- The USPTO blocked Meghan Markle from selling clothing under “As Ever” due to similarity with the Chinese brand ASEVER.
- New York-based designer Mark Kolski claims prior use of “As Ever” for his vintage clothing line.
- A Spanish village, Porreres, is considering legal action, alleging the brand’s logo resembles their historic coat of arms.
Meghan Markle’s lifestyle brand, As Ever, has hit legal roadblocks, with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office rejecting her bid to sell clothing under the name. The issue arises from its similarity to ASEVER, a Chinese fast-fashion company.
Adding to the controversy, officials from Porreres, a Spanish village in Mallorca, claim Markle’s As Ever logo closely resembles their centuries-old coat of arms. The design features a palm tree with two birds—elements also seen in the As Ever branding.
Meghan Markle’s As Ever Faces Trademark Trouble Amid Plagiarism Claims
The USPTO’s rejection of As Ever in the clothing category is a major setback for Markle, who had planned to expand her brand into fashion. The ruling cited consumer confusion with ASEVER, a budget-friendly Chinese brand that supplies retailers like H&M. While Markle’s legal team can appeal, the rejection complicates her brand’s expansion into apparel.
Separately, Mark Kolski’s As Ever clothing line, a one-man vintage operation, has gained sudden attention due to Markle’s high-profile venture. Though Kolski never trademarked the name, he argues that his long-standing use grants him common law rights. Legal experts suggest he could have a case if he proves brand recognition.
Porreres officials have raised additional concerns, alleging Markle’s logo plagiarizes their historic coat of arms. The village has used the emblem—a palm tree with two birds—since 1370. While Markle’s team insists the design is unique, experts say the similarities could lead to copyright issues.
This legal turmoil comes just weeks before As Ever’s official launch, which aligns with Markle’s upcoming Netflix cooking show With Love, Meghan. With mounting trademark challenges and plagiarism claims, the brand’s debut is already mired in controversy.
Meghan Markle’s As Ever brand faces multiple legal obstacles, from trademark disputes to plagiarism accusations. As she prepares for the brand’s launch, these setbacks could force changes to her branding strategy or lead to further legal battles.
“A brand is no longer what we tell the consumer it is—it is what consumers tell each other it is.” – Scott Cook
