A Darlington store that won a long-running legal battle with a high street clothing brand will be staging a party to celebrate its high-profile win.

House of Zana, which is based on Grange Road in the town, was locked in a trademark battle earlier this month after fashion giant Zara took exception to the name of the store – despite owner of the small, independent clothing outlet, Amber Kottri, insisting that there were significant differences.

Mrs Kottri had been initially told by the multi-million-pound retailer her business was "conceptually identical" and that there was a "high degree of visual and oral similarities" between the two brands.

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But Mrs Kotrri highlighted how her independent local business is smaller and has a different ethos to one of the high streets most popular fast fashion brands.

Despite Zara sticking to their guns in the legal battle, it came to an end in early August after a tribunal found the link was "too insubstantial".

And the trademark ruling by Matthew Williams stated: “I am satisfied that the differences between the marks are sufficient to rule out the likelihood of direct confusion on the part of the average consumer.”

The Northern Echo: Amber Kottri outside House of Zana down Grange Road in Darlington. Picture: NORTHERN ECHOAmber Kottri outside House of Zana down Grange Road in Darlington. Picture: NORTHERN ECHO

Speaking previously to The Northern Echo, Mrs Kottri expressed her relief at overcoming the legal challenge, by saying: “There were some days where I was adamant that ZARA would win but once I went back through all the messages of support and saw all the people who signed the petition, I thought: ‘absolutely no way’.

“There are plenty other businesses going through the same situation I was in and I hope this outcome can give them the strength to realise that it is possible to win.

“I’m so glad that I’ve won for myself but also all the people who have supported me – it’s been incredible.”

Now, a few weeks on from the trademark win, House of Zana is now holding a ‘celebration win party’ from 5pm on Wednesday (August 31), in partnership with Darlington Borough Council, at the main stage in Darlington Town Centre.

The event, which will include complimentary food, a fashion show, free face painting, music from Finn Forster, alongside the Northern Shakers Bar, photo wall & throne, and pop-up boutique, is one that everyone is invited to.

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