters. I love challenges and fashion tosses new challenges my way everyday because it evolves with time.

Our designs are creative because we want our customers to look unique whenever they wear Eggzekitive Rob clothing. All of our designs are custom made and we avoid repeating what we have done before.

19. Where can the public find your designs?

We advertise widely on a lot of convenient platforms because we are in China. Wechat is the most used platform so we are trading on a Wechat integrated online shop called Weidian in Chinese.

We mostly update our collection on our Facebook and Instagram pages. Our website is still under construction and we shall notify the public once it's up and running. We can also confirm to have our clothes featured in a Botswana online store called Quasars early 2018

20. Are you on social media?

Wechat at ch62142

Instagram:Eggzekitive Rob Clothing

Facebook: Eggekitive Rob

Email:Eggzekitiverob@gmail.com

21. Any other comments?

We appreciate everyone that has supported us from the the inception of the brand and others that tagged along. We wish we could individually name them but the list is endless. We are always working hard because of their unconditional support.

Lastly, we would like to encourage everyone that has a dream or passion to never to sit back and wait for a miracle to bring it to life. Go out there, get out of your comfort zone, and invest every little time or coin required to achieve it. The start will never be easy but one day you will look back and appreciate that fact that you started.

A big Thank you to you Fashion Legallaire Blog for featuring our story in your. We are thankful.

SBFW showcases diverse and local underground talent throughout China in Shanghai. SBFW S/S 2018 is tba but stay connected with us for exclusive information. Stay tuned for our next SBFW designer interview.

Shanghai Black Fashion Week Presents Naya Fashion

2017-11-30T22:12:00.001-08:00

Our first Shanghai Black Fashion Week designer is Sheila Boaduwaa Yeboah of Naya Fashion, a colorful line that showcases african print in all of its pieces.

1.What's your name and where are you from?

I am Sheila Boaduwaa Yeboah from Ghana, and I'm a medical student at Hebei North University China.

2. What is the name of your Fashion Design and or Company?

Naya Fashion is the name of my fashion house. Naya was adopted from my local name "Nana Yaa".

3. What type of fashion does your brand specialize in?

We specialize in clothes, slippers, and african printed accessories. We mostly base our designs on africanism while incorporating a little bit of Asian and western influence.

4. Did or do you study fashion or business?

I have never been to any fashion or business schools.

5. How did your journey begin?

I began at the age of 15. I ordered a dress and I didn't like the outcome so I tried to redo it and made it; I call it talent because nobody taught me how to sew.

7. How long have you been doing business in China?

2 years now

8. Which Chinese city do you live in?

Zhangjiakuo city, hebei province

9.How and why did you start it in China?

I made fashion designs apart of me in china because I love to sew and now my fashion designs are a hobby turned profession. In my spare time I do a lot with my magical hands; I make anything fashionable including hair.

10. What is it like doing business in China?

It not easy but yet still reliable

11. Do you speak Chinese?

A little.

12. How does speaking Chinese affect you doing business in China?

It does not affect me

13. How does being a foreigner affect you doing business in China?

Almost all of the Chinese people do not purchase my products; they prefer their own home made stuffs.

14. How was your experience showcasing at SBFW?

It was my best experience. Almost everyone at the show that day loved my designs; especially the models.

15. Are you afraid that your products and or designs may be counterfeited and or knocked-off in China?

Not at all because my designs are unique.

16. How do you control and maintain the quality of your products during the manufacturing process?

When ever making a new design or product I try it on myself first for some months and also make sure I go in for the best raw materials

17. What's special or different about your designs?

I base my designs on africanism +Asian +Western [influence] which makes it uncommon.

18. Where can the public find your designs?

On Facebook as Naya Fashion, Instagram as Nayafashion1, and Wechat as Nayasby.

21 Any other comments?

Naya fashion wear your imagination

Shanghai Black Fashion Week 2017

2017-11-30T16:11:00.002-08:00

Here in China, we are still have all the feels of fashion week, from Shanghai all the way to Guangzhou. Most of 2017's designers were Chinese, French, Russian, and American. Lucky for them their designs had the opportunity to grace the stage; however, showcasing at a fashion week is a lofty dream for many designers because it almost solidifies that he or she has "made it" in the fashion world. Moreover, the fashion industry is the same globally- highly political; which could mean a considerable amount of money, connections, and time to get featured at a major fashion week showcase.

But a group of creative collectives- directors, producers, and stylists- decided to combat this issue by creating Shanghai Black Fashion Week (SBFW).

Radii China

"SBFW is a time to celebrate diversity, support local talents and bring light the hidden creativity flourishing in China's underground fashion World," says TaVanni Singleton, the communications director of SBFW.

Following this celebration of diversity within the fashion industry, WHICH WE LOVE, we spoke to some of the designers to find out more about them and their designs.

FEATURED DESIGNERS:
Benjamin Kotoh of Bespoke's Brush&Saccy
Naya Fashion
Humble Kloud
Eggzkitive Robs
Diversity
NakedLove
Patches by Amy

Radii China

Doing Business in China Presents: Tofanyi Coco Scrub, a Vegan Beauty Brand

2017-08-29T03:31:00.000-07:00

Tofanyi Coco Scrub

What's your name and where are you from? My name is Abdourahamane ly, I’m from Guinea (West Africa).

What is the name of your Company? My brand name is Tofanyi - which translates as "natural beauty” in Susu language {of Guinea or Sierre Leone , West Africa}.

What type of product or service does your company provide? Tofanyi is a vegan skincare brand that creates scrubs using natural oils and more.

Did/do you study fashion or business? I graduated in Shanghai with an economics degree.

How did your journey begin? I became interested in the skincare industry after becoming vegan and finding out that it is extremely difficult to find vegan, cruelty free, and healthy products in China. I purchased oils from west Africa in order to experiment, and once I formulated my products I started selling them at the markets.

What is the story behind your brand? Tofanyi is a natural brand that fights against animal testing and the use of any animal derivatives in cosmetic ingredients. We are looking to spread the cruelty free message across China while providing top quality skincare.

How long have you been doing business in China? My company was registered in 2015.

What city do you live in? Shanghai.

How and Why did you start it in China? I came to China to study in 2008. After graduation I felt it was a great place to pursue business.

What is it like doing business in China? Doing business in China is very challenging but with extremely good communication and connections anything is possible.

Do you speak Chinese? Yes, I speak Mandarin.

How does speaking Chinese affect you doing business in China? It facilitates communication and without Chinese it would be extremely difficult for me to set up and operate a business here.

How does being a foreigner affect you doing business in China? I think it has both positive and negative aspects. I think being a foreigner selling skincare can give you an edge, as many local [Chinese] brands are not likely trusted. However Business is heavily based on connections so you really have to put yourself out there in order to succeed and be accepted. The system can be hard to navigate as a foreigner, so it is definitely more challenging than running a business in your own country.

Are you afraid that your products and or designs may be counterfeited and or knocked-off in China? Copyright theft is definitely a big risk in China, however the country is improving in tackling this issue. The only solution is to move forward and be ready to deal with any potential theft as it comes.

How do you control and maintain the quality of your products during the manufacturing process? I import argan oil directly from an organic farm in Morocco that I have personally visited. I work closely with the factory in China in order to ensure the ingredients sources are of highly quality .

What's special or different about your product? our products are 100% vegan and cruelty free (rare in China).

How does your company/product impact the environment? In what ways? We are a vegan brand that fights against animal exploitation and consumption which is directly affecting our environment. It’s believed that over 300,000 animals are used each year in China for the testing of beauty products. Even major imported foreign brands such as L’Oreal and Estee Lauder are required to be re-tested before being sold in China. We look for sustainable ingredients and try to make our packaging as eco- friendly as possible. We are hoping to reduce any unnecessary packaging in order to prevent waste.

Where can the public find your products? They are available on Taobao and Weidian.

Are you on social media? you can find Tofanyi on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Abdourahamane ly

Founder of Tofanyi

Any other comments? I hope more people will open their eyes to the atrocities that are committed against animals in order to help end cruelty. By choosing cruelty free cosmetics you are voting against the torture of animals.

You Saw It Here First! China Made and Trending- Fluff and Tassels

2017-08-27T08:20:00.000-07:00

You saw it here first:

Straight from the Chinese factories and right to your favorite store or boutique, here are some of the latest trends being produced as we speak. As fast fashion and trends work, items are mass produced and people come to China to private label and or tweak these items' styles as their own, so it can be very challenging to lay original claim to some of these trends. Read more about Which Came First: the Designer or the Design? here.

It's fluff and tassel season right? shoes, bags, accessories: Check out these keychains and compact mirrors.

Like what you see and want more information on where to get it? Drop us a message because we source too.

Stay tuned for more of You Saw It Here First! China Made and Trending.

Doing Business in China Part 2: Hair By Akoni

2017-08-27T06:18:00.004-07:00

When it comes to merging fashion, law, and the business of fashion, I thought there was no better way than to jump right in to the industry than to come to China, where I have been doing just that for the past 3 years.

I am first generation Nigerian American (Akwa Ibom State), grew up in the American South (Louisiana, Texas, Florida), studied/lived in France, and now China- and that's just about as diverse as my sense of style is, which changes just like my hair. Since I have lived in China, I started Hair By Akoni, a hair distribution company, as well as a sourcing company.

Living and doing business in China has opened my eyes to the intricate details that artists and designers go through when it comes to the inception of an idea, the production and manufacturing of that idea, the protections of said idea, and the global dissemination of the idea turned product. Read more about my journey at Liberate Magazine.

YES FASHON LAW INVOLVES MORE THAN SUING OVER STOLEN DESIGNS. In fact, the legal issues concerning the business of fashion are similar to other industries- just insert fashion here. Contracts need to be drafted, intellectual properties registered, and these may have to be defended around the world. Further, since the boom e-commerce, paypal accounts and websites do get shut down too as assets are frozen in pending litigation.

All the while we hope that morally, business cares enough about the environment to abide by global emissions codes, use recyclable products, and sustainable energy. In fact, Fashion Legallaire has spotlighted the environmental issues surrounding the fashion industry before- read about it here and here- and will revisit this topic again very soon. In fact, a lot of pollutant factories in China make the fashion world go round but we all play a huge role in today's world

As always you can find me right here at the Fashion Legallaire blog and on Twitter. To learn more about my hair company, visit Hair by Akoni on Facebook and Instagram.

Stay tuned...

Which Came First: Designer or Design?

2017-08-16T11:59:00.000-07:00

Living in China has been an innovative experience. As the country that "makes it all and fakes it all", it is not a surprise to see, in mass production, the latest fashion creations, trends, and styles. Many people come to China from all over the world to start and develop their business brands. It may be of original design, or a design curated by the manufacturer. Think: original design manufacturing (ODM) vs original equipment manufacturing (EDM). Because of this, I'm always puzzled as to which came first: the designer or the design?

What usually occurs when a trend is about to hit globally after it is produced in China is extreme visibility- the design or style is apparent everywhere- in the stores, on the train, in different colors, in mimic styles, whether it is to be the "intended design or not." Give or take a few weeks and the design is on the cover of a magazine or worn by a celebrity.

Perfect example is this multicolored tribal strap. Most commonly sold as a purse strap or bag handle, I saw it sold as a belt and phone case strap too.

1. High end use of the purse strap by Valentino

Quick Note: Valentino says made in Italy, but as I have learned from other luxury brand companies, like Louis Vuitton for instance, their bags may be manufactured in China and sent to Italy where the labels are stitched on as "made in Paris"- qualifying the bags to be proclaimed as made in Paris, even if most or all of the bag is made in China.

Think: Labeling Laws according to the item's country. Check out what qualifies a label as "made in USA" and what unqualifies a label here.

2. Lower End use of the purse strap by Lily Vanity

3. Phone case strap at Nordstrom Rack

Now, which came first: the Designer or the Design? It is easy to say that an artist or designer's original design was inspired by another creation, however, there is nothing original about any of the tribal fabric in relation to these three brands because it is the exact item.

This may relate to why there is no copyright protection for the aesthetic value of an item. Furthermore, I doubt any of these brands will sue on behalf of the multicolored tribal fabric.

Does Amazon.Com Steal from Private Business?

2016-08-01T06:22:00.003-07:00

As the largest online retailer in the world, I thought I could trust Amazon.com-not only with my inventory but with my business. After careful consideration with my business partner and a few months of research, we knew we wanted to start our e-commerce business with Amazon for a few reasons.

www.poetsandquants.com

Our first reason was Amazon’s commonality and popularity amongst retailers. People know Amazon like they know Google. In fact, no one hardly says, “I’ll search on line.” Instead they say, “I’ll Google it.” Similarly, Amazon.com is a popular and common place to buy online.

Our second reason was visibility. We could have constructed our own website, but with having a new startup and building a brand from conception meant that we would not likely get enough online traffic. Frankly, no one knew our company or had ever heard of us so we wanted a platform that would give us visibility.

Our third reason was convenience. Amazon.com offers businesses shipping and handling. One ships its items to an Amazon warehouse and Amazon will ship the items to the buyers and even handle any returned merchandise.

Here we are, almost 3 months later and we still do not have our highly visible and common Amazon market place . However, 3 months ago, we did our due diligence. We called to check upon the status of our items every week and to know why they were not online. Did our items get delivered to the warehouse? Yes.

But then we got the news that no business owner wants to hear: your items are missing. Missing?! How can they be missing when they were delivered? Since Amazon.com did not have that answer, we were put under pending investigation, which meant, we had to keep calling them because outside of speaking to an Amazon.com agent on the phone, we only received automated emails.

We were very frustrated as you can imagine. Our first business was sitting somewhere for no one to see, not making any money- a complete violation to the first rule of business. Further, since our merchandise was seasonal for summer, time was just ticking away from in season to out of season. We were certain that by the time Amazon got it together, consumers will have moved on to a style more contemporary.

At the one and half month point, we had nothing- no online space, no hyperlink- and the news got worse. We were then told that two of the warehouse workers were caught on camera stealing our merchandise. We were very upset yes, but temporary relief set in. At least we knew our merchandise have a home and we can start the reimbursement process; process being the operative word.

The process of speaking to Amazon as a seller is a monotonous one. You start by calling their 1-888 number also known as the number to the front door. This number is not a direct number that designates your relationship or the purpose of your call as a buyer or a seller or a prime membership member. This number just calls Amazon and next you listen to the automated operator. Then afterwards you get to speak to an agent to verify your information. Only after about five to six minutes are you transferred to the correct department. But this happens every single time we called to get an update on our inventory. So you can imagine our level of frustration going on for 3 months now.

As you can imagine, Amazon is still charging us its monthly fee for work that it is not doing so we are livid. Finally we call back and get more bad news: your items have been found. To our disbelief of this new information that contradicts the Amazon thievery from the previous month, the Agent assured us that he will send us photos of our items in the warehouse but we have yet to receive them. It has been 1 week and counting.

I reached out to other entrepreneurs and business owners and some of them recounted their horror stories with Amazon.com. Not only have others experienced theft, but damaged items as well. When I asked about recourse, they said it took a long time because Amazon likes to work on its own time. Imagine that.

Is my entrepreneurial spirit dampened? A little bit. Amazon has been so unprofessional in our business dealings. They have charged us to lose money. We have no virtual market place as promised by Amazon and frankly, we are not even sure if they still have our items.

So while we wait to figure out what our next move with Amazon is concerning our merchandise, we have researched and found other online market spaces where business owners can do business.

In no special order:

1. Shopify

2. Big Cartel

3. Etsy

These are just to name a few but check out this list of 20 e-commerce shops here. Make sure to do some research about the market space and find out the pros and the cons from people both buyers and sellers that have used the service.

We are so done with Amazon.com.

Does Amazon.Com Steal from Private Business?

2016-08-01T06:22:00.001-07:00

www.poetsandquants.com

So while we wait to figure out what our next move with Amazon is concerning our merchandise, we have researched and found other online market spaces where business owners can do business.

In no special order:

1. Shopify

2. Big Cartel

3. Etsy

We are so done with Amazon.com.

Fashion Legallaire Takes China: Doing Business in China

2016-06-07T20:18:00.003-07:00

Hello everyone and welcome back to Fashion Legallaire Blog.

On this edition of Fashion Legallaire takes China, we will focus on doing business in China. My most recent development in the fashion law industry was moving to China and becoming an international business consultant because I wanted to learn and experience more about the business of fashion. Further, one of the advantages of living in China, specifically Guangzhou, is that I have access to various of the markets and manufacturers in various industries.

In America, when learning about the business of fashion, I would usually learn about the designer, see the finished product and research its intellectual property. I frequented BOF.com to keep abreast on the financials of the market and stay on top of market and fashion trends. In China, however, I am involved with the more technical side of fashion- raw materials, accessories, factoriy and market visits, and logistics (think shipping, quality control). It has been fun so far, but this part of the business of fashion has its challenges.

1. What's the hardest challenge when doing business in China?

The language and culture barrier. Doing business in China is unlike any other business experience I have had. Understanding the culture and learning to work with it in China in order to be successful is ongoing. Building business friendships and relationships here takes time and catering to because once you have the "guanxi," you are good; but sometimes, for some people, you will never be more than a foreigner doing business in China. Consequentially, the foreigner tax is real when doing business so it helps to have a trusted Chinese business partner to help you overcome that hump.

It is imperative that you speak Chinese or work with someone who can speak Chinese when doing business here. Within the last 15 years, China became more open to foreigners permanently living and doing business here, so there is a huge language gap. Also, many of the manufacturers, market vendors only speak Chinese, and or a local dialect. Therefore Learning Chinese or having a trusted business partner who is Chinese and or can speak Chinese is imperative.

Hand signals, and I'm not talking about sign language, and other western non verbal cues that I have learned in my life, do not work in the place of actual communication here in China. It is quite interesting and sometimes funny, but can be frustrating when trying to articulate particular instructions and specifications about manufacturing and shipping.

2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of doing business in China online?

When it comes to the internet and technology, China is a global leader and does a great job at making most conveniences in life available online and or with the scan of a Quick Response code (QR code), a two-dimensional barcode that is machine readable, and stores information about the item to which it is attached. QR codes seemed to have come and plateaued in America but China is the future, especially when it comes to international business, so this may come alive again there.

My QR code: The LifeStyle Buyer
available on Wechat

When it comes to doing business online think Taobao, Alibaba, Aliexpress, which are akin to Ebay and Amazon. These are giant online vendors who supply the world with almost everything it needs when doing business virtually, but there in lies the blessing and the curse.

Not being here to see the product or inspect the quality leaves the average buyer open for the ultimate scam- not getting what he or she paid for in quality and realia. No res ipsa loquitur because the thing does not speak for itself- it's an imposter. I have ordered from Taobao, and still received products that looked nothing like what was advertised and I live here. Therefore it is important to connect with someone who can actually speak to the vendors, see and feel the products and make sure it is up to par with the buyer's expectations. Insert Me, the international business consultant here in China.

3. Is there intellectual property protection in China?

I answer this question with a question. "What's a copyright China?" I wrote about the lack of intellectual property protection (IPP) in China and it's lack of incentive to respect global intellectual property rights. Click the hyperlink to learn more about it. China has IPP in theory. You can and should file for IPP if creating and manufacturing in China so that you put people on notice.

China has IPP courts, however IPP in practice is a day to day challenge and when I go to the markets, I question the implementation and strength of IPP here.

I saw these Gucci flip flops outside of a market, but I was not at the Gucci store.

And it is not just high end designers that get their work stolen, start up designers as well. I spoke with 2 designers living and working in China and they each told me the horror stories. In both instances, after they designed their creations, they took it to the manufacturer. Both designers saw their designs being sold around in China various colors without their logo. One of them has even stopped designing, at least while he is in China because he does not ever want to experience such theft again. I must say, it is one thing to research and study China's plight with global intellectual property laws but it is eye opening to see it in person.

4. What does Business Consulting Entail?

From start to finish, a typical consultation includes speaking with the client to understand their needs and wants. Then further research is done to find out where I can find the item or manufacture it. Once there, I relay all the specifications to the vendor or manufacturer and negotiate pricing. This can take a few hours to days or weeks. Language barrier is the one of the biggest barriers here and simply not being Chinese is another. Relationship building is key here. So if you are not Chinese and have not established some sort of relationship with the boss, then you may not get the better deal or even better items. Samples may need to made and verified by my client. After the item comes in, I conduct a quality control inspection to make sure that it matches my client's request. Lastly, I ship the item out.

5. What have I learned doing business in China?

From this experience, I have learned so much about manufacturing, logistics, business, importing, exporting, and the surrounding laws. I love that I have the opportunity to meet people from all over the world everyday. The one lesson that I find very essential is the importance of emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence is the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one's emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically.

Emotional intelligence is key to having relationships with people whether in business, family, or love. At the end of the day business is business, but people are people and it is key for me to be in control of my emotions so that I handle my interpersonal affairs judiciously and empathetically.

I focus on beauty and eyewear and clothes, but if you are interested in buying from China, contact me:

email: camperbundles@gmail.com
Facebook: Hair By Akoni
IG: Hair By Akoni

Wechat: HairbyAkoni

Twitter: fashnlegallaire

Fashion Legallaire Goes to China: Michael Jordan Lost the Rights to His Name in China

2015-08-01T06:01:00.001-07:00

whatsontianjin.com

Business Insider

Michael Jordan lost the rights to his name in China in a recent trademark lawsuit he brought to a Beijing Municipal High People’s Court against a company using a similar name and logo for his Nike in April 2014.

China is home to lax protection of intellectual property rights, many counterfeit goods and brands and Jordans by Nike is no exception. The chinese imitator is Qiaodan Sports, a Chinese sportswear company based in Fujian province.

Since 2012, Jordan has unsuccessfully sued Qiaodan Sports for misappropriating his name and likeness. In this lawsuit, Jordan asked Qiaodan Sports to deregister 78 trademarks.

China Wire reports that Qiaodan Sports, pronounced “chew dahn” sounds very similar to Jordan. In fact, it is a Mandarin transliteration of “Jordan” used to refer to Michael Jordan. Also, Qiodan uses the number 23 and a jumping man logo to sell basketball shoes and jerseys. Which would naturally mislead any consumer in China that Michael Jordan was behind the brand.

In the U.S. legal system, it is clear that Qiaodan infringed on Jordan’s trademark rights. However, after a series of countersuits, it is clear that Chinese law backs it national companies even when it is clear that their success derives from the creations of others. In a June 18th verdict, the Beijing court ruled that “Qiaodan” is not only the name that corresponds to “Jordan,” and “Jordan” is only an ordinary surname of American people, not a full name. Also, the logo is in the shape of a person with no facial features, so the current evidence is not enough to prove that Qiaodan” determinedly points to Michael Jordan.

The six time NBA champion plans to appeal to the Supreme People’s Court for a retrial.

Fashion Legallaire Goes to China: What Copyright, China? No Incentive for IP in China

2015-03-22T08:17:00.001-07:00

As a recent expat to Guangzhou, China, the biggest manufacturing city in the world, I see firsthand the beginning and end of many counterfeited goods. Seven days a week, Guangzhou's factories produce manufactured goods for branded and non-branded companies alike. For example, Louis Vuitton has a manufacturing company here, so naturally the art of making precise counterfeit LV products is perfected here. Sure there is pride in buying the real deal, but a $7 counterfeit in a subway station, just may be your dirty little secret.

As an American fashion law enthusiast, I learned that intellectual property is the crux of commercializing creativity. Before coming to China, I further learned that China is the worst country when it comes to abiding by international intellectual property laws. But now that I am here, I think I see why there is no incentive for many Chinese manufacturers to follow intellectual property laws. It begs the question, "what copyright, China?"

So countdown the ways with me....

1. Most of the branded imported textile goods are manufactured in China so it is very easy to not only make items for export, but to keep the manufactured items to sell in the local markets.

2. Factories mess up sometimes. A wrong stitch here or there means that the item needs to be tossed- usually right out to the street or local market.

3. Even if a Chinese manufacturer does follow ip laws here, there are many more people here that do not follow it, so it may cost more financially to abide by the rules in the long run.

4. In China the labor is cheaper and fashion companies take advantage of this fact at their own expense. The cost of production for manufactured goods is so low that branded companies choose not to move its manufacturing out of China.

5. While the supply for counterfeited goods is high, the demand is even higher. Counterfeited goods is a billion dollar business. *Think Louis Vuitton in the subway*

Counterfeited products manufactured in China range from pharmaceuticals, beauty products, technology, to fashion. It has been very amusing guessing whether something is real or fake here; but usually, the price determines that.

Until next time...