From Catchphrase to Cash, Very Demure.

In our ever-evolving world of social media, trends can take off like wildfire. One day, you’re casually posting about your experiences, and the next thing you know, you are the new catch phrase everywhere—from TikTok videos to Instagram reels, and even mainstream media . The Demure Trend quickly gained massive traction, but as its popularity soared, it also sparked important conversations about the need for creators to protect their intellectual property.

@joolieannie

#fyp #demure

This issue became especially pressing when Jools Lebron, the originator of the trend, revealed that she hadn’t trademarked her catchphrase in time. As a result, a man in Washington state, Jefferson Bates, filed to trademark her phrase, potentially preventing her from using it on official merchandise or sponsored content in that region. So, how can creators ensure that their hard work isn't co-opted without their permission?

The Rise of the Demure Trend

The "demure trend", an ironic internet phenomenon that started by TikTok creator, Jools Lebron. Initially, Lebron posted a video on "How to be demure at work," where she humorously emphasized the importance of being "very demure" in her daily routine, from makeup to clothes. The video went viral, sparking a trend across platforms. Everyone began creating their own "very demure" moments. Celebrities like Kim Kardashian and even NASA have also participated in the trend. Through this trend, Lebron has also worked with brands like Verizon and Netflix working on sponsored content. 

@netflix

see how @joolieannie shares her favorite netflix stuff with you? very mindful. check out all the titles hand-picked in her VERY DEMURE, ... See more

Why Trademarking Your Trend Matters

See Also : Creative Freedom vs. Legal Protection: A Copyright Guide

Trademarking your trend gives you legal protection, ensuring that others can’t use your idea without your permission. When you trademark a trend, you essentially claim ownership over the name, slogan, and even certain aspects of its branding. This not only prevents others from profiting off your hard work without crediting you, but it also opens up opportunities for monetization.

@ash_kholm

VERY Demure @Khloé Kardashian @Jools Lebron @Dimitri Giannetos #verydemure

For instance, if you’ve created a trend like Demure, trademarking it means that companies wanting to use the term “Demure” for their products, campaigns, or marketing would need your approval (and potentially pay you for the rights). This turns your idea into a valuable asset. Imagine the millions she would have made over those brand social media posts. 

How to Trademark Your Trend

Here’s a simple guide to help you get started:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search: Before you file, make sure no one else has already trademarked the name or phrase you want to protect. You can do this through the official trademark database in your country, such as the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in the U.S.

2. Choose What to Trademark: You can trademark a name, logo, slogan, or even a hashtag that represents your trend. For the Demure Trend, for example, you might trademark the word “Demure” as it applies to the trend.

@joolieannie

#fyp #demure

3. File the Application: Submit your application through your country’s trademark office. The application will require you to provide details about your trademark, including how it will be used. Be prepared to pay a filing fee, which can vary depending on the jurisdiction.

4. Wait for Approval: The trademark office will review your application, which can take several months. During this time, they might request additional information or clarification. Once approved, your trademark is officially registered, giving you exclusive rights to your trend.

What Protection Does a Trademark Offer?

Once your trend is trademarked, you gain several protections:

• Exclusive Rights: You have the exclusive right to use the trademarked name, slogan, or logo in connection with your trend. This means others can’t use it without your permission.

• Legal Recourse: If someone uses your trademark without your consent, you can take legal action to stop them and potentially receive compensation for damages.

@cantsleep_tv

Jefferson bates demure #fypシ #blowthisup #demure #tmz

Monetization Opportunities: With a trademark in hand, you can license your trend to companies or other creators. This could involve allowing them to use your trademark in exchange for a fee, royalties, or a partnership deal.

How to Monetize Your Trademarked Trend

Once your trend is protected, the next step is to monetize it. Here are a few strategies:

1. Brand Collaborations: Partner with brands that align with your trend. For example, if you’ve trademarked the Demure Trend, collaborate with fashion brands to create exclusive “Demure” collections.

2. Merchandise: Create and sell merchandise featuring your trademarked name or logo. This could include clothing, accessories, or even digital products.

3. Licensing: License your trademark to other creators or companies. This allows them to use your trend in their own products or campaigns while paying you a fee.

4. Sponsored Content: Use your trademarked trend to attract sponsorships. Brands may want to sponsor your content if it features your trend, especially if it’s widely recognized.

As social media continues to evolve, the lines to benefiting off someone’s idea are increasingly blurred. Trademarking your trends is a powerful way to protect your creative work and ensure you, the creator, benefits from its success. So, as you dream up the next big thing on social media, remember that your creativity is valuable—and with the right protections in place, it can also be profitable.