McQueen Reaches Shocking Settlement With Hells Angels: Save McQueen!

If you’re as McQueen-obsessed as us, you’ve probably been keeping an eye on the most recent developments regarding the brand. But if not, we’ll fill you in:

Members-only motorcycle club Hells Angels filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Alexander McQueen for what they claim is misuse of their winged death head symbol. Retailers Saks Fifth Avenue and Zappos.com have been cited in the claim as well for selling the products.

An article in the Financial Times states:

“The complaint argues that the Hells Angels have used both their name and the winged death head symbol since at least 1948, and that their registration at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office protects the use of both in jewelry and clothing. ‘From decades of notoriety, the HAMC marks have acquired very widespread public recognition,’ the complaint states. ‘Consequently they evoke strong and immediate reactions whenever used. The impact of these marks is virtually incomparable, and as a result they have great commercial value.’”

Alexander McQueen dress and clutch in question.

Just eight days later, WWD reports that they’ve settled, and we’re shocked. Not only are the three companies removing said merchandise (Alexander McQueen knuckleduster rings, clutches, a jacquard dress, and a pashmina, retailing between $495 and $2,329) from their websites and stores, but they also have to compensate Hells Angels for financial damages based on profits earned by the merchandise, though we don’t know how much that will be.

The Hells Angels winged death head symbol.

Also, the defendants have to recall and destroy the items that have already been sold. That means, if you bought the quilted jacquard knuckleduster clutch featured in SPREE you may have to give it up.

“They [Hells Angels] consider it quite exclusive,” the group’s attorney Fritz Clapp told WWD. “They consider themselves members, not someone who bought a $495 ring.”

Fall 2010 was Alexander McQueen’s last collection before his death; do you think it’s fair to destroy pieces from the iconic collection? We imagine anyone who manages to keep the recalled designs will be holding an invaluable remnant…

We think this warrants a Save McQueen campaign—how about you?

2 Responses to “McQueen Reaches Shocking Settlement With Hells Angels: Save McQueen!”

Leave a Comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.