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The Bravo Docket

Cesie and Angela

Pattie Gonia vs. Patagonia Trademark Dispute

Jun 17, 202647 min
Summary

In this episode of The Bravo Docket, hosts Cessie and Angela shift their focus from the Bravo cinematic universe to a compelling trademark dispute between the outdoor apparel giant Patagonia and the drag performer and activist Pattie Gonia. The episode provides a foundational lesson on trademark law, explaining how brands function as source identifiers and why companies must actively police their marks to prevent dilution and consumer confusion. The hosts detail the history of the conflict, noting that while the two parties initially reached an informal agreement allowing the performer to use the name for activism, the relationship soured when the performer began selling branded merchandise and filed for an exclusive trademark. The discussion explores the legal nuances of trademark enforcement, highlighting that even when companies align with the values of an individual or activist, they may still be legally compelled to protect their intellectual property to maintain exclusive rights. Through this case, the hosts emphasize how consumer perception and potential confusion are the primary catalysts for litigation, illustrating why major brands, much like Patagonia, are forced to take a firm stance against unauthorized commercial use of their identity.

Updated Jul 4, 2026

About This Episode

Legal team, this week we are departing from our Bravo cinematic universe and jumping into the world of drag to discuss the trademark dispute between Pattie Gonia and Patagonia. The outdoor clothing brand Patagonia is suing Wyn Wiley, a drag queen known as Pattie Gonia, for trademark infringement and for breaching their 2022 informal agreement. We break down what trademark really means, what each side is arguing, and how to not infringe on trademark rights. We also provide examples of other trademark disputes between creators and big companies that might help us predict this case's outcome. Hopefully by the end of this episode, you’ll have a better understanding of how trademark laws work. And Cesie gives a recap of her Watch What Happens Live experience, including her interaction with Andy Cohen!


What’s on the docket?

  • Recap of Cesie’s WWHL experience, including her conversation with Andy Cohen
  • Why we have this podcast
  • What is the definition of a trademark
  • What it means to be in commerce
  • How to establish trademark rights and how to avoid infringing on them 
  • What is constructive notice
  • How to search for trademarks
  • Ghost kitchen case, an example of how to lose trademark rights
  • Who is Pattie Gonia/Wyn Wiley
  • Overview of the case and why there’s conflict
  • Patagonia’s arguments
  • Email in 2022 and the evidence of an agreement
  • Why this matters so much to Patagonia
  • Public statements made by both sides
  • Lexie Love and the AI artist who registered federal trademark
  • Pattie Gonia’s open letter on her website and instagram
  • Hurdles that Patagonia will face
  • The North Face vs. The South Butt case and the pure parody argument
  • Our thoughts on the case
  • Consumer surveys and evidence of actual confusion
  • My Other bag vs. Louis Vuitton case
  • Jan Sport and Jansport collaboration example


Access additional content and our Patreon here: ⁠https://zez.am/thebravodocket⁠  

The Bravo Docket podcast, the statements we make whether in our own media or elsewhere, and any content we post are for entertainment purposes only and do not provide legal advice. Any party consuming our information should consult a lawyer for legal advice. The podcast, our opinions, and our posts, are our own and are not associated with our employers, Bravo TV, or any other television network. Cesie is admitted to the State Bars of California and New York. Angela is admitted to the State Bars of Texas, Kansas, and Missouri.  


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