Mokuyobi Threads LLC sues Coach for copying designs

By

Cassidy Mantor

Published
Dec 5, 2017

LA-based apparel and accessories company Mokuyobi Threads LLC has sued Coach for allegedly copying its pins and patches in Coach's '1941 Space Collection' released earlier this year.

Mokuyobi Threads LLC (Mokuyobi) alleges in its complaint that Coach copied its space-themed enamel pins and iron on patches. Mokuyobi's copyright suit is centered around the 'galaxy planet' design, which appears in a very similar likeness on the Coach bag. Mokuyobi specifically claims that Coach used its 'galaxy planet' patch "without license, permission or authorization" in Coach's '1941 Space Collection'. 

 Additionally, Mokuyobi has a planet, rocket and stickered suitcase trio of patches that appear to have possibly contributed inspiration for the Coach designs. 

​Mokuyobi makes brightly colored "out of this world" apparel and accessories. It had a recent collaboration with Trolli candy company and is known for its whimsical retro aesthetic. The brand explains, "Mokuyobi is an out of this world company that designs bags, accessories, and general radness for the Super Beings of Earth and beyond."

​A core theme in its designs is space. It sells enamel pins of rockets, planets, space exploration flags and astronaut helmets for $12. It sells patches with similar content, including the 'galaxy planet' patch in issue for $6 to $20.

​Coach launched its 1941 Space Collection in May of this year. It was a capsule collection of apparel including tees, sweatshirts and jackets, small leather goods and bags embellished with patches and graphics invoking nostalgia for space travel. It retailed at Coach and Neiman Marcus, as well as and online.

​The lawsuit was filed Thursday in Illinois. Coach's parent company, Tapestry, Inc. has not yet responded to the lawsuit.