Case Name: RUBIES COSTUME CO., Plaintiff, v. UNITED STATES, Defendant
Court: United States Court of International Trade
Jurisdiction: United States
Decision Date: 2017-10-31
Citations: 279 F. Supp. 3d 1145
Docket Number: Slip Op. 17-147; Court No. 13-00407
Parties: RUBIES COSTUME CO., Plaintiff, v. UNITED STATES, Defendant.
Judges: 
Reporter: Federal Supplement 3d
Volume: 279
Pages: 1145–1171

Head Matter:
RUBIES COSTUME CO., Plaintiff, v. UNITED STATES, Defendant.
Slip Op. 17-147
Court No. 13-00407
United States Court of International Trade.
October 31, 2017
Glenn H. Ripa, John A. Bessich, and Suzanne L. McCaffery, Follick & Bessich, of New York, NY, for Plaintiff.
Peter A. Mancuso, Trial Attorney,- Commercial Litigation Branch, Civil Division, U.S. Department of Justice, of New York, NY, for Defendant. With him on the brief were Chad A. Readier, Acting Assistant Attorney General, and Amy M.' Rubin, Assistant Director. Of Counsel on the brief was Michael W. Heydrich, Office of the Assistant Chief Counsel, International Trade Litigation, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, of New York, NY.

Opinion:
OPINION
Barnett, Judge:
In this case, the court addresses the issue of the proper classification of a Santa Claus costume. Is it a "festive article" entitled to duty free treatment, or is it fancy -dress, of textile, akin .to wearing apparel, dutiable at the rates applicable to the particular"parts of the costume? Application of classification principles in this case (the General Rules of Interpretation, which direct the court to apply the terms of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule, and relevant judicial precedent) leads to a finding that, while flimsy and non-durable costumes (whether- for Halloween, Christmas, or - -any - other holiday) generally receive duty free treatment as festive articles, and non-flimsy, durable Christmas sweaters may also receive duty free treatment as festive articles (because they are not fancy dress), a relatively well-made, durable, dry clean only Santa Claus costume constitutes fancy dress, of- textile, and is, therefore, excluded from. classification as a festive article.
Before the court are cross-motions for summary judgment. See PL's Mot. for Summ. J., ECF No. 28, and Mem. of Law in Supp. of PL's Mot. for Summ. J ("PL's MSJ"), ECF No. 28-1; Def.'s Cross-Mot. for Summ. J. and Mem. in Supp. of Def.'s Cross-Mot. for Summ. J ("Def.'s XMSJ"), ECF No. 30. Plaintiff Rubies Costume Company ("Rubies" or "Plaintiff') contests the denial of its protest challenging U.S. Customs and Border Protection's ("Customs" or "CBP") classification of a multi-piece Santa Claus suit ("Santa Suit"). See Summons, ECF No. 1; CompL, ECF No. 5. Plaintiff contends the Santa Suit qualifies for duty free treatment as a "[fjestive, carnival or other entertainment article[]" (hereinafter referred to as a "festive article") pursuant to subheading 9505.10.50 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States ("HTSUS"), or, alternatively, subheading 9505,90.60 of the HTSUS, PL's MSJ at 2-3. Defendant United States ("Defendant" or the "Government") contends that Customs correctly classified the Santa Suit under tariff provisions corresponding to the individual garments and accessories that, together, compose the Santa Suit. Def.'s XMSJ at 1-2. For the following reasons, the court finds that the Santa Suit is not a festive article, and, therefore, is properly classified pursuant to the below-stated individual tariff provisions.
Background
I. Material Facts Not in Dispute
The party moving for summary judgment must show "there is no genuine dispute as to any material fact and the mov-ant is entitled to judgment as a matter of law." United States Court of International Trade ("USCIT") Rule 56(a). Movants should present material facts as short and concise statements, in numbered para graphs, and cite to "particular parts of materials in the record" as support. US-CIT Rule 56(c)(1)(A); see also USCIT Rule 56.3(a)("factual positions described in Rule 56(c)(1)(A) must be .annexed to the motion in a separate, short and concise statement, in numbered paragraphs"). In responsive papers,. the nonmovant "must include correspondingly numbered paragraphs responding to the numbered paragraphs in the statement of the movant." USCIT Rule 56.3(b). Parties filed cross motions for summary judgment and submitted separate statements of undisputed material facts with their respective motions. See Pl.'s Am. Statement of Material Facts Not in Dispute ("PL's SOF"), ECF No. 34; Def.'s Statement of Undisputed Material Facts ("Def.'s SOF"), ECF No. 30-1. Defendant also filed a response to Plaintiffs statement of facts. See Def.'s Resp. to Pl.'s Statement of Material Facts Not in Dispute ("Def.'s Resp. to Pl.'s SOF"), ECF No. 30-2. Plaintiff did not file a response to Defendant's statement of facts and has informed the court that it admits all of Defendant's factual assertions. See Notice from the Court (June 26, 2017), ECF No. 36. Parties also filed supplemental facts specific to the Santa Suit jacket. See PL's Resp. to'the Court's Order of July 28, 2017- ("PL's Suppl. Br."), Ex. 1 (CBP.Lab Report NY20171073), ECF No. 40-1; Def.'s Resp. to the Court Order Dated July 28, 2017 Req. Suppl. Briefing ("Def.'s Suppl. Br."), Ex. 2 (CBP Lab Report NY20171073), ECF No. 41-2. Upon review'of the Parties' facts (and supporting exhibits), the court finds the following undisputed and material facts.
Rubies, a wholesale and retail costume company, is the importer of record of the subject Santa Suit. PL's SOF ¶ 1, 9; Def.'s Resp. to PL's SOF ¶ 1, 9; see also PL's SOF ¶ 21; Def.'s Resp. to PL's SOF ¶ 21 (subject merchandise is imported for domestic resale). The Santa Suit consists of a red jacket, pants, and hat, a. black belt with a ,metal buckle, white, gloves, black shoe covers, a white wig, and a Santa sack that are packaged together for retail sale as the "Premier Plush 9 Piece Santa Suit." Def.'s SOF ¶ 1. Only the jacket, pants, gloves, and sack are at issue in this case.
The jacket and.pants consist of 73% acrylic and 27% knit polyester material, and have sewn-in care labels stating that each item is "Dry Clean Only." Id. ¶ 2, 3. The jacket is made in one "standard size," consists of plush.fabric, and is fully lined with satin polyester. Id. ¶4; Physical Sample. The jacket fabric "has a stitch count per one centimeter of [seven] in The horizontal [direction] and [seven] in the vertical direction." Pl.'s Suppl. Br, Ex. 1; Def.'s Suppl. Br., Ex. 2. The jacket has "a full front opening secured by a zipper," which is hidden by a left-over-right faux fur cover held in place by two metal snaps, one at the collar of the jacket and one at the base of the jacket. Def.'s SOP ¶ 6-7. The double-layer collar consists of white faux fur fabric. Id. ¶ 5. "The jacket has long, sleeves with turned edges, trimmed with white faux fur fabric cuffs," id. ¶ 8, and "a straight cut hemmed bottom trimmed with the same white faux fur fabric," id. ¶ 9. The jacket may be worn over other clothing or undergarments, id. ¶ 10, and has belt loops for the belt, Physical Sample. The pants have a satin polyester lining, pockets with hemmed edges, an elasticized waist, and tightly stitched interior seams. Def.'s SOF ¶ 11-12. The white knit gloves consist of 100% polyester knit fabric. Id. ¶ 13. The sack is made from the same material as the jacket and pants, and has a drawstring cord. Id. ¶ 14. The Santa Suit packaging describes the sack as a "toy bag." Physical Sample.
The Santa Suit has a wholesale price of USD 60-70 and a retail price of USD 100, which is considered "a mid-to-high price point." Id. ¶ 24. It is "manufactured to be worn repeatedly during a single Christmas season" and "is intended to survive multi-pie wearings and cleanings" over several Christmas seasons. Id. ¶ 25-26. The Santa Suit covers the body of the individual wearing it and provides warmth and protection to the wearer. Id. ¶ 27.
II. Procedural History
On June 20, 2012, Rubies sought a binding pre-importation ruling from Customs regarding the classification of the Santa Suit. See Def.'s XMSJ, Ex. 2 ("HQ H237067"), ECF No. 30-4. On June 20, 2013, Customs issued its ruling. See generally HQ H237067. Relying on the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit's ("Federal Circuit") opinion in Rubie's Costume Co. v. Unites States ("Rubie's II"), 337 F.3d 1350 (Fed. Cir. 2003), and Customs' informed compliance publication regarding the classification of textile costumes, Customs distinguished the "well-made" Santa Suit from the "flimsy costumes" it classifies as festive articles. HQ H237067 at 6-9. Accordingly, Customs determined that the jacket and pants are classifiable as "wearing apparel" under headings 6105 and 6103, respectively. Id. at 9. Customs further found that the gloves and sack are classifiable under headings 6116 and 4202, respectively. Id. at 9-10.
On August 20, 2013, Plaintiff entered 36 Santa Suits under Entry Number BPQ- 1066668-8 through the John F. Kennedy Airport in New York. Compl. ¶ 5-6; Answer ¶ 5-6, EOF No. 11; see also Summons at 1. On October 25, 2013, Customs liquidated the Santa Suits as follows:
PL's SOF ¶ 4; Def.'s Resp. to Pl.'s SOF ¶ 4.
Rubies timely protested Customs' classification of the subject merchandise; on December 14, 2013, that protest was deemed denied. PL's SOF ¶5-6; Def.'s Resp. to PL's SOF ¶ 5-6; see also Summons at 1. Rubies challenges the denial of its protest. Parties have fully briefed the issues. The court now rules on the cross-motions for summary judgment.
Jurisdiction and Standard of Review
The court has subject matter jurisdiction pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1581(a). Jurisdiction is uncontroverted in this case. PL's SOF ¶2; Def.'s Resp. to PL's SOF ¶ 2.
The court may grant summary judgment when "there is no genuine issue as to any material fact," and "the moving party is entitled to judgment as a matter of law." Anderson v. Liberty Lobby, Inc., 477 U.S. 242, 247, 106 S.Ct. 2505, 91 L.Ed.2d 202 (1986); USCIT R. 56(a). The court's review of a classification decision involves two steps. First, it must determine the meaning of the relevant tariff provisions, which is a question of law. See Bausch & Lomb, Inc. v. United States, 148 F.3d 1363, 1365 (Fed. Cir. 1998) (citation omitted); see also id. at 1366 (characterizing the first step as "constru[ing] the relevant (competing) classification headings"). Second, it must determine "what the merchandise at issue is," which is a question of fact. Id. at 1366. When no factual dispute exists regarding the merchandise, summary judgment is appropriate and resolution of the classification turns solely on the first step. See id. at 1365-66; id. at 1365 ("The ultimate question in a classification case is whether the merchandise is properly classified under one or another classification heading," which is "a question of law[ ] . because what is at issue is the meaning of the terms set out in the statute (citations omitted); see also Sigma-Tau HealthScience, Inc. v. United States, 838 F.3d 1272, 1276 (Fed. Cir. 2016) (citations omitted).
The court reviews classification cases on. "the basis of the record made before the court." 28 U.S.C. § 2640(a). While the court accords deference to Customs' classification rulings relative to their "power to persuade," United States v. Mead Corp., 533 U.S. 218, 235, 121 S.Ct. 2164, 150 L.Ed.2d 292 (2001) (quoting Skidmore v. Swift & Co., 323 U.S. 134, 140, 65 S.Ct. 161, 89 L.Ed. 124 (1944)), it has "an independent responsibility to decide the legal issue of the proper meaning and scope of HTSUS terms," Warner-Lambert Co. v. United States, 407 F.3d 1207, 1209 (Fed. Cir. 2005) (citing Rocknel Fastener, Inc. v. United States, 267 F.3d 1354, 1358 (Fed. Cir. 2001)); It is "the court's duty to find the correct result, by whatever procedure is best suited to the case at hand." Jarvis Clark Co. v. United States, 733 F.2d 873, 878 (Fed. Cir. 1984).
Discussion
I. Legal Framework
The General Rules of Interpretation ("GRIs") provide the analytical framework for the court's classification of goods. See N. Am. Processing Co. v. United States, 236 F.3d 695, 698 (Fed. Cir. 2001). "The HTSUS is designed so that most classification questions can be answered by GRI 1." Telebrands Corp. v. United States, 36 CIT -, -, 865 F.Supp.2d 1277, 1280 (2012), aff'd 522 Fed.Appx. 915 (Fed. Cir. 2013). GRI 1 states that, "for legal purposes, classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any [relevant] section or chapter notes." GRI 1, HTSUS. The court considers chapter and section notes of the HTSUS in resolving classification disputes because they are statutory law, not interpretive rules. See Arko Foods Int'l, Inc. v. United States, 654 F.3d 1361, 1364 (Fed. Cir. 2011) (citations omitted); see also Park B. Smith, Ltd. v. United States, 347 F.3d 922, 929 n. 3 (Fed. Cir. 2003) (chapter and section notes are binding on the court).
"Absent contrary legislative intent, HTSUS terms are to be 'construed [according] to their common and popular meaning.'" Baxter Healthcare Corp. of Puerto Rico v. United States, 182 F.3d 1333, 1337 (Fed. Cir. 1999) (quoting Marubeni Am. Corp. v. United States, 35 F.3d 530, 533 (Fed. Cir. 1994)). Courts may rely upon their own understanding of terms or consult dictionaries, encyclopedias, scientific authorities, arid other reliable information. Brookside Veneers, Ltd. v. United States, 847 F.2d 786, 789 (Fed. Cir. 1988); BASF Corp. v. United States, 35 CIT -, -, 798 F.Supp.2d 1353, 1357 (2011). For additional guidance on the scope and meaning of tariff headings and chapter and section notes, the court also may consider the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, developed by the World Customs Organization. See Deckers Outdoor Corp. v. United States, 714 F.3d 1363, 1367 n. 1 (Fed. Cir. 2013). Although Explanatory Notes do not bind the court's analysis, they are "indicative of proper interpretation" of the tariff schedule. Lynteq, Inc. v. United States, 976 F.2d 693, 699 (Fed. Cir. 1992) (quoting H.R. Rep. No. 100-576, at 549 (1988) (Conf. Rep.), reprinted in 1988 U.S.C.C.A.N. 1547, 1582).
II. Competing Tariff Provisions
Plaintiff contends the Santa Suits are properly classified as festive articles under subheading 9505.10.50 or, alternatively, 9505.90.60. Pl.'s MSJ at 2-3. Chapter 95 covers "Toys, Games, and Sports Requi sites; Parts and Accessories thereof." The asserted subheadings (and relevant legal notes) are as follows:
9505: Festive, carnival or other entertainment articles, including magic tricks and practical joke articles; parts and accessories thereof:
9505.10: Articles for Christmas festivities and parts and accessories thereof:.
9505.10.50: Other.Free.
9505.90: Other:
9505.90.60: Other ,.Free.
Pursuant to the chapter notes, "fancy-dress, of textiles, of chapter 61 or 62," are excluded from classification under Chapter 95. Ch. 95, Note 1(e). Also excluded are "[sjports bags or other containers of heading 4202, 4303 or 4304," Ch. 95, Note 1(d), and "gloves, mittens and mitts (classified according to their constituent material)," Ch. 95, Note 1(u).
Defendant contends the jacket, pants, and gloves are properly classified as articles of apparel pursuant to subheadings of Chapter 61, and the sack is properly classified pursuant to a subheading of Chapter 42. Def.'s XMSJ at 1-2. Chapter 61 covers "Articles of Apparel and Clothing Accessories, Knitted or Crocheted." Chapter 42 covers "Articles of Leather; Saddlery and Harness; Travel Goods, Handbags and Similar Containers; Articles of Animal Gut (other than Silkworm Gut)." The specific subheadings (and- relevant legal notes) asserted by Defendant are as follows:
6103: Men's or boys' . trousers, . breeches and shorts (other than swimwear), knitted or crocheted:
6103.43: Of synthetic fibers:
6103.43.15: Other.-.28.2% ad valorem,
6105: Men's' or'boys' shirts, knitted or crocheted:
6105.20: Of man-made fibers:
6105.20.20: Other.32% ad valorem.
6116: Gloves, mittens and mitts, knitted or . crocheted:
6116.93: Of synthetic fibers:
'6116.93.94: Other: With fourchettés . 18,6% ad va-lorem.
4202: [Tjtraveling bags, . knapsacks and backpacks, handbags, shopping bags, . sports bags, . and similar containers, . of textile materials, . or wholly or mainly covered with such materials .:
4202.92: Other: With outer surface of sheeting of plastic or of textile materials: Travel, sports and similar bags:- With outer surface of textile materials:
4202.92.30: Other .,. 17.6% ad valorem.
Section XI, which includes Chapter 61, excludes "[ajrticles of chapter 95." Sect. XI, Note l(t). Pursuant to Note 9 to Chapter 61, "[gferments of this chapter designed for left over right closure at the front shall be regarded as men's or boys' garments." Ch. 61, Note-9. Chapter 42 also excludes "[ajrticles of chapter 95." Ch. 42, Note 1(1). Pursuant to • Additional U.S. Note 1 to Chapter 42, "[f]or the purposes of heading' 4202, the expression 'travel, sports and similar bags' means goods . of a kind designed for carrying clothing and other personal effects during travel, including backpacks and shopping bags of this heading .Ch. 42, Add'l U.S. Note 1.
The legally binding notes attendant to Chapters 42, 61, and 95 demonstrate that articles may be described by headings of each chapter, and "expressly resolve[ ] this conflict in favor of classification in chapter 95" unless the article falls into one of Chapter 95's exclusionary notes. See Michael Simon Design, Inc. v. United States, 501 F.3d 1303, 1305, 1306-07 (Fed. Cir. 2007) (explaining that note 1(e) to Chapter 95 excludes "only certain clothing articles"; thus, festive sweaters were properly classified as festive articles and not wearing apparel). In other words, Chapter 95's exclusionary notes provide exceptions to the general rule of classification thereunder for particular articles of Chapters 42, 61, and 62. See Sect. XI, Note l(t) (Chapter 61 excludes "[ajrticles of chapter 95); Ch. 42, Note 1(1) (Chapter 42 excludes "[ajrticles of chapter 95). But see Ch. 95, Notes 1(d), (e), (u) ("[sjports bags or other containers" of headings 4202, 4303, and 4304;. "fancy dress, of textiles, of chapter 61 or 62"; and "gloves . (classified according to their constituent material)" are not covered by Chapter 95). Accordingly, for Plaintiffs asserted classification to be correct, the components of the Santa Suit must be pHma facie classifiable as festive articles and must not be covered by any of Chapter 95's exclusions. As discussed below, the Santa Suit components are covered by the exclusions to Chapter 95; thus, the court need not and does not reach the issue of whether they constitute festive articles.
III. Classification of the Jacket and Pants
The GRIs govern the proper classification of merchandise and are applied in numerical order. N. Am. Processing Co., 236 F.3d at 698. Pursuant to GRI 1, the court first "must determine the appropriate classification 'according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes' . [with] terms of the HTSUS . construed according to their common commercial meaning." Millenium Lumber Dist. Ltd. v. United States, 558 F.3d 1326, 1328-29 (Fed. Cir. 2009) (citations omitted).
A. Construction of Note 1(e) to Chapter 95
Pursuant to Note 1(e), "fancy dress, of textiles, of chapter 61 or 62," is barred from classification under chapter 95. Ch. 95, Note 1(e). That phrase is not defined in the HTSUS. In Rubie's II, however, the Federal Circuit spoke to the meaning of the phrase and addressed when costumes should be classified as festive articles rather than wearing apparel. 337 F.3d at 1356-60. The court's analysis, therefore, begins with an explication of the Federal Circuit's opinion and related judicial and Customs rulings to the extent that they illuminate the proper construction of Note 1(e).
The merchandise at issue in Rubie's II consisted of five textile costumes "traditionally worn [at] . Halloween or to costume parties." Id. at 1352. They included a child-sized "Witch of the Webs" dress, "Pirate Boy" top and pants, and "Witch" dress, an adult-sized "Abdul, Sheik of Arabia" sheath, and a "Cute and Cuddly Clown" jumpsuit. Id. at 1352 & n.2. On June 2, 1997, in response to a request filed by Rubie's, Customs determined "that the 'Cute and Cuddly Clown' would be classified as 'Babies' garments and clothing accessories' with a duty rate of 16.7 (now 16.1) percent ad valorem, while the other costumes . would be classified as 'festive articles,' requiring duty free entry." Id. at 1352 (citing HQ 959545 (June 2, 1997)). Thereafter, Customs denied the Domestic Interested Party Petition filed by Rubie's, which asserted that the five textile costumes should be classified -as wearing apparel, and affirmed its prior determination. Id. at 1352-53 (citing HQ 961447 (July 22, 1998) ("HQ 961447")); see also supra note 8.
HQ 961447 reiterated the classification analysis that Customs had relied on for the decade prior to its issuance, tracing its origin to a case in this court styled as Traveler Trading Co. v. United States, 13 CIT 380, 713 F.Supp. 409 (1989)). See HQ 961447 at 2; Rubie's II, 337 F.3d at 1353, 1358. In that case, Traveler Trading Co. ("Traveler") sued the United States regarding Customs' classification of "flimsy" adult textile costumes as "wearing apparel" under the predecessor to the HTSUS, the TSUS, rather than as "toys" as it classifies children's costumes. Traveler, 13 CIT at 380, 384, 713 F.Supp. at 410, 413. During settlement negotiations, Customs reconsidered its basis for distinguishing adult Halloween costumes from children's Halloween costumes-. Id. at 380-81, 713 F.Supp. at 410-11. Customs reasoned that "[t]hese are costumes which are flimsily constructed and possess no significant utilitarian value.... These costumes are distinguishable from theatrical costumes or religious and folk-like regalia which are detailed, well-constructed, and intended for a specific use other than mere amusement." Id. at 380-81, 713 F.Supp. at 410-11 (citation omitted). In ruling on Traveler's application for attorneys' fees and costs, the court deemed "unreasonable" Customs' initial classification of "flimsy [adult] .Halloween costumes as wearing apparel." Id. at 383-84, 713 F.Supp. at 412-13 (distinguishing "expensive, well-constructed ballroom gowns, safari outfits, certain types of uniforms, and other adult garments," which "may serve as both Halloween costumes and wearing apparel" from "witches, pirates, and [similar costumes], which are flimsily constructed") (internal quotation marks and citation omitted).
A few years later, Traveler again sued the United States over Customs' "classification of textile costumes as articles of 'fancy dress' excluded from classification in Chapter 95 [of the HTSUS]." HQ 961447 at 2 (citing Traveler Trading Co. v. United States, Court No. 91-02-00084). Customs subsequently determined that the court's opinion in Traveler and recent judicial opinions concerning relevant provisions of the HTSUS meant that it should "reexamine[ ] its view regarding the scope of the term 'fancy dress' as it relates to costumes." HQ 961447 at 2 (noting'that "Customs '[initially] took the view that fancy dress, included 'all' textile costumes regardless of quality, durability, or the nature of the item"). Following the execution of a settlement agreement between Customs and Traveler, Customs issued HQ 957318 (Nov. 15, 1994) ("HQ 957318"), wherein it stated that costumes that "are of a- flimsy nature-and construction, lack durability, and are generally recognized as not normal articles of apparel" would be 'classified as festive articles. HQ 957318 at 1; see also HQ 961447 at 2.
In later rulings, Customs identified certain characteristics that it would assess to determine whether an article was "of a flimsy nature and construction, lacking in durability, and generally [not] ' recogiiized as a normal article of apparel." HQ 961447 at 4 (citations Omitted) (identifying "zipper closures," "abundant styling 'features such as a fitted bodice with darts," "petal shaped panels sewn into a waistline," and "sheer/decorative panels sewn into'' the seams of costumes" as iñdicativé of fancy dress). Applying those characteristics to the merchandise at issue in Ruble's II, Customs determined that four of the five costumes were classifiable as festive articles. Id. (noting that those costumes "featured simple pull-on type garments with no zippers, inset panels, darts, or hoops," and raw and unhemmed edges leaving the costumes "susceptible to runs and frays"). In contrast, the "Cute and Cuddly Clown" costume "was particularly well-constructed and had a substantial amount .of finishing work (i.e., the sewing used to construct the article)," and did not have any raw edges. Id. For those reasons, Customs classified the Cute and Cuddly Clown costume as wearing apparel. Id.
On appeal to the USCIT, the court disagreed with Customs' interpretation of Note 1(e). Rubie's I, 26 CIT at 210, 196 F.Supp.2d at 1322. Citing several dictionary definitions, the court defined "fancy dress" as synonymous with "costume" generally, and, therefore, rejected the Government's argument that "fancy dress" is limited to "elaborate or substantial costumes such as those worn by actors in the theater, and formal wear such as tuxedos and ball gowns worn to special events." Id. at 216-17, 196 F.Supp.2d at 1328 (citations omitted). The Ruble's I court proceeded to examine the scope of Chapters 61 and 62 to determine the type of fancy dress (costumes) excluded. Id. at 219, 196 F.Supp.2d at 1330-31, Relying on the U.S. Supreme Court's opinion in Arnold and this court's opinion in H.I,M./Fathom, the Ruble's I court found that "for merchandise to be properly classified within Chapters 61 or 62, strong emphasis must be placed on the material of the mer chandise and whether it could be worn at a particular time." Id. at 219, 196 F.Supp.2d at 1331. Because the costumes at issue were "meant to adorn the human body at a particular time, either on Halloween or at any other event where the wearer desires to mimic another," and as they were "within the norms of apparel as it is viewed in the United States," the Ruble's I court held that the costumes were classifiable pursuant to subheading 6114.30.30 of the HTSUS. Id. at 219-220, 196 F.Supp.2d at 1331.
The Federal Circuit reversed on the basis that HQ 961447 was sufficiently persuasive to be accorded Skidmore deference. See Rubie's II, 337 F.3d at 1356; Skidmore, 323 U.S. at 140, 65 S.Ct. 161. The Federal Circuit agreed with the lower court that "fancy dress" means "a costume (as for a masquerade or party) departing from conventional style and [usually] representing a fictional or historical character." Rubie's II, 337 F.3d at 1356-57 (citing Rubie's I, 26 CIT at 216, 196 F.Supp.2d at 1327); see also id. at 1357 ("That the term 'fancy dress,' .,. includes costumes is plain enough . "). According to the Federal Circuit, however, the lower court insufficiently analyzed the type of fancy dress excluded:
a reading of the exclusion in Note 1(e) to Chapter 95, HTSUS, that focuses solely on the term "fancy dress" and turns a blind eye to the immediately following words "of textiles, of chapter 61 or 62" construes the term fancy dress in disregard of the context of the exclusion as a whole.... The words in Note 1(e) "of textiles, of chapter 61 or 62" immediately following "fancy dress," establish the context in which the term "fancy dress" is to be applied, and thereby circumscribe, .qualify, •and limit the- type of "fancy dress" that was intended by the drafters-to be excluded from Chapter 95, HTSUS, to textile costumes falling within the purview "of chapter 61 or 62." Thus, . the exclusion to Chapter 95, HTSUS, encompasses textile- costumes that are classifiable'as "wearing apparel" under Chapter 61 or 62.
Id. (emphasis added). The Federal Circuit interpreted "wearing apparel" as "embracing all articles which are ordinarily worn — dress in general,", id. (quoting Arnold, 147 U.S. at 496, 13 S.Ct. 406), and "clothes or coverings for the human body worn for decency or comfort," id. (quoting Antonio Pompeo v. United States, 40 Cust. Ct. 362, 364 (1958) (also noting- that "common knowledge indicates that adornment is also an element' of mány _ articles of wearing apparel")). ,
"Cognteant of [those] definitions," the Federal Circuit found HQ 961447 "logical and well-reasoned." Id. The court determined that HQ 961447 correctly classifies as festive articles "flimsy, non-durable costumes, having utility and used as well for festive occasions, based on functional or structural deficiencies as compared with the standard counterpart -articles (e.g., wearing apparel)." Id. The court cited Customs' identification , of "the texture and quality of the materials as 'flimsy- and non-durable' " suggesting that the textile costumes' "principal intended usé is for a one time festive occasion [which] [is] distinct from 'wearing apparel' which the courts have held to be used for decency, comfort, adornment or protection." Id. (quoting HQ 961447) (second alteration added). .Addi tionally, although the subject merchandise "may simulate the structural features of wearing apparel, and have some incidents of 'clothes or coverings for .the human body worn for decency or comfort,' " id. at 1358 ^quoting Antonio Pompeo, 40 Cust. Ct. at 364), "they are not practical 'articles which are ordinarily worn,' " id. (quoting Arnold, 147 U.S. at 496, 13 S.Ct. 406); see also id. ("[T]he Halloween costumes . have enormous 'make believe' or festive value . and incidentally afford the element of covering for decency or comfort."). The Federal Circuit, therefore, was persuaded by Customs' view that "fancy dress" for purposes of Note 1(e) does not include "imported textile costumes [that] are of a flimsy nature and construction, lacking in durability and generally not recognized as normal articles of wearing apparel"; instead, such costumes are classifiable as "festive articles." Id. at 1360. Accordingly, this court is guided by the same criteria. Avenues in Leather, Inc. v. United States, 423 F.3d 1326, 1331 (Fed. Cir. 2005) (the Federal Circuit's interpretation of tariff terms are binding on this court).
B. Whether the Jacket and Pants are "Fancy Dress, of Textiles, of Chapter 61 or 62"
a. Parties' Contentions
Plaintiff contends that the Santa Suit "is not well-made, and does not meet wearing apparel production standards." Pl.'s MSJ at 9. To support its contention, Plaintiff primarily relies on a report prepared by its expert witness, Roni Start. See PL's MSJ, Ex. 3 ("Start Report"), ECF No. 28-3. Ms. Start distinguishes "well-made" from "well-sewn," and concludes that the Santa Suit "is not well-made." Start Report at 10 ("Parts of Rubies' Santa Claus costume are 'well sewn' but not Veil made' . "); see also PL's Resp. at 2 ("A well-sewn costume . [is] not necessarily . an article of wearing apparel for tariff classification purposes."); id. at 5 ("The distinction between a well-made garment and a well-sewn costume is critical [to] determining whether . the [Santa Suit] is 'fancy dress,'"). As evidence that the Santa Suit is not well-made, Ms. Start points to its one-size fits all sizing, the quality of fabric and lining, and its flammability directive. Start Report at 10-11; see also PL's MSJ at 10-11; PL's Resp. at 3-4.
Plaintiff also contends that the Santa Suit "is not a well-constructed ball gown, a safari outfit, or like garment that one would expect to find at a stylish soiree. It is not a uniform or an adult garment. It is a costume . " PL's MSJ at 15. According to Plaintiff, the Santa Suit "is worn, [but] it is not ordinarily worn; instead, it is placed on the body and intended to depict Santa Claus." PL's Resp. at 8; see also PL's MSJ at 23 ("The [Santa Suit is] not ordinarily worn and [was] created for Christmas festivities."). Finally, Plaintiff contends that the Santa Suit's design, use, function, and commercial market are relevant factors. PL's Resp. at 9-11.
In response to Plaintiffs expert, Defendant asserts that Ms. Start has too "narrowly define[d] articles of apparel by equating them with articles of 'fashion.' " Def.'s XMSJ at 17 (noting that Ms. Start concluded that because the Santa Suit "was never part of any fashion development process" it is not "apparel" but is instead a "costume") (quoting Start Report at 5-8). Pointing to the court's Allstar opinion, Defendant notes that none of the dictionary definitions cited by the court in its examination of the term "apparel" refer to "fashion" or a "fashion development process." Id. at 17-18 (citing Allstar, 211 F.Supp.3d at 1329-31). Defendant cites several additional cases to support its contention "that 'non-traditional' articles of clothing constitute wearing apparel for classification-purposes." Id. at 18-19 (citing Riddell, Inc. v. United States, 754 F.3d 1375 (Fed. Cir. 2014) (football jerseys, pants, and girdles); Lemans Corp. v. United States, 660 F.3d 1311 (Fed. Cir. 2011) (motocross jerseys and pants, and motorcycle jackets); H.I.M./Fathom, 981 F.Supp. 610 (wetsuits and related accessories)).
Additionally, Defendant asserts the court should accord little weight to Ms. Start's expert opinion because it is unreliable and irrelevant. Def.'s XMSJ at 28-32; Def.'s Reply at 9-12. Specifically, Defendant contends that Ms. Start's opinion is "not based on relevant industry standards" and instead represents her "subjective beliefs," is contradictory at times, arbitrary, and lacking a logical foundation. Def.'s XMSJ at 30. Defendant further contends that Ms. Start's opinion "touch[es] on issues of common knowledge" and contains "an entire section dedicated to fashion theory and development," which is "irrelevant to.whether the Santa Suit is an article of 'wearing apparel' or a 'festive article' " for classification purposes.- Id. at 31.
Finally, Defendant contends that the Santa.Suit "is well[~]constructed, made to last[,] and [able to] withstand multiple wearings and cleanings," and "provides decency, comfort, adornment and protection." Id. at 13.
b. Consideration of Plaintiffs Expert's Opinion
The court's consideration of Plaintiffs proffered expert testimony is guided by the factors stated in Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharm., Inc., 509 U.S. 579, 113 S.Ct. 2786, 125 L.Ed.2d 469 (1993) and Rule 702 of the Federal Rules of Evidence. See Libas, Ltd. v. United States, 193 F.3d 1361, 1366 (Fed. Cir. 1999); G.G. Marck & Associates, Inc. v. United States, Slip Op. 15-62, 2015 WL 3757040, at *9 (2015) (relying on Rule 702 to determine the weight to afford expert testimony to resolve summary judgment motions in a classification case). Pursuant to Rule 702, expert testimony is admissible when
(a) the expert's scientific, technical, or other specialized knowledge will, help the trier of fact to understand the evidence or to determine a fact in issue; (b) the testimony is based on sufficient facts or data; (c) the testimony is the product of reliable principles and methods; and (d) the expert has reliably applied the principles and methods to the facts of the case.
Fed. R. Evid. 702. The "trial judge,- acting as 'gatekeeper,' must 'ensure that any and all [expert] testimony or evidence admitted is not only relevant, but reliable.' " Libas, 193 F.3d at 1366 (quoting Daubert, 509 U.S. at 589, 113 S.Ct. 2786); see also Kumho Tire Co., Ltd. v. Carmichael, 526 U.S. 137, 119 S.Ct. 1167, 143 L.Ed.2d 238 (1999) (extending the court's "gatekeep-ing" role to all expert testimony). In short, "for an expert witness's testimony to be admissible, it must be reliable, relevant, and helpful to the trier of fact." G.G. Marck, 2015 WL 3757040, at *9.
Ms. Start's opinion fails to meet any of the Rule 702 requirements. Preliminarily, the correct classification of the Santa Suit is a legal issue, not a factual issue, and one that is resolved on the basis of the undisputed material facts set forth above. Bausch & Lamb, 148 F.3d at 1365; supra Background Sect. I. Thus, there is no "trier of fact" to aid.
Moreover, Ms. .Start's opinion is unhelpful—and, thus, irrelevant—because she approaches the inquiry from the perspective of "fashion theory" and "fashion development," Start Report at 5-8, but whether an article constitutes apparel or fancy dress for classification purposes does not depend on whether it is fashionable, see, e.g., Rubie's II, 337 F.3d at 1357. Ms. Start's analysis of the Santa Suit applies standards relevant to "menswear," Start Report at 10-11, but those are not the standards articulated by the Federal Circuit, see Rubie's II, 337 F.3d at 1357, 1360.
Ms. Start's opinion on this issue is also unreliable. "[Reliability is the touchstone for expert testimony," Libas, 193 F.3d at 1366, and it requires more than subjective belief or unsupported speculation, Daubert, 509 U.S. at 590, 113 S.Ct. 2786. Ms. Start's assertions are highly general and often unsupported. For example, she offers no hasis for her distinction between "well-made" and "well-sewn" for purposes of identifying wearing apparel. See Start Report at 10. Ms. Start then contradicts her report during her deposition when she acknowledges that apparel need not be "well-made," see Start Dep. 122:11-14, and that the "[Santa Suit] jacket in particular was pretty much well-made but [has] an acetate lining," id. at 149:20—150:3. In fact, Ms. Start admitted that she formed her opinion that the Santa Suit was not apparel before she even examined it. Id. at 124:13-21; see also id. at 182:22-183:4 (opining that a Santa Claus, costume "would still be a costume" even if "it was the most well-made")..
Ms. Start's preconceived opinion regarding the Santa Suit highlights the problem with her expert testimony. She begins her report by stating that she has "been asked by counsel for investigate [sic] and opine on the extent to which the Santa Claus costume which [Plaintiff] created is a costume or well-made apparel, and therefore which customs classification should be applied." Start Report at 4. She concludes her report by noting that "[i]n casual discussions with friends and colleagues 'about this question of whether a Santa Claus costume. is a costume or apparel, it is usually followed by laughter. They cannot believe someone would consider a Santa costume as apparel." Start Report at 12. Ms. Start misunderstands the precise nature of the inquiry—or was misinformed. The issue is not whether the Santa Suit.is a costume or apparel as those terms are colloquially understood; rather, the issue is whether the Santa Suit is "fancy dress, of textiles, of Chapters 61 or 62," or a "festive article," as those terms are defined in.the HTSUS and relevant case law, which is a legal question. Though Ms. Start may be a menswear/apparel fashion expert, her expertise is not helpful to the court's analysis of the legal question before it, and, therefore, the court will not consider the Start Report in making its determination.
c. The Jacket and Pants are "Fancy Dress, of Textiles, of Chapters 61 or 62"
The court is guided by the criteria stated in Ruble's II; that-is, whether the jacket and pants "are of a flimsy nature and construction, lacking in durability!,] and generally not recognized as normal articles of wearing apparel." 337 F.3d at 1360. Considerations relevant to flimsiness and durability include the presence of "zippers, inset panels, [and] darts or hoops, and whether the edges of the materials [are] raw or finished." Id. at 1357 (citing HQ 961447 generally as well as HQ 957948 and HQ 957952, which "set[] forth certain styling and sewing features of costumes which exemplify the characteristics of 'textile articles of fancy dress' under Chapter 61 or 62").
In' contrast to the merchandise at issue in Ruble's II, which "featured simple pull-on type garments with no zippers," and raw and unhemmed edges, HQ 961447 at 4; see also Ruble's II, 337 F.3d at 1352 n.2, the jacket, which is lined, has "a full front opening secured by a zipper," which is hidden by a left-over-right faux fur cover held in place by two metal snaps, one at the collar of the jacket and one at the base of the jacket, Def.'s SOF ¶ 4, 6-7. "The jacket has long sleeves with turned edges, trimmed with white faux fur fabric cuffs," Id. ¶ 8, and "a straight cut hemmed bottom trimmed with the same white faux fur fabric," id. ¶ 9. The physical characteristics (and physical inspection) of the jacket indicate a substantial, durable item that will survive multiple wearings and cleanings over several Christmas seasons, see id. ¶ 3, 25-26.
The pants present a closer question. They are a "simple pull-on type garment" with an elastic waist, but common knowledge dictates that the same may be said of many pairs of pants that are unquestionably "wearing apparel." The bottom of the pants are not hemmed, though the image depicted on the packaging demonstrates that the pants are to be tucked into the shoe covers; thus, the unhemmed bottom will not be visible. See Physical Sample. The pants are lined, with tightly stitched interior seams, and feature pockets with hemmed edges. Def.'s SOF ¶ 11-12. Taken together, the pants, like the jacket, indicate a durable item that will survive multiple wearings and cleanings. Id. ¶ 3, 25-26.
To be sure, the jacket and pants may be intended for use only during the Christmas season. See Pl.'s MSJ at 22 ("It cannot be argued that people wear Santa Claus costumes as everyday apparel ."); Def.'s SOF ¶25. But regularity of wear is not dispositive; items that are worn for specific, perhaps infrequent, purposes .may constitute' wearing apparel. See Riddell, 754 F.3d at 1375 (football jersey's pants, and girdles are classifiable as wearing apparel); Lemans, 660 F.3d at 1311 (motocross jerseys and pants, and motorcycle jackets are wearing apparel); H.I.M./Fathom, 981 F.Supp. at 610 (wetsuits and related accessories are wearing apparel).
There is language in Ruble's II that suggests the festive value of the costumes at issue disfavored classification as wearing apparel:
[while the imports may simulate the structural features of wearing apparel, and have some incidents of "clothes or coverings for the human body worn for decency or comfort," Antonio [Pompeo], 40 Cust. Ct. at 364, they are not practical "articles which are ordinarily worn," Arnold, 147 U.S. at 496, 13 S.Ct. 406 . Rather, the Halloween costumes for consumers have enormous "make believe" or festive value during appropriate occasions such as Halloween and incidentally afford the element of covering for decency or comfort. To the extent that such elements have any characteristics similar to "wearing apparel" to consumers of Halloween costumes, such features are clearly secondary to the costumes' festive value.
Rubie's II, 337 F.3d at 1358 (emphasis added); see Pl.'s MSJ at 15-16 (contending the Santa Suit's "value as wearing apparel to the consumer is clearly secondary to its 'make-believe' or festive value"). The context in which the statement in Rubie's II was made, howevbr, involved costumes so flimsy their "principal intended use [was] for a one time festive occasion," as "distinct from 'wearing apparel' which courts have held to- be used for decency, comfort, adornment or protection." Rubie's II, 337 F.3d at 1356 (quoting HQ 961447 at 3). Thus, they were not "practical" articles of apparel, and their festive value exceeded their value as wearing apparel. See id. at 1358. In contrast, the Santa Suit jacket and pants are manufactured for "repeated[ ]" wear over- several Christmas seasons, i.e., years, are suitable for dry cleaning, and provide warmth and protection to the wearer. Def.'s SOF ¶ 3, 25-27. They are articles — jackets and pants — that are "ordinarily worn." See Arnold, 147 U.S. at 496, 13 S.Ct. 406 (the term "wearing apparel" covers "all articles of dress").
Further, the court does not interpret Rubie's II as supplying a bright-line rule whereby any item of festive value is excluded from classification as wearing apparel. Note 1(e) excludes from Chapter 95 articles that are prima facie festive articles but also "fancy dress, of textiles, of Chapter 61 or 62." In other words, Note 1(e) excludes a subset of festive articles that also meet certain requirements. Undue emphasis on the festive or make-believe nature of the article would nullify Note 1(e); such an interpretive approach has long been disfavored. Cf, e.g., D. Ginsberg & Sons, Inc. v. Popkin, 285 U.S. 204, 208, 52 S.Ct. 322, 76 L.Ed. 704 (1932) (it is a "cardinal rule" that "if possible, effect shall be given to every clause and part of a statute"). Accordingly, the Santa Suit's association with the Christmas season does not foreclose its classification as wearing apparel.
. In sum, the jacket and pants constitute fancy dress of a durable, non-flimsy nature, and are normal articles of apparel classifiable pursuant to Chapter 61. They are, therefore, excluded from Chapter. 95,
Proceeding to the precise classification, "[garments of [Chapter 61] designed for left over right closure at the front shall be regarded as men's or boys' garments." Ch. 61, Note 9. The jacket has a' left-over-right faux fur cover held in place by two metal snaps, one at the collar of the jacket and one at the base of the jacket, Def.'s SOF ¶ 6-7; thus, it is classifiable as a men's or boy's garment.
Heading '6106, pursuant to which Customs classified the jacket, covers "[m]en's or boy's shirts; knitted or crocheted." See HQ H237067 at 11. However, Note 4 to Chapter 61 states that "[h]eading[] 6106 .'.. [does] not cover . garments having an average of less than 10 stitches per linear centimeter in each direction counted on an area measuring at least 10 centimeters by 10 centimeters." Ch. 61, Noté 4. Laboratory testing conducted in the course of this ' litigation demonstrates that the jacket does not meet Note 4's requirement. Pl.'s Suppl. Br, Ex. 1; Def.'s Suppl. Br., Ex. 2. Thus, it is not classifiable as a shirt.
- Parties dispute the proper alternative classification. Plaintiff contends the jacket maybe classifiable as a coat pursuant to HTSUS 6101.30,20, a suit-type jacket pursuant to HTSUS 6103.33.20, or in the "basket" provision pursuant to HTSUS 6114.30.80, which covers articles not specifically described elsewhere in Chapter. 61. Pl.'s Suppl. Br. at 3-4. Defendant disagrees with most of Plaintiffs proposed alternatives. See generally Def.'s Resp. to PL's Suppl. Br., ECF No. 42. Defendant instead contends that the jacket is classifiable as a "[s]weater[ ], pullover[], sweatshirt[], waistcoat[] (vest[]) [or] similar article[]" pursuant to HTSUS 6110.30.30. Def.'s Suppl. Br. at 3-5 (emphasis added). Dbfendant alternatively contends the jacket is classifiable pursuant to the basket provision, HTSUS 6114.30.10. Id. at 6-6. Plaintiff disagrees with Defendant's assertion that the jacket is classifiable pursuant to HTSUS 6110.30.30, see PL's Reply to Government's Resp. as to Alternative Clas sifications ("Pl.'s Suppl. Reply") at 2, ECF No. 43, and contends that the whole inquiry underscores its assertion that the Santa Suit "is a 'festive' article celebrating the Christmas holiday, and not. an 'apparel' article normally worn as clothing," id. at 3.
Heading 6101 covers "Men's or boys' overcoats, carcoats, capes, cloaks, anoraks (including ski-jackets), windbreakers and similar articles, knitted or crocheted, other than those of heading 6103." The relevant Explanatory Note indicates that such items are "characterised [sic] by the fact that they are generally worn over all other clothing for protection against the weather." EN 61.01. The subject jacket may be worn over other clothing or just undergarments, Def.'s SOF ¶ 10, and although it affords some protection, id. ¶ 27, it is not worn for protection as are the heading's exemplars.
Heading 6103 covers "suit-type jackets [and] blazers." The relevant Explanatory Note indicates that "[t]he 'jackets or blazers' have the same characteristics as the suit coats and suit jackets described.. in Chapter Note 3(a) and in Part (Á) [to EN 61.03]." EN 61.03. Part (A) to EN 61.03 describes jackets with "a full front opening without a closure or .with a closure other than a slide fastener (zipper)," The Santa Suit jacket has a zipper closure, Def.'s SOF ¶ 6; thus, it is not covered by heading 6103.
Heading 6110 covers "[s]weaters, pullovers, sweatshirts, waistcoats (vests) and similar articles, knitted, or crocheted," Defendant offers the following dictionary definitions of the named articles: (1) sweater: "[c]lothing for the upper part of the.body-worn either as an outer-garment or under a coat or jacket," Charlotte Mankey Cala-sibetta, Essential Terms of Fashion: A Collection of Definitions ("Essential Terms of Fashion") 210 (Fairchild Publications) (1986)); (2) pullover: "[a]ny light knit shirt without neck placket or fastening," 'alternatively, "[s]weater with' round, crew, or V-neck pulled on' over the head as contrasted with a cardigan or coat sweater, which opens down the front, Charlotte Mankey Calasibetta & Phyllis Tortora, The Fairchild Dictionary of Fashion ("Dictionary of Fashion") 408, 441 (Fairchild Publications, Inc.) (2003); '(3) sweatshirt: "[l]ong-sleeved, fleece-backed, cotton-knit pullover or zipped-front knit shirt made with rib-knit crew neck ., rib-knit cuffs and waistband," id. at 408; and (4) vest: "[a]n item of wearing apparel extending to the waist or longer ., usually worn over a blouse or shirt and sometimes under: a suit jacket," Essential Terms of Fashion at 225. According to Defendant, the named articles
are united by the followihg essential characteristics: each article covers', the upper body; provides some warmth but does' not protect against the 'elements (wind, rain or extreme cold); and, may be worn over a lighter garment (shirt or undershirt) but is not designed to be worn over all other clothing.
Defi's Suppl. Br. at 4. Defendant contends that because the jacket shares these characteristics, it is a "similar article" pursuant to the rule of ejusdem generis. Id. at 3-4.
The rule of ejusdem generis provides that when "general words follow an enumeration of specific items, the general words are read as applying only to other items akin to those specifically enumerated." Schlumberger Tech. Corp. v. United States, 845 F.3d 1158, 1165 n.8 (Fed. Cir. 2017) (citation omitted). In "classification cases, ejusdem generis requires that the imported merchandise possess the essential characteristics or purposes that unite the articles enumerated eo nomine [by name] in order to be classified under the general terms." Totes II, 69 F.3d at 498, (citation omitted) (emphasis added); see also Victoria's Secret Direct, LLC v. United States, 769 F.3d 1102, 1107 (Fed. Cir. 2014) ("Applying the phrase 'and similar articles' to the merchandise at issue, then, requires determining whether the merchandise, considering all of its features, shares the unifying characteristics of the particular heading."). Identifying the-essential (or unifying) characteristics is "a question of law" and "a matter of eom-mon sense." Victoria's Secret, 769 F.3d at 1107. "[T]he unifying characteristics may consist of' both affirmative features and limitations." Id.
As Defendant suggests, the named articles share the essential characteristics of covering the upper body, providing some degree of warmth, and being suitable for wear over a light garment. The Santa Suit jacket shares these characteristics. See Physical Sample (demonstrating the obvious point that the jacket is worn on the upper body); Def.'s SOF ¶ 10, 27 (it is undisputed that the jacket may be worn over an undergarment or clothing, and provides warmth to the wearer); Victoria's Secret, 769 F.3d at 1107 (instructing courts to first consider the unifying characteristics before determining whether the subject merchandise shares those characteristics).
The relevant Explanatory Note supports the court's finding with respect to the exemplars', essential characteristics and the jacket's sharing of those characteristics. It provides that "heading [6110] covers a category of knitted or crocheted articles, without distinction between male or female wear, designed to cover the upper parts of the body (jerseys, pullovers, cardigans, waistcoats and similar articles)." EN 61.10 (emphasis added). Defendant defines "cardigan" as "a sweater or jacket that opens the full length of the center front and usu. has a round or Y-shaped collarless neck," Def.'s Suppl. Br. at 5 (quoting Webster's Third New Int'l Dictionary of the English Language Unabridged (1993) ("Webster's") at 337), or as "[a]n adjective used to describe collarless garments with round or V-necklines that button down the front," id. .(quoting Dictionary of Fashion at 61). Defendant contends that the jacket is like a cardigan "because, although it has a collar which cardigans do not, it is a knitted article, designed to cover the upper body, and it has a full length opening in the center front." Id. (citing Physical Sample). Plaintiff characterizes Defendant's argument as "convoluted" and "ludicrous." Pl.'s Suppl. Reply at 2 ("In support of its position, [Defendant actually makes the convoluted argument that since a cardigan is a collarless sweater or jacket, a jacket can be classified as a sweater. This argument is ludicrous ."). But Plaintiff is incorrect.
The Explanatory Note provides examples of articles that share.the essential characteristics of the articles named in the heading; that is, articles that cover the upper body, provide warmth, and may be worn over a light garment. Moreover, the Explanatory Note's exemplars do not represent the limits of what may be deemed "similar" to the heading's exemplars. See EN 61.10 (heading 6110 includes "jerseys, pullovers, cardigans, waistcoats and similar articles") (emphasis added); Rubie's II, 337 F.3d at 1359 (courts should not employ any "limiting characteristics, [in the Explanatory Notes' exemplars], to the extent there are any, to narrow the language of the classification heading itself'). The jacket's addition of a collar, which a cardigan may have, see Def.'s Suppl. Br. at 5 (quoting Webster's at 337), is not disposi-tive because the absence of a collar is not. a defining feature of the exemplars in. the heading or Explanatory Note. Moreover, common knowledge dictates, that waistcoats (or vests) may have a collar and, thus, are not, by definition, collarless. See Brookside Veneers, 847 F.2d at 789 (courts may rely upon their own understanding of HTSUS terms). The exemplars in the, heading and the Explanatory Note are all distinct in various respects, but they also share the essential characteristics of covering the upper body, providing warmth, and being suitable for wear over a light garment, as does the Santa Suit jacket. Accordingly, it. is classifiable pursuant to heading 6110, specifically, HTSUS 6110.30.30, which covers "[sjweaters, pullovers, sweatshirts, waistcoats (vests) and similar articles, knitted or crocheted. . [o]f man-made fibers . [o]ther."
As to the pants, heading 6103 covers "men's or'boy's . trousers ." "Trousers" may be defined as "an outer-garment extending from the waist to the ankle ., covering each leg separately, made close-fitting or loose-fitting in accord with the fashion of different periods." Webster's at 2453. The pants are classifiable pursuant thereto; specifically, HTSUS 6103.43.15 (covering "men's or boy's . trousers . [o]f synthetic fibers . [o]ther").
iy. Classification of the Gloves
Heading 6116 covers knitted gloves, mittens and mitts. The gloves, which consist of polyester knit fabric, Def.'s SOF ¶ 13, are prima, faeie classifiable pursuant to heading 6116. Accordingly, they are excluded from classification under Chapte'r 95. See Ch. 95, Note 1(u). The gloves are properly classified pursuant to HTSUS 6116.93.94 (covering "[gjloves . [o]f synthetic fibers . [ojther . [w]ith fourchettes").
V. Classification of the Sack
Heading 4202 covers "traveling bags, . knapsacks and backpacks, handbags, shopping bags, . sports bags, . and similar containers, . of textile materials." The sack consists of the same plush fabric as the jacket and pants, and has a drawstring cord. Def.'s SOF ¶14. It is described in the packaging as a "toy bag." Physical Sample. The Government contends that the sack is classifiable pursuant to heading 4202 because it shares the "essential purpose" or "essential characteristics," and "is of the same class of kind," as the named articles. Def.'s XMSJ at 24, 25. Defendant points the court to Totes I, 18 CIT at 924-25, 865 F.Supp. at 872, and Processed Plastic Co. v. United States, 29 CIT 1129, 395 F.Supp.2d 1296 (2005).
Heading 4202 is an eo mmine provision, Totes II, 69 F.3d at 498, which, therefore "include[s] all forms of the named article," Carl Zeiss, Inc. v. United States, 195 F.3d 1375, 1379 (Fed. Cir. 1999). Additionally, the term "similar containers" implicates the rule of ejusdem generis. Processed Plastic, 29 CIT at 1147 n.30, 395 F.Supp.2d at 1313 n.30. The Federal- Circuit has defined the essential characteristics of the heading 4202 exemplars as "organizing, storing, protecting, and carrying various items." Totes II, 69 F.3d at 498 (approving of the trial court's determination of same).
Here, the sack's plush material, drawstring cord, and description as a "toy bag" indicates that it serves the purpose of storing, protecting, and carrying toys. Defi's SOF ¶ 14; Physical Sample. With some effort, the drawstring cord may be pulled tightly closed to prevent toys-from falling out, or it may be used to tie off the top of the sack. Physical Sample. To the extent the sack lacks compartments and pockets, its organizational capacity is unclear. However, the ubiquitous textile "shopping bag," one of the named articles, also generally lacks organizational features, so the court does not find the lack of organizational capacity dispositive. See, e.g., Brookside Veneers, 847 F.2d at 789 (courts may rely on their own understanding of terms). Further, not all of heading 4202's exemplar's necessarily share all of the above-stated essential characteristics. See Totes I, 18 CIT at 925, 865 F.Supp. at 873 (noting that "some" of the exemplars are designed to carry their contents). Because the sack serves the purposes of storing, protecting, and carrying, it is prima facie classifiable pursuant to heading 4202. It is, therefore, foreclosed from classification pursuant to Chapter 95. Ch. 95, Note 1(d).
Proceeding to the appropriate subheading, "[tjravel, sports and similar bags . of textile materials: [ojther," are covered by subheading 4202.92.30. The phrase "travel, sports and similar bags," includes articles "designed for carrying clothing and other personal effects during travel, including . shopping bags." Ch. 42, Add'l U.S. Note 1.' The sack appears capable of carrying toys (or other personal effects) from A to B, similar to a shopping bag. Accordingly, the sack is properly classified pursuant to HTSUS 4202.92.30.
Conclusion
For the reasons discussed above, the components of the Santa Suit at issue in this case are properly classified pursuant to the following HTSUS provisions: (1) jacket: HTSUS 6110.30.30; (2) pants: HTSUS 6103.43.15; (3) gloves: HTSUS 6116.93.94; and (4) sack: t HTSUS 4202.92.30. Accordingly, the court denies Plaintiffs motion for summary judgment and grants Defendant's cross-motion for summary judgment. Judgment will be entered accordingly.
. The exhibits include a physical sample of the Santa Suit. See Def.'s XMSJ, Ex. 3 ("Physical Sample"), ECF No. 30-5 (certification of filing and service of physical exhibit or item).
. Citations are provided to the relevant paragraph number of the undisputed facts and response; internal citations generally have been omitted.
. Plaintiff also produces and sells children's Halloween costumes. The "typical" children's. Halloween costumes Plaintiff markets "do not have finished edges or zippers, and close in the back with Velcro or a snap, or are made to 'slipover' the wearer." Def.'s SOF ¶ 19, 21. Those costumes are intended for one-time use and retail for 10-20 USD. Id. ¶ 22-23.
. The belt, beard, wig, hat, and shoe covers were liquidated duty .free as entered under subheading 9505.90.60. Pl.'s SOF ¶ 4; Def.'s Resp. to Pl.'s SOF ¶ 4; see also Def.'s XMSJ at 2 n. 1.
. Defendant does not expressly state that the jacket and pants are made from "knitted" material. Howtever, laboratory testing on the jacket performed in response to the court's inquiry demonstrates that the fabric (which matches the fabric' used to construct the pants) "is of cut-pile weft knit construction." PL's Suppl. Br, Ex. 1; Def.'s Suppl. Br., Ex. 2.
. Physical inspection of the gloves reveals strips of material that form the sides of two adjácent fingers. See Physical Sample.
. Rubie's II reversed the USCIT's decision in Rubie's Costume Co. v. United States ("Rubie's I"), 26 CIT 209, 196 F.Supp.2d 1320 (2002). In Rubie's II, the same plaintiff as in this case (but therein described as a domestic manufacturer of costumes) had filed a Domestic Interested Party Petition asserting that all imported textile costumes should be classified as wearing apparel in Chapters 61 or 62. 337 F.3d at 1352.
. In accordance with the summons filed in this case, there is no apostrophe in "Rubies." See Summons at 1. In contrast, in the case giving' rise to the Rubie's I and Rubie's II opinions, the summons contains an apostrophe in "Rubie's" in the case caption. See Rubie's Costume Co. v. United States, Court No. 99-00388, ECF No. 44 (electronic docket sheet).
.Following the Federal Circuit's opinion in Rubie's II, in June 2008 Customs issued an informed compliance publication titled, "What Every Member of the Trade Community Should Know About: Classification of Textile Costumes under the HTSUS." See Def.'s XMSJ, Ex. 5 ("Textile Costumes ICP" or "the ICP"), ECF No. 30-7.
. Also relevant is Note 14 to Section XI, which provides that "tu]nless the context otherwise requires, textile garments of different headings are to be classified in their own headings even if put up in sets for retail sale. For the purposes of this note, the expression 'textile -garments' means garments of headings '6101 to 6114 and headings 6201 to 6211." Sect. XI, Note 14.'
. In its moving brief, Plaintiff contends that the classification of the Santa [Suit] at issue should not be determined on the basis of an analysis that focuses primarily and arbitrarily on the 'type of construction and/or the quality of the materials, and diminishes the intended use of the costume, and the festive holiday or occasion for which it was designed. . The determination as to whether á costume is classifiable as a festive article is more properly based upon : whether it is closely associated with a festive occasion, whether it is displayed or used principally during that festive occasion, and whether its nature and appearance precludes its characterization as wearing apparel.
PL's MSJ at 22 (emphasis added). According to Plaintiff, the Federal Circuit's opinions in Michael Simon Design, 501 F.3d 1303, and Park B. Smith, 347 F.3d 922, provide the proper criteria for classifying the Santa Suit. PL's MSJ at 22-23. Those cases provide the test for determining whether an article is a festive article under heading 9505. See Michael Simon Design, 501 F.3d at 1306 (citing Park B. Smith, 347 F.3d at 927). They do not interpret Chapter 95's exclusionary notes, and, thus, address only part of the pertinent inquiry. As discussed infra, Chapter 95's exclusionary notes bar classification pursuant to that chapter'; therefore, the court does not address Plaintiff's arguments regarding the proper application of the Federal Circuit's festive article test to the subject merchandise. See PL's MSJ at 19-21; PL's Affirmation in Opp'n to Summ. J. Mot. ("PL's Resp.") at 8-9, ECF Ño. 32; see also Def.'s XMSJ at 20-21; Reply Mem. of Law in Supp. of the Government's Cross-Mot, for Summ. J. ("Def.'s Reply") at 12-13, ECF No. 35.
. The Rubie's I court determined that Traveler, which addressed tariff provisions covering wearing apparel and toys, was inapposite because it related to the pre-HTSUS code and the interpretation of the term "fancy dress" .was not at issue, Ruble's I, 26 CIT at 217-18, 196 F.Supp.2d at 1329. Accordingly, the Ru-bie's I court rejected Customs' reliance on "[t]he criteria of flimsiness" favored in Traveler as a way to distinguish costumes that are classifiable as - toys from costumes that are classifiable as wearing apparel. Id.
. In Arnold, the Court defined "wearing apparel" as "embracing all articles which are ordinarily worn, [] dress in general." Arnold v. United States, 147 U.S. 494, 496, 13 S.Ct. 406, 37 L.Ed. 253 (1893).
. In H.I.M./Fathom, the court concluded that wetsuits constituted clothing because they "are articles worn as an outer covering for the human body at a particular time." H.I.M./Fathom, Inc. v. United States, 21 CIT 776, 781, 981 F.Supp. 610, 615 (1997).
16. Chapter 61 covers knitted or crocheted "Articles of Apparel and Clothing Accessories," whereas Chapter 62 covers "Articles of Ap parel and Clothing Accessories" that are not knitted or crocheted.
. The court also approved of Customs' consideration of "such factors as the extent of the styling features such as zippers, inset panels, darts or hoops, and whether the edges, of the materials had been left raw or finished" to determine the "texture and quality of the [costumes'] ; materials," Rubie's II, 337 F.3d at 1357 (citing HQ 961447).
. Strictly speaking, the Federal Circuit held that "[wjhen the imported textile costumes are of a flimsy nature and construction, lacking in durability and generally not recognized as normal articles of wearing apparel, it is neither illogical nor unreasonable to conclude that the subject merchandise is classifiable as festive articles." Id. at 1360. However, the context of the opinion, the court's discussion therein, and the fact that "festive articles" and "fancy dress, of textiles, of Chapters 61 or 62" are mutually exclusive categories, supports the conclusion that the court's holding regarding the nature of the items that belong in the first category reflect its opinion regarding those that do not belong in the second category.
This understanding is supported by Customs' ICP regarding the classification of textile costumes. See supra note 9; Textile Costumes ICP. Pursuant to Rubie's II, the Textile Costumes ICP recommends that "all flimsy, non-durable textile costumes that are not recognized as ordinary articles of apparel are classified under 9505.90.6000, HTSUS[] (flimsy); all textile costumes that exceed the flimsy, non-durable standards or are recognized as ordinary articles of apparel are classified in Chapters 61 or 62, HTSUS[] (well-made)." Id. at 10.
Additionally, the ICP's guidance recognizes that Customs' flimsiness analysis is distinct from the inquiry whether an item is an ordinary article of apparel. This distinction makes sense given the origin of Customs' flimsiness analysis as determining "the scope of the term 'fancy dress' as it relates to costumes." Textile Costumes ICP at 9; see also HQ 961447 at 2. Customs does not employ its flimsiness analysis to determine what constitutes apparel for purposes of Chapter 61 or 62; rather, "CBP only applies this test to garments which are prima facie classifiable in Chapter 95." HQ H145555 (Aug. 6, 2012) at 9 (declining to apply the test for what constitutes "fancy dress" for purposes of Note 1(e) as discussed in Rubie's II to determine whether the subject item (the "Snuggie®") should be classified as a garment or a blanket) (citing Textile Costumes ICP). But cf. Allstar Marketing Group, LLC v. United States, 41 CIT -, -, 211 F.Supp.3d 1319, 1329-31 (2017) (Rubie's ITs discussion of what constitutes "wearing apparel" informs the court's interpretation of "garment" pursuant to subheading 6114.30.30).
. Plaintiff contends that Rubie's II "established" that the type of fancy dress excluded by Note 1(e) consists of "expensive and well-constructed ballroom gowns, safari outfits such as those used for hunting, certain types of uniforms, and other adult garments. Pl.'s MSJ at 15. As Defendant contends, however, the Federal Circuit did not disturb Customs' finding that the "Cute and Cuddly Clown" costume met the criteria for fancy dress. Def.'s XMSJ at 15. Thus, the Federal Circuit's understanding of that term is not so limited. Moreover, the Rubie's II court's only reference to such items is contained in a passing reference to what "Customs determined." 337 F.3d at 1356 ("Customs determined that 'fancy dress . of chapter 61 or 62' refers to elaborate or substantial costumes such as 'expensive, well-constructed ballroom gowns, safari outfits, certain types of uniforms, and other adult garments.' ") (citing HQ 961447). Customs did not, however, define fancy dress in that manner. Rather, it was, in part, the Traveler court's view that "expensive, well-constructed ballroom gowns, safari outfits, certain types of uniforms, and other adult garments may serve both as Halloween costumes and wearing apparel" that prompted Customs to "reexamine[] its view regarding the scope of the term 'fancy dress' as it relates to costumes." HQ 961447 at 2; see also Traveler, 13 CIT at 383, 713 F.Supp. at 412.
. Plaintiff presents its arguments in connection with the Santa Suit generally, although, as previously noted, only the jacket, pants, gloves, and sack are at issue here. See supra note 4 and accompanying text.
. Defendant does not contest Ms, Start's qualifications. See Def.'s XMSJ at 28-32. Ms. Start is the Department Chair of Apparel Industry Management and Menswear at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, California, and the Owner/President of RJM Consulting. Start Report, Ex. A ("Start Resume"), ECF No. 28-3. Plaintiff also submitted Ms. Start's deposition testimony. See Pl.'s MSJ, Ex. 5 ("Start Dep."), ECF No. 28-5.
.Plaintiff also contends that Customs erred because "[v]irtually all of Rubies' costumes are . sewn in [costume] factories," and "[a] 'costume' factory . generally [does not] make[ ] . apparel[,] which has vastly different quality requirements." Pl.'s MSJ at 11 (citing Pl.'s MSJ, Ex. 7 ("Beige Decl."), ECF No. 28-7). Plaintiff's argument is premised on facts that are both disputed by Defendant and that are immaterial to the classification issue in question; thus, the court will not consider it. See Pl.'s SOF ¶ 10; Def.'s Resp. to PL's SOF ¶ 10.
. The Libas court noted that "Daubert and Kumho were decided in the- context of determining standards for the admissibility.of expert testimony under the Federal Rules of Evidence," but opined that "the proposition for which -they stand, that expert testimony must be reliable, goes to the weight that evidence is to be accorded as well as to its admissibility." 193 F.3d at 1366.
. Plaintiff, therefore, is incorrect in its assertion that the Start Report "is based upon [Ms. Start's] comprehension and understanding of relevant industrial standards in the wearing apparel industry, and not on any subjective belief," Pl.'s Resp. at 4 (emphasis added).
. Customs' Textile Costumes ICP, upon which CBP relied in the underlying ruling, further sets forth four criteria for assessing flimsiness and durability: styling, construction, finishing touches, and embellishments. See Textile Costumes ICP at 11; HQ H237067 at 8, The Textile Costumes ICP also recommends that "it is important to consider the garment as a whole," and "whether . it is reasonable to conclude that the article is a normal article of apparel." Textile Costumes ICP at 11. The only additional criteria provided for determining whether an article is a normal article of apparel are that "[n]ormal articles of apparel are usually designed for multiple wear and cleaning." Id. Here, Customs based its classification determination on its finding that the jacket and pants are "well-made" pursuant to the ICP's four-factor flimsiness criteria and "are suitable for repeated wear and can only be dry cleaned." See HQ H237067 at 9.
. The costumes at issue in Ruble's II appear to resemble the children's Halloween costumes Plaintiff produces and sells, which "do not have finished edges or zippers, and close in the back with Velcro or a snap, or are made to 'slipover' the wearer," are intended for one-time use, and retail for 10-20 USD. Def.'s SOF ¶ 19, 21-23. In contrast, the Santa Suit retails for 100 USD and is intended to be worn numerous times. Id. ¶ 25-26.
. Plaintiff seeks to rely on the court's recent Allstar opinion. Pl.'s MSJ at 23. According to Plaintiff, the court, in Allstar, noted that Rubies II "held that costumes are not ordinarily worn, and although costumes impart decency or comfort for the wearer, such benefits were incidental to their primary purpose, that is, . Halloween fun." Id. (citing Allstar, 211 F.Supp.3d at 1331). The Allstar court discusses the Rubie's II court's findings vis-á-vis the costumes at issue in that case, not costumes generally. The court did not — and does not— construe Rubie's II as foreclosing all costumes from classification as wearing apparel. If all items reflecting festive or make-believe value were eliminated from the scope of the phrase "of textiles, of Chapter 61 or 62," there would be nothing for Note 1(e) to exclude.
. This finding is supported by Explanatory Note ("EN") 95.05, which suggests that heading 9505 covers "[flestive, carnival or other entertainment articles, which in view of their intended use are generally made of non-durable material," for example, "[a]rticles- of fancy dress, [such as] masks, false ears and noses, wigs, false beards and moustaches," but not "fancy dress of textile materials, of Chapter 61 or 62." EN 95.05 (boldtype omitted) (other emphasis added). The Federal Circuit disapproved of the Rubie's I court's reliance on EN 95.05 as support for the lower court's conclusion that the costumes at issue did not belong in Chapter 95 because the type of fancy dress EN 95,05 contemplates as coveréd thereunder includes accessories to costumes rather than the actual textile costumes. Ruble's II, 337 F.3d at 1359 ("Although the examples in the Explanatory Notes are probative and sometimes illuminating, we shall not employ their ' limiting characteristics; to the extent there are any, to narrow the language of the classification heading itself. Nothing from the pertinent subheading 9505.90.6000 — 'Festive, carnival or other entertainment articles: Other: Other' — limits 9505.90,6000 only to accessories."). It is also true, however, that the ENs are generally "indicative of proper interpretation" of the tariff schedule. Lynteq, 976 F.2d at 699. Although not all festive articles are made of non-durable material, see Michael Simon Design, 501 F.3d at 1305, 1306-07 (classifying festive sweaters as festive articles), EN 95.05 supports the court's consideration of the Santa Suit jacket's durability, and its finding that the jacket's durability distinguishes it from the costumes in Rubie's II and disfavors classification in Chapter 95.
. Plaintiff affirms its position that the Santa Suit should be classified pursuant to Chapter 95, and responds to the court's order only "by assuming arguendo that it is not." Pl.'s Suppl. Br. at 1.
.Heading 6103 also covers "[mien's or boy's suits [and] ensembles.'' Note 3(a) provides that "[t]he term 'suit' means," inter alia, "two or three pieces made up, in respect of their outer surface, in identical fabric." Ch. 61, Note 3(a). Likewise, the term "ensemble" refers to "a set of garments . composed of several pieces made up in identical fabric." Ch. 61, Note 3(b). The subject jacket and pants are not made of identical fabric: the jacket features faux fur fábric, whereas the pants do not. Def.'s SOF ¶ 8, 11-12. And, the Santa Suit as a whole is composed of several additional pieces made up of different materials. Id. ¶ 1. Thus, neither the jacket and pants, nor the Santa Suit as a whole, are classifiable as a "suit" or "ensemble."
. Essential Terms of Fashion is Exhibit 3 to Defendant's supplemental brief. See Def.'s Suppl. Br., Ex. 3, ECF No. 41-3,
. Dictionary of Fashion is Exhibit, 1 to Defendant's supplemental brief. See Def.'s Suppl. Br., Ex.l, ECF No. 41-1.
. Ejusdem generis "means 'of the same kind.'" Totes, Inc. v. United States ("Totes IT"), 69 F.3d 495, 498 (Fed. Cir. 1995), aff'g Totes, Inc. v. United States ("Totes I"), 18 CIT 919, 865 F.Supp. 867 (1994).
. The rule of ejusdem generis "does not apply . when the items do not fit into any kind of definable category." Victoria's Secret, 769 F.3d at 1107, n.1 (internal quotation marks and citation omitted).
. The Federal Circuit notes that an article may not "share[ ] the heading's unifying characteristics" when it has "a more specific primary purpose that is inconsistent with the listed exemplars." Victorias Secret, 769 F.3d at 1107 (citation omitted). In other words, the subject merchandise may share the essential characteristics but have some other features that "defeat 'similarity' — necessarily meaning that the unifying characteristics of the heading's list include a limitation that excludes such other features." Id. at 1107-08. The Santa Suit jacket's festive value is not inconsistent with the named articles. Moreover, the enumerated items are not strictly limited to items lacking festive or make-believe value. Indeed, Note 1(e) instructs that wearing apparel may, have festive or make-believe value, or else there would be no "fancy dress, of textiles, of chapter 61 or 62" to exclude. See supra note 27 and accompanying text.
. HTSUS 6110.30.30 provides a rate of duty of 32% ad valorem, which is the same as HTSUS 6105.20.20 pursuant to which Customs classified the jacket. See Pl.'s SOF ¶ 4; Def.'s Resp. to Pl.'s SOF ¶ 4.
. Plaintiff contends, without citation to supporting authority, that the Santa Suit's "design, use, functionf,] and commercial market" are "highly relevant" to its classification. Pl.'s Resp. at 9-10. The Federal Circuit has held that use may be an appropriate consideration when examining classification under competing eo nomine provisions. GRK Can., Ltd. v. United States, 761 F.3d 1354, 1355 (Fed. Cir. 2014) (trial court erred in refusing to consider use to determine whether subject merchandise should be classified as self-tapping screws or wood screws). Accordingly, use may be considered when determining the commercial meaning of a term in an eo no-mine provision when the merchandise named in that provision "inherently suggests a type of use," or when determining whether a particular article "fits within the classification's scope," Id. at 1358-59 (citations omitted). As to the latter inquiry, the court may consider "the subject article's physical characteristics, as well as what features the article has for typical users, how it was designed and for what objectives, and how it is marketed." Id. at 1358 (citations omitted). Here, the court is tasked with determining whether the Santa Suit jacket and pants are described by Note 1(e) to Chapter 95, thereby foreclosing them from classification as festive articles pursuant to that chapter, Cf. Sigma-Tau HealthScience, Inc., 838 F.3d at 1277, 1278 (declining to consider use when interpreting an eo nomine provision, and noting that a chapter note determined under which of two competing provisions the subject merchandise must be classified); Allstar, 211 F.Supp.3d at 1332-37 (considering such factors as design, use, function, and marketing to determine whether the Snuggle® is classifiable as a garment or blanket). That determination is guided by the Federal Circuit's interpretation of the relevant tariff terms. See Avenues in Leather, 423 F.3d at 1331 (the court is bound by the Federal Circuit's interpretation of tariff terms). Accordingly, Plaintiff's argument is unavailing.
. HTSUS 6116.93.94 provides a rate of duty of 18.6% ad valorem, which is more than the 10% duty rate Customs assessed pursuant to HTSUS 6115.95.60. See Pl.'s SOF ¶ 4; Def.'s Resp. to Pl.'s SOF ¶ 4.
. A "fourchette" is "the strip or shaped piece used for the sides of the fingers of a glove." Webster's at 898. The subject gloves have fourchettes. See supra note 6.
. Plaintiff did not respond to Defendant's argument. See generally PL's Resp.
. In Totes I, the court applied the rule of ejusdem generis to classify trunk organizers pursuant to Heading 4202 because they "possess[ed] the essential characteristics of or serve[ed] a common purpose like that served by the exemplars in Heading 4202, and hence by the operation of ejusdem generis fall within the purview of 'similar containers.' " 18 CIT at 924-25, 865 F.Supp. at 872.
. In Processed Plastic, the court determined that children's backpacks and beach bags were properly classified pursuant to Heading 4202, and not as "toys" pursuant to heading 9503, in part, because they "serve[d] the purposes of organizing, storing, and protecting toys or other personal effects." 29 CIT at 1145-48, 395 F.Supp.2d at 1312-14.
. Webster's defines "bag," inter alia, as "a container made of . cloth, . or other flexible material and usu. closed on all sides except for an opening that may be closed (as by folding, pasting, lying, ór sewing), being of sizes ranging from small to very large and being specially designed and treated for properly holding, storing, carrying, shipping, or distributing any material or product — compare POUCH, SACK." Webster's at 162. The sack fits that definition. See Physical Sample.
. Defendant requested' summary judgment for the reasons "explained in [its] accompanying memorandum of law," Def.'s Cross-Mot. for Summ. J. at 1. Defendant's memorandum of law urged the court to affirm Customs' classification of the subject jacket pursuant to HTSUS 6105.20.20. Def.'s XMSJ at 1, As discussed above, in supplemental briefing,. Defendant acknowledged that HTSUS 6105.20.20 does not cover the subjéct jacket, and asserted that HTSUS 6110.30,30 -is the correct classification. Def.'s.Suppl. Br. at 4-5. The court agrees. Accordingly, the court construes Defendant's cross-motion' as being amended by its supplemental brief, and therefore grants the motion in full.