Grace Lamendola is a J.D. candidate at the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law, where she focuses on intellectual property law, including copyright and trademark. She holds a B.A. in English from Sacred Heart University, graduating summa cum laude. Grace has professional experience in legislative and legal research through her work at a top law firm in Albany and the New York State Office of the State Comptroller, as well as marketing and communications roles in both academic and nonprofit settings. Her strengths include legal research, writing, and brand-focused advocacy.
“Run, don’t walk!” has become a familiar call across TikTok and Instagram, signaling that a new budget-friendly “dupe” has landed on store shelves. What was once quiet bargain-hunting has turned into a celebrated online trend, where creators openly compare low-cost look-alikes to premium products. But, as dupe culture surges, brand owners are increasingly turning to trademark and trade dress law to protect what they argue is far more than just a logo, but their brand identity.