Chapter 1412: Chapter 1412: Casting a Long Line to Catch a Big Fish
The remarks Zara made naturally became solid proof online for those accusing Charlotte Thompson of plagiarism.
When it comes to cases of plagiarism, in most people’s eyes, the first person to release something is considered the original creator.
After that, no matter what kind of work gets released later, as long as there’s even a slight similarity, it’s immediately labeled as plagiarism.
"Since you’re aware of this matter, have you seen the design sketches I provided to the Worsen brand, as well as the clothing Florienna Ellis’ online shop is promoting?"
Faced with Zara’s inquiry, Charlotte didn’t respond immediately but instead chose to ask a question of her own.
"I just skimmed the sketches— the styles and designs look pretty similar. As for the details though, I haven’t really looked closely. Give me a moment, alright?"
As Zara spoke, the sound of footsteps could be heard, seemingly confirming Charlotte’s words as Zara seemed to head off to check out the design sketches online.
Charlotte listened to the sounds from Zara’s side but kept her attention focused on the design sketches in her own hands.
"By the way, I’ll stop by another day. I have a newly designed evening gown but I’m not sure what features to add— you’ll help me brainstorm when the time comes, right?" Charlotte said casually.
"Miss Thompson, you really are taking your sweet time! The plagiarism scandal has already spread across the entire internet, yet here you are, still leisurely designing evening gowns. Aren’t you afraid that when they’re released, someone will accuse you of plagiarism again?"
Zara teased Charlotte while looking through the sketches.
However, just as Zara finished speaking, she suddenly exclaimed in surprise:
"This isn’t you copying her— it’s clearly her copying you! Sure, the styles and designs are identical, but though she’s made some tweaks to the details, the resulting effect is glaringly awkward and far inferior to yours. What’s going on here?"
Unlike the trend-following commenters online, Zara is a professional designer with a keen sensitivity to color coordination.
But Florienna Ellis is also considered a legitimate designer— it’s just that her experience doesn’t measure up to Charlotte’s.
Talent, on the other hand, can be compensated for with hard work.
Yet when Florienna Ellis and Charlotte Thompson’s designs are placed side by side, laypeople might think every piece has its own charm, but to those truly versed in design and coordination, the difference becomes obvious.
Charlotte didn’t find Zara’s realization surprising in the slightest and instead found herself hesitating over certain decisions.
Her gaze flickered between the belt and a brooch, internally comparing the effects of placing each item on the gown, while her ears still tuned into Zara’s comments.
"Florienna Ellis’ designs are visually pleasing, but somehow they come across as disjointed. Unless this kind of inconsistency was specifically requested, how could a design piece be plagued by such a fundamental issue?"
"She also appears to have made adjustments during the revisions— for instance, did she slightly alter the cuffs of the dress? If so, this change will probably look awkward when the dress is actually worn."
Finally, Zara pointed out several specific differences between the designs, naturally corresponding to the discrepancies Charlotte had initially observed.
After analyzing together, Zara came to her conclusion:
"Your design sketches were stolen by this Florienna Ellis, weren’t they? I’ve heard you mention ’playing the long game to catch the big fish’ before— is the big fish you were referring to her?"