Trending Now - Katy Perry Loses Trademark Dispute to Australian Designer
WHO:
Sydney-based fashion designer Katie Perry, who now goes by her married name Katie Taylor
American singer Katy Perry, born Katheryn Elizabeth Hudson
Australia’s High Court
WHAT:
Australia’s High Court ruled that Katie Taylor has the right to sell clothes under her own name
The legal battle began in 2009 when Katy Perry sent a cease and desist letter to Taylor
Taylor was granted the trademark for clothing, while Katy Perry amended her application to include just music and entertainment
In 2019, Taylor sued Katy Perry for trademark infringement
Taylor won her case in Federal Court but lost on appeal, with judges arguing that Katy Perry's reputation in Australia was stronger
The High Court overturned the previous ruling, stating the cancellation of the trademark was not warranted
WHERE:
Australia
Sydney, where Taylor sells her garments at markets
WHEN:
The initial cease and desist letter was sent in 2009
The legal saga lasted nearly two decades, culminating in a ruling on March 11th, 2026
Taylor first heard about Katy Perry in July 2008
Taylor launched her fashion line “Katie Perry” in 2007
WHY:
The case centered on who was legally allowed to sell clothing under the name Katie or Katy Perry
Taylor pursued the case to demonstrate that trademarks protect small businesses, not just large brands
HOW:
The legal battle involved multiple court rulings and appeals over nearly two decades
Taylor attempted to settle with Katy Perry but could not agree on terms
(UPDATED March 11, 2026 09:09 UTC)
In a significant ruling today, Australia’s High Court has granted Sydney-based fashion designer Katie Taylor the right to sell clothes under her name, overturning a previous decision that favored American singer Katy Perry. The legal battle began in 2009 when Katy sent a cease and desist letter to Taylor, leading to a protracted dispute that included a lawsuit for trademark infringement and multiple court rulings over nearly two decades. Ultimately, the High Court determined that the cancellation of Taylor's trademark was not warranted, affirming her right to operate her fashion line, which she launched in 2007.