NEW YORK — Kate Cusack, a Brooklyn-based accessories and costume designer, filed a copyright lawsuit against Gap Inc. in Manhattan federal court.
Cusack alleged that Gap sold plush bath products and handbags that contained elements that infringed on her copyrighted “zipper pin” sculpture. The case was filed March 2, but the documents were only recently made available.
The copyright for the “zipper pin” dates back to August 2003, but, according to the designer’s Web site, she has been making the items since 2002. Cusack’s designs are sold in stores in New York, Massachusetts and California.
Gap declined to comment, citing a company policy regarding pending litigation.
According to court papers, the lawsuit alleged that Gap’s actions damaged Cusack in an as-yet-undetermined amount that is expected to exceed $300,000. The complaint asked the court to restrict Gap from continuing to manufacture and sell the goods in question. It also asked the court to order Gap to recall all of its products that allegedly infringe on the “zipper pin” sculpture copyright.