SIMULATED SUIT JACKET AND ATTIRE

Abstract

A garment is provided which boasts the ability to simulate an authentic suit jacket, dress shirt, and/or tie for purposes of providing a professional appearance during a video conference call. The garment is configured to open from the back which is easily slipped on and securely attaches to the user's torso.

Description

RELATED U.S. PROVISIONAL APPLICATION

This application is based upon and claims the priority filing date of the previously filed, copending U.S. Provisional patent application entitled “SIMULATED SUIT JACKET AND ATTIRE” filed Dec. 7, 2016, Ser. No. 62/431,028, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to articles of apparel, in particular, to a garment which simulates a suit jacket and attire.

BACKGROUND

Typically, a suit is a semi-formal attire which includes a jacket and trousers. In formal or semi-formal wear, the suit is worn with various other items such as quality socks, leather lace-up shoes, and a tie. Sometimes a tie is not worn which provides more of a casual appearance. More recently, the suit attire is customarily worn by men in the professional setting such as occupations relating to business, law, and politics.

A coat or jacket is usually made of worsted wool; however, other materials such as silk, cotton, linen or polyester can be utilized. Typical suit jackets have a collar, pockets, and a silk or polyester lining. Suit jackets come in many colors, but the most common are dark blue, brown and grey. Suit jackets come in different styles including double-breasted (buttons on both sides of the front), single-breasted (buttons down one side of the front only), two-button, three-button or more.

There are many different accessories that are worn in conjunction with the suit which can be selectable according to the desires of the owner, such as a dress shirt, dress socks and shoes, ties, vests, and sleeveless V-neck garments. A shirt is worn in conjunction with the jacket and is typically made of silk, cotton or linen. Generally, a tie is worn and attached to the collar of the shirt and is typically made of silk or polyester, and it usually has a color or pattern on it. Occasionally, a suit is worn with a bow tie or no tie at all.

Generally, suits are expensive, take time to properly care regarding cleaning and storage, and are somewhat taxing to change into on a daily basis for a job within the business setting. In the realm of business, suits are worn on a day to day basis and are the standard when it comes to business attire dress code. Business oriented employees and executives are expected to wear suits while interacting in their respective business environments. However, recently, many people which have business oriented careers are now spending time working from home or telecommuting—utilizing tools such as telecommunications, email, and video conferencing.

Even though many business men and women are now working from home, they still need to maintain a certain business professional appearance particularly when communicating via video conferencing in order to maintain the status quo of business attire. This means that even though the business man or woman is working from home, they still need to provide the appearance that they are within the business setting during video conference calls, thus requiring them to change into business oriented attire such as a suit jacket and pants in order to properly provide the correct appearance during a video conference. Many people find it exasperating to change into their complete business suit attire, wasting critical time and effort in order to provide the appearance of a business professional during a video call.

For the foregoing reason, there is a need for a garment that can simulate the appearance of a suit jacket which can easily be taken on and off.

SUMMARY

In accordance with the invention, a garment is provided which boasts the ability to simulate an authentic suit jacket, dress shirt, and tie for purposes of providing a professional appearance during a video conference call. The garment is configured to open from the back which is easily slipped on and securely attached to the user's torso.

In summary, the invention generally comprises a garment having a collar portion, front portion, and a rear portion. In a version, the garment generally comprises (a) a suit jacket having an interior; (b) a dress shirt portion appearing within and affixed to the interior of the suit jacket, wherein the front portion simulates the appearance of a conventional suit jacket and dress shirt combination; (c) the rear portion comprising a longitudinal divide extending from the collar to the bottom defining a first side portion and a second side portion, (d) a means for fastening together the first side portion with the second side portion; and (e) a first strap connected to and extending below the first side portion and a second strap connected to and extending below the second side portion.

In a version of the application, the means for fastening is reciprocal hook and loop material operably positioned to connect the first side portion with the second side portion.

In alternative version, the hook and loop material is positioned on the exterior of the first side portion and a reciprocal hook and loop material positioned on the interior of the second side portion, whereby when the second side portion is extended over the first side portion, the hook and loop material fasten together, thereby securing the garment to the person.

In certain versions, a means for connecting the collar at the divide is provided, wherein the means for fastening further provides circumferential length adjustment of the collar in order to fit snugly around the user's neck. For example, the means for fastening is a buckle type fastener.

In other versions, the garment further comprises a shirt sleeve terminating at a shirt cuff, the shirt cuff having at least one functioning button. And in other versions, the suit jacket further comprises a suit jacket sleeve terminating at a suit cuff, wherein the dress cuff extends approximately 1 inch or greater below the suit cuff.

These and other features of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following specification and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description and accompanying figures where:

FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a first version of the simulated suit jacket and attire;

FIG. 2 is a rear elevation view of the version shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of the version shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the version shown in FIG. 1 with the rear portion in the in the partially unfastened position;

FIG. 5 is front elevation view of the dress shirt portion of the version shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a version of the suit jacket cuff showing faux button on jacket sleeve;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a version of a combination of the dress shirt sleeve and suit jacket sleeve;

FIG. 8 is a front view of the suit jacket of a version of the application;

FIG. 9 is an up-close view of the collar portion and buckle fastener of the version shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a rear elevation view of the version shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is an up-close view of the collar and buckle fastener of the version shown in FIG. 1 while in the fastened position;

FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view photograph of a version of the application while in the open position;

FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of the version shown in FIG. 12 shown while in the fastened position;

FIG. 14 is a rear illustrative perspective view showing the user attaching the simulated suit to the user's torso of the version shown in FIG. 5; and

FIG. 15-FIG. 17 illustrate how the garment is put on and fastened about the user.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the figures wherein the showings are for purposes of illustrating a preferred version of the invention only and not for purposes of limiting the same, the present invention is a garment which simulates a suit jacket and associated attire for purposes of video conferencing and other video telecommunications.

In the following description, for purposes of explanation and not limitation, specific details are set forth such as particular architectures, interfaces, techniques, etc. in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced in other versions that depart from these specific details.

Moreover, the description is not to be taken in the limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims. Various inventive features are described below that can each be used independently of one another or in combination with other features.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs. As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Any reference to “or” herein is intended to encompass “and/or” unless otherwise stated.

With reference to the figures, a description of a version of the invention will be provided. FIG. 1 is an illustrative front view showing the garment 10 as intended to be viewed during a conference call. The garment 10 is configured to adapt and appear as an authentic suit jacket and related attire worn by the participant 90 of the video call. During a computer implemented video conference call, typically the participant 90 is seated and only viewed from the torso up—focusing on the participant's 90 face. Because much of the torso of the participant 90 is shown—the participant 90 should be in suitable attire which is naturally expected in the business setting.

In a first version of the invention as illustrated by FIG. 1-FIG. 11, the garment 10 generally comprises the appearance of a suit jacket 12 in combination with a dress shirt portion 14. In the illustrated version, the garment 10 including in combination the suit jacket 12 and dress shirt portion 14 generally includes a collar portion 16, a front portion 18, a rear portion 20, an exterior 22 and an interior 24.

The suit jacket 12 can be of any configuration or esthetic design, preferably designs that imitate a front perspective realistic suit jacket which may be utilized in the business type setting. In a version of the application, the suit jacket 12 generally comprises a front breast portion 18 having connected sides at the waist and opposing sleeves 26L, 26R terminating at a cuff 28L, 28R. Further, the suit jacket 12 may comprise pockets 30, buttons 32, and may come in different styles and colors such as a double-breasted or single breasted. Faux type buttons 32 may be utilized to enhance simulating the appearance of the suit jacket 12 as authentic. Moreover, faux type pockets 30 may be utilized to enhance the realistic appearance of the suit jacket 12. For example, Faux buttons 32 may be positioned on the outer sleeves 26L, 26R near the suit jacket cuff 28L, 28R or uitlized in the front immitating that the suit jacket 12 is buttoned down in the front 24. The suit jacket 12 can be made of wool, silk, cotton, linen, polyester or any other type of material that imitates the authentic appearance of a suit jacket.

Similarly, the dress shirt portion 14 can be configured to simulate various styles, designs, and configurations. Preferably designs are customary in the business setting. Overall, the garment 10 including the suit jacket 12, dress shirt portion 14 and accessories may come in many styles in accordance with the user's preferences and desired look. Moreover, a plurality of faux 34 and real buttons may be utilized to enhance simulating the appearance of the dress shirt portion 14 and overall appearance of the garment 10.

As best illustrated by FIG. 1 and FIG. 5, the dress shirt portion 14 is configured to appear within and affixed to the interior of the suit jacket 12, wherein the overall look of the front portion 18 simulates the appearance of a conventional suit jacket and dress shirt combination. In detail, the dress shirt 14 or a portion of a dress shirt 14 is affixed to the interior of the suit jacket 12 such that at least the front portion 36 of the dress shirt 14 is exposed in combination with the front breast portion 24 of the suit jacket 12, which provides the look of an authentic suit and associated attire from a front view perspective. A tie 38 may also be included if desired for a certain professional appearance. The dress shirt 14 can be hemmed, glued or otherwise affixed as is known in the art of tailoring to the interior of the suit jacket 12. The combination of the suit jacket 12, dress shirt 14, and optionally a tie 16 provide the overall appearance of the viewed front portion 18 of the garment 10.

In certain versions, the garment 10 further includes shirt sleeve cuff portions 40L, 40R extending below the respective right and left suit jacket cuffs 28L, 28R. Preferably, the shirt sleeve cuff portions 40L, 40R are affixed so that each extends at least 1 inch or greater below the cuff 28L, 28R of the suit jacket and may include at least one functioning button 42.

The rear portion 20 of the garment 10 generally provides the appearance of the rear of a suit jacket providing material covering the torso of the participant 90. In a version, as best illustrated by FIG. 10, the rear portion 20 generally comprises a longitudinal divide 44 extending from the collar portion 16 to the bottom of the garment 10 and suit jacket 12. The rear portion 20 is split by the longitudinal divide 44 into opposing first side portion 46 and a second side portion 48 which can be freely opened and spread apart or oppositely aligned and brought together to collectively form the rear portion 20 of the garment 10.

Generally, as illustrated by FIG. 4, FIG. 10-FIG. 13, the first side portion 46 and the second side portion 48 generally have reciprocal means for fastening 50 together the first side portion 46 with the second side portion 48 while the garment 10 is worn by the participant 90. In the version, the means for fastening 50 is a hook and loop material combination or otherwise known as Velcro. Preferably, the hook and loop material 50a is positioned on the exterior of the first side portion 46 near the longitudinal divide 44 and the reciprocal hook and loop material 50b positioned on the interior of the second side portion 48 near the longitudinal divide 44. Thus, when the second side portion 48 is extended over the first side portion 46, the hook and loop material 50a, 50b adhere together, thereby securing the garment 10 to the participant 90. The Velcro is utilized to close the rear portion 20 of the garment 10 at the longitudinal divide 44 once the garment 10 is put on about the participants 90 torso as further described below. Other version of the application may utilize a means for fastening such as belts, snaps, buttons, adhesives or other materials that exhibit qualities of attachment.

In certain versions of the application as best illustrated by FIG. 10-FIG. 13, each of the opposing first and second side portions 46, 48 further include an attachment portion 52L, 52R having a downward extending handle 54L, 54R, attachment portions 52 are located near the longitudinal divide 44 and are generally affixed to the respective side portion 46, 48. The first attachment portion 52L generally extends downward from near the collar 16 at an angle towards the opposing second side portion 48 terminating at a free handle 54L. Likewise, the second attachment portion 52R generally extends downward away from the near the collar 16 at an angle towards the opposing first side portion 46 terminating at a free handle 52R.

Preferably, each attachment portion 52L, 52R may comprise an integral flap 56L, 56R having an outer perimeter 60 and having a triangular shape as shown. Other shaped outlines can certainly be envisioned. The first attachment portion 52L outer perimeter 60 generally extends downward from near the collar 16 at an angle towards the opposing second side portion 48 terminating at a first handle 54L. Oppositely, the second attachment portion 52R has a second integral flap 56L having a second outer perimeter 60, the second outer perimeter 60 extending downward from near the collar 16 at an angle towards the opposing first side portion 46 terminating at a second handle 54R. When the handles 54L, 54R are grasped and pulled to the opposing side by the user, the triangular structure distributes force from the collar 16 extending down the longitudinal divide 44 perimeter of each respective side portion 46, 48. Thus providing an easy way for the participant 90 to pull laterally most of the longitudinal divide length of each of the opposing first and second side portions 46, 48 together. Therefore, fastening together each of the reciprocal Velcro surfaces 50L, 50R. Preferably, the attachment portions 52R, 52L can be made of a flexible material such as canvas or nylon or may be constructed of rigid or combination of flexible and rigid materials.

Preferably, the attachment portions 52R, 52L are configured to functionally allow the participant 90 to pull aside each of the first and second side portions 46, 48 with a single hand. Thus, preferably, the configuration of each attachment portion 52R, 52L has a triangular framework which is operably connected with each of the opposing side portions 46, 48. Thus, it can be envisioned that other versions may comprise only a strap providing a perimeter 60 which extends from the collar 16 at an acute angle relative to the vertical axis towards the opposing side portion 46, 48 terminating at a handle 54, wherein an anchor strap 62 is positioned connecting at a point which bisects the strap to the side portion 46, 48. Thereby, providing two points of contact, one near the collar 16 and one near the longitudinal midpoint 63 of each side portion 46, 48. Thus, providing the participant with two simultaneous points of pull when fitting the garment 10. Therefore, other versions can certainly be envisioned which carry out the functional aspects of the attachment portions.

In the version as best illustrated by FIG. 10-FIG. 11, the Velcro 50a, 50b is preferably positioned as a first longitudinal strip extending vertically from near the collar 16 to at least partially along the longitudinal divide 44 of the exterior of the first side portion 44 and as a second longitudinal strip extending vertically from near the collar 16 to at least partially along the longitudinal divide 44 of the interior of the second side portion 48. The opposing Velcro surfaces 52a, 52b are aligned such that when the second attachment portion 52R is extended over the first attachment portion 52L, the Velcro 52a, 52b adhere, thereby securely fitting and fastening the garment 10 about the participant 90.

As best illustrated by FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the collar 16 of the garment 10 has a means for connecting the collar 64 located at the longitudinal divide 44. The means for connecting 64 is configured to connect the opposing sides of the divided collar 16. In the illustrated version, a strap 66 and buckle 68 configuration is provided which enables the participant 90 to fit the collar 16 about the participant's 90 neck. Moreover, the buckle 68 is translatable along the strap 66 which provides the ability to tighten and loosen the circumference of the collar 16. The means for connecting 64 utilized in conjunction with the rear portion 20 means for fastening 50 together the first side portion 46 and the second side portion 48 provide a superior, snug fit about the participant's 90 body and torso.

Now referring to FIG. 14-FIG. 17, the operation and use of the garment 10 will now be described in detail. The garment 10 is generally put on from the rear portion 20 by opening and separating the first and second side portions 46, 48 at the longitudinal divide 44, wherein the participant 90 places both arms into each correlating sleeve and aligning the collar portion 16 with the participant's 90 neck. Thereafter, the participant 90 fastens the collar portion 16 buckle 68 about the participant's 90 neck and adjust the circumference of the collar portion 16 via the slidable strap 66. Next, the participant 90 reaches with a first hand behind the participant's back and grabs the opposing side handle 54 urging the opposing side about the participant's 90 torso. Next, with the participant's 90 other hand, the participant 90 reaches behind the participant's 90 back and grabs the opposing sides handle 54 urging the side portion towards the opposing side portion about the participant's 90 torso. Thus, the participant 90 simultaneously overlaps the first and second side portions 46, 48 attaching them securely by way of affixing the hook and loop fastening surfaces 50. FIG. 17 illustrates proper attachment of the garment 10 on the participant 90 ready to simulate a suitable attire for a business video conference call.

The garment 10 can be made in any manner and of any material chosen with sound engineering judgment. Preferably, materials will be strong, lightweight, long lasting, economic, and ergonomic. Construction of the garment 10 can be made of any known material known in the textile art such as cloth, synthetics, and other clothing material.

The invention does not require that all the advantageous features and all the advantages need to be incorporated into every version of the invention.

Although preferred embodiments of the invention have been described in considerable detail, other versions and embodiments of the invention are certainly possible. Therefore, the present invention should not be limited to the described embodiments herein.

All features disclosed in this specification including any claims, abstract, and drawings may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose unless expressly stated otherwise.

Claims

1. A garment simulating a conventional suit jacket and dress shirt, the garment having a collar portion, front portion, and a rear portion, the garment comprising:

a) a suit jacket having an interior;

b) a dress shirt portion appearing within and affixed to the interior of the suit jacket, wherein the front portion simulates the appearance of a conventional suit jacket and dress shirt combination;

c) the rear portion comprising a longitudinal divide extending from the collar to the bottom defining a first side portion and a laterally opposed second side portion;

d) a means for fastening together the first side portion with the second side portion; and

e) a first strap connected to and extending below the first side portion and a second strap connected to and extending below the second side portion.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the means for fastening is reciprocal hook and loop material operably positioned to connect the first side portion with the second side portion.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the hook and loop material is positioned on the exterior of the first side portion and a reciprocal hook and loop material positioned on the interior of the second side portion, whereby when the second side portion is extended over the first side portion, the hook and loop material fasten together, thereby securing the garment to the person.

4. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a means for connecting the collar at the divide, wherein the means for fastening further provides circumferential length adjustment of the collar in order to fit snugly around the user's neck.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the means for fastening is a buckle type fastener.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the garment further comprises a shirt sleeve terminating at a shirt cuff, the shirt cuff having at least one functioning button.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the suit jacket further comprises a suit jacket sleeve terminating at a suit cuff, wherein the dress cuff extends approximately 1 inch or greater below the suit cuff.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a plurality of faux buttons to enhance simulating the appearance of the suit jacket.

9. A garment simulating a conventional suit jacket and dress shirt, the garment having a collar portion, front portion, and a rear portion, the garment comprising:

a) a suit jacket having an interior;

b) a dress shirt portion appearing within and affixed to the interior of the suit jacket, wherein the front portion simulates the appearance of a conventional suit jacket and dress shirt combination;

c) the rear portion comprising a longitudinal divide extending from the collar to the bottom defining a first side portion and a laterally opposed second side portion,

d) a means for fastening together the first side portion with the second side portion;

e) the first side portion having a first member extending downward from near the collar at an angle towards the opposing side portion terminating at a first handle; and

f) the second side portion having a second member extending downward from near the collar at an angle towards the opposing side portion terminating at a second handle.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the means for fastening is a hook and loop material combination, the hook and loop material is positioned on the exterior of the first side portion and a reciprocal hook and loop material positioned on the interior of the second side portion, whereby when the second side portion is extended over the first side portion, the hook and loop material fasten together, thereby securing the garment to the person.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a means for connecting the collar at the divide, wherein the means for fastening further provides circumferential length adjustment of the collar in order to fit snugly around the user's neck.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the means for fastening is a buckle type fastener.

13. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the garment further comprises a shirt sleeve terminating at a shirt cuff, the shirt cuff having at least one functioning button.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the suit jacket further comprises a suit jacket sleeve terminating at a suit cuff, wherein the dress cuff extends approximately 1 inch or greater below the suit cuff.

15. A garment simulating a conventional suit jacket and dress shirt, the garment having a collar portion, front portion, and a rear portion, the garment comprising:

a) a suit jacket having an interior;

b) a dress shirt portion appearing within and affixed to the interior of the suit jacket, wherein the front portion simulates the appearance of a conventional suit jacket and dress shirt combination;

c) the rear portion comprising a longitudinal divide extending from the collar to the bottom defining a first side portion and a laterally opposed second side portion;

d) reciprocal hook and loop material operably positioned to connect the first side portion with the second side portion;

e) the first side portion having an integral first flap having a first outer perimeter, the first outer perimeter extending downward from near the collar at an angle towards the opposing side portion terminating at a first handle;

f) the second portion having an integral second flap having a second outer perimeter, the second outer perimeter extending downward from near the collar at an angle towards the opposing side portion terminating at a second handle; and

g) a means for connecting the collar at the divide, wherein the means for fastening further provides circumferential length adjustment of the collar in order to fit snugly around the user's neck.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the means of fastening is a buckle type fastener.

17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the hook and loop material is positioned on the exterior of the first side portion and a reciprocal hook and loop material positioned on the interior of the second side portion, whereby when the second side portion is extended over the first side portion, the hook and loop material fasten together, thereby securing the garment to the person.