PARIS – FRENCH fashion giant Chanel was accused in court on Friday of stealing a supplier’s design in a case that could have a bearing on the rights of skilled artisans toiling in the luxury industry.
After four years of legal wrangling, the trial opened before the Paris commercial court, pitting World Tricot, a small firm that manufactures high-end knits, against Chanel.
World Tricot founder Carmel Colle is seeking 2.5 million euros (S$5.2 million) from Chanel for alleged counterfeit after she spotted a crochet design in a Chanel boutique in Tokyo in 2005 that she claims is hers.
The design had been previously submitted to Chanel’s studio and rejected, Colle claims.
‘There have been hurtful things said about my so-called management but I am happy. I have gone all the way to the end and I have confidence in justice,’ Colle said after the hearing.
A judgment will be given on Dec 11, the president of the Paris commercial court said. — AFP
Straits Times