Intellectual Property Theft from Independent Designers

Fast fashion giants systematically copy independent designers’ work within days of social media posts, making justice functionally inaccessible for small creators. A 2025 audit found that 92% of independent designers have had designs stolen, and the industry loses $450 billion yearly to IP infringement, with legal fees exceeding $50,000 per case versus average settlements under $3,000. This theft costs designers more annually than #7's health risks do to models, as large brands are 80% less likely to face penalties than small creators when accused, making the system 3x more protective of corporate interests.