CONVERTIBLE GARMENT

Abstract

Convertible garments and methods associated therewith generally provide a way of producing and wearing a garment that may be worn as a bikini top or bottom. A unitary, monolithic, integral, and/or continuous piece of fabric is formed having a middle section and at least four straps extending from opposing corner or edge regions thereof. The method includes configuring the garment as either a bikini top or bikini bottom based on how the invention is placed across ones' body and how the straps are tied together.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to swimwear and a method of wearing it. More specifically, the present invention relates to bikinis and methods for wearing the same garment as a top or bottom portion of the bikini.

Bikinis are ubiquitous swimwear items that are worn throughout the world. They have many different styles, cuts, prints and methods of being worn. Some may be more revealing and have different fits (e.g. looser or tighter) than others, some may have solid colors, stripes, patterns, etc. Generally, they comprise of two distinct separate pieces, a bikini bottom and a bikini top. Generally, they come in many different sizes to fit different body types and sizes. A single style must be made with different size materials and cuts. Thus, not only is the construction costly, with that cost handed down to the end user, but also the way of wearing the garment is quite limited.

SUMMARY

Bikinis and methods of the present invention generally provide for a convertible garment that is made of a continuous piece, such as a single piece, of fabric that can be worn either as a bikini top or bikini bottom. An exemplary convertible garment includes a first length of cloth and a second length of cloth integrally coupled together by a coupling piece of cloth positioned along the length of the first length of cloth and the second length of cloth. The first length of cloth, the second length of cloth, and coupling portion of cloth are integral, monolithic, continuous, and combinations thereof to form extensions of adjacent portions. In an exemplary embodiment, the first length of cloth, second length of cloth, and coupling portion are formed from a single, continuous, monolithic piece of cloth.

In an exemplary embodiment, the convertible garment defines a rectangular, or other shaped piece of fabric with an opening on one side and a mirror opening on another side, opposite the one side. In an exemplary embodiment, the openings may be semi-ovoid. In this exemplary view, the remaining third and fourth sides comprise solid fabric lengths along the rectangular length of these opposing sides. When positioned such that the openings are along lateral sides, and solid sides along top and bottom portions, the convertible garment would have a top left strap, a bottom left strap, a top right strap and a bottom right strap and a solid, integral, continuous portion coupling the four straps. The top left and top right straps may be linearly aligned and extend in opposing directions from the coupling piece, while bottom left and bottom right straps may be linearly aligned and extend in opposing directions from the coupling piece. Each of the straps may be parallel to each other.

In one embodiment, where the convertible garment is configured as a bikini top, the invention is placed over the front of the user's chest and the top and bottom left straps are tied together at the back of a user's neck while the top and bottom right straps are tied together at a user's middle back, thus forming the bikini top. Therefore, the user's neck and body/chest are positioned in respective semi-ovoid openings of the convertible garment and the coupling portion covers the user's chest.

In another embodiment, where the convertible garment is configured as a bikini bottom, the invention is folded halfway bringing the top left strap and bottom left strap together and bringing the top right strap and bottom right strap together and placed over the user's crotch and buttocks. The invention is affixed by tying the top left strap and bottom left strap together on the user's first hip and the tying the top right strap and bottom right strap on the user's other hip. Therefore, each of the user's legs at the groin is positioned in a respective semi-ovoid opening of the garment and the coupling portion covers the user's crotch.

In some embodiments, a ring, clip, band, tie, or other ornament may be used to decorate, configure, and/or adjust the convertible garment. One or more rings, clips, bands, ties, fasteners, or other ornament may be positioned at the straps and/or coupling portion to adjust the convertible garment. Accordingly, exemplary embodiments permit a single garment size to be adjustable across different user's sizes and make the convertible garment smaller, tighter, looser, or reconfigured by moving the rings, clips, bands, ties, fasteners, or other ornament. In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more rings, bands, ties, fasteners, or other ornament are positioned on a strap at the base of the strap adjacent the coupling portion. In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more rings, bands, ties, or other ornament is positioned on the coupling portion.

Exemplary embodiments therefore may provide a convertible garment to create an improved bikini as well as a method for wearing it. In an exemplary embodiment, the construction could be simplified by making a single shape with a single piece of fabric. This single piece of fabric could create what can become either a bikini top or bottom. One would simply shape, fold and tie the convertible garment in a way that would provide for a top or bottom. One could change the size or shape by simply changing the way it is tied together and the way the straps are placed as well as by adding rings, clips, bands, ties, fasteners, or other ornament. A single size convertible garment could accommodate a range of physical user sizes as exemplary embodiments of the convertible garment may be adjustable. Exemplary methods include configuring the convertible garment such that it could be configured in both its shape and form.

DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top view of a convertible bikini laid flat according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the to be attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a back-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the to be attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a back-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a front-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a front-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is back-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the attached configuration an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 a front-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the to be attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention worn in an alternate manner.

FIG. 9 is a front-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention worn in an alternate manner.

FIG. 10 is a front-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention worn in an alternate manner.

FIG. 11 a front-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the to be attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention worn in an alternate manner.

FIG. 12 is a front-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention worn in an alternate manner.

FIG. 13 is a front-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention worn in an alternate manner.

FIG. 14 a front-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the to be attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention worn in an alternate manner.

FIG. 15 is a front-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention worn in an alternate manner.

FIG. 16 is a front-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention worn in an alternate manner.

FIG. 17 a front-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the to be attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention worn in an alternate manner.

FIG. 18 is a front-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention worn in an alternate manner.

FIG. 19 is a back-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention worn in an alternate manner.

FIG. 20 is a back-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention worn in an alternate manner.

FIG. 21 is a back-side view of a user where the convertible bikini is positioned in the attached configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention worn in an alternate manner.

FIG. 22 illustrates an exemplary flow chart representing a method of configuring the convertible garment as described herein.

DESCRIPTION

Exemplary embodiments of the convertible garment permit a way of producing and wearing a garment that may be worn as a bikini top or bottom. An exemplary convertible garment includes a middle portion connecting continuous fabric lengths on opposing sides of the connecting portion. In an exemplary embodiment, the connecting portion may be positioned approximately half way along the length of the opposing sides.

An exemplary convertible garment includes a first elongate piece of cloth and a second elongate piece of cloth integrally coupled together by a coupling piece of cloth positioned along a length of the first elongate piece of cloth and the second elongate piece of cloth. The first elongate piece of cloth, the second elongate piece of cloth, and coupling piece of cloth may be an integral, monolithic, and continuous extension of adjacent portions, such that the first elongate piece of cloth, second elongate piece of cloth, and coupling piece are formed from a single piece of cloth.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first elongate piece of cloth and second elongate piece of cloth may include exterior edges defining opposing sides of the convertible garment. The exterior edges may be generally linear and parallel such that they form a portion of a perimeter of the convertible garment resembling a rectangle. The exterior edges may take on other forms including segmented linear sections, curves, and combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the first elongate piece of cloth and second elongate piece of cloth may each include first and second interior side edges on opposing sides of the coupling piece. The elongate piece of cloth is therefore defined on a first side by an exterior edge and on a second side, opposite the first side, by a first and second interior side edge and the coupling piece. The interior side edges may be generally linear and may be parallel to each other and/or the exterior edges. Other combinations of segmented linear sections and/or curves may also be used. In an exemplary embodiment, the first and second elongate pieces of cloth may be generally rectangular having equal lengths. In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the elongate pieces of cloth may be greater than a width between exterior edges of the first and second pieces of cloth.

In an exemplary embodiment, the coupling piece may include opposing lateral sides. The opposing lateral sides may include convex curved edges (as viewed from an interior of the coupling piece) such that the central portion of the lateral side smoothly transitions to the first or second interior side edge. Therefore, a width of the coupling piece may be at a maximum adjacent the elongate pieces of cloth and at a minimum at an interior portion of the coupling piece away from the elongate pieces of cloth. In an exemplary embodiment, the convex curved edges are generally semi-circular or semi-ovoid. In an exemplary embodiment, the coupling piece is positioned at or near the middle of one or both of the elongate pieces.

In an exemplary embodiment, an interior continuous edge traversing and defined by an edge of a portion of the first elongate piece of cloth, a side of the connection portion and a portion of the second elongate piece of cloth defines an opening shape. The opening shape may be ovoid, circular, rectangular, or other shape or combinations thereof. For example, the opening may be semi-circular along the side of the connection portion and rectangular or square along the portions of the first and second continuous fabric lengths. The opening may also be semi-ovoid along the entire length. The opening may also be parabolic or otherwise shaped. In an exemplary embodiment, the opening is shaped to create two extensions extending generally parallel on one side of the connection portion and two extensions extending generally parallel on an opposite side of the connection portions. In an exemplary embodiment, the convertible garment may include two openings on opposing sides of the garment, thereby creating two sets of two extensions on opposing sides of the convertible garment. The openings may be symmetric about the connecting portion. The two sets of extensions on opposing sides of the connection portions may be generally aligned with each other such that two extensions form a generally linear arrangement. The two paired aligned extensions may be positioned at opposite ends of the respective opposing sides of the connection portion.

The straps and openings may be positioned such that the convertible bikini is symmetric. In an exemplary embodiment, the convertible bikini is symmetric around two perpendicular axes. For example, the convertible bikini may be symmetric about orthogonal axes.

In an exemplary embodiment, portions or all of the interior continuous edges defining the opening and/or exterior edges defining a portion of the outer perimeter of the convertible garment may be deformable. For example, the respective edges may include an elastic material or band, a drawstring or chord, or other feature to reduce the working length of the respective edge or otherwise modify the convertible garment configuration. In an exemplary embodiment, the respective edges may be generally static in overall length. In these cases, the exemplary method may be used to configure the convertible garment by reconfiguring its shape through the use of twisting, tying, or strategically positioned accessories.

Exemplary embodiments include a monolithic and/or continuous piece of cloth having a first elongate piece, a second elongate piece, and a coupling piece between the first elongate piece and the second elongate piece. The piece of cloth may be created from separate pieces sewn together to form a continuous piece, or may be formed from a single piece to create the monolithic piece. The first and second elongate pieces may be generally rectangular and parallel. The coupling piece may be positioned along an interior portion of the first and second elongate pieces, thereby creating a first, second, third, and fourth straps from the first and second elongate pieces extending from the coupling piece. Exemplary embodiments may be worn as a bikini top or bikini bottom based on how the convertible garment is placed across ones' body and how the straps are tied to one another.

Referring now to FIG. 1, one embodiment of the convertible bikini 100 includes a front surface 102 a rear surface 104, a middle section 118, a semi-ovoid opening 106 along a first edge and a semi-ovoid opening 108 along a second edge, a first strap 110, a second strap 112, a third strap 114, and a fourth strap 116. The first edge 106 and second edge 108 may define first and second sides that are opposing terminal ends of the convertible bikini 100. The first strap 110 may extend from the third strap 114; while the second strap 112 may extend from the fourth strap 116, such that the first strap 110 and third strap 114 define a third edge of the convertible bikini and the second strap 112 and fourth strap 116 define a fourth edge of the convertible bikini. The third and fourth edges may define third and fourth sides that are opposing terminal ends of the convertible bikini 100. The third and fourth edges may be linear and parallel.

The front surface 102 and rear surface 104 may be opposing surfaces of a single piece of cloth or may be different layered pieces of cloth coupled together. Either surface may have one or more layered portions over a portion or over an entire surface of the front or rear surface. For example, either the front surface 102 or rear surface 104 may include a layered portion over at least a portion of the middle section 118 to provide padding or extra protection for that area of the body to be covered by that portion of the convertible bikini. The front surface and rear surface may include different colors, patterns, textures, prints, and a combination thereof. The different surfaces provide different visual effects based on the method of configuring the convertible garment on the user.

The convertible bikini 100 may be made of any typical fabric used for swimwear such as Lycra®, cotton, Spandex®, and other similar fabric, or a blend of such fabrics. Front surface 102 may have a color, pattern or print. Rear surface 104 may have a color, pattern or print.

FIG. 22 is an exemplary flow diagram for configuring and securing the convertible garment described herein. Method 2102 includes steps for configuring and securing the convertible garment described herein as a bikini top, while method 2104 include steps for configuring and securing the convertible garment described herein as a bikini bottom. The method may start at 2106, where a user obtains two convertible garments and may selectively obtain one or more other components, such as accessories. For example, the user may be able to individually purchase the desired combination of components, or may purchase a configurable bikini as a kit or system including two convertible garment pieces and one or more accessory pieces. Exemplary optional steps are displayed in dashed lines. The steps may be combined, segregated, reordered, omitted, or added in any recombination and stay within the scope of the instant disclosure.

At one step, the accessories may be positioned on the convertible garment to be used as either the bikini top (step 2111) or bikini bottom (step 2121). The accessories may include one or more rings, clips, bands, ties, or other ornament used to decorate, configure, and/or adjust the convertible garment. Exemplary FIGS. 2-5 illustrate alternative embodiments in which the accessories are used or not used. For example, an accessory may be slid in place over one or more straps or may be clipped, tied, snapped, fastened, or otherwise coupled to the convertible garment. As illustrated, a ring accessory may be slid over one or two straps to position the ring accessory around the strap and/or around the middle portion of the convertible garment. In an exemplary embodiment, two rings are positioned, one on each of respective two straps, such as is illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 10. In an exemplary embodiment, four rings are positioned, one on each of respective four straps, such as is illustrated in FIG. 13. In an exemplary embodiment, one ring may be positioned along the central portion of the connecting portion, such as is illustrated in FIG. 12. In an exemplary embodiment, five rings are positioned, one on each of respective four straps, and one on a central portion of the middle portion, such as is illustrated in FIG. 13. In an exemplary embodiment, straps supporting the accessory can be used for shoulder straps and/or torso straps of the bikini top or as the front and/or back straps of the bikini bottom. In an exemplary embodiment, the accessory is positioned at an end of the strap adjacent or proximate the middle portion. In an exemplary embodiment, the accessory is adjustable or removably positionable to dynamically alter the maximum working width of the middle portion and/or working lengths of one or more straps.

At one step, the convertible garment may be rotated, such as by twisting, to be used as either the bikini top (step 2112) or bikini bottom (step 2122). Combinations of the straps (steps 2112 and 2122) and/or middle portion (step 2115) may be rotated. In an exemplary embodiment, the rotation is in increments of 180 degrees. In an exemplary embodiment, the rotation is 180 degrees such that when coupled to the user, different side surfaces are exposed to a viewer. Therefore, the convertible garment may be configured to present different patterns, colors, prints, and/or visual effects to an observer by presenting different surfaces of the convertible garment to an observer on different wearing occasions or times. Exemplary FIGS. 2-5 illustrate alternative embodiments in which the convertible garment is twist at the straps, FIGS. 6, 10, 13, and 16 or at the middle section, FIGS. 9 and 10. Straps may be rotated or twisted about themselves, such as a twist occurring along the length with a rotation around the longitudinal length of the strap. Straps may also be rotated or twisted about each other.

At one step, the convertible garment may be knotted or tied to be used as either the bikini top (step 2113) or bikini bottom (step 2123). Combinations of the straps and/or middle portion may be knotted or tied. Exemplary embodiments of knotting is not presently illustrated but may be positioned similar to the accessories to dynamically change a working length of the middle portion and/or straps. For example, a strap may include a knot along itself created by the single strap, positioned near an end of the strap adjacent the middle portion. Knots may also be used along the length of the strap to reduce a working length of the strap.

At one step, the convertible garment may be dynamically altered to be used as either the bikini top (step 2114) or bikini bottom (step 2124). Here a working length of all or a portion of the perimeter edge of the convertible garment may be altered. The working length may be along a portion of the strap and/or along a portion of the middle portion. Exemplary embodiments include the addition of the accessories (steps 2111 and 2121), tying (steps 21143 and 2123), rotation (steps 2112 and 2122) as well as using other dynamical methods to modify the working length and/or configuration of the convertible garment. Other exemplary embodiments include stretching an elastic band along a portion of the garment perimeter or adjusting and securing a draw string, elastic band, chord, snap, button, etc., and combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the working length adjustment may be permanent. For example, the straps may be originally received having a first length. Once the user purchases the convertible garment and configures the garment to their body, the straps may be cut or otherwise altered to fit the user's body size. Therefore, the straps may be used with a second length, less than the first length, either permanently or reversibly/dynamically.

At one step, the convertible garment is positioned about the user in a generally final use configuration. For example, the convertible garment may be used as a bikini top at step 2116 by positioning the middle portion over the user's chest and having a pair of opposing straps extend around the user's neck and/or torso and the other of the pair of straps extending around the user's torso. The convertible garment may be positioned such that the user's neck and/or upper chest is positioned within the opening between two straps on one side of the garment and the user's body/torso is positioned in the opposite opening between two other straps on the other side of the garment. As another example, the convertible garment may be used as a bikini bottom at step 2126 by positioning the middle portion through the user's legs and folding or curving the garment ends over each other, such that one end extends upward over the user's front and the opposing end extends upward over the user's buttocks. The convertible garment may be positioned such that each of a user's legs is positioned within a respective one of the openings between two straps on each side of the garment.

At one step, the convertible garment is secured to the user in the desired configuration of a bikini top (step 2117) or bikini bottom (step 2127). One or more straps may be tied together to secure the convertible garment to the user. Exemplary alternative methods of securing are illustrated in the drawings. For example, as seen in FIG. 4, a first pair of straps defining a first opening are positioned on opposing sides of a user's neck and tied behind the neck to each other and a second pair of straps defining a second opening are positioned on opposing sides of a user's torso and tied at the middle section of the back to each other. One or more accessories may also be used to secure two or more straps together. For example, as seen in FIG. 7, a ring may be circumferentially positioned about the pair of straps positioned around the user's torso at the general middle section of a user's back. The other pair of straps may be tied to the first pair of straps, may be tied to each other, or may be similarly secured to each other with a second accessory, such as ring or clip. As illustrated, the lower pair of straps about the torso extend through the same ring accessory and extend upward toward the upper pair of straps. Each one of the lower straps is then tied to a respective one of an upper strap. As illustrated in FIGS. 15-16 and 18-19, similar to the upper body configuration of FIG. 4, paired sets of straps may be tied together about the body. As shown in FIGS. 15-16, a pair of straps, including a strap on the front and a strap on the back of the body, are secured together on the same side of the body. As shown in FIGS. 18-19, a pair of straps, including both straps on the same (front or back) side of the body are wrapped about the body to the opposing side (back or front) and tied together. All of the straps may be secured together, such as seen in FIG. 21, or otherwise combined in different configuration. The straps may be secured together at their ends or along their length. For example, FIG. 21 may have the lower portion straps tied together at their ends, while the upper body straps over the shoulder couple at their ends to a middle portion or along the length of a respective one of the lower body straps.

Referring now to FIGS. 2-5, which are embodiments of the invention used in a manner that creates a bikini top. FIG. 2 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of the convertible garment placed over a user's chest area. The first strap 110 is placed over the user's first shoulder; the second strap 112 is placed over the user's other shoulder. The middle section 118 is placed over the user's chest. The third strap 114 is placed around the user's left torso and the fourth strap 116 is placed around the user's right torso. The front side 102 is exposed. The rear side 104 may also be exposed by flipping the convertible bikini over.

FIG. 3 is a view of the convertible bikini when being positioned as viewed from the user's back. The first strap 110 is placed over the user's left shoulder; the second strap 112 is placed over the user's right shoulder. The middle section 118 is placed over the user's chest. The third strap 114 is placed around the user's left torso and the fourth strap 116 is placed around the user's right torso.

FIG. 4 is a view of the invention affixed to the user as viewed from the user's back. The second strap 112 is tied around the user's neck to first strap 110. The third strap 114 is tied to fourth strap 116 around the user's back and torso/mid section. After the straps have been tied to the respective positions, it secures the convertible bikini to form the bikini top.

FIG. 5 is a view of the invention secured and affixed to the user as seen from the front of the user. The middle section 118 covers the user's chest. Front side 102 faces the outside. The semi-ovoid openings form the opening for the user's neck and torso.

FIG. 6 is a view of the invention worn in an alternate manner. The second strap 112 is placed through ring 402. The ring 402 may be positioned anywhere along the strap length and is illustrates as positioned adjacent the middle section such that the presence of the ring changes the transition configuration from the strap to the middle section. The first strap 110 is placed through ring 404. Similar to ring 402 on second strap 112, ring 404 may be positioned anywhere along the strap length and is shown contacting or positioned adjacent the middle section. The position of the rings 402 and 404 changes the shape of the middle section 118 and the transition edges between middle section and straps. The straps 112 and 110 may also be otherwise configured to alter their orientation, shape, and/or length. For example, as shown, second strap 112 and first strap 110 are twisted, such as by rotating 180 degrees. In this case the side 104 is exposed along a portion of the strap length and opposing side 102 is exposed along a different portion of the strap. Ring 402 and ring 404 may be spheroid, cylindrical, cubic, or another shape with an opening or passage that allows the respective strap to pass through, they may be constructed from any material, such as wood, metal, plastic, fabric, and combinations thereof.

FIG. 7 is a rear view of the invention worn in an alternate manner secured around the back of the user. The third strap 114 is placed around the user's torso to their back and threaded through a ring 720, the fourth strap 116 is similarly positioned around the user's other side to their back and also threaded through ring 720. The third strap 114 is then extended upwards to reach and tie with either first strap 110 or second strap 112. The fourth 116 is also extended upwards to reach and tie with the other of second strap 112 or first strap 110. Ring 720 may be spheroid, cylindrical, cubic, or another shape with an opening or passage that allows the respective strap to pass through it. It may be constructed from any material, such as wood, metal, plastic, fabric, or a combination thereof.

FIGS. 8 and 9 are views of the invention to be worn as a bikini top, worn in an alternate manner. Fourth strap 116 and second strap 112 are rotated about the middle section 118 such that interchange change positions relative to the middle section. The rotation causes the middle section 118 to have a twist. Both front side 102 and rear side 104 of the middle section 118 are therefore visible when worn across the chest. The straps may be affixed to each other in any combination to secure the bikini to the user as described herein. The straps themselves may be rotated about their long axis, or one or more rings, clips, bands, ties, or other ornaments may be positioned along the straps before they are secured.

FIG. 10 is an alternate manner of wearing the invention shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. Fourth strap 116 is threaded through ring 1002 and first strap 110 is threaded through ring 1004. Fourth strap 116 and first strap 110 are rotated 180 degrees so they form a twist and both sides 104 and 102 of the respective straps are exposed when secured to the user. The combination of rotation and rings creates an alternate appearance depending on the color, pattern or style that is present on the particular side.

FIGS. 11 and 12 are views of the invention to be worn as a bikini top, worn in an alternate manner. The middle section 118 is placed through a ring 1102. For example, straps 112 and 116 may be threaded through ring 1102 and ring positioned generally at a mid-section of middle section 118. The straps may be affixed to each other to secure the bikini top to the user as described herein.

FIG. 13 is an alternate manner of wearing the invention shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. The second strap 112 is threaded through ring 1104; the first strap 110 is threaded through ring 110; the fourth strap 116 is threaded through ring 1108. The third strap 114 is threaded through ring 1110. As shown, a ring is positioned at an end portion of each of the four straps adjacent the middle section to change the transition configuration between the strap and the middle section. The middle section 118 also includes a ring 1102 positioned generally at its middle section. Straps 112 and 110 may also be rotated to further customize the bikini configuration when secured to the user.

FIGS. 14 and 15 are views of the invention used as a bikini bottom. The middle section 118 is positioned between the user's legs to cover the user's crotch and buttocks area. The bikini is positioned so that the straps are on the sides/hips of the user. First 110 is towards the right side and front of the user; while second strap 112 is toward the right side and rear of the user. Third strap 114 is towards the left side and front of the user; while fourth strap 116 is toward the left side and rear of the user. The first strap 110 is tied to the second strap 112 at the user's right hip. The third strap 114 is tied to the fourth strap 116 at the user's left hip. The bikini bottom is affixed to the user.

FIG. 16 is an alternate manner of wearing the invention of FIGS. 14 and 15. A ring 1602 is threaded through first strap 110 and a ring 1604 is threaded through third strap 114 and the ring is placed proximate or adjacent the middle section 118. This creates a different shape and fit of the bikini when secured to the user. The ring 1602 may be threaded through second strap 112 at the user's rear and the ring 1604 may be threaded through the fourth strap 116 at the user's rear, also changing the shape and fit.

FIGS. 17, 18 and 19, present alternate manners of affixing the bikini shown in FIG. 14. FIGS. 17 and 18 are front views of the bikini on a user's front. FIG. 19 is a rear view of the bikini as seen from the user's backside. Instead of tying first strap 110 to second strap 112, second strap 112 may be strung across the user's abdomen with fourth strap 116 also strung across the user's abdomen. Therefore, the second strap 112 and fourth strap 116 originating from behind the user may be positioned around the user's sides and coupled or tied to each other at a front side of the user. Similarly, third strap 114 is brought around to the user's back and first 110 is also brought around to the user's back. The first strap 110 and third strap 114 originating on a front side of a user are extended around the sides of the user and coupled or tied together on the back side of the user. The bikini is then affixed to the user.

FIG. 20 is a rear view of an embodiment of the invention worn in an alternate manner. The first strap 110 is brought together with second strap 112 behind or near the user's neck and/or at the top of the user's spine. The first strap 110 and second strap 112 may be tied, twisted, secured by ring, or otherwise brought together such that both straps extend down the user's back. First strap 110 and second strap 112 then meet with third strap 114 and fourth strap 116 and coupled at the user's back by tying, twisting, or other attachment as described herein.

FIG. 20 is a rear view of an embodiment of the invention worn in an alternate manner. The first strap 110, second strap 112, third strap 114, and fourth strap 116 are all tied to each other in any combination at approximately the same location on the user's back. For example, straps 114 and 116 may be tied together, and straps 110 and 112 may be tied to straps 114 and 116 respectively either along their lengths or at the coupling of straps 114 and 116.

As shown and described herein, accessory pieces are generally illustrated in terms of a cylindrical ring. However, any combination or configuration of adornment to achieve the customizable alteration is within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, accessories may include one or more rings, clips, bands, ties, or other ornament. Exemplary embodiments include a ring of cylindrical form including a solid circumferential material configured to fully circumscribe a portion of the convertible garment, such as a strap or middle portion of the garment. The cylindrical form may also partially circumscribe the material such that a gap is formed longitudinally along a portion of the ring. This configuration permits the ring to be positioned on the garment by inserting the garment material through the gap instead of threading it through the hole or passage. Other accessories may include ties, clips, clasps, synch, loops, or other attachable mechanism to achieve the functions described herein. In general, accessories are configured to dynamically adjust the configuration of the convertible garment by either securing portions together, changing working dimensions, etc. Decorations may also be included. However, decorations may simply be appended or otherwise attached to the convertible garment, but do not necessarily alter the configuration of the garment.

Although the invention has been described above with specific reference to various embodiments and examples, it should be understood that various additions, modifications, deletions and alterations may be made to such embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that all reasonably foreseeable additions, deletions, alterations and modifications be included within the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A convertible garment that is configured to permit a user to wear the garment as a bikini top or bikini bottom, comprising:

a first elongated piece of material;

a second elongate piece of material;

a connecting piece of material connecting the first and second elongate pieces of material on opposing sides of the connecting piece, the connecting piece extending from middle sections of the first elongate piece and second elongate piece thereby defining four straps extending from the connecting piece in pairs on opposing sides of the connecting piece;

a first opening positioned between a first pair of straps extending from a same side of the connecting piece and defined by an first interior edge of the first elongated piece and a second interior edge of the second elongate piece and a first lateral side of the connecting piece; and

a second opening positioned between a second pair of straps extending from an opposite same side of the connecting piece and defined by a third interior edge of the first elongate piece and a fourth interior edge of the second elongate piece and a second lateral side of the connecting piece;

wherein the first elongated piece of material, second elongated piece of material, and connecting piece of material are configured such that the convertible garment may be worn by a user as either a bikini bottom or a bikini top.

2. The convertible garment of claim 1, wherein the convertible garment is symmetric about two orthogonal axis and the first elongated piece, second elongated piece, and connecting piece comprise a continuous, integral, monolithic, single piece of material.

3. The convertible garment of claim 2, wherein the first and second openings are symmetric about the coupling piece and are generally in the form of a semi-circle along the first and second lateral sides of the connecting piece and generally linear along the first, second, third, and fourth interior edges.

4. The convertible garment of claim 3, wherein each one of the first pair of straps is linearly aligned with a respective one of the second pair of straps on opposite ends of the coupling piece creating a pair of linearly aligned straps, wherein each of the linearly aligned straps define a linear exterior edge along an entire length of the device, and each of the linear exterior edges of the respective pair of linearly aligned straps are parallel, wherein the first and second lateral sides of the connecting piece are convex curved and having a minimum width at a middle section of the connecting piece between the respective straps of the first pair of straps.

5. The convertible garment of claim 4, further comprising a front surface and back surface, wherein a color, pattern, texture, or print of the front surface is different from the back surface.

6. A method of configuring a convertible garment as a bikini top or a bikini bottom, comprising:

Four straps extending from a connecting piece in pairs on opposite sides of the connecting piece;

the garment is positioned around a user;

one strap is tied to another, and a second set of straps are tied to one another.

7. The method of configuring a convertible garment as a bikini top of claim 6, wherein the middle portion of the garment is positioned over the user's chest and two opposing straps extend around the user's neck and/or torso and two other opposing straps extending around the user's torso; the two opposing straps extending around the user's neck and/or torso are tied together and the two other opposing straps extending around the user's torso are tied together.

8. The method of configuring a convertible garment as a bikini bottom of claim 6, wherein the middle portion of the garment is positioned through the user's legs and folding or curving the garment ends over each other, such that one end extends upward over the user's front and the opposing end extends upwards over the user's buttocks; the straps at the left side of the user are tied together and straps at the right side of the user are tied together.

9. The method of configuring a convertible garment as a bikini top or bottom of claim 6, wherein a strap may be threaded through an accessory and the accessory is placed towards the user's chest thereby changing the shape and size of the garment.

10. The method of configuring a convertible garment as a bikini top or bottom of claim 6, wherein the garment may be rotated or folded to reveal an opposite side.

11. A method of configuring a convertible garment as a bikini top, comprising:

a first elongated piece of material;

a second elongate piece of material;

a connecting piece of material connecting the first and second elongate pieces of material on opposing sides of the connecting piece, the connecting piece extending from middle sections of the first elongate piece and second elongate piece thereby defining four straps extending from the connecting piece in pairs on opposing sides of the connecting piece;

a first opening positioned between a first pair of straps extending from a same side of the connecting piece and defined by an first interior edge of the first elongated piece and a second interior edge of the second elongate piece and a first lateral side of the connecting piece; and

a second opening positioned between a second pair of straps extending from an opposite same side of the connecting piece and defined by a third interior edge of the first elongate piece and a fourth interior edge of the second elongate piece and a second lateral side of the connecting piece;

wherein the connecting piece is positioned over the user's chest and the first pair of straps extend around the user's neck and/or torso and second pair of straps extend around the user's torso; the first pair of straps are tied together and the second pair of straps are tied together.

12. The method of configuring a convertible garment as a bikini top of claim 11, wherein the garment is a unitary monolithic piece.

13. The method of configuring a convertible garment as a bikini top of claim 11, wherein a strap may be threaded through an accessory and the accessory is placed towards the user's chest thereby changing the shape and size of the garment.

14. The method of configuring a convertible garment as a bikini top of claim 11, wherein the garment may be rotated or folded to reveal an opposite side.

15. A method of configuring a convertible garment as a bikini bottom or a bikini top, comprising:

a first elongated piece of material;

a second elongate piece of material;

a connecting piece of material connecting the first and second elongate pieces of material on opposing sides of the connecting piece, the connecting piece extending from middle sections of the first elongate piece and second elongate piece thereby defining four straps extending from the connecting piece in pairs on opposing sides of the connecting piece;

a first opening positioned between a first pair of straps extending from a same side of the connecting piece and defined by an first interior edge of the first elongated piece and a second interior edge of the second elongate piece and a first lateral side of the connecting piece; and

a second opening positioned between a second pair of straps extending from an opposite same side of the connecting piece and defined by a third interior edge of the first elongate piece and a fourth interior edge of the second elongate piece and a second lateral side of the connecting piece;

wherein the connecting piece is positioned through the user's legs and folding or curving the garment ends over each other, such that one end extends upward over the user's front and the opposing end extends upwards over the user's buttocks; the straps at the left side of the user are tied together and straps at the right side of the user are tied together.

16. The method of configuring a convertible garment as a bikini top of claim 15, wherein the garment is a unitary monolithic piece.

17. The method of configuring a convertible garment as a bikini top of claim 15, wherein a strap may be threaded through an accessory and the accessory is placed towards the user's chest thereby changing the shape and size of the garment.

18. The method of configuring a convertible garment as a bikini top of claim 15, wherein the garment may be rotated or folded to reveal an opposite side.