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Fitness Coach Threatens Legal Action Over Sweaty Betty's Use of Viral Slogan

She cites emails promising credit before the campaign grew without visible attribution, with no public response from the company.

Overview

  • Georgina Cox originated the phrase "Wear the Damn Shorts" in 2020 after a post that went viral during lockdown.
  • In 2023, Sweaty Betty paid her £3,500 for an Instagram ad and, according to an email seen by The Times, agreed to reference her in posts and press releases.
  • Cox says the brand later expanded the slogan across its homepage, social videos and £35 T‑shirts without further payment or clear credit.
  • She says an April rollout hid her tag on Instagram, her cease‑and‑desist went unanswered, and legal letters from the company accused her of "poor behaviour."
  • Cox has launched a GoFundMe that has passed £7,000 and is threatening to sue, while the slogan remains on Sweaty Betty’s website and the company has not commented.