NATIONAL: Embattled footwear brand Steve Madden is preparing for another legal headache, just four months after its Australian arm collapsed in the face of mounting debts.
Luxury fashion house Balenciaga has filed a lawsuit against the American company in the United States Eastern District of New York Court, alleging it ripped off a key style from its fall 2007 collection.
Balenciaga claimed the brand had "intentionally" copied a specially designed platform sandal, which featured distinct detailing in the style of technicolour lego blocks.
Steve Madden sold the shoes at a price 41 times less than that of Balenciaga's, with consumers forking out just $US100 ($AU112) as opposed to $US4175 ($AU4695.75).
This is the second such copyright case against Steve Madden since its Australian arm was wound up in late August, with designer Alexander Mcqueen alleging the brand copied his 'Faithful' bootie in October.
Steve Madden Australia, which had 35 stories across Australia including 18 concessions at department store Myer, went into administration in July largely due to a lack of working capital. Soon after, Steve Madden (US) terminated its Australian license due to the insolvency of the group.