Olga Portnaya

Olga Portnaya, a 42-year-old resident of Los Angeles, is the founder and editor-in-chief of 'Dogue,' a canine fashion magazine she established in 2019. Portnaya started the magazine after posting photos of her rescued Pomeranian, Mimi Bear, on social media and noticing a gap in the market for a dedicated platform. She envisioned 'Dogue' as a unique space, not anticipating it would become a point of contention with the globally recognized fashion magazine, 'Vogue.' Currently, Portnaya and 'Dogue' are facing a lawsuit from Condé Nast, the publisher of 'Vogue,' alleging trademark infringement and brand dilution. The lawsuit stems from 'Dogue's' use of a similar name and aesthetic to 'Vogue.' Portnaya has expressed surprise at the legal action, stating she had hoped for a potential collaboration rather than a lawsuit. The case highlights the growing market for pet fashion and accessories, estimated to be worth billions of euros, and the legal complexities surrounding brand protection in niche markets.