Oh, patents! Manolo Blahnik Nadi evening clutch (3)

 Copyright © Françoise Herrmann

The Manolo Blahnik Nadi evening clutch was inspired by the Nadira Manolos. Nadira Manolos are satin-clad Blahnik pumps with a diagonal Swarovski crystal buckle. A jeweled buckle that is designed as a handle on the Nadi evening clutch. 

The Manolo Blahnik Nadi evening clutch is a patented invention. The US design patent, USD788454S1, titled Handbag, was awarded to Manolo Blahnik, on June 6th, 2017. 

Below, the patent Figure 1, depicting a front-right perspective view of the invention design, together with three images of the marketed, satin-clad, Nadi evening clutch.

References
Manolo Blahnik (website)
https://www.manoloblahnik.com/us/
Pithers, E. (Aug. 5, 2015). Manolo Blahnik on misanthropy, minaudières and the "divine" Mary Beard. Daily Telegraph.
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/fashion/people/manolo-blahnik-launches-new-bag-collection-stays-independent/

Oh, patents! Manolo Blahnik Okka evening clutch (2)

 Copyright © Françoise Herrmann

The Manolo Blahnik Okka evening clutch, inspired by the Manolo Blahnik Okkato pumps, is a patented design.  The US design patent, USD780446S1, titled Handbag, was awarded on May 7th, 2017, to Manolo Blahnik.

Below the patent Figure 1, depicting a front-right perspective of the design, together with three images of the marketed design. The satin-clad hard-shell clutch, called a minaudière, is adorned with clear Swarovski crystals in a striking pattern. 

References

Manolo Blahnik (website)
https://www.manoloblahnik.com/us/

Pithers, E. (Aug. 5, 2015). Manolo Blahnik on misanthropy, minaudières and the "divine" Mary Beard. Daily Telegraph. 

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/fashion/people/manolo-blahnik-launches-new-bag-collection-stays-independent/

Oh, patents! Manolo Blahnik Hangi evening clutch (1)

 Copyright © Françoise Herrmann

In the Fall 2015, the famous Spanish shoe designer Manolo Blahnik launched a series of six evening clutches, each inspired by existing Blahnik shoes (called “Manolos”). The series comprised dazzling minaudières (small hard-shell clutches without straps), bejeweled with clear Swarovski crystals, and vibrantly colored satins—just like their famous counterpart Manolos.

The clutch designs are each patented. For example, the Hangi* evening clutch, inspired by the Hangisi Manolo Blahnik pumps, was awarded the US design patent, USD780444S1, titled Handbag. The patent was awarded on May 7th, 2017, to Manolo Blahnik

Below, the patent Figure 1 depicts a front-right perspective view of the Hangi design, together with four images of marketed embodiments. The images illustrate the model in black satin, and just three of the many vibrantly colored Hangi clutches, adorned with Swarovski crystals.

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Note: The name Hangi is a Turkish word meaning “which”. In this case, the handbag name is short for the many variations of the shoe series called Hangisi, aptly meaning  “which one?” in Turkish. 

References

Manolo Blahnik (website)

https://www.manoloblahnik.com/us/

Pithers, E. (Aug. 5, 2015). Manolo Blahnik on misanthropy, minaudières and the "divine" Mary Beard. Daily Telegraph. 

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/fashion/people/manolo-blahnik-launches-new-bag-collection-stays-independent/

Oh, patents! Diane von Fürstenberg bag with tablet holder (2)

 Copyright © Françoise Herrmann

The Diane Von Fürstenberg (DvF) bag with tablet holder was also awarded a US design patent. In other words, a patent that covers just the ornamental aspects of the bag, in contrast to a US utility patent, covering the bag's functionalities.

The US design patent, USD728925, titled Bag with tablet holder, was awarded on May 12th, 2015, to Diane von Fürstenberg. The patent Figures 1 and 2 are included below, respectively depicting the front and closed rear of the bag. Beneath the patent figures, an image is included of a marketed bag with tablet holder, showing the front and open rear of the bag. 

Reference
Diane von Furstenberg (website)
https://www.dvf.com

Oh, patents! Diane von Fürstenberg bag with tablet holder (1)

 Copyright © Françoise Herrmann

The Diane Von Furstenberg (DvF) “bag with tablet holder“ was more than a tablet carrier. It was designed to enable using and viewing a tablet secured within the bag. The DvF bag with tablet holder not only resolved the prior art problems of having to haul around a second bag to accommodate a tablet. The DvF bag with tablet holder also resolved having to constantly take the tablet in and out of a bag, to see or use the device. The assumption in both cases, based on observation, was that everyone was using a tablet, and in need to consult their device several times during the day. 

The US utility patent application reciting this invention, US20130206527A1, titled Bag with tablet holder, was published on August 15th, 2013. The inventor on record is Diane von Fürstenberg.

Figure 3, extracted from the patent, is included below. The Figure 3 depicts a rear perspective of the bag with tablet holder 10, detailing the actual tablet holding aspects of the invention. 

Specifically, the Figure 3 shows the body 12 of the bag 10, with a strap 16, and the top of the front flap 14. On the rear of the bag, the Figure 3 shows the device compartment 50, forming an open window 48. The tablet access flap 40 is open, with open zippers on the right 46 and on the left 44, and exposed male 56 and female 58 closure snaps. On each side of the open window 48, there are tablet panels 52, which might be padded to secure the tablet within the compartment 50. One of the side panels 52 depicts a half-circle notch, designed to accommodate the “home” button on former iPad® tablet models. The tablet compartment 50, might be accessed via a top rear opening 32, equipped with a zipper 42.

Below, an image of Diane von Fürstenberg, presenting her DvF bag with tablet holder. On the left, the image shows the front of the bag. On the right, the back flap is open, showing the  tablet inside its compartment, accessible for use.  

The invention abstract is included below. 

Disclosed herein is a bag with tablet holder that includes a body defining an inner compartment, a tablet pocket on the body defining a device compartment, a top opening defined by the body providing access to the inner compartment, and a rear opening to the tablet pocket providing access to the device compartment. An access flap extends from an edge of the tablet pocket and is movable between a closed position where it is secured over the pocket, and an open position where the pocket is uncovered and tablet is accessible. The device compartment includes a plurality of retention panels forming a border configured to receive and retain an electronic tablet in the pocket. The tablet can be accessed and used  while remaining within the pocket in the bag. [Abstract US2013/0206527A1]

Reference

Diane von Fürstenberg (website)

https://www.dvf.com

Oh, patents! Diane von Fürstenberg Stephanie hobo

Copyright © Françoise Herrmann

Launched in 2009, the slouchy Diane von Fürstenberg Stephanie hobo became a cult favorite, used by celebrities. The medium-sized Stephanie hobo was a carry-all, measuring 14" x 22". The most popular versions were made of woven metallic-covered leather. Various models were fabricated in metallic denim, black, gunmetal metallic leather, and chainlink leather in silver/gold/black/grey and pewter with suede accents.

The Stephanie hobo was a patented design. The US design patent, USD630014, titled Bag, was awarded on January 4th, 2011, to Diane von Fürstenberg, Beatrice McCabe, and Julie Peelo.

Below, a right-side view of the Stephanie hobo, together with an image of one of the marketed models.

Reference

Diane von Fürstenberg (website)

https://www.dvf.com

Oh, desire! Azzedine Alaïa (1935-2017) Le Coeur Bag (1)

Copyright © Françoise Herrmann

Brought to you by the Tunisian-born Azzedine Alaïa fashion house in Paris, Le Coeur (heart) bag was launched during the Winter 2022. Le Coeur bag is a leather crossbody bag with zip closures, adjustable strap, and a single cut in the leather, which creates volume for the eye-catching heart shape. 

Immensely popular, this bag was awarded the US design patent USD1020239S1, titled Bag, on April 2, 2024. The patent was awarded to Angela Lauria, and assigned to Azzedine Alaïa SAS, in Paris, France.

Below, the patent Figure 1.1 shows a perspective view of Le Coeur bag, together with an image of the marketed product, in red leather. As a reminder, a US design patent covers the ornamental aspects of a design, or what the invention looks like. Whereas, a US utility patent covers the way an invention works or is manufactured.

References

Azzedine Alaïa (website)
https://www.maison-alaia.com/

USPTO MPEP – Chapt. 1502-01 – Distinction between design and utility patent.
https://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/pac/mpep/s1502.html

Oh, patents! Azzedine Alaïa (1935-2017) (1)

 Copyright © Françoise Herrmann

The Tunisian-born couturier, Azzedine Alaïa, established his fashion house in Paris, France, in 1964.  Since then, several iconic Azzedine Alaïa pieces have been granted US design patents. For example, the it-pièce (in English, hit piece) Le Papa bag, is a patented design. The US design patent USD979236S1, titled Shoulder bag, was granted on Feb. 8, 2023, to Angela Lauria, and assigned to Azzedine Alaïa SAS, in Paris, France. 

Le Papa bag honors the deceased founder, Azzedine Alaïa, and his eponymous fashion house, known to function more like a family. A family that is continuing his legacy. According to fashion lore, Azzedine Alaïa developed close working relationships with his models, including  Grace Jones, whose costumes he designed, in 1985, for the 14th James Bond movie, A View to Kill.  

Below, the patent Figure image 1.1, together with black and white marketed models of the treasured Le Papa piece. A piece produced in three different sizes and several different materials. A design that turns the "A", representing the house's name, Alaïa, upside down.

As a reminder, a US design patent covers the ornamental aspects of an inventive design, or how the design looks. In contrast, a US utility patent covers the functional aspects of an invention, or the way the invention works. Thus, this patent excludes all but the stunning looks of Alaïa's Papa bag.

References

A View to Kill (1985). James Bond movie, starring Roger Moore and James Bond and  Grace Jones as May Day and music by Duran Duran. (Original Trailer)

https://youtu.be/pxQS8iAlr9w

Bobard-Deliere, M. (2022). It-pièce : Le Papa d’Alaïa, le nouvel intemporel. Elle Magazine France.

https://www.elle.fr/Mode/Accessoires-de-Mode/It-piece-le-Papa-d-Alaia-le-nouvel-intemporel

Maison Alaïa (website)

https://www.maison-alaia.com/us

Thomas, M. (2022). Le Papa, nouveau sac emblématique de la maison Alaïa. Marie Claire Magazine France. 

https://www.marieclaire.fr/le-papa-nouveau-sac-emblematique-de-la-maison-alaia,1429533.asp

Oh, patents! TIMBUK2

Copyright © Françoise Herrmann

Designed and manufactured in San Francisco's Mission district, TIMBUK2 messenger bags are guaranteed for life. The three-panel classic (and original) messenger bag, which you can custom-design on the TIMBUK2 website, is patented. The US design patent, USD483563S1, titled Printed panel display bag, was awarded on January 30, 2003. As a reminder: 

“a utility patent” protects the way an article is used and works (35 U.S.C. 101), while a “design patent” protects the way an article looks (35 U.S.C. 171) [MPEP Chapt. 1502.01; [R-07.2015]].

Beyond the three customizable panels, and the fabulous choice of tough and fashionable fabrics, TIMBUK2 messenger bags are chock-full of organization pockets and compartments. The many pockets and compartments are expertly designed for carrying water bottles, laptops and tablets, glasses, cellphones, pens, business cards, keys (tethered), stowaway valuables, and for packing in extra gear and/or books. An adjustable strap with a cam buckle enables you to secure the bag to your body, for biking, for example. Otherwise, the cam buckle enables you to find the perfect length for using the messenger as a shoulder bag or tote. With 25 years of experience designing the TIMBUK2 classic messenger bags, informed by consumer testing and feedback, this San Francisco native company has the art of messenger bags finetuned to perfection!

Included below, a drawing extracted from the patent, together with an image of a custom designed, and marketed, 3-panel classic messenger bag, in vibrant colors on the outside and packed to the brim inside.

References

MPEP – Chapt. 1502-01 - Distinction between design and utility patent

https://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/pac/mpep/s1502.html

Timbuk2 Designs Inc.

www.timbuk2.com

Balenciaga Bazar Totes!

Copyright © Françoise Herrmann

The Balenciaga Bazar Tote series celebrates those used in South-East Asian markets. Whether it is in the Philippines where they are called Palengke bags, or Thailand where they are called Sampeng bags, these large versatile totes, made of synthetic polypropylene inspired Balenciaga collections on the 2016 runway. 

Are these bags legitimate? 

According to the Thai Department of Intellectual Property: "It's unlikely anybody can sue Balenciaga because the materials and shapes are different." (Vogue UK, 2016). Indeed, according to RealStyle (2017), the many upgrades of the Balenciaga Bazar totes, such as the stitching of each individual stripe, the inside lining with leather trimmed pockets, both zippered and patch, as well as the logo, appearing on the front of the Balenciaga Bazar totes, would also preclude it from being considered counterfeit. The point of a counterfeit, according to RealStyle, is for the fake to pass as another brand, so the branded Balenciaga totes are indeed genuine Balenciaga totes.

A point which the voices of dissent (i.e.; of the disenfranchised) might see in a completely different light... since branding and ownership of the design might be argued as precisely the point of contention. As for the stitching of the Balenciaga Bazar totes, which is noticed by those skilled in the art, since the stitching at the perimeter of the bags purposefully appears in white, rather than "tonal" (meaning that the stitches do not blend in), and with a low number of stitches per inch to emulate the cheaper South-East Asian versions, this might precisely be construed as the perfect proof of  counterfeit. 

However, beyond arguing fake and real, considering the position of the Thai Department of Intellectual Property, the deeper issue that polarizes is that, according to the World Bank, half of the poorest people on earth, living on less than $1.90 a day, are found in South East Asia. The question of legitimacy then could be re-framed as what might be done with the bags.

Original South East Asian market bag

Size, shape, color and material differences...

Reference

Balenciaga

https://www.balenciaga.com/us

Vogue UK Balenciaga not copying Thai market bag

http://www.vogue.co.uk/article/balenciaga-not-copying-thai-market-bags
RealStyle (2017)  From Market to runway: Inside the Balenciaga bazar bag
https://realstyle.therealreal.com/balenciaga-bazar-vs-market-bag/ 
Wolrd Bank in East Asia & Pacific
http://www.worldbank.org/en/region/eap
World Bank - Ending extreme poverty in South East Asia 
http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/video/2016/10/17/ending-extreme-poverty-in-southeast-asia 
World Bank - On poverty
http://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/poverty/overview