Lisa Frank Incorporated has initiated legal proceedings against Target Corporation, alleging that the retailer’s Halloween costume offerings infringe upon its copyrighted designs. The lawsuit, filed on September 3, 2025, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona, names Target Corporation, Target Brands Incorporated, and Seasons Limited MCO as defendants. The case, presided over by Judge Scott H. Rash, centers on claims of copyright infringement and trademark violations under the Lanham Act.
Lisa Frank, renowned for its vibrant and whimsical designs that gained prominence in the 1990s, contends that Target’s Halloween costumes bear striking similarities to its original artwork. The complaint asserts that such resemblances could lead to consumer confusion and dilute the distinctiveness of the Lisa Frank brand.
This legal action is not the first instance of Lisa Frank defending its intellectual property. In the early 1990s, the company pursued litigation against Impact International, Inc., alleging that the defendant’s products closely mirrored Lisa Frank’s distinctive motifs, including dolphins, hearts, and peace signs. The court considered the overall similarity between the products, emphasizing that even with minor variations, the general likeness could mislead consumers. ([casetext.com](https://casetext.com/case/lisa-frank-inc-v-impact-intern-inc?utm_source=openai))
Target has previously faced scrutiny over its Halloween merchandise. In 2016, the retailer removed clown masks from its stores following widespread reports of “creepy clown” sightings that led to public concern. ([foxnews.com](https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/banned-halloween-costumes-time-ebay-removes-jeffrey-dahmer-inspired-outfit?utm_source=openai)) Additionally, in 2020, Target withdrew a “WWII Girl Child Costume” from its online platform after it drew comparisons to attire worn by Anne Frank, prompting public backlash. ([foxnews.com](https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/target-removes-wwii-inspired-childrens-costume-following-comparisons-to-clothing-worn-by-anne-frank?utm_source=openai))
The current lawsuit underscores the ongoing challenges retailers face in balancing creative expression with respect for intellectual property rights. As the case progresses, it will likely provide further insights into the complexities of copyright law as it pertains to fashion and costume design.