Australian fashion designer Katie Taylor, born Perry, has won a long-running legal battle against American pop singer Katy Perry over the use of the name as a trademark. The court dispute lasted nearly 16 years.

The essence of the case: the conflict arose because of the identical names, but the court ruled that a local clothing brand registered earlier has the right to exist alongside the singer’s well-known stage name.

KATIE PERRY v. KATY PERRY

The designer began selling clothing under the brand “Katie Perry” in 2007 and registered this trademark for clothing in 2008. She claimed that the singer’s team had infringed her rights by selling merchandise bearing the name “Katy Perry” during concerts in Australia.

The case was reviewed by several courts:

• in 2023, the designer won the trademark infringement case;

• in 2024, the appellate court sided with the singer;

• in 2026, the High Court of Australia ultimately ruled in favor of the designer.

The court concluded that the use of the “Katie Perry” brand for clothing does not mislead consumers and does not infringe the singer’s rights, despite her global popularity.

The designer described the ruling as a victory for small businesses, showing that they can defend their rights even against major celebrities and corporations.

Founder of Research & Patent group Intectica, author of patent algorithms for solving problems in the pharmaceutical industry, patent attorney certified in all intellectual property objects (Patents, Design, TM), with education in chemistry and law, chief expert of the patent institution of Ukraine UKRPATENT (1997-2004). Member of international organizations, including ECTA, PTMG, UAM, lecturer and blogger.