You have launched your first collection, or perhaps you are still at the stage where you are creating your logo, choosing the right name, imagining the perfect website for your brand. There is enthusiasm, inspiration, a desire to make your mark in the fashion world. But... have you thought about register your clothing brand?
The market you are entering is crowded and competitive, so registering a fashion trade mark is not just a legal formality, it is a declaration of identity, a protection of your creativity and an essential step towards establishing yourself professionally. It is the first real entrepreneurial act that turns your passion into a business project.
We of Be A Designer We know how difficult it can be to navigate through forms, costs and technical terms. But we also know that every designer, every creative person, has the right to see their idea become a strong and recognised brand.
In this comprehensive guide, we take you step by step through the registration of your clothing brand. From protecting your logo, to fees, to building your brand identity. Because your style deserves to be defended and enhanced, right from the start.
Why registering a fashion trade mark is indispensable
Registering a fashion brand is the first step in making your project professional and long-lived. When you create a name, a logo, a clothing line, you are creating aunique identity. But without registration, this identity is vulnerable: anyone could copy it, use it or even register it before you.
In the fashion world, where everything runs fast and ideas are replicated in real time, you cannot afford to leave your brand exposed. La trademark registration grants you exclusive rights on that name and logo, protecting you from identity theft and misuse by competitors.
But not only that. A registered trademark is also a commercial assetYou can fire it, sell it, use it as collateral in contracts and agreements. It represents the symbolic and real value of your brand. In essence, registering a trade mark is like putting the first brick on which you will build your career as a designer.
Moreover, anyone who sees a registered trade mark immediately perceives professionalism, credibility and solidity. It is no coincidence that all the big luxury brands (from Gucci to Prada) have built their strength precisely around the protection of their identity.
For a young designer or a small emerging reality, registering the brand is the first real step towards building a structured and recognised business.
Brand and logo protection
The logo, the name, the payoff: everything that communicates your style is part of your brand. But to be truly yours, it must be legally protected. The logo registration ensures that no one else can use or imitate it, at least in the same product category as you (such as clothing, accessories, footwear).
Imagine you launch a line of t-shirts with a logo you have designed yourself. After months of work, the product starts to circulate, gains visibility, maybe even online. But someone, who has seen your idea, takes advantage of it, copies the logo, registers a similar one... and you, who have not registered anything, can do nothing.
Protecting your logo and your name is protecting yourself. And it also means being able to assert your rights in case of counterfeiting, plagiarism or misappropriation. With a registered trade mark you can send warnings, take legal action, or simply sleep soundly.
A registered trade mark grants you an exclusive right of use in certain countries and for specific product categories. For fashion, registration usually takes place for the classes 25 (clothing, footwear, accessories) and 35 (retail and online). It is important to specify these classes because they define the legal boundaries of your protection.
Registering the logo also means avoiding unpleasant disputes. It often happens that an emerging brand discovers, too late, that a similar name or graphic sign has already been registered by others. In such cases, one risks having to change everything (name, labels, packaging) with a very heavy economic and image impact.
For this reason, the Be A Designer is to always check the availability of the name and logo through a prior art search on official databases, such as theUIBM (Italian Patent and Trademark Office). It is a small investment that saves you big problems in the future.
How to register a trade mark online step by step
Registering a trade mark online is now the easiest, fastest and cheapest way to legally protect your fashion brand. If you are an emerging fashion designer, this is one of the first concrete actions you can (and should) do to start building your professional identity on a solid foundation.
People often think that registering a trade mark is a complicated process and only accessible to large companies or law firms. In reality, today you can do it too, directly online, with the right tools and, above all, with the right guidance at your side.
Here is how the online registration process works in Italy
- Access the official UIBM website
The first step is to enter the telematics platform of theItalian Patent and Trademark Office (UIBM). To proceed you must identify yourself with SPID (Public Digital Identity System) o CIE (Electronic Identity Card). If you do not have them yet, it is important to activate them as soon as possible, because they are also essential for many other public administration-related practices.
- Prepare the necessary documents and information
Before starting the compilation, it is essential to have all the required materials ready:
- La graphic representation of your trade mark (in .JPG or .PNG format), i.e. the logo you intend to protect.
- I personal data of the holder or the company.
- The list of product classes according to Nice Classification. For a fashion brand, you normally select the Class 25 (clothing, footwear and accessories), but you may also need Class 35 (sales services) or Class 18 (leather goods), depending on the nature of your brand.
- The list of specific products or services to be protected.
If you have doubts about the choice of classes, don't risk making a mistake: a wrong choice could render the entire registration useless.
- Fill in the online form
Once you have entered the platform, you must fill in the electronic form very carefully. Every field has its importance: from the name of the brand, to the description, to the correct indication of the classes. The insertion of the logo or graphic element must be done in the required format and in the appropriate quality to ensure readability.
Remember: an error in filling in can block the entire application or, worse, invalidate the registration. If you have no experience with this type of form, relying on an expert can really make a difference.
- Make tax payments via PagoPA
Once completed, you will have to pay the registration fees via the PagoPAthe only authorised channel for payments to the public administration.
The basic fee for a single class is 101 euroto which must be added 34 euros for each additional class. Payment can be made by credit card, debit card or bank transfer through the agreed circuits.
- Digitally sign and send the application
The final step is the digital signature of the application, certifying the legal validity of the document. After signing, you can officially submit the application.
You will immediately receive a receipt of protocolwhich has legal value and grants you initial protection on the trade mark pending final registration.
What happens after sending?
The UIBM launches aformal investigationi.e. an examination of the application for correctness. If everything is in order and no third parties submit objections (i.e. contest the trade mark), then your trade mark will be recorded and published in the Official Journal.
Times vary, but generally range from 4 to 8 months. Once approved, the mark has validity for 10 yearsand you can renew it without limit.
Registering a trade mark is a crucial step in your career as a designer, but you do not have to do it alone. You want to protect your creativity, avoid mistakes and be sure to build a solid legal basis for your brand, book a personal consultation now with our team of experts. You will be followed by fashion and brand protection experts, ready to help you step by step. No stress, no bureaucracy. Just focus on your growth as a creative.
Registering a trade mark for clothing: how much does it cost in Italy?
Cost is often one of the biggest mental hurdles for those who are starting to build a fashion brand. The truth? Registering a trade mark is not prohibitive at allespecially when you consider how much value it adds to your business in terms of protection and credibility.
When you choose to register a trade mark online via the official website of theUIBM (Italian Patent and Trademark Office)costs are quite clear and affordable:
- La basic tax for electronic filing in a single product class (such as Class 25, which covers clothing) is €101,00.
- If you also want to register the trade mark in other classes (e.g. Class 35 for e-commerce activities or Class 18 for handbags and leather goods), the additional cost is €34.00 for each extra class.
This is the 'official' and non-negotiable part. However, in order to avoid mistakes when filling out the application, choose the right classes and make sure that your trade mark is truly registrable (i.e. not too similar to others that already exist), it can be very helpful to hire an expert. In these cases, you add the costs of professional consultancywhich vary according to the type of service required.
On average, therefore, for a mark in one or two classes, with the support of a professional, the total expenditure can vary between €200 and €500. A figure that may seem significant at first, but which should be seen as a real long-term investment: your brand will be protected for 10 yearsand may be renewed without limits.
Furthermore, consider that a registered trademark increases the value of your brandYou can sell it, fire it, or use it as an asset to make collaborations and business agreements. It is one of the most important tools for serious branding in the fashion world.
If you want to have a more complete idea of all costs to consider when launching a collectionfrom prototype to sale, we recommend you read our detailed guide: how much does it cost to create a clothing brand. This resource will help you plan your budget better and make more informed choices from the start.
Ultimately, the focus is not how much you spend to register your brand, but how much you are willing to invest to protect what you are building: your vision, your style, your future in fashion.
Official rates and additional charges to be considered
When it comes to trade mark registration, it is easy to stop at the initial cost - that basic fee which, as we have seen, is all in all low. But if you want to tackle this step with a professional and strategic visionit is also important to consider some incidental expenses which, if not foreseen, can turn into unforeseen obstacles along the way.
- Priority search: security first
Before even submitting the application, it is very important to check that your brand is really available. In other words, it must be ensured that there are not already identical or too similar trade marks registered in the same class of goods.
This operation is called prior art searchand is one of the most important steps in the process. Ignoring it can lead to serious consequences: rejection of the application, opposition by third parties or, in the worst case, legal action.
It is an analysis that requires technical and legal expertise, because it is not enough to 'Google' or search on social networks: one has to question official databases and be able to interpret phonetic, graphic and conceptual similarities with other already filed trade marks.
- International extension: protect your brand also abroad
Are you planning to sell your collections outside Italy? Are you planning an e-commerce project with international shipping? Then you should consider registering your trade mark also at European or international level.
There are two main modes:
- European Registration (EUIPO)It gives you protection in all 27 EU member states. It is particularly useful for those who work in the digital field and sell via marketplaces, social or e-commerce.
- International Registration (WIPO)is a tool that allows trade mark protection in several non-EU countries, including the United States, China, the United Kingdom, Japan, etc., based on a modular system.
Both options involve higher costs compared to Italian registration, but they offer a much wider coverage. And above all, they should be evaluated strategically: it makes no sense to spend on protection in Russia or Canada if your brand only operates in Italy and France.
- Oppositions and litigation: what happens if someone challenges your trade mark
Once the application is filed, the period of examination and publicationduring which other owners of similar or identical trade marks have the right to file opposition to your registration.
It can happen, and it is good to be prepared. Sometimes opposition is based on legitimate grounds (e.g. genuinely similar trade marks), other times it is more instrumental or questionable. In any case, facing an opposition may entail:
- Legal feesif it is necessary to defend oneself through lawyers or industrial property consultants;
- Longer timescales for registration;
- L'possible renunciation or modification of the trade mark, if no agreement can be reached.
Many young designers focus exclusively on the creative side, and rightly so. But when you decide to turn your passion into a professional activity, it is essential to also think about the legal and commercial protection of your work.
A careful planning of expenses, classes to be protected and possible international expansion scenarios allows you not only to avoid problems, but also to give more value to your brandin the eyes of customers and potential partners.
And this is where we come in: from Be A Designeranalysing your project according to your specific objectives and guide you step by step through the trade mark registration process, anticipating possible obstacles and helping you make strategic decisions.
Do you want full support in registering your trade mark? Request a personal consultation with Be A Designer now! We will evaluate together the classes to register, the availability of your name/logo, the real costs and the opportunities to grow your brand in the right way.
From registration to brand growth
Registering a trade mark is not an achievement. It is the first, necessary step to start building a brand with a solid and lasting foundation. But once your name, logo and identity are legally protected, the most creative and strategic phase beginsto really grow that brand and turn it into something recognisable, loved and followed.
This is where the building your brand identitywhich goes far beyond the logo printed on a t-shirt. It means giving coherence and direction to your creative vision, so that every detail, from online communication to the physical product experience, speaks the same language.
This process includes:
- Building a coherent visual identitymade up of colours, fonts, images and stylistic choices that reflect your DNA. Aesthetics is the first impact with the public: it must be recognisable, professional, and true to your vision.
- Defining tone of voice and valueselements that give the brand personality and tell its character. Do you want to be irreverent, refined, inclusive, sustainable? Every choice of language communicates something, and must be aligned with what you represent.
- Communicating the brand through consistent channelsfrom social media to the website, from packaging to e-commerce. Everything must follow a single, well-defined line. It is not just about 'looking good', but about be clear and authentic at every point of contact with your audience.
- Creating a community around your stylewho share your values, your taste and your vision of the world. Today more than ever, winning brands are those capable of building true relationships with their audience: people who do not just buy a garment, but choose to be part of an aesthetic, a culture, a shared narrative.
We of Be A Designer We deeply believe that every brand has a story to tell. A story that doesn't stop at the logo or the collection, but lives in the details, the choices, the messages you convey every day. And we are here to help you telling it the right waywith visual and strategic tools designed to make you really stand out.
Because fashion is not just design: it is identity, vision and relationship.
And if you are ready to build this with method and originality, we are at your side.
Branding a product: what it really means
Many think that brand means simply putting a logo on a t-shirt or an item of clothing. In reality, the issue is much more complex and fascinating. Branding means build and convey a clear and recognisable identity through every single element of your product, making it part of a bigger story.
It means carefully choosing not only the design, but also the materials that reflect your deepest values, be it sustainability, craftsmanship, innovation or other characteristics you want to communicate. It is taking care of every detail of thecustomer experiencefrom the way the product arrives at home to the packagingthe personalised thank-you card or small details that make the buyer feel really special.
Packaging, in particular, has become a powerful branding tool. It is no longer just a box that protects the product during shipping: it is the first physical moment in which the customer comes into contact with your brand, a sensory experience that anticipates and amplifies the value of what is inside. Brand as My Scarf in a Box have made packaging their signature, packing each handmade scarf as if it were a precious jewel, turning the opening of the package into a memorable moment that communicates care, elegance and attention to detail even before touching the product.
A branded garment, therefore, is much more than just a garment sold: it is a message it carries, a defined and consistent aesthetic, and above all an emotion that manages to create a deep connection with the person who chooses it. It is this connection that turns a customer into a true supporter of your brand, someone who identifies with your vision and takes it with them.
How to build a solid identity in the fashion industry
Your brand is not simply your logo or the name you choose. It is much more: it is the way you present yourself to the world, the way you communicate with your audience, the way you design and tell your story. In essence, the brand is the visual and verbal synthesis of your creative visionwhat conveys who you are and what you stand for.
Building a visual identity solid requires time, awareness and above all a good dose of strategy. It is not just a matter of choosing eye-catching colours or fonts, but of lining up each element in a coherent and functional manner to create a recognisable and memorable image.
Together with you, we work to define the fundamental pillars of your brand:
- The positioningunderstand who you are addressing, who your ideal customers are, what distinguishes you from your competitors and why they should choose you. This is the strategic core that guides all your subsequent choices.
- Your tone of voicethe way you speak to your audience, the language you use, the personality that emerges from your brand. It can be formal, friendly, ironic, inspirational or whatever reflects your identity.
- La visual identitynot just the logo, but the entire colour palette, fonts, photographic style, graphics and every visual detail that helps tell your world.
- I communication channelswhat are the best spaces to make yourself known? Social media, website, packaging, events, newsletters... each channel has a specific role to play and must be used consistently.
- Yours brand narrativethe story you tell, the values you convey, the mission you pursue. Authentic storytelling creates empathy and builds loyalty among your followers.
This is never a purely aesthetic question. It is a question of consistency, identity and recognisability. Only a brand that manages to be consistent in its messages and image over time can grow in a healthy way, build solid relationships with its audience and remain imprinted in people's minds.
With Be A Designer we accompany you on this journey, helping you to put things in order, define a clear strategy and translate your creativity into a concrete and powerful identity.
Be A Designer: the consultancy to launch your fashion brand
Be A Designer was born with a clear and ambitious objective: to help young designers like you to build and grow an authentic, original and successful fashion brand. We know how complex and sometimes frustrating the path can be from the first idea to the creation of a legally recognised and protected brand, ready to conquer the market.
That is why we are a multidisciplinary team combining legal, creative and strategic expertise to accompany you at every stage of the process, never leaving you alone. We offer comprehensive support that includes:
- Personalised consultationstailored to your needs and your project, to give you the right answers and guide you towards the best choices.
- Support for trade mark registrationThis is an essential step to protect your brand and prevent its use by others. We help you prepare all the documentation, fill out the online application, cut through the red tape and monitor the process, making everything simple and secure.
- Naming and brandingto create a name and an identity that really speaks about you and your style, making you stand out in the fashion world.
- Logo and packaging developmentbecause every detail counts and must tell your story in a coherent and appealing way.
- Training and mentorshipdesigned to help you grow as a professional and entrepreneur, with up-to-date skills and concrete strategies.
We are familiar with the challenges you face: from the difficulty of emerging in a competitive market, to legal risks, to the complexity of communicating and managing a brand. That is why we want to be by your side and accompany you step by step, to turn your idea into a complete, protected and ready-to-go brand.
Are you ready to protect your brand and build a brand that really speaks about you?
Don't wait for others to exploit your work! Contact us now for a personal consultation and find out how we can support you with trade mark registration and the growth of your fashion brand.
FAQ:
Is it compulsory to register a fashion trade mark?
No, it is not required by law, but it is strongly recommended. Without registration, your name and logo are not legally protected: anyone could copy them or, worse, register them before you. Registration grants you exclusive rights and allows you to legally defend yourself in case of counterfeiting.
How long does it take to register a trade mark in Italy?
The registration process at the UIBM takes on average 4 to 8 months. Once you submit your application, you immediately receive a protocol receipt that grants you provisional protection. The trade mark, once registered, is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.
Can I register the trade mark myself or do I need a lawyer?
You can register it yourself through the UIBM's telematics platform, but it is advisable to rely on a consultant specialised in industrial property. An expert will help you avoid mistakes in the choice of product classes, check the availability of the name and avoid future disputes that could cost you much more.
What are the product classes and which ones should I choose?
Goods classes (according to the Nice Classification) define the sectors in which your trade mark is protected. For clothing you need the Class 25 (clothing, footwear, headwear). If you sell online or have an e-commerce, add the Class 35 (sales services). Leather goods and bags also require the Class 18.
If I register in Italy, am I also protected abroad?
No, the Italian registration only protects you domestically. If you also sell outside Italy, consider the European registration (EUIPO, valid in all 27 EU countries) or that international (WIPO, for non-European markets such as USA, China, UK). The choice depends on your business objectives.
What do I risk if I launch the brand without registering it?
You risk someone else registering a similar name or logo before you, forcing you to change everything (name, labels, site, social, packaging) at great cost. Moreover, without registration you cannot legally defend yourself against copying or counterfeiting, and you lose credibility in the eyes of investors and business partners.
How much does it really cost to register a clothing trade mark?
The basic UIBM fee for one class is €101. Each additional class costs €34. With professional support for advice, prior art search and compilation, the total investment is between €200 and €500. A low cost to protect your brand for 10 years.
How to turn a creative idea into a recognisable brand
Everyone starts with an idea. But not every idea becomes a brand. Because to make this leap you need method, vision and concrete action.
Registering a brand is the first step. Then comes identity building, communication, market presence. You need a strategy, a plan, and someone to help you put it into practice.
That's where we come in.
Want to register your trade mark? Do it with us.
If you have read this far, it is because your dream is real. And we want to help you realise it. Contact us and find out how we can support you in registering your trade mark and developing your brand.
It is time to move from dream to action!
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