Chrome Hearts, Nordstrom Settle Cross Trademark Dispute

Chrome Hearts LLC and Nordstrom, Inc. filed a joint notice on September 14, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California indicating they have reached a settlement in principle in their trademark dispute. The parties expect to finalize the agreement and dismiss the case within 45 days.

The lawsuit centered on Nordstrom products featuring cross designs that Chrome Hearts alleged infringed its registered CH Cross and CH Plus marks used on jewelry, apparel, and accessories. Chrome Hearts claimed the specific designs had acquired source-identifying significance through extensive use, advertising, and celebrity association.

Nordstrom products were accused of using similar motifs, raising questions about the boundary between ornamental design elements and protectable trademarks in fashion. The settlement removes the infringement claims from judicial consideration without a ruling on the merits.

The case, Chrome Hearts LLC v. Nordstrom, Inc., 2:26-cv-06078 (C.D. Cal.), highlights ongoing industry debates over the scope of trademark protection for recurring visual brand elements that also serve decorative functions.

Sources: https://www.thefashionlaw.com/when-does-a-fashion-design-become-a-trademark/ https://www.thefashionlaw.com/when-does-a-fashion-design-become-a-trademark/