Functional Trade Dress

Functional trade dress refers to the visual appearance of a product or its packaging that is essential to its use or purpose. Unlike trademarks that identify the source of goods, functional trade dress can’t be protected if it serves a practical function. For instance, a tool's shape that enhances its usability isn't eligible for trade dress protection. The law aims to prevent manufacturers from monopolizing useful designs that competitors might need to use. Essentially, while you can protect distinctive looks, you can't claim exclusivity over features that are necessary for a product's function.