Adjustable headband and hair extension holding construction for attaching supplemental hair

Abstract

A headband and hair extension holding construction comprises a headband having a pair of vertically spaced apart outer and inner head straps and horizontally spaced apart external holding straps. A hair extension holding construction having a pair of vertically spaced apart upper and lower holding constructions containing a series of horizontally aligned holding device cooperating fasteners for mutual engagement with a plurality of hair extensions or hairpieces primary fasteners within the initially open interior of the hair extension holding construction. The headband opposite ends having a pair of horizontally spaced apart linking rings or loops. A clasp is enabled for strap and crossbar-action fastening through the linking rings or loops, or may be constructed as a simple link with opposing ends for grasping the loops. In this way, the headband may be drawn into a continuous closed loop for improved fit and concealment of the attached hair extension.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to headbands especially headbands with hair attachments for supplementing the natural hair of the wearer and more particularly to a headband and hair extension holding construction capable of adjustably encircling the head of the wearer, whereby a plurality of hair extensions, including hairpieces, may be detachably held in the headband and hair extension holding construction as an item worn by the wearer to supplement hair, preventing damage to the natural hair of the wearer and providing configurability to the hair extensions attached in the hair extension holding construction for concealment and with comfort.

2. Description of Related Art

Hairpieces and hair extensions are well known in the art to address problems associated with hair loss and a desire to supplement hair. A number of attempts have been made to attach or apply human or synthetic hair to the natural hair of the wearer ranging from mechanical attachments (rings, clips, clamps, combs, barrettes, and elastic bands) to adhesives (chemicals and heat setting) to plaiting, weaving, sewing, tying, and knotting the hair extensions into the natural hair of the wearer. However, these attempts tend to stress to the natural hair of the wearer, and as this occurs, coupled with the weight of the supplemental hair as worn and hairstyling, further causing damage to the natural hair of the wearer and with discomfort. Therefore, headbands with hairpiece attachments have been produced in the prior art to be worn by the wearer to supplement hair. Such headbands, however, present a problem as arc shaped headbands tend to be secured at the sides of the wearer's head, causing friction and discomfort to develop when worn, resulting in further significant problems with movement and displacement of the headbands. Furthermore, headbands made from plastics, steels and metals tend to be hard, nonflexible, and uncomfortable to wear. Especially for such headbands made with gripping teeth, there is a significant problem with damaging the natural hair of the wearer. Furthermore, especially for large areas of hair loss, there is a significant problem with coverage as hairpieces are not generally versatile. However, hair extensions are not only used to elongate or thicken the natural hair of the wearer but can also provide full coverage to a head of hair. The following abstracts define the present state of this field in contending with these problems.

Russell, U.S. Pat. No. 4,966,173: A hairpiece for covering areas of partial hair loss, removal or thinning on a user's head is disclosed. The hairpiece includes a band of resilient material in an arcuate shape which conforms to the user's head and biases thereagainst, and a foundation member to which hair is attached. When worn, the foundation of hair is positioned over the area of hair loss or removal to conceal the area, and the user's own hair may be combed or styled in a fashion to incorporate the hair of the hairpiece with that of the user to produce a natural look.

Haber, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,337,763: A multi-use hairpiece kit is disclosed. The kit includes a support to be worn across the head of a wearer from near one ear to near the other ear, said support being generally conformable to the shape of the head of the wearer. The kit also includes a hairpiece for covering a portion of the head of the wearer. The hairpiece includes a flexible base, and hair strands attached to and extending outwardly from one side of the base. The hairpiece is removably attached to the support and conforms to the shape of the support.

Haber, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,647,384: Hairpieces and a mounting for a variety of hairpieces is disclosed. The hairpiece includes a base with the top and bottom sides. Hair strands extend from the top side of the base and an elongate piece of flexible material is attached to the bottom side of the base by parallel lines of stitching to define a conduit open at both ends. The conduit is dimensioned to receive devices such as headbands and other fasteners to secure the hairpiece on the head of the wearer and to shape the hairpiece. The conduit has a width of between about one-half inch and one-inch to accommodate the fasteners and headband. For a fuller more natural look to the hairpieces, wefts of hair may also be provided on the bottom side of the base.

Niese, U.S. Pat. No. 5,657,774: This invention features a hairpiece kit having a hairpiece and a headband. The hairpiece comprises a flexible net lace cap and wefts of hair attached to and extending out from top of the net lace cap. The net lace cap is preferably semi-oval shaped with a straight front edge positioned near the forehead of the wearer, with a curved back edge positioned near the crown of the head of the wearer and with a central axis being perpendicular to the front edge of the net lace cap and running from crown of the head to forehead of the wearer. In a most preferred embodiment, the hairpiece is connected to the headband by using strips of attaching material that are attached onto top of the headband and onto bottom of the hairpiece, a hook strip and a loop strip respectively, simplifying separation of the hairpiece from and attachment of the hairpiece to the headband and diminishing costs. The strips of attaching material may be connected to the headband and to the hairpiece by sewing. The headband extends from above one ear to above the other ear of the wearer, leaving any space behind the ears of the wearer free. The headband has narrower ends above the ear and a wider central section. The hairpiece can be easily attached onto a hook strip connected to and resting on top of a head form for storing and styling.

Woods, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,257,245: A headband is disclosed having a U-shaped band constructed of a flexible material, such as metal. The U-shaped band is dimensioned to fit over the head of a user so that the sides of the U-shaped band extend along the sides and behind the ears of the user's head and frictionally, but removably, secure the headband to the user's head. A V-shaped band has two ends that are secured to intermediate points of the U-shaped band so that the V-shaped band extends rearwardly from the U-shaped band and across the top of the head of the user. The hairpiece is then secured to both the U and V-shaped bands so that, with the headband positioned on the user's head, the hair covers areas of balding or partial balding on the user's head.

Silva, U.S. Pat. No. 6,612,312: A multiple clip fastener and method for securing sections of hair of a human being in rows and for aligning hair clips. The apparatus is a semi-circle headband, retaining comb, or barrette that has a plurality of hair clips integrally attached and aligned longitudinally along its top. In use, the headband, retaining comb, or barrette is attached to the hair. Hair sections are then neatly aligned and secured in rows to the multiple clip fastener by placing each corresponding hair section into corresponding hair clip. Each clip always remains aligned with each other and the multiple clip hair fastener is easily removable and reusable.

Silva, U.S. Pat. No. 6,647,991: A multiple clip fastener for securing sections of hair of a human being in rows and for aligning hair clips. The apparatus is a semi-circle headband, retaining comb, or barrette that has a plurality of hair clips integrally attached and aligned longitudinally along their top. In use, the headband, retaining comb, or barrette is attached to the hair and hair sections are neatly aligned and secured in rows to the multiple clip fastener by placing each corresponding hair section into corresponding hair clip. Each clip remains aligned with each other and the multiple clip hair fastener is removable and reusable.

The prior art search with abstracts described above teaches: a hairpiece for compensation of hair loss, a multi-use hairpiece, hairpieces and mounting for hairpieces, a hairpiece kit having a headband, a headband for a hairpiece, a multiple clip hair fastener and method, and a multiple clip fastener. However, the prior art does not teach a headband and hair extension holding construction made of fabric for comfort including an adjustment clasp for increasing or decreasing the circumference of the headband forming a continuous closed loop that will not move under the stress resulting from the wearer's movements, is capable of covering large areas of hair loss as well as for supplementing the length or thickness of the hair of the wearer, providing for a plurality of hair extensions, including hairpieces, that may be detachably held in the headband and hair extension holding construction, preventing damage to the natural hair of the wearer and providing configurability to the hair extensions attached in the hair extension holding construction for concealment and with comfort. The present invention fulfills these needs and provides further related advantages as described in the following summary.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention teaches certain benefits in construction and use which give rise to the objectives described below.

The present invention provides a specially designed headband and hair extension holding construction for holding and supporting a plurality of hair extensions, including hairpieces, for supplementing the natural hair of the wearer. The headband and hair extension holding construction is generally suited for attaching supplemental hair to an item worn as opposed to the natural hair of the wearer preventing damage and discomfort to the natural hair and head of the wearer, and is particularly suited for supplementing the natural hair of the wearer and simulating the appearance of healthy, thick, long and voluminous hair, especially for those desiring to hide, disguise, or at least minimize the appearance of hair loss.

The headband comprises a plurality of head straps for encircling the head of the wearer integrally connected to the hair extension holding construction comprising of a plurality of panels for holding and supporting supplemental hair, with a means to secure the headband and hair extension holding construction in place. The headband further comprises a pair of external holding straps for holding and supporting an outer garment, such as a scarf, to provide the wearer ease of use and a further plurality of hairstyles. The headband may be variously sized to fit the wearer. In a preferred embodiment, the central portion of the headband is the widest portion of the headband with two opposite end portions narrower than the central portion permitting a gradual taper from the widest portion of the headband to a minimal width at each opposite end portion. Similarly, the hair extension holding construction of the headband may be so dimensioned to accommodate supplemental hair of various volumes and length. In a preferred embodiment, the hair extension holding construction is shown in a generally rectangular shape encased in the central portion of the headband with opposite end portions of the headband narrower than the central portion, however, the hair extension holding construction may be designed in any shape to best accommodate the needs of the wearer.

The hair extension holding construction further comprises a pair of upper and lower holding constructions containing a series of holding device cooperating fastening means positioned for limiting movement of the hair extensions within the holding constructions. The hair extensions having an upper portion and normally exposed lower portion, the upper portion including a plurality of primary fastening means for mutual engagement with a selected one of the holding device cooperating fastening means for removably attaching the hair extensions within the initially open interior of the hair extension holding construction and a lower peripheral edge.

The headband and hair extension holding construction further comprises an adjustment clasp that is designed for increasing or decreasing the circumference of the headband forming a continuous closed loop for improved fit and concealment of the hair extensions primary fastening means encased in the hair extension holding construction that will not move under the stress resulting from the wearer's movements.

The headband and hair extension holding construction may be made from any suitable natural or synthetic fabric material stitched or otherwise fastened together to form the headband and hair extension holding construction. In a preferred embodiment, the headband and hair extension holding construction contains flexible material made of fabric for the holding device cooperating fastening means located in the holding constructions and the adjustment clasp located at the nape of the neck to help keep the headband and hair extension holding construction and attached hair extensions securely in place. The means for securing the headband and hair extension holding construction together may encompass any means known in the art of securing fabric. The present novel solutions are inexpensive, easy to apply, prevent damage to the natural hair of the wearer and are comfortable to wear.

A primary objective of the present invention is to provide a headband and hair extension holding construction and method of making and using such headband and hair extension holding construction that yields advantages not taught by the prior art.

Another objective is to provide such an invention capable of increasing or decreasing the circumference of the headband forming a continuous closed loop in accordance with fit and comfort.

A further objective is to provide such an invention capable of holding and supporting a plurality of hair extensions, including hairpieces, for supplementing the natural hair of the wearer that may be detachably held in the headband and hair extension holding construction for concealment and with comfort.

A still further objective is to provide such an invention capable of providing a means for selectively adjusting the hair extensions to fit the headband and hair extension holding construction, and in a manner where the hair extensions will not move apart or closer together or change their configuration during wear.

A final objective is to provide such an invention capable of holding and supporting an outer garment, specifically an outer garment that may function as a scarf which may be drawn through the external holding straps and tied at the nape of the neck to provide wearer ease of use and a further plurality of hairstyles when worn in conjunction with the attached hair extensions.

Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings illustrate the present invention. In such drawings:

FIG. 1A is a perspective exploded view of the present invention;

FIG. 1B is a perspective partial cutaway view of a hair extension holding construction thereof;

FIG. 1C is a perspective partial cutaway view of a first preferred embodiment of a clasp thereof;

FIG. 1D is a sectional view taken along cutting line 1D-1D in FIG. 1C;

FIG. 2 is a perspective partial cutaway view of a second preferred embodiment of the present invention showing headband with loops joined by a link of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a perspective internal view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention showing hair extension attachment and placement therein;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the invention, in use;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the invention, in use worn with an outer garment drawn through the external holding straps;

FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C are perspective views taken along cutting line 6A-6A in FIG. 3 showing the several methods of removably attaching hair extensions to the hair extension holding construction of the invention; and

FIGS. 7A-7E are perspective views taken along cutting line 6A-6A in FIG. 3 showing the various steps in which the invention is used in practice.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The above-described drawing figures illustrate the invention in at least one of its preferred embodiments, which is further defined in detail in the following description. Those having ordinary skill in the art may be able to make alterations and modifications in the present invention without departing from its spirit and scope. Therefore, it must be understood that the illustrated embodiments have been set forth only for the purposes of example and that they should not be taken as limiting the invention as defined in the following.

The present invention, in one embodiment, is a headband 10 having an adjustment clasp 50 for increasing or decreasing the circumference of the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 comprising, a headband 10 having a pair of vertically spaced apart outer head straps 12 and 12′ and a pair of vertically spaced apart inner head straps 14 and 14′, the head straps each having a central portion 16 and opposite end portions 18 and 18′ that are narrower than the central portion 16. The outer head straps 12, 12′ each having a pair of horizontally spaced apart external holding straps 20 and 20′ for holding and supporting an outer garment. See FIG. 4. Preferably, an outer garment that may function as a scarf 22 is drawn through the external holding straps 20, 20′ respectively and tied at the nape of the neck to provide wearer ease of use and a further plurality of hairstyles when worn in conjunction with the attached hair extensions 40. See FIG. 5. A hair extension holding construction 30 comprises a pair of vertically spaced apart upper and lower holding constructions 32 and 32′ located in the central portion 16 of the inner head straps 14, 14′ for improved support and concealment of the attached hair extensions 40. The upper and lower holding constructions 32, 32′ each containing at least one, and preferably plural horizontally aligned holding device cooperating fastening means 34 positioned for limiting movement of the hair extensions 40 within the holding constructions 32, 32′ as shown in FIG. 1B. The hair extensions 40 having an upper portion 42 and a normally exposed lower portion 44, the upper portion 42 including a plurality of primary fastening means 46 for mutual engagement with a selected one of the holding device cooperating fastening means 34 for supplementing the natural hair of the wearer. The constructed headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 having an initially open interior 36 which is defined between the hair extension holding construction 30 and a lower peripheral edge 38, thereby forming a chamber from which hair extensions 40 may be removably attached 80 within the initially open interior 36 of the hair extension holding construction 30 as best shown in FIG. 3. The head straps opposite end portions 18, 18′ having a pair of horizontally spaced apart linking rings 24 and 24′, attached, preferably by stitching. A clasp 50 comprises a first portion 52 providing a pair of terminal-ends 54 and 54′ and a crossbar second portion 56. The opposing terminal-ends 54, 54′ and crossbar 56 are adapted by their conformation, for dual engagement with the linking rings 24, 24′ when the linking rings 24, 24′ are brought into mutual alignment with the terminal-ends 54, 54′ (FIG. 1C) for drawing the head straps into a continuous closed loop forming the headband 10 for improved fit and concealment of the hair extensions 40 primary fastening means 46 encased in the hair extension holding construction 30 therein. This relationship is best shown in FIG. 1A.

Preferably, the first portion 52 of the clasp 50 is made of a flexible strap adapted to stretch in at least the longitudinal direction and substantially resistant to bending laterally providing a pair of terminal-ends 54, 54′ in mutual opposition. Each of the ends may be formed as loops in shape. A crossbar second portion 56 providing a center bar 58 and two opposing slots 60 and 60′ (FIG. 1D) enabled for being joined by a strap and crossbar action between opposing terminal-ends 54, 54′ and linking rings 24, 24′ whereby a selected one of the opposing terminal-end loops 54 is secured around crossbar 56 center bar 58, the strap 52 is adapted to pass through one of the linking rings 24, back through the crossbar 56 slots 60, 60′ respectively and across whereby corresponding opposing terminal-end loop 54′ is secured around corresponding linking ring 24′. The recessed configuration of the strap 52 and crossbar 56 makes the assembly flatter and also increases the security against slide movement of the strap 52. Such strap and crossbar action fasteners are well known in the art, so that further discussion is not present.

In an alternate embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the linking rings are replaced by loops 62 and 62′. In this embodiment, the loops may be simple threaded loops or may be plastic loops sewn to the head straps opposite end portions 18, 18′. The clasp used in this embodiment may be the same clasp 50 used, as described above. Alternatively, a different clasp 70 may comprise an elongate body 72 providing a pair of opposing terminal-ends 74 and 76 in mutual opposition, first end 74 providing a plurality of spaced apart connector fastening means and second end 76 providing a plurality of spaced apart cooperating fastening means. This clasp 70 engages the loops 62, 62′ for drawing the head straps into mutual alignment with the connector and cooperating fastening means 74 and 76. The connectors and cooperating fastening means 74 and 76 are adapted by their conformation, for mutual engagement for drawing the head straps into a continuous closed loop forming the headband 10 for improved fit and concealment of the hair extensions 40 primary fastening means 46 encased in the hair extension holding construction 30 therein. Such connectors and cooperating fasteners are well known in the art, so that further discussion is not present.

In further describing the present invention it may be seen that the head straps opposite end portions 18, 18′, have a pair of horizontally aligned first engagement elements; linking rings 24, loops 62, etc and a clasp 50 or 70 comprising a linking means portion 72 or 52 and 56, with opposing terminal-end second engagement elements 74 and 76 or 54 and 54′ adapted for engaging one of the pairs of first engagement elements, for drawing the head straps into a continuous closed loop forming the headband 10 for improved fit and concealment of the hair extensions 40 primary fastening means 46 encased in the hair extension holding construction 30 therein where the linking portion comprises a flexible strap constructed of material made of fabric for comfort.

Preferably, the headband 10 may be comprised of a plurality of head straps for encircling the head of the wearer integrally connected to the hair extension holding construction 30, with a means to secure the headband and hair extension holding construction in place. The central portion 16 of the headband 10 is the highest and widest portion of the headband 10 when worn on the head of a person when the wearer's head is in the upright position. The two opposite end portions 18, 18′ of the headband 10 are narrower than the central portion 16 permitting a gradual taper from the widest portion of the headband 10 to a minimal width at each opposite end portion 18, 18′. The headband 10 may be variously sized to fit the wearer. Often such headbands 10 are constructed of several head straps sewn together to produce an approximately circular continuous closed loop. On the other hand, opposite end portions 18, 18′ may overlap at the back of the wearer's head. Headband 10 may be straight from end to end, in which case opposite end portions 18, 18′ will overlap on the head of the wearer. Still on the other hand, opposite end portions 18, 18′ may extend downwardly in the rear portion of headband 10 across the nape of the neck. The latter embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 1A.

Preferably, the hair extension holding construction 30 may be comprised of a plurality of panels for holding and supporting supplemental hair integrally connected to the headband 10, with a means to secure the headband and hair extensions holding construction in place. Similarly, the hair extension holding construction 30 of the headband 10 may be so dimensioned to accommodate supplemental hair of various volumes and length. In a preferred embodiment, the hair extension holding construction 30 is shown in a generally rectangular shape encased in the central portion 16 of the headband 10, however, the hair extension holding construction 30 may be designed in any shape to best accommodate the needs of the wearer.

Preferably, the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 may be made from any suitable natural or synthetic material such as cotton, satin, silk, nylon, polyester, rayon, spandex or blends of these or other materials stitched or otherwise fastened together to form the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30. In a preferred embodiment, the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 contains a flexible material made of fabric for the holding device cooperating fastening means 34 located in the holding constructions 32, 32′ and the adjustment clasp 50 or 70 located at the nape of the neck to help keep the headband 10 and attached hair extensions 40 securely in place.

Preferably, the means for securing the headband 10 having an adjustment clasp 50 or 70 and hair extension holding construction 30 in place may encompass any means known in the art of securing materials made of fabric, including, but not limited to, stitching, crossbars, buttons and button holes, stud and snaps, hook and eye fasteners, zippers, drawstrings and hook and loop fasteners (commonly known by the Velcro® brand). In a preferred embodiment, the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 comprising of a plurality of head straps and panels may be secured, stitched or otherwise fastened together to form the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30, the external holding straps 20, 20′ comprising of a pair of holding straps extending from the sides of the headband 10 may be secured, stitched or otherwise fastened at a seam between a pair of head straps used in construction of the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 for holding and supporting an outer garment, and the adjustment clasp 50 or 70 comprising a linking means portion 72 or 52 and 56 with opposing terminal-end second engagement elements 74 and 76 or 54 and 54′ adapted for engaging the first engagement elements may be secured, stitched or otherwise fastened together to form the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 for increasing or decreasing the circumference of the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 for improved fit and concealment of the hair extensions 40 primary fastening means 46 encased in the hair extension holding construction 30 where the linking portion comprises a flexible strap constructed of material made of fabric for comfort. These and other constructional features of the present invention add further benefits in fit and form during wear.

Preferably, hair extensions 40 may be constructed of human hair or synthetic hair providing the appearance of human hair. Hair extensions 40 may be chosen to minimize the appearance of hair loss or to supplement the natural hair of the wearer simulating the appearance of healthy, thick, long, and voluminous hair for a variety of hairstyles. Hair extensions 40 may be dyed various colors to approximate natural hair colors or, alternatively, may be dyed bright unnatural colors that are well known in the art.

Preferably, hair extensions 40 are removable to facilitate cleaning and other maintenance activities associated with use. The hair extensions 40 primary fastening means 46 and the holding device cooperating fastening means 34 provide this capability. The hair extensions 40 upper portions 42 may be attached to a plurality of primary fastening means 46 by any suitable means whatsoever comprising: mechanical attachments, adhesive applications, sewing, etc. Additional intermediary parts may be included in the attachment of the upper portions 42 to the primary fastening means 46. Any means providing a permanent or temporary attachment between the primary fastening means 46 and the upper portions 42 is acceptable for this purpose. The primary fastening means 46 and the holding device cooperating fastening means 34 may be any two items that can be removably fastened together. In some cases both the primary fastening means 46 and the holding device cooperating fastening means 34 may be the same such as hook and loop material, stud and snaps or button and button hole in a strip of suitable material. Furthermore, the primary fastening means 46 and the holding device cooperating fastening means 34 may be removably attached 80 by any suitable means comprising: mechanical attachments (rings, clips, clamps, combs, barrettes, and elastic bands) 82, adhesive applications (chemicals and heat setting) 84, and sewing 86 as shown in FIGS. 6A-6C.

In practice 90 and referring now to FIGS. 7A-7E, the wearer of the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 may first open 92 the initially open interior 36 of the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 and position, secure, and conceal 94 the hair extensions 40 primary fastening means 46 on the holding device cooperating fastening means 34 located in the hair extension holding construction 30 permanently attached to the headband 10 as shown in FIG. 7A. Hair extensions 40 may be angled at any angle desired. The hair extensions 40 may be detached or reattached on the holding device cooperating fastening means 34 as desired. The initially open interior 36 of the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 is then closed 96, further concealing the attached hair extensions 40 primary fastening means 46 therein. The wearer of the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 may next form and secure their natural hair into a ponytail 98 as shown in FIG. 7B. FIG. 7C is a view of securing the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 without the hair extensions 40 attached therein on the head of the wearer by positioning the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 between the crown of the head and the nape of the neck adjacent to the ponytail 98. In FIG. 7D, the wearer of the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 may then secure the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 with the hair extensions 40 primary fastening means 46 attached therein on the head of the wearer by positioning the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 between the crown of the head and the nape of the neck adjacent to the ponytail 98 allowing the hair extensions 40 to fall behind the head of the wearer. Once the headband 10 is secured by adjusting the clasp 50 or 70 for fit and concealment the wearer removes ponytail 98 as shown in FIG. 7E. The hair extensions and natural hair of the wearer may then be blended, styled and shaped according to the desired hairstyle of the wearer. Hair can also be pulled through the headband in front for additional styling. Finally, hair can be further supplemented by drawing a covering garment, such as a scarf 22 through the headband 10 and hair extension holding construction 30 external holding straps 20, 20′ respectively.

The enablements described in detail above are considered novel over the prior art of record and are considered critical to the operation of the instant invention and to the achievement of the above described objectives. The words used in this specification to describe the invention and its various embodiments are to be understood not only in the sense of their commonly defined meanings, but to include by special definition in this specification: structure, material or acts beyond the scope of the commonly defined meanings. Thus if an element can be understood in the context of this specification as including more than one meaning, then its use must be understood as being generic to all possible meanings supported by the specification and by the word or words describing the element.

The definitions of the words or elements of this described invention and its various embodiments are, therefore, defined in this specification to include not only the combination of elements which are literally set forth, but all equivalent structure, material or acts for performing substantially the same function in substantially the same way to obtain substantially the same result. In this sense it is therefore contemplated that an equivalent substitution of two or more elements may be made for any one of the elements in the invention and its various embodiments below or that a single element may be substituted for two or more elements in a claim.

Changes from the claimed subject matter as viewed by a person with ordinary skill in the art, now known or later devised, are expressly contemplated as being equivalents within the scope of the invention and its various embodiments. Therefore, obvious substitutions now or later known to one with ordinary skill in the art are defined to be within the scope of the defined elements. The invention and its various embodiments are thus to be understood to include what is specifically illustrated and described above, what is conceptually equivalent, what can be obviously substituted, and also what essentially incorporates the essential idea of the invention.

While the invention has been described with reference to at least one preferred embodiment, it is to be clearly understood by those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited thereto. Rather, the scope of the invention is to be interpreted only in conjunction with the appended claims and it is made clear, here, that the inventor(s) believe that the claimed subject matter is the invention.

Claims

1. In a headband having an adjustment clasp for increasing or decreasing the circumference of the headband, a holding construction apparatus comprising: a hair extension holding construction formed from a plurality of panels, the panels stitched together forming seams between said panels for engagement with the headband so that the hair extensions may enter the hair extension holding construction; said hair extension holding construction having a pair of vertically spaced apart upper and lower holding constructions; said holding constructions containing a series of horizontally aligned holding device cooperating fastening means positioned for limiting movement of the hair extensions within the holding constructions; said hair extensions having an upper portion and a normally exposed lower portion, the upper portion including a plurality of primary fastening means for mutual engagement with a selected one of the holding device cooperating fastening means; and an initially open interior which is defined between the hair extension holding construction and a lower peripheral edge, thereby forming a chamber from which hair extensions may be removably attached within the initially open interior of the hair extension holding construction.

2. The invention of claim 1 wherein the hair extension holding construction includes means for securing the hair extension holding construction to the headband.

3. The invention of claim 1 wherein the hair extension holding construction is constructed of material made of fabric for comfort.

4. The invention of claim 1 wherein the hair extension holding construction can be used with hairpieces, having an upper portion and normally exposed lower portion, the upper portion including a plurality of primary fastening means for mutual engagement with a selected one of the holding device cooperating fastening means.

5. A headband comprising: an adjustment clasp for increasing or decreasing the circumference of the headband, a hair extension holding construction formed from a plurality of panels, the panels stitched together forming seams between said panels for engagement with the headband so that the hair extensions may enter the hair extension holding construction; said hair extension holding construction having a pair of vertically spaced apart upper and lower holding constructions; said holding constructions containing a series of horizontally aligned holding device cooperating fastening means positioned for limiting movement of the hair extensions within the holding constructions; said hair extensions having an upper portion and a normally exposed lower portion, the upper portion including a plurality of primary fastening means for mutual engagement with a selected one of the holding device cooperating fastening means; and an initially open interior which is defined between the hair extension holding construction and a lower peripheral edge, thereby forming a chamber from which hair extensions may be removably attached within the initially open interior of the hair extension holding construction.

6. The invention of claim 5 wherein the hair extension holding construction includes means for securing the hair extension holding construction to the headband.

7. The invention of claim 5 wherein the hair extension holding construction is constructed of material made of fabric for comfort.

8. The invention of claim 5 wherein the hair extension holding construction can be used with hairpieces, having an upper portion and normally exposed lower portion, the upper portion including a plurality of primary fastening means for mutual engagement with a selected one of the holding device cooperating fastening means.

9. The invention of claim 5 wherein the headband and adjustment clasp comprising in combination: a headband having a pair of vertically spaced apart outer head straps and a pair of vertically spaced apart inner head straps stitched together forming seams between said head straps, said head straps having a central portion and narrowed end portions, said narrowed end portions having a pair of horizontally spaced apart first engagement elements attached by stitching; and a clasp comprising a linking means portion with opposing terminal-end second engagement elements adapted for engaging one of the pairs of first engagement elements, for drawing the head straps into a continuous closed loop forming the headband for improved fit and concealment of the hair extensions primary fastening means encased in the hair extension holding construction therein; the linking portion comprising a flexible strap constructed of material made of fabric for comfort.

10. The invention of claim 9 wherein the hair extension holding construction includes means for securing the hair extension holding construction to the headband.

11. The invention of claim 9 wherein the hair extension holding construction is constructed of material made of fabric for comfort.

12. The invention of claim 9 wherein the hair extension holding construction can be used with hairpieces, having an upper portion and normally exposed lower portion, the upper portion including a plurality of primary fastening means for mutual engagement with a selected one of the holding device cooperating fastening means.

13. The invention of claim 9 wherein the linking means comprises a flexible strap adapted to stretch in at least the longitudinal direction and substantially resistant to bending laterally joined by a crossbar and the second engagement elements are dual, spaced apart mutually engaging strap and crossbar fastening.

14. The invention of claim 9 wherein the linking means comprises an elongate body made of fabric material and the second engagement elements are dual, spaced apart mutually engaging connectors and cooperating fasteners.

15. The invention of claim 9 wherein the headband further comprises a pair of horizontally spaced apart external holding straps for holding and supporting an outer garment, whereby the outer garment is drawn through the external holding straps respectively and tied at the nape of the neck to provide wearer ease of use and a plurality of hairstyles.

16. The invention of claim 9 wherein the headband is constructed of material made of fabric for comfort.

17. A hair extension holding construction apparatus comprising: a hair extension holding construction formed from a plurality of panels, the panels stitched together forming seams between said panels for engagement with a headband and adjustment clasp so that the hair extensions may enter the hair extension holding construction; said hair extension holding construction having a pair of vertically spaced apart upper and lower holding constructions; said holding constructions containing a series of horizontally aligned holding device cooperating fastening means positioned for limiting movement of the hair extensions within the holding constructions; said hair extensions having an upper portion and a normally exposed lower portion, the upper portion including a plurality of primary fastening means for mutual engagement with a selected one of the holding device cooperating fastening means; and an initially open interior which is defined between the hair extension holding construction and a lower peripheral edge, thereby forming a chamber from which hair extensions may be removably attached within the initially open interior of the hair extension holding construction.

18. The invention of claim 17 wherein the hair extension holding construction includes means for securing the hair extension holding construction to the headband and adjustment clasp.

19. The invention of claim 17 wherein the hair extension holding construction is constructed of material made of fabric for comfort.

20. The invention of claim 17 wherein the hair extension holding construction can be used with hairpieces, having an upper portion and normally exposed lower portion, the upper portion including a plurality of primary fastening means for mutual engagement with a selected one of the holding device cooperating fastening means.

21. The invention of claim 17 wherein the headband and adjustment clasp comprising in combination: a headband having a pair of vertically spaced apart outer head straps and a pair of vertically spaced apart inner head straps stitched together forming seams between said head straps, said head straps having a central portion and narrowed end portions, said narrowed end portions having a pair of horizontally spaced apart first engagement elements attached by stitching; and a clasp comprising a linking means portion with opposing terminal-end second engagement elements adapted for engaging one of the pairs of first engagement elements, for drawing the head straps into a continuous closed loop forming the headband for improved fit and concealment of the hair extensions primary fastening means encased in the hair extension holding construction therein; the linking portion comprising a flexible strap constructed of material made of fabric for comfort.

22. The invention of claim 17 wherein the linking means comprises a flexible strap adapted to stretch in at least the longitudinal direction and substantially resistant to bending laterally joined by a crossbar and the second engagement elements are dual, spaced apart mutually engaging strap and crossbar fastening.

23. The invention of claim 17 wherein the linking means comprises an elongate body made of fabric material and the second engagement elements are dual, spaced apart mutually engaging connectors and cooperating fasteners.

24. The invention of claim 17 wherein the headband further comprises a pair of horizontally spaced apart external holding straps for holding and supporting an outer garment, whereby the outer garment is drawn through the external holding straps respectively and tied at the nape of the neck to provide wearer ease of use and a plurality of hairstyles.

25. The invention of claim 17 wherein the headband is constructed of material made of fabric for comfort.