From the Runways to the Courtrooms: A Study on Fashion Crime and Criminal Law

Abstract

The present article analyzes the intersection between the fashion industry and Criminal Law, from the perspective of Criminal Fashion Law, an area that seeks to understand and regulate illicit practices that permeate the sector. It aims to discuss the legal and social relevance of crimes such as counterfeiting, piracy, smuggling, evasion of customs duties (descaminho), and money laundering, and their direct impact on the fashion market, which compromises the Brazilian economy, as well as the credibility and reputation of companies. Using the deductive method and bibliographic and jurisprudential research, the study highlights that, although the Brazilian legal system possesses legal instruments that discipline the matter, the greatest challenge lies in ensuring the effectiveness of the norms and in raising the awareness of society and consumers. It is concluded that the fight against illicit acts in fashion demands integrated action among the State, companies, and citizens, reinforcing the importance of intellectual property protection and the adoption of compliance and traceability practices as mechanisms for prevention and legal sustainability in the sector.