American fast fashion chain Forever 21 filed a lawsuit last week against Los Angeles apparel company Shire E. Benafshe and other "unscrupulous individuals and entities" for selling counterfeited garments bearing its logo.

According to The Fashion Law, in the suit filed by the company in the US District Court for the Central District of California, Forever 21 accuses the defendants of selling fake garments under its name "to take a free ride on the goodwill, reputation, and fame [that Forever 21] has spent considerable effort, time, and expense to build in its products and trademarks."

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A Los Angeles-based store called "Hi Fashion $5.99 & Up" is accused of "exporting, importing, advertising, promoting, selling, and distributing unauthorized goods bearing FOREVER 21 Marks...  with a purpose to deceive the consuming public and the public at large."

By selling copycat goods with Forever 21 tags, the company believes the defendants are staining Forever 21's image and reputation as the products do not meet the company's "stringent quality control requirements."

Forever 21 is demanding claims for trademark infringement and dilution; false designation of origin and unfair competition; and unlawful, unfair, and fraudulent business practices.

The company, which was founded by Do Won Chang and Jin Sook Chang, has also asked the presiding court to permanently close 'Hi Fashion $5.99 & Up' to further prevent the company from selling illegal commodities. Forever 21 is also seeking upwards of $3 million in damages.

Meanwhile, Forever 21 has also been facing legal complaints about copyright violations. The company has reportedly been sued over 50 times in recent years for infringing on the works of other designers.

TagsForever 21, Hi Fashion $5.99 & Up, Shire E. Benafshe, Fashion, copyright infringement