McQueen sued by motorcycle gang

McQueen has been sued by Hells Angel for allegedly copying their insignia.

London: Months after his shocking suicide, legendary fashion designer Alexander McQueen has been sued by motorcycle gang Hells Angel for allegedly copying their insignia.

The Hells Angels Motorcycle Corporation is suing McQueen for breach of trademark, after the fashion house featured motifs similar to its famous winged death head. Lawyers for the motorcycle gang cited four products from the late designer`s final collection, created shortly before his suicide in February this year, reported Daily Mail online. They named the USD 1500 jacquard box dress, and a USD 550 knuckle-duster ring in the complaint, as well as a scarf and a handbag. They are also suing US department store Saks Fifth Avenue and e-retailer Zappos.com for selling the products. The complaint argues that the symbol has been used by Hells Angels since 1948 and that it is protected by the US Patent and Trademark Office. "From decades of notoriety, the HAMC marks have acquired very widespread public recognition, consequently they evoke strong and immediate reactions whenever used," said the lawsuit. "The impact of these marks is virtually incomparable, and as a result they have great commercial value. This isn`t just about money, it`s about membership," said the lawsuit. "If you`ve got one of these rings on, a member might get really upset that you`re an impostor," said HAMC`s lawyer. PTI