The Copyright Act of 1976 was designed to protect and encourage creative expression. Courts, however, have struggled with interpreting the act to determine the appropriate level of intellectual property protection for the fashion industry, designers, and other innovators. In 2016, the question of fashion copyrights came before the Supreme Court in the case Star Athletica, LLC v. Varsity Brands, Inc. One year ago, they reached a decision that redrew the lines for useful articles and artistic expression in copyright protection.
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