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Original Post
What can I do when I find that a seller has made an exact copy of one of my creations? I realise that items will be similar as everyone has access to the same fabrics...but really, exactly the same (fabric, lining,buttons, pattern and all) is infuriating especially when I know I was the first not by weeks but by months.
Posted at 8:27 pm Nov 24, 2012 EST
Responses
There is nothing that you can do. Unfortunately fashions are not copyrightable and as, like you said, the fabrics etc. are commonly available. It's disheartening to see yourself being blatantly copied but you just have to try to put it out of your mind and forge ahead.
Posted at 8:29 pm Nov 24, 2012 EST
Adorable shop, by the way- the little gnome coat is just too cute!
Posted at 8:31 pm Nov 24, 2012 EST
Nothing actually, clothing can't be copyrighted...ever see the copies of dresses worn on the Red Carpet for sale the next day on line?
Or Wedding gowns of the rich & famous available almost immediately?
Posted at 8:31 pm Nov 24, 2012 EST
It's entirely possible if your materials are all sourced from a common retailer.
I suppose you could politely contact the seller and attempt to have a conversation about the similarities....
Posted at 8:31 pm Nov 24, 2012 EST
I once listed something (a few years back when I was offering a few handmade things), and was *shocked* to discover the same item offered by another seller. We'd both used the same obscure and vintage pattern. I'd altered the design quite a bit, and she stuck to the pattern, but clearly the items were extremely similar. I sent her a message about 'great minds think alike'.
Posted at 8:34 pm Nov 24, 2012 EST
Thanks Elizabeth, it is very disheartening when I try to be unique in what I offer and feel that it has duped me out of a couple of sales.Even the darn photo shoot styling was copied...same leggings and bright red shoes and backdrop, what a joke.I'm not a complaining type of person but this has really ticked me off.
Posted at 8:37 pm Nov 24, 2012 EST
I've had that happen a couple of times here. It's infuriating, I know, but there's really nothing you can do.
Posted at 8:37 pm Nov 24, 2012 EST
Hi Janet..as much as I feel like contacting the seller I won't as I don't want to have any retribution that will effect my store and ability to sell.My Aussie shop does well and I'm trying to expand albeit very slowly.However it would be nice to let her know that "I KNOW". Thanks Elizabeth....yes, it actually happens to be the Gnome Coat I'm talking about.
Thanks to responders...I wasn't expecting such quick replies.
Posted at 8:42 pm Nov 24, 2012 EST
Kellie, if the other person chose the same fabric, then it's not much of a stretch to imagine that they would pair it up with some red shoes.
BUT... from a person whose entire shop was copied, I understand your frustration and anger. You have two choices. You can communicate politely with the other shop and inquire about her inspiration and maybe comment on the similarity (without assuming or accusing), or you can try your best to move along and keep creating adorable clothing.
Posted at 8:43 pm Nov 24, 2012 EST