A trademark legally protects your brand’s identity—think name, logo, slogan, or design elements. For fashion designers, this means no one else can legally use your brand name or imitate your signature branding. It gives you exclusive rights and helps build long-term value in your label.

Ideally, before you launch. The earlier you protect your brand, the better. Waiting increases your risk of someone else claiming it—or being forced to rebrand later, which can be expensive and heartbreaking.

It typically takes 8–14 months to secure a federal trademark through the USPTO. But don’t worry—I guide you through each phase and keep you updated along the way.

Not at all. While I love serving the LA fashion community, I work with designers all over the U.S. and internationally as well. If you’re in Los Angeles, I may even be able to meet in person—but most of our clients work with me virtually.

Yes! You can trademark logos, stylized brand names, and sometimes even distinctive design features. For product designs, design patents might also come into play—I can advise on the best route for your brand.

DIY platforms may file your application, but they don’t offer tailored legal strategy, risk assessment, or one-on-one support. They also don’t keep you updated once the application is filed, and don’t respond to office actions.  They’re more of a paperwork-filing service than a legal service. At Citrine, I evaluate your brand name, guide you through tough decisions, and handle Office Actions or objections directly—giving you a much higher chance of success.

I offer transparent pricing based on the complexity of your filing. During your consultation, I’ll go over all costs—including government fees—so there are no surprises.

I review every application carefully before filing to reduce the chance of rejection. But if the USPTO issues an Office Action (which is common), I’ll help you respond strategically. Many applications are approved after this step with the right legal support.

Yes! I offer pre-launch name reviews and consulting to help you choose a name with strong trademark potential. You can also download my free naming guide specifically created for fashion brands.

Yes! You can file what's called an Intent-to-Use trademark application if you haven’t launched yet. This reserves your name with the USPTO while you prep for release. Once you're selling, you'll file a Statement of Use to finalize registration. It’s a great way to protect your brand name early without rushing your launch.

Not necessarily. If your collection name is used consistently as a sub-brand or in your marketing and labeling, it may need protection—especially if it gains recognition or becomes a signature part of your brand. I can help you evaluate whether it’s worth trademarking or just protecting under your main brand.

You can (and should) trademark your logo if it identifies your brand in the marketplace. Hangtags and packaging designs may also be protected if they’re distinctive enough. For signature design elements—like a unique stitching pattern or zipper pull—other forms of protection (like trade dress or design patents) might apply. I’ll guide you through what makes sense legally and financially.

Unfortunately, a trademark doesn’t protect the look of your clothing—it protects your brand identity. While trademarks can cover certain distinct and unique design elements, if you’re worried about design theft (like garment cuts, prints, or patterns), you may need to consider design patent protection. That said, a trademark can help you stop copycats from using your brand name, logo, or branding to sell knockoffs. Want to better understand what you can protect?

Download my Brand Protection Guide to learn how trademarks apply to specific design elements.

You need a contract—every time. Whether it’s a co-branded drop, capsule collection, or influencer collab, clear ownership terms are critical. Who owns the brand name? The designs? The content? These are things that can (and should) be written into your legal agreement. I help fashion brands set those terms clearly before drama happens.

Absolutely. Social media is often the first place brand confusion or impersonation happens. A registered trademark gives you the legal right to report fake accounts, prevent domain name theft, and shut down imposters—on Instagram, Etsy, Shopify, and beyond.