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24Sep, 2025
What Is Trademark Class 26? Complete Guide for Accessories and Sewing Supplies

Introduction

In the fashion and textile world, brand identity is just as important as product quality. From a trendy clothing label to a brand that sells sewing supplies, every business needs to protect its uniqueness. That’s where trademark registration comes into play.

But trademarks aren’t “one-size-fits-all.” Every product or service belongs to a specific trademark class under the Nice Classification system, which is used globally—including in India. If your business deals in accessories, sewing supplies, buttons, zippers, or trims, then Trademark Class 26 is where your brand needs protection.

This guide will walk you through what Trademark Class 26 is, the types of products it covers, why it matters for businesses, and how to register your brand under this class.

What Is Trademark Class 26?

Trademark Class 26 is a category that covers a wide range of decorative and functional items used mainly in the textile, apparel, and fashion industries.

Some examples include:

  • Sewing supplies (buttons, hooks, zippers, pins, needles)
  • Decorative trims (lace, ribbons, braids, bows)
  • Hair accessories (clips, bands, pins, barrettes)
  • Artificial flowers and fruits
  • Wigs, hair extensions, and related accessories

In simple words, if you manufacture or sell items that add detail, decoration, or functionality to clothing, fabrics, or personal styling, your products belong to Class 26.

Why Is Class 26 Important for Businesses?

Whether you are a sewing supply store, an accessories manufacturer, or a fashion brand, protecting your brand in Class 26 ensures:

  1. Exclusive Rights – Nobody else in the same category can use your brand name or logo.
  2. Brand Safety – Keeps counterfeit zippers, ribbons, or hairpins from using your identity.
  3. Consumer Trust – Customers know they’re buying authentic products.
  4. Business Expansion – You can expand your product range within Class 26 without losing legal protection.

✅ Example: A brand like YKK (famous for zippers) protects itself under Class 26 to maintain global trust and avoid counterfeiting.

Products Covered Under Trademark Class 26

Here’s a detailed look at what items are protected under this class:

1. Sewing and Fastening Supplies

  • Buttons, hooks, eyes, and snap fasteners
  • Zippers and sliders
  • Pins (safety pins, sewing pins, dressmaker pins)
  • Needles (hand sewing, knitting, and embroidery needles)

2. Decorative Items for Clothing & Fabrics

  • Ribbons, lace, braids, and fringes
  • Bows, rosettes, and embroidery patches
  • Ornamental trimmings for garments

3. Hair Accessories

  • Hairpins, clips, barrettes, and hairbands
  • Elastic bands for hair
  • Wigs, hairpieces, and extensions

4. Artificial Decorative Products

  • Artificial flowers, leaves, fruits, and wreaths
  • Decorative beads not used for jewelry

5. Miscellaneous Items

  • Prize ribbons and badges (not made of precious metals)
  • Haberdashery supplies used in clothing and crafts

👉 Note: Jewelry, real flowers, and actual fabric materials are not covered under Class 26. They belong to other classes (Class 14, Class 31, and Class 24 respectively).

Difference Between Class 26 and Similar Classes

To avoid confusion, here’s how Class 26 differs from nearby classes:

  • Class 24 (Textiles & Fabrics) – Protects fabrics and textile materials, not trims or accessories.
  • Class 25 (Clothing, Footwear, Headgear) – Protects finished garments and shoes, not sewing supplies.
  • Class 3 (Cosmetics) – Covers beauty products like hair sprays or shampoos, not wigs or hairpins.

So, if you sell buttons and zippers, Class 26 is correct. If you sell finished shirts, you need Class 25.

Benefits of Registering a Trademark in Class 26

  1. Legal Ownership – You get exclusive rights to your brand name and logo.
  2. Stop Counterfeiting – Easily take action against fake accessory sellers.
  3. E-commerce Protection – Platforms like Amazon and Flipkart support registered brands.
  4. Brand Recognition – A registered mark builds trust among customers.
  5. Business Expansion – Future-proof your brand as you add more sewing or accessory products.

Step-by-Step Guide to Trademark Registration in Class 26

Here’s how to protect your accessories or sewing supplies brand in India:

Step 1: Conduct a Trademark Search

  • Visit the IP India Public Search Portal.
  • Check if your brand name or logo is already registered under Class 26.
  • Avoid similar or generic names.

Step 2: Choose the Type of Trademark

You can register:

  • Word Mark – Your brand name (e.g., “StitchPro”)
  • Logo Mark – Your logo or symbol
  • Combination Mark – Both name and logo together

Step 3: File the Application

  • File online at the IP India portal.
  • Government fees: ₹4,500 (for individuals/startups) or ₹9,000 (for companies).

Step 4: Examination by Trademark Registrar

  • The Registrar checks your application for conflicts or errors.
  • If issues arise, you may need to reply to an Examination Report.

Step 5: Publication in Trademark Journal

  • If accepted, your mark is published for public opposition.
  • Anyone can oppose it within 4 months.

Step 6: Registration Certificate

  • If no opposition is raised, you get your Class 26 trademark certificate.
  • Validity: 10 years, renewable indefinitely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Class 26 Trademark Filing

  1. Not Doing a Proper Search – Leads to rejection if a similar brand exists.
  2. Using Descriptive Names – “Button Store” or “Ribbon World” may be rejected as too generic.
  3. Not Registering the Logo – Always protect both name and design.
  4. Delaying Registration – Someone else may take your name.
  5. Wrong Class Selection – Filing in Class 24 or 25 instead of 26 wastes time and money.

Real-World Examples of Class 26 Brands

  • YKK – Famous zipper company with global trademark protection.
  • Velcro – Trademarked its unique fastening products under Class 26.
  • Goody – Hair accessory brand protecting clips and bands in Class 26.

These examples show how big brands rely on Class 26 to stay secure.

Why Work With Professionals?

Trademark law can be confusing—especially when deciding which class to file in. Working with experts ensures:

  • Correct classification
  • Strong application drafting
  • Quick handling of objections or oppositions
  • Hassle-free renewals

At VMK Professionals, we specialize in trademark filing for accessory and sewing supply brands. Our team helps you:

  • Conduct a full trademark search
  • File your Class 26 application
  • Handle objections or oppositions
  • Manage renewals and expansions

Conclusion

If your business sells sewing supplies, accessories, trims, or decorative items, then Trademark Class 26 is crucial for your brand protection.

By registering your trademark in this class, you get:

  • Exclusive rights over your brand name and logo
  • Protection against counterfeiters and copycats
  • Legal enforcement power
  • A trusted identity in the fashion and accessories market

With the fashion and craft industries growing rapidly in India, securing your brand identity today means safeguarding your business for tomorrow.

👉 Ready to trademark your Class 26 brand? Contact VMK Professionals for expert assistance and protect your sewing supply or accessory business with confidence.

24Sep, 2025
Top Benefits of Registering a Trademark in Class 25 for Apparel Businesses

Introduction

The apparel industry is one of the fastest-growing markets in the world. From luxury fashion houses to small clothing startups, everyone is competing to stand out. But in such a crowded space, what really makes your apparel brand unique? It’s not just the quality of your clothes—it’s your brand identity.

Imagine spending years building a reputation for stylish, high-quality clothes, only to find out someone else is selling fake products under your name. This is a nightmare scenario for any fashion entrepreneur. That’s where Trademark Class 25 comes in.

Trademark Class 25 specifically protects clothing, footwear, and headgear. By registering your apparel brand under this class, you get exclusive rights to your brand name, logo, and other marks in the fashion industry. In this blog, we’ll explore the top benefits of registering a trademark in Class 25 for apparel businesses, along with practical insights, examples, and steps to secure your brand.

What Is Trademark Class 25?

Trademark Class 25 is a category under the Nice Classification system that covers:

  • Clothing (shirts, dresses, jeans, jackets, sarees, ethnic wear, etc.)
  • Footwear (shoes, sneakers, sandals, boots, slippers, etc.)
  • Headgear (caps, hats, helmets, etc.)

Any apparel business—whether a boutique, sportswear startup, or footwear label—must file in this class to protect their products from imitation.

Top Benefits of Registering a Trademark in Class 25

1. Exclusive Rights to Your Brand Name and Logo

When you register your trademark in Class 25, you get exclusive legal rights to use your brand name, logo, or tagline in the apparel industry.

✅ Example: If your clothing label is called Urban Vogue, no other clothing brand in Class 25 can legally use the same or confusingly similar name.

This exclusivity is vital because brand recognition is the foundation of any apparel business.

2. Protection Against Counterfeits and Copycats

The apparel industry is one of the most counterfeited industries globally. From fake designer jeans to replica sportswear, counterfeit products can damage your reputation.

With a Class 25 trademark, you can:

  • Take legal action against sellers of fake goods
  • Remove counterfeit listings from online marketplaces like Amazon, Flipkart, or Myntra
  • Protect your loyal customers from being tricked by fake products

✅ Example: Nike uses its Class 25 trademarks to remove thousands of fake sneakers from online platforms every year.

3. Build Consumer Trust and Loyalty

Customers today are smart—they look for originality. A registered trademark signals that your brand is authentic and trustworthy.

When buyers see the ® symbol on your apparel products, it assures them that they’re purchasing from a genuine brand, not a knock-off. This builds long-term brand loyalty.

4. Expand Your Business Without Worry

Let’s say you start with a t-shirt brand and later decide to expand into footwear and accessories. If your brand is registered under Class 25, you already have protection for all these product categories.

This gives you flexibility to:

  • Launch new clothing lines
  • Expand into shoes, caps, and jackets
  • Collaborate with designers without losing control of your brand identity

✅ Example: Adidas started as a sports shoe brand but expanded into clothing and headgear—all under the protection of Class 25 trademarks.

5. Gain Legal Power for Enforcement

Without a registered trademark, it is extremely difficult to take legal action against infringers. With Class 25 registration, however, you gain enforceable rights.

You can:

  • Sue infringers for damages
  • Stop unauthorized use of your brand in courts
  • Easily file complaints with law enforcement and online platforms

This legal backing ensures your brand reputation stays strong in the market.

6. Secure Online Marketplace Protection

E-commerce is now the backbone of fashion retail. Platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, and Ajio give preference to registered trademark owners.

Benefits include:

  • Easy removal of duplicate/fake sellers
  • Exclusive brand registry programs
  • Better visibility in search results

✅ Example: Levi’s ensures its official jeans listings remain on top by using Class 25 trademark rights to eliminate counterfeit sellers online.

7. Increase in Business Valuation

A registered trademark adds intangible value to your business. Investors, partners, and buyers view a trademark as a secured asset, increasing your brand’s overall worth.

For apparel startups planning to scale or attract funding, Class 25 registration boosts credibility and valuation.

8. Protect Sub-Brands and Collections

Many apparel companies launch seasonal collections or sub-brands. With Class 25, you can trademark each sub-label to protect unique brand identities.

✅ Example: H&M has registered sub-brands like COS and Divided under Class 25, ensuring each label has its own legal protection.

9. International Expansion Made Easy

With Class 25 trademarks, you can extend your protection internationally using the Madrid Protocol.

If you plan to sell in countries like the USA, UK, or Europe, your Indian registration gives you a foundation to apply globally, protecting your brand overseas.

✅ Example: Zara uses Class 25 trademarks worldwide, ensuring consistent identity across more than 90 countries.

10. Long-Term Protection for Generations

A trademark in Class 25 is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely. This means your apparel brand identity can be passed down for generations without losing protection.

✅ Example: Gucci, founded in 1921, has maintained its iconic logo and brand rights through continuous renewals under Class 25.

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering in Class 25

If you’re an apparel business owner, here’s how to secure your brand:

  1. Trademark Search – Check if your desired brand name/logo is already taken.
  2. Select Mark Type – Decide whether you want to protect a wordmark, logo, or both.
  3. File Application – Submit your application under Class 25 via the IP India Portal.
  4. Examination Stage – The Registrar reviews your application.
  5. Publication in Journal – If no objections are raised, your mark is published for opposition.
  6. Trademark Registration Certificate – Once approved, you receive your Class 25 certificate.

Common Mistakes Apparel Brands Make (and How to Avoid Them)

  1. Not Conducting a Trademark Search – Leads to rejection if the name is already taken.
  2. Using Generic Names – Words like “Fashion Wear” may not get approval.
  3. Ignoring Logo Protection – Register both name and logo for full coverage.
  4. Delaying Registration – Competitors can steal your identity if you wait too long.

VMK Professionals: Helping Apparel Brands Protect Their Identity

At VMK Professionals, we specialize in helping apparel and fashion businesses secure their identity through Class 25 trademarks. Our services include:

  • Comprehensive trademark search to avoid conflicts
  • Filing and application assistance
  • Objection and opposition handling
  • Renewal and international protection support

Whether you’re starting a small boutique or building the next big fashion label, we ensure your brand remains safe, authentic, and future-ready.

Conclusion

In the fashion world, your brand identity is your biggest asset. Without trademark protection, all your hard work—your designs, reputation, and customer trust—can be stolen by copycats.

Registering under Trademark Class 25 gives apparel businesses:

  • Legal exclusivity
  • Protection from counterfeits
  • Stronger customer trust
  • Flexibility for expansion
  • Long-term business value

From Nike’s Swoosh to Gucci’s Double G, every successful apparel label relies on Class 25 for protection. It’s time your fashion business does the same.

👉 Ready to protect your clothing, footwear, or headgear brand? Contact VMK Professionals today and secure your identity with Class 25 trademark registration.

24Sep, 2025
How Global Fashion Labels Secure Their Brand Identity with Class 25 Trademarks

Introduction

Fashion is one of the most competitive industries in the world. Every year, thousands of new clothing, footwear, and accessory brands enter the market. But what sets successful labels apart is not only their creativity or quality—it’s also how they protect their brand identity.

That protection comes from Trademark Class 25, which specifically covers clothing, footwear, and headgear. From luxury fashion houses like Louis Vuitton and Gucci to streetwear giants like Nike and Adidas, Class 25 is the backbone of how global brands safeguard their reputation.

In this blog, we’ll explore real-world examples of Class 25 trademarks, how global fashion labels use them, and why new apparel businesses—especially startups in India—must understand and leverage this class to grow securely.

What Is Trademark Class 25?

Trademark Class 25 is part of the Nice Classification System, used globally to categorize goods and services for trademark registration.

Class 25 covers:

  • Clothing (shirts, dresses, trousers, jackets, etc.)
  • Footwear (shoes, sandals, sneakers, boots, etc.)
  • Headgear (caps, hats, helmets, etc.)

For any brand operating in the fashion sector, Class 25 is the category where you must register your brand name, logo, or slogan to get exclusive legal rights.

Why Trademark Class 25 Matters for Fashion Brands

1. Brand Exclusivity

A registered trademark ensures that no other business in the apparel sector can use your identity—whether it’s your name, logo, or unique tagline.

2. Consumer Trust

When shoppers see ® next to a brand name, they know it’s authentic. In an industry full of counterfeit products, Class 25 registration builds credibility.

3. Legal Protection

From marketplace takedowns (Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra) to legal lawsuits, Class 25 gives brands the power to fight copycats.

4. International Expansion

Through the Madrid Protocol, global brands extend Class 25 trademarks across multiple countries, ensuring recognition and protection worldwide.

5. Long-Term Business Security

Trademarking in Class 25 preserves brand identity for decades, allowing labels to expand product lines under the same trusted name.

Famous Trademark Class 25 Examples

Here are some global fashion labels and how they use Class 25 trademarks:

1. Nike – “Just Do It” and the Swoosh Logo

Nike has multiple trademarks under Class 25 covering:

  • Sportswear
  • Sneakers
  • Jerseys
  • Athletic accessories

Their “Swoosh” logo and “Just Do It” slogan are protected globally under Class 25. This prevents competitors from using similar marks in the apparel sector.

2. Adidas – Three Stripes Design

Adidas owns numerous Class 25 registrations for its Three Stripes logo and name. This trademark protection has allowed Adidas to take legal action against brands copying the stripe design on clothing and footwear.

3. Gucci – Double G Logo

Gucci, one of the most famous luxury fashion houses, has secured Class 25 trademarks for its Double G logo, wordmark, and signature stripe patterns. This ensures their products remain exclusive in the luxury apparel market.

4. Louis Vuitton – Monogram Pattern

Louis Vuitton protects its iconic LV monogram and flower design under Class 25. This strategy has helped the brand fight countless counterfeiters around the world.

5. H&M – Fast Fashion Trademark

H&M has registered its brand name, logos, and sub-brands like “Divided” and “COS” under Class 25. This helps them protect both their main and sub-labels in the fashion industry.

6. Zara – Global Apparel Trademarks

Zara operates across 90+ countries and protects its name and designs under Class 25, ensuring that their identity remains consistent worldwide.

7. Puma – Leaping Cat Logo

The Puma cat logo is one of the most recognized sportswear trademarks under Class 25. It covers apparel, sneakers, and accessories.

8. Patagonia – Eco-Friendly Apparel

Patagonia, known for sustainable fashion, uses Class 25 to protect its brand name and mountain logo. This is crucial as eco-friendly apparel becomes more competitive.

9. Levi’s – Red Tab and Stitch Design

Levi’s protects its red tab on jeans and even its unique stitching patterns under Class 25. This ensures no competitor can copy the iconic look of Levi’s denim.

10. Supreme – Streetwear Icon

Supreme, a global streetwear label, trademarked its bold red-and-white logo under Class 25. This gave it the power to fight “legal fakes” in international markets.

Key Lessons from Global Fashion Labels

From these examples, we can see a few consistent strategies:

  1. Register Early – Brands like Nike and Adidas trademarked their logos before becoming global giants.
  2. Protect Symbols, Not Just Names – Designs, logos, slogans, and even unique stitching can be protected under Class 25.
  3. Expand Internationally with Madrid Protocol – Major brands extend protection to all countries where they operate.
  4. Fight Counterfeits – Class 25 gives them the right to stop fake sellers both offline and online.
  5. Diversify Trademark Coverage – Sub-brands, collections, and collaborations are often separately trademarked under Class 25.

Why Indian Fashion Startups Must Learn from These Examples

For upcoming Indian apparel brands, the global examples provide important insights:

  • Protect Before You Launch – Don’t wait until your eco-friendly clothing line or footwear startup becomes popular. Register your trademark early.
  • Secure Brand Name + Logo – Cover both wordmarks and symbols. For example, if your brand is EcoThreads with a leaf logo, trademark both.
  • Think Global from Day One – If you plan to sell internationally, secure your Class 25 trademark via the Madrid Protocol.
  • Guard Against E-Commerce Infringement – Online marketplaces are full of copycats. With a registered trademark, you can quickly remove fakes.

Steps to Register Your Brand Under Trademark Class 25 in India

  1. Conduct a Trademark Search – Check if your brand name/logo already exists.
  2. Choose What to Register – Brand name, logo, tagline, or packaging.
  3. File Application Online – Through the IP India Portal, selecting Class 25.
  4. Examination & Objection Handling – Respond to any queries from the Registrar.
  5. Journal Publication – Your trademark is published for public opposition.
  6. Certificate Issued – Once approved, you receive your Class 25 trademark certificate.

VMK Professionals: Your Trusted Partner for Class 25 Trademarks

At VMK Professionals, we help clothing and footwear businesses protect their brands with expert trademark services. Our team provides:

  • Detailed Trademark Search to avoid conflicts
  • Smooth Application Filing under Class 25
  • Objection & Opposition Handling for faster approvals
  • End-to-End Support until you get your certificate
  • International Trademark Assistance through the Madrid Protocol

Whether you’re building a luxury label, eco-friendly apparel brand, or sportswear startup, we ensure your identity stays safe in the competitive world of fashion.

Conclusion

Fashion is not just about style—it’s about identity. Global fashion giants like Nike, Gucci, Adidas, and Louis Vuitton prove that Trademark Class 25 is the foundation of brand protection. Without it, even the most creative designs can be stolen.

For startups and growing apparel businesses in India, the message is clear: secure your brand under Class 25 before competitors do. By doing so, you gain exclusivity, legal rights, and consumer trust that will help you grow in the long run.

At VMK Professionals, we’re here to make that process simple and hassle-free.

👉 Protect your clothing, footwear, or headgear brand today with Trademark Class 25. Contact VMK Professionals to get started.