### Megan Markle’s New Brand Faces Legal Challenge from Independent Fashion Label

After a year of anticipation, Meghan Markle has finally introduced her new lifestyle brand, dubbed “As Ever.”

However, the name has already stirred up controversy, as it closely resembles an existing clothing brand based in New York City, which is also named As Ever.

The original brand, run by designer Mark Kolski, is not taking this development lightly and appears to be gearing up for a legal confrontation.

In a recent Instagram post, Kolski's As Ever expressed their discontent with the situation in a calm yet clearly frustrated manner.

Their message was a blend of gratitude for their loyal customers and an urgent plea for awareness about their brand, which has been around since 2015.

The tone of the post indicated that they are ready to defend their identity against what they perceive as a potential corporate takeover by a royal figure.

Kolski's team took the opportunity to remind followers of their brand's history, emphasizing that they became an official entity in 2017 and have been dedicated to producing their clothing locally ever since.

In stark contrast, Markle trademarked the name “As Ever” in 2022, which raises eyebrows.

Did she overlook a simple internet search?

Or perhaps she believed her celebrity status would overshadow any existing competition?

The phrase “we are not affiliated,” included in Kolski's post, has become somewhat iconic, hinting at the seriousness of the matter.

It reads like a subtle warning: they are prepared to take legal action if necessary.

The internet has rallied behind Kolski, with many users expressing their support for the small business facing off against a high-profile celebrity.

The comments section of their post has turned into a lively arena filled with outrage and even popcorn emojis, highlighting the public's fascination with the unfolding drama.

As the situation stands, Kolski's As Ever has a strong case.

They have been in business longer, manufacture in the U.S., and boast a loyal customer base.

The apparent oversight on Markle's team regarding the existing brand is puzzling and raises questions about their due diligence.

Trademark laws generally favor those who have used a name first, and in this case, Markle may not be the rightful owner.

If Kolski and his team decide to file a protest with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Markle could be forced to abandon her chosen brand name.

This scenario presents a dilemma: will she stand firm and fight for “As Ever,” or will she quietly retreat and rebrand herself once again?

Given her history of shifting brand identities, it's hard to predict which route she might take.

This unexpected twist has turned what should have been a glamorous brand launch into a legal debacle reminiscent of David versus Goliath.

Instead of stepping into the spotlight with a chic lifestyle empire, Markle finds herself embroiled in a battle that could tarnish her reputation before her brand even gets off the ground.

While the dust settles on this developing story, one thing is clear: the fashion community is watching closely.

The outcome of this dispute could set a precedent for how celebrity brands interact with smaller independent businesses in the future.