DEVICE AND METHOD USED TO TEMPORARILY ALTER THE FIT OR STYLE OF A GARMENT

Abstract

A device and method used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment is provided. The device includes a rounded form constructed of a rigid material. The rounded form has a width, a length, a hollow center and an inner edge and an outer edge. The device also includes a continuous elastic band configured to allow the form to pass through it as it is wrapped multiple times securely around the garment fabric. The device provides two methods of application, both of which effectively cinch excess fabric and minimize the bulk by hiding the excess fabric under the garment and holding it flat and smooth. The device remains invisible under clothing and can easily be removed and reused without damage to the garment.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation in part application to U.S. Non-provisional application Ser. No. 17/695,750 filed Mar. 15, 2022 which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/166,137 filed on Mar. 25, 2021, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated in its entirety at least by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to garment accessories but more particularly to a device and method used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment.

2. Background

In the early 19th century, wide bell-shaped skirts were a key component of women's fashion. The hoop skirt was invented to hold the fabric in a voluminous rounded shape. Similarly, in men's fashions, the collar stay was invented to maintain the shape of the collar and prevent it from becoming wrinkled or floppy. In each case, the devices act as a form to maintain the desired shape and structure of clothing.

Today, a popular fashion trend is to style a T-shirt or other garment by securing a portion of the fabric in a knot. By adjusting the size and the placement of the knot, individuals can accent their individual body shape and express their personal style.

While tying knots in the fabric of T-shirts, dresses and skirts is a popular way to temporarily alter the fit or style, the knots add unwanted bulk and appear sloppy. Knots may only be used when there is sufficient excess fabric to form a knot. Further, knots may not have the holding power to withstand the movement of the wearer.

Elastic bands are often used instead, to overcome some of these limitations. Still, the excess fabric that is tied off with the elastic band is bulky, and the elastic band may slide off when tension is applied to the garment.

Other inventions have attempted to bridge the divide between standardized clothing sizes and the diversity of body shapes and sizes. MacLean's “Garment cinching apparatus” and Rizzo's “Garment shaping device” perform much like an elastic band, holding the fabric via friction alone, allowing them to easily slip off when tension is applied to the fabric due to normal movement of the wearer. Furthermore, the excess fabric is left loose, creating unwanted bulk.

Query's “Method and apparatus for modifying an article of clothing,” uses a button and elongated collar to produce a pleated effect. The button is passed through one section of fabric, twisted, and then passed through a second location of fabric before being secured in an elongated collar, essentially “buttoning” two sections of fabric together to give a pleated effect. Not only is the excess fabric left loose and bunched under the garment, but the pleated appearance may not be desirable.

Other devices such as the common scarf ring are limited to use near a hemline and are visible on the outside of the clothing.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following presents a simplified summary of some embodiments of the invention to provide a basic understanding of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some embodiments of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The present invention distinguishes itself as more than a fastening device. Rather it takes on the role of a structural element, holding excess fabric flat, effectively counteracting the problem of bunching and bulk and giving the appearance of a custom-tailored garment. Similar to the hoop skirt, and collar stay, the present invention acts as a form to maintain the desired shape and structure of clothing. The form remains hidden inside the fabric and can easily be removed and reused.

The present invention consists of a rounded form around which fabric can be wrapped, and an elastic band which secures the fabric around the rounded form. The form prevents the elastic from slipping off when tension is applied to the garment. Additionally, the form prevents the fabric from bunching, creating a slimmer and more tailored fit. The wearer can accomplish a ruched effect, or a rosette effect depending upon the method of application. The wearer can precisely adjust the length and width of the garment by selecting the appropriately sized form. Versatility is added to the wardrobe as garments may be “tailored” differently with each use without the expense of a professional tailor. Use of this device does not require puncturing or otherwise damaging the fabric. The device may be conveniently removed and reused.

It is a primary object of the invention to cinch a measured amount of fabric and minimize bulk by maintaining the excess fabric in a smooth and flat shape. It is another object of the invention to prevent the elastic band from sliding off when tension is applied to the garment. It is another object of the invention to provide a device that is inconspicuous and hidden during use. It is yet another object of the invention to provide a lightweight device that does not cause fabric to hang or droop when in use. It is another object of the invention to be removable and reusable. It is another object of the invention to be gentle on fabric. It is another object of the invention to provide an exact fit with a secure hold. It is yet another object of the invention to provide a device configured to fasten multiple layers of fabric together. It is another object of the invention to be utilized anywhere on a garment, and not restricted to a hemline. It is another object of the invention to be applied using 2 methods to get a ruched effect or a rosette.

In order to do so, a device and method used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment is provided, comprising a rounded form comprised of a rigid material, wherein the rounded form has a width, a length, a hollow center portion, an inner edge and an outer edge; an elastic band comprised of a continuous band configured to stretch around the form and wrap multiple times around the fabric to secure the form within the fabric; and, wherein a first mode of operation, the form is placed against the outer fabric of the garment and secured there by an elastic band from the inside of the garment such that the form is completely encased in fabric and the garment is cinched at the location of the device: and, wherein a second mode of operation, the rounded form is placed against the outer fabric of the garment and the excess fabric of the garment is passed through the hollow center of the form, then wrapped around the form and secured with an elastic band resulting in a rosette on the outside of the garment. This method effectively doubles the amount of fabric that is cinched and is ideal when the amount of excess fabric exceeds the largest practical or available rounded form size.

In one embodiment, the rounded form has a hollow circular or decorative shape in the center portion. In one embodiment, the outer edge comprises a rounded smooth edge configured to minimize damage to the garment. In one embodiment, the rounded form has a varying thickness from the outer edge to the inner edge, wherein the thickness at the outer edge is greatest. In one embodiment, the rounded form is a circle, and the length and the width are equal. In one embodiment, the rounded form is an oval or ellipse, and the length is greater than the width. In one embodiment, the rigid material is lightweight such that drag is minimized on the garment. In one embodiment, the rounded form is one of: transparent, nude, or a color matching the garment such that the device is not visible through the fabric layer of the garment. In one embodiment, the rounded perimeter edge is free of ridges, sharp corners, or rough edges to avoid damage to the garment. In one embodiment, the length and the width are between 1 and 6 inches. In another embodiment, the length and the width are between 0.5 and 12 inches. In one embodiment, the rounded form includes text, branding, or sizing corresponding to the length and the width of the rounded form. In one embodiment, the rigid material does not bend or break during use. In one embodiment, the rigid material of the rounded form is lightweight such that it does not drag on the garment. In one embodiment, the rounded form is thin such that it minimizes bulk under the garment. In one embodiment, the rounded form is configured to withstand machine washing and drying.

The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the more pertinent and important features of the present disclosure so that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood and so that the present contribution to the art can be more fully appreciated. Additional features of the invention will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and the disclosed specific methods and structures may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent structures do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a front view of the rounded form used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line 2-2 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3A is a front view of an exemplary rounded form with a hollow center portion in a circular shape according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3B is a front view of an exemplary rounded form with a hollow center portion in a decorative shape according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4A is a front view of an exemplary elliptical shaped rounded form with a hollow center portion in a circular shape according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4B is a front view of an exemplary elliptical shaped rounded form with a hollow center portion in a decorative shape according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary perspective view illustrating using the device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line 6-6 of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a front view of the device in use on a garment according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a front view of multiple devices in use on a garment according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a front view of the device in use on a garment according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a side view and a detailed view of the device in use on a garment according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is an additional cross-sectional view of the rounded form according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 12A-12B are an exemplary perspective view illustrating an alternate method of application that results in a rosette shape according to embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out his invention. Various modifications, however, will remain readily apparent to those skilled in the art since the general principles of the present invention have been defined herein to specifically provide a device and method used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment.

It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “a” or “an,” as used herein, are defined as to mean “at least one.” The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “providing” is defined herein in its broadest sense, e.g., bringing/coming into physical existence, making available, and/or supplying to someone or something, in whole or in multiple parts at once or over a period of time. As used herein, the terms “about”, “generally,” or “approximately” apply to all numeric values, whether or not explicitly indicated. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider near the stated amount by about 0%, 5%, or 10%, including increments therein. In many instances these terms may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure.

FIG. 1 is a front view of the rounded form of the device used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring now to FIG. 1, the rounded form is illustrated 100. In one embodiment, the rounded form 100 comprises a rounded body 101 constructed from a rigid nonmetal material. In one embodiment, a plastic material is used. The material selection should be lightweight to minimize drag on the garment. The rigidness of the selected material is such that the rounded form 100 does not bend or break when in use. Further, the selected material should not set off a metal detector and cause the user to remove the device before entering the metal detector. In one embodiment, the color of the rounded form 100 is transparent. In other embodiments, the color of the rounded form 100 is nude or a color matching the garment or fabric intended to be used with the present invention. The importance of the color is such that the rounded form is not visible through the garment or fabric in which the device is installed. In the illustrated embodiment, the rounded form 100 is hollow and includes a space 104 in the center. It is critical that the hollow center be sized appropriately to allow the excess fabric to pass through. The hollow center provides a secondary method of application that gives the appearance of a rosette (see FIG. 12B). This method of application is particularly useful when an excessive amount of fabric is to be cinched.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the rounded form 100 further comprises an outer edge 102 and inner edge 103, wherein both the outer and inner edges are rounded and smooth such that the element does not damage or tear the garment or fabric during use.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a cross-section of the rounded form body 101 is illustrated. In this view, the rounded edges of the inner edge 103 and outer edge 102 are clearly visible. In one embodiment, the body 101 of the rounded form includes a top surface 105 and a bottom surface 106, wherein in some embodiments, the body tapers inward from the outer edge to the inner edge such that the thickness 111 at the outer edge is greater than the thickness 112 at the inner edge. Advantageously, this cross-section and in combination with the rounded edges provides no edges to catch on the fabric and helps to ensure even tension on the fabric at all points of contact. This will be discussed in further detail below. It should be noted that cross-sectional shape shown is one example, and the shape may vary, as long as the thickness is greatest at the outer edge.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A-4B, many different shapes and sizes are provided. The size (length and width) of the form is selected for how much fabric will cinch during use. In one embodiment, the amount of fabric cinched is approximately equal and as large as double the diameter of the outer edge of the form. For example, a form with a 3″ diameter outer edge will cinch 6″ of fabric. The rounded shape cinches the same amount of fabric in all directions. The elliptical shape, shown in FIGS. 4A-B, allows the user to cinch more in the width than the length or vice versa.

In FIG. 3A, a rounded form is provided 100, which includes length 107 and width 108, wherein the length equals the width. In alternative embodiments, the shape of the rounded form is elliptical or oval shaped. In FIGS. 4A-B, an elliptical shape rounded form is provided. In one embodiment, the elliptical shape rounded form 200 includes length 207, width 208, wherein the width 208 is greater than the length 207. In some embodiments, the length and width are between 0.5″ and 12″. In other embodiments, the length and width are between 1″-6″. The same principles, features, and limitations apply to the elliptical or oval shaped element.

Still referring to FIGS. 3A-4B, in FIG. 3A, the center of the rounded form 100 is hollow with a circular shape, but may be any decorative shape, that is large enough to allow the excess fabric to pass through as shown in FIG. 3B. It should be understood, that other shapes and designs may be provided without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The same principle features and limitations apply whether the hollow center portion is circular or a decorative shape.

Referring now to FIG. 11, in some embodiments, the rounded form has a varying thickness such that the thickness is greatest at the outer edge 111. The radius 102 of the outer edge 111 should be maximized to provide maximum surface area to distribute the tension across fabric, minimizing potential for damage to fabric. The thickness 112 should be thick enough to provide strength so the rounded form does not easily twist, bend, or break. It's also advantageous to minimize the thickness of the rounded form to reduce bulk under the fabric or garment, and to reduce drag on the fabric caused by the weight of the form. As one skilled in the art may appreciate, the weight of the form is proportional to the amount of material used. In some embodiment, a rounded form with a length and width of 1.5″ has a weight of 2.2 grams.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary perspective view illustrating a method of using the device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring now to FIG. 5, the device comprises a form 100 as previously described and an elastic band 300. In one embodiment, the elastic band is comprised of a continuous band of elastic material and is sized and configured to allow the form to pass through and wrap around the fabric multiple times during use as illustrated. More specifically, during use the form 100 is placed on a layer or multiple layers of fabric 400, wherein the fabric is positioned around the rounded form and then the elastic band is secured around the fabric multiple times to ensure that the elastic can not slip and that the rounded form is held securely in place. The fabric may be part of a garment or accessory, including but not limited to scarves, wrap skirts, diapers, dresses, t-shirts, blouses, or similar. However, the device is not limited to garments or clothing accessories, and may be used for upholstery, drapery, tablecloths, pillow covers, sheets, slipcovers, or similar.

Advantageously, the device acts as a form which the fabric is wrapped around and cinched with the elastic band at the center of the form. The rounded form is configured to keep all the excess fabric taught, flat, and tidy under the garment. Further, the rounded form prevents the fabric from slipping through the elastic band. As previously mentioned, the rounded form 100 is comprised of a rigid material. The rigidness of the material should be such that the rounded form does not bend when wrapped with fabric during use. In some embodiments, the form 100 is comprised of plastic, wood, foam, or similar rigid, lightweight material. The material used should be safe and comfortable for clothing and the wearer. Further, the material should also be able to withstand machine washing and drying machine use.

In one embodiment, the elastic band 300 is comprised of rubber, silicone, or similar elastic material or combination of materials. It should be elastic enough to allow the rounded form to pass through it as it is wrapped around the fabric multiple times, yet small enough to bind the fabric without slipping. More than one elastic band may be used as added security in the event an elastic band fails.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a cross-sectional view taken along section line 6-6 of FIG. 5 is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiments, the fabric 402 is the outer garment layer of fabric such that the rounded form is hidden during use. The outer garment layer is intended to mean the visible side of the fabric when the garment is worn. In this view, the rounded perimeter edge 102 ensures the fabric 400 and particularly the outer garment layer of fabric 402 does not catch on any edge of the rounded form 100. Further, the thicker outer edge 102 ensures that tension on the fabric is well distributed. The rounded outer edge maximizes surface area and eliminates corners or sharp edges that could damage the fabric as the elastic band is wrapped around the inner garment layer 401 of fabric 400.

FIGS. 7-10 illustrate exemplary instances of the device in use. For instance, in FIG. 7, the device 700 is used to cinch a shirt and hold the excess fabric flat and hidden inside the garment. Likewise, in FIG. 8, multiple devices 800 are used to cinch in the waist portion of a garment, and an additional device 801 is used to shorten the skirt portion of the same garment. In FIG. 9, the device 900 is used to fasten closed a wrap skirt. Again, in FIG. 10, the device 1000 is used to cinch a shirt. These are just a few examples, and other uses may be provided as previously described. Still referring to FIG. 10, a detailed cross-sectional view of the device in use is illustrated, wherein the rounded form 100 is surrounded by fabric 400 and secured via the elastic band 300.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the rounded form with a hollow center portion in the shape of a circle, similarly, taken along section lines 2-2 of FIG. 1. The rounded form 101 comprises an inner 103 and outer edge 102 as well as top surface 105 and bottom surface 106, wherein, the body tapers inward from the outer edge to the inner edge such that the thickness 111 at the outer edge is greater than the thickness 112 at the inner edge. Further, the rounded outer diameter has radius 102R and the rounded inner diameter has radius 103R. In one embodiment, thickness 111 is 0.12″, thickness 112 is 0.06″, radius 102R is 0.06″, and radius 103R is 0.03″. In general, the thickness should be between 0.01″ and 0.50″, however as previously mentioned, the thickness should be minimized. As one skilled in the art can appreciate several cross-sectional shapes may be provided. It should be understood that the dimensions provided are merely examples, and the values may vary.

Still referring to FIG. 11, in some embodiments, special consideration should be taken to ensure that no rough or sharp protrusions result along the outer edge of the form as part of the manufacturing process.

FIG. 12A-12B Illustrates an alternate method of application that results in a rosette on the outside of the garment. This is an ideal application method when there is an abundance of excess fabric, as it effectively doubles the amount of fabric being cinched. In this case, the fabric is pulled through the hollow center, wrapped around the form, and secured with an elastic band. This produces an embellishment that looks like a rosette, resembling a rose. The rounded form holds the shape of the rosette so that it does not flop or sag.

Although the invention has been described in considerable detail in language specific to structural features, it is to be understood that the invention defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features described. Rather, the specific features are disclosed as exemplary preferred forms of implementing the claimed invention. Stated otherwise, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein, as well as the abstract, are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Therefore, while exemplary illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described, numerous variations and alternative embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. Such variations and alternate embodiments are contemplated and can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

It should further be noted that throughout the entire disclosure, the labels such as left, right, front, back, top, bottom, forward, reverse, clockwise, counter clockwise, up, down, or other similar terms such as upper, lower, aft, fore, vertical, horizontal, oblique, proximal, distal, parallel, perpendicular, transverse, longitudinal, etc. have been used for convenience purposes only and are not intended to imply any particular fixed direction or orientation. Instead, they are used to reflect relative locations and/or directions/orientations between various portions of an object.

In addition, reference to “first,” “second,” “third,” and etc. members throughout the disclosure (and in particular, claims) are not used to show a serial or numerical limitation but instead are used to distinguish or identify the various members of the group.

Claims

1. A device used to temporarily alter the fit or style of a garment comprising:

a rounded form comprised of a rigid material, wherein the rounded form has a width, a length, a hollow center portion, an inner edge, and an outer edge;

an elastic band comprised of a continuous band that has adequate elasticity such that the elastic band is configured to stretch around the rounded form as it is wrapped multiple times around the garment's fabric and hold the fabric securely around the rounded form;

around the rounded element; and, wherein a first mode of operation, the rounded form is configured to be placed against the outer fabric of the garment and secured there by the elastic band which is wrapped multiple times around the inner fabric of the garment, securely holding the rounded form in place, cinching the garment and creating a ruching or gathering at a single location of the device; and, wherein a second mode of operation, the rounded form is placed against the outer fabric of the garment and the excess fabric of the garment is passed through the hollow center portion of the rounded form, then wrapped around the rounded form and secured with the elastic band resulting in a rosette on the outside of the garment.

2. The device of claim 1, where the rounded form will spread and hold the excess fabric flat to minimize bulk.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded form has a hollow circular or decorative shape in the hollow center portion that is large enough for the excess fabric to pass through.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the size of the rounded form determines the amount of fabric to be cinched so that the user can reliably cinch a specified amount of fabric.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded form is a circle, and the length and the width are equal allowing the user to cinch the garment an equal amount in all directions.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded form is an oval or ellipse, and the length is greater than the width, allowing the user to cinch a varying width and length of the garment by rotating the rounded form as desired.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded form structurally prevents the elastic band from slipping off the fabric even if tension is applied to the garment.

8. The device of claim 1, where the device is hidden under the fabric.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded element has a hollow circular or decorative shape in the center portion.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the outer edge comprises a rounded smooth edge configured to minimize damage to the garment.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded form has a varying thickness, wherein the thickness at the outer perimeter edge is greatest.

12. The device of claim 1, wherein the rigid non-metal material is lightweight such that drag is minimized on the garment.

13. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded form is one of: transparent, nude, or a color matching the garment such that the device is not visible through the fabric layer of the garment.

14. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded outer edge is free of ridges, sharp corners, or rough edges to minimize damage to the garment.

15. The device of claim 1, wherein the length and the width are between 1 and 6 inches.

16. The device of claim 1, wherein the length and the width are between 0.5 and 12 inches.

17. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded form includes text, graphics or sizing corresponding to the length and the width of the rounded form.

18. The device of claim 1, wherein the rounded form is thin such that it minimizes bulk under the garment.

19. A method comprising steps:

a. providing a rounded form comprised of a rigid material, wherein the rounded form has a width, a length, a hollow center portion, an inner edge, and an outer edge;

b. providing an elastic band comprised of a continuous band;

c. providing a garment having fabric having an outer surface and an inner surface

d. placing the rounded form against the outer surface of the fabric; and,

e. wrapping the elastic band multiple times around the inner surface of the fabric such that the rounded form is completely encased in fabric cinching the garment and creating a ruching or gathering at a single location.

20. A method comprising steps:

f. providing a rounded form comprised of a rigid material, wherein the rounded form has a width, a length, a hollow center portion, an inner edge, and an outer edge;

g. providing an elastic band comprised of a continuous band;

h. providing a garment having fabric having an outer surface and an inner surface

i. placing the rounded form against the outer surface of the fabric;

j. passing the excess fabric of the garment through the hollow center portion;

k. wrapping the excess fabric around the rounded form

l. securing the excess fabric with the elastic band resulting in a rosette on the outside of the garment.