Abstract: Systems and apparatus related to adaptive support garments including adaptive support structures, lacing systems, and an adaptive engine are discussed. In an example, an adaptive support garment can include a textile-based support structure, an adaptive support structure and an adaptive engine is described. The textile-based support structure is configured to support a portion of anatomy of a wearer. The adaptive support structure is integrated into the textile-based support structure and configured to adjust a portion of the textile-based support structure. The adaptive engine is coupled to the adaptive support structure to activate adjustment of the portion of the textile-based support structure.

Abstract: Convertible garment systems and related devices and methods are shown and described. In one example, a convertible garment system includes a bathing suit and a pair of detachable-strap-interfaces, each configured to removably connect to the bathing suit's lower straps, and removably connect to the bathing suit's upper straps, thereby creating a second configuration for the pair of upper straps. In another example, a device includes at least one detachable-strap-interface for converting a bathing suit.

Abstract: A link or slide for a garment strap includes mutually parallel longitudinal bars and a pair of opposing transverse bars each forming a juncture with ends of the longitudinal bars. The transverse bars curve forward from the junctures away from the rear of the longitudinal bars, reducing potential discomfort to an active wearer. In embodiments, the link is formed of resilient material and the link thickness tapers to a minimum at the junctures, forming flexible zones which provide added comfort. In additional embodiments, the longitudinal bars have angled edges adjoining slots through which the garment strap passes. The angled edges resist undesirable motion of the strap, especially while the wearer is exercising.

Abstract: A band adapted for use as a seal around an upper edge of a boot adapted for holding a block to which a rail is fastened, includes an elongated body having an outer face, an inner face, a first end and a second end. The first and second ends of the elongated body are secured to each other to form the band. An inner face of the elongated body is smooth and an outer face thereof includes a plurality of laterally spaced ribs. The ribs extend from the first end of the band to the second end thereof. The elongated body is made from an electrically insulating elastomeric material.

Abstract: The device is an invention that attaches to the strings of the top to a bikini bathing suit. It provides cushion support to the neck area, and prevents the strings of the top to the bikini bathing suit from painful gouging into the skin due to the weight of the breasts.

Abstract: An apparatus for holding a medicine ball includes an adjustable holder for receiving medicine balls of different sizes and a pair of adjustable straps for securing the holder to different portions of a user's body. In some embodiments, the holder comprises adjustable bands, the length of which can be adjusted to adjust the size of the holder. The bands define a holder interior for receiving the medicine balls. The apparatus can include first and second adjustment plates positioned at opposite ends of the holder to secure the holder to the two straps. Each adjustable strap loops through slots in the plate and fastens to itself to secure the holder to a body portion. Bands of the holder can loop through slots in the plate and fasten to themselves to secure the holder around a medicine ball.

Abstract: Convertible garment systems and related devices and methods are shown and described. In one example, a convertible garment system includes a bathing suit and a pair of detachable-strap-interfaces, each configured to removably connect to the bathing suit's lower straps, and removably connect to the bathing suit's upper straps, thereby creating a second configuration for the pair of upper straps. In another example, a device includes at least one detachable-strap-interface for converting a bathing suit.

Abstract: A releasable fastener system includes a first base material and a second base material being fastened together when the fastener system is in a fastened state and released from one another when the fastener system is in a released state. The fastener system further includes a stiffening member fastened to the second base material. A bottom loop is spaced from the first base material such that at least a portion of the stiffening member resides between the bottom loop and the first base material when the fastener system is in the fastened state. A top loop being spaced from the bottom loop such that a portion of the second base material resides between the top and bottom loops when the system is in the fastened state, wherein at least one of the top and bottom loops is fastened to the first base material.

Abstract: A system for securing a shirt is provided that includes a retainer having an anterior portion and a posterior portion, the anterior portion of the retainer having a fastener for securing the anterior portion of the retainer to a corresponding fastener on an anterior portion of the shirt, and the posterior portion of the retainer having a fastener for securing the posterior portion of the retainer to a corresponding fastener on a posterior portion of the shirt. The system may be part of the shirt or discrete from the shirt.

Abstract: This invention relates to a fastener assembly and garment comprising same having a first fastener tape and a second fastener tape, and a first edge and a second edge, the first edge having a row of cooperating fastener elements mounted thereon; wherein the second edge of each of the first and second fastener tapes is folded parallel to its row of cooperating fastener elements such that when the fastener is closed, and a meshed area of fastener elements from the first and second fastener tapes is formed, i) the second edges of each of the first and second fastener tapes overlap, ii) the second edge of the first fastener tape fully covers the meshed area of fastening elements, and iii) the overlap of the second edge of the first fastener tape by the second edge of the second fastener tape extends past the meshed area of fastening elements.

Abstract: This invention relates to a fastener assembly and a garment comprising same, comprising a first fastener tape and a second fastener tapes having a row of cooperating fastener elements mounted thereon attached to first and second closing tapes, the first and second closing tapes folded parallel to the row of cooperating fastener elements such that when the fastener is closed, and a meshed area of fastener elements from the first and second fastener tapes is formed, i) the external edges of each of the first and second closing tapes overlap, ii) the external edge of the first closing tape fully covers the meshed area of fastening elements, and iii) the overlap of the external edge of the first closing tape by the external edge of the second closing tape extends past the meshed area of fastening elements.

Abstract: The present invention provides a belt with an autogenous closure system. The autogenous closure system includes a length of belt strap, and a retainer means that is at least partially affixed to or formed from the belt strap. The retainer means can be a continuous piece of material with one or more slits cut into it to form two or more retainer elements adjacent to each other, or it can comprise two or more separate retainer strips. In operation, the tongue end of the belt strap is threaded through the retainer strips or retainer elements, forming a U-shaped bend around the edge of the retainer element that is furthest from the base of the belt strap and then passing through an aperture formed by the retainer element closer to the base. A method of manufacturing a belt with an autogenous closure system is also provided.

Abstract: A device for gathering and containing a portion of fabric of a garment, such as a T-shirt and maintaining the gathered configuration of the fabric while providing a tighter fit of the garment. The device comprises a four sided outer frame having a semicircular lower side member, an upper side member, two upright members, and two internal crossbars providing three openings through which the fabric is passed to form the gathered configuration.

Abstract: A clothing strap retention device, or “holder,” in accordance with the techniques of the present disclosure enables a user to retain multiple shoulder or equivalent straps of a clothing garment proximate to one another at a region along the length of the straps. As a result, the effective length of the straps is reduced and the movement of the straps is restricted, thereby lifting up the garment and providing a better, more comfortable fit. Specifically, the holder includes a planar central portion having an equidimensional geometry that provides structural integrity to the holder, thereby enabling it to withstand torsional forces and prevent or reduce distortion such as twisting and warping. Additionally, the central portion includes a surface suitable for one or more of printing, embossing, and attaching an adhesive label to include any combination of text and graphical content for use in any of product marking, ornamental design, and advertisement.

Abstract: A sporting garment for removably receiving one or more articles of clothing, such as a sock, is described. The garment has leg portions for covering at least in part the legs of a person wearing the garment. Each leg portion has a central division extending along a length of each leg portion, and corresponds to a front portion and a rear portion of the legs of the person, thereby dividing each leg portion into lateral sides. The garment also has an attachment member mounted on at least one of the lateral sides of at least one leg portion, the attachment member being positioned, shaped, and sized for removably receiving the at least one article of clothing on said leg portion of the garment. Also described are corresponding garment kits, a sock and an attachment member.

Abstract: A covering device for attachment around a bra-strap having three panels, wherein the panels are substantially the same length as the strap length and at least as wide as the strap width, and wherein the two side panels having complementary pairs of fastening devices to secure the side panels around the bra-strap, thereby securing the bra-strap between the panels.

Abstract: An accessory holder for retaining accessories around the body of a user is provided. The holder comprises a circular or oval-like perimeter with a central support that divides the device into two half-moon openings. The frame of the accessory holder is comprised of a flexible wire that is capable of being bent or folded into a variety of configurations, whereby the form is retained throughout the day. An elastomeric or rubber coating may be applied to the frame to add to the aesthetic appeal of the device. An accessory fabric, such as a scarf, may be inserted into the half-moon shaped openings of the holder. The ends of the scarf may be looped, weaved, or otherwise secured through the accessory holder. A user may secure the scarf around the waist, neck, or other suitable part of the body with the accessory holder maintaining the desired orientation of the accessory.

Abstract: A size adjustment arrangement for a garment comprises a base member, a ratchet member, a line, a spool, and an actuator. The base member is coupled to the garment and the ratchet member and spool are rotatably coupled to the base member. The line is wound on the spool with the line extending through at least one channel in the garment. The actuator is selectively rotatable in a first direction and a second direction without activation of any release mechanism. When a first force is applied to rotate the actuator in the first direction, the line is wound upon the spool. When a second force is applied to rotate the actuator in the second direction, the line is unwound upon the spool. The ratchet member and the spool are blocked from rotation when neither the first force nor the second force is applied to the actuator.

Abstract: A bra fastener assembly that includes at least two fasteners each attached to the shoulder straps at corresponding distances through a positioning element; between the two fasteners there is a detachable connective element; the positioning element includes the shoulder strap opening in the fastener, the shoulder strap opening includes the positioning element to fix in position the fastener on the shoulder strap, the positioning element includes the first pin within the shoulder strap opening. Through the element the two fasteners can be fixed in position on the bra shoulder strap, at the same time the two fasteners can detach or connect, when connected the fasteners secure the shoulder straps so they stay in the set position, keeping the distance between the shoulder straps fixed, thus preventing the shoulder straps from slipping and the fastener is interchangeable. Different positioning elements for the bra fastener assembly are provided.

Abstract: A knee pad holding mechanism for holding a knee pad over the knee region of a pantleg having a first length of fabric material and a second length of fabric material operatively secured together to form a pocket, the pocket being sized and shaped to receive a knee pad and having at least one opening located along each of the outside edges of the pocket for receiving a strap associated with the knee pad. In one embodiment, the first length of fabric material can be secured directly to the knee region of a pantleg wherein the pantleg forms the second length of fabric material. Other embodiments include using a loop, eyelet, slits or an additional section of fabric having a slit associated therewith for receiving a strap associated with the knee pad. The present mechanism is also adaptable for use to receive an elbow pad.

Abstract: A decorative strap cover that is fastened to a strap on an article of clothing that may cover a portion of a bra, a dress, lingerie, shirt, tank top, halter top, pants, belt loops or belt and may provide a decorative compartment. The decorative strap cover may be worn as a single component or combined with others as desired.

Abstract: A hitch for lifting the hem of a skirted garment, or garment set comprising a skirt and hitch. The hitch comprises a strip of flexible fabric with coacting fastening means affixed near each end of its length, securing the hitch in a loop when fastened. The fastening means may comprise a button and buttonhole, a snap, a hook-and-loop fastening system, or other fastening means. The garment set can include a hitch featuring a button and buttonhole, and a skirt that comprises a waistband and a second button, the second button affixed to the waistband. One method of removably securing in a raised position a portion of a skirt comprises passing a garment hitch under the hemline of the skirt; passing the garment hitch through the band of the garment; and fastening the garment hitch to itself, thereby forming a secured loop whereby the hitch circumscribes the portion of the skirt.

Abstract: A method, system, and kit for securing an undergarment strap to an outer garment with a decorative article. The decorative article includes an ornament and first and second stud members extending generally in first and second directions from the ornament and terminating in first and second stud ends. The method includes moving the decorative article in first and second directions to penetrate the surface of the outer garment with the first and second stud members, and continuing to move the decorative article generally in the first and second directions to penetrate the surface of the undergarment strap with the first and second stud members, thereby securing the undergarment strap to the outer garment by the decorative article. The kit includes a container including at least one article of jewelry including first and second stud members, an elongated base member including first and second apertures, and a plurality of protective covers.

Abstract: A device and method for easily adjusting the fit of a garment by pinching and holding excess material and creating a temporary seam that holds without damaging the garment material. The device is easily aligned and adjusted for length. It has snap-like closures that allow the device to lock into place through the fabric, either by piercing the fabric, or by pushing the fabric through without piercing or damaging it, thus creating an inside seam. The device is durable and secure enough to be machine-washable so that, once positioned, it may be left in place for washing or drying if desired. Alternatively, the device may be easily removed for washing or other reasons and easily reapplied and/or repositioned.

Abstract: Devices for tightening apparel items, comprising flexible base expanses extending longitudinally. In some examples, the base expanses define first surface and second surfaces opposite the first surface, with the first surface being adapted to interfacially engage with a surface of the apparel item. Some examples include tightening members attached to the base expanse at an attachment point. Some examples include couplers disposed on the second surface, the couplers being attached to the base expanse between the second longitudinal end and the attachment point and configured to couple with the tightening member. Some examples include elastic tightening members. In some examples, apparel items may be tightened by fastening a device to an apparel item at a first fastening point and a second fastening point, moving the first fastening point toward the second fastening point, and coupling a coupler to a tightening member.

Abstract: The present invention provides a strap for securing a garment or article (e.g. swimming goggles) to a wearer's/user's body. The strap comprises a first portion (1) having a tensioner end (2), the tensioner end including and terminating at a tensioner (3). The strap further comprises a second portion (4) comprising a clip end (5), the clip end including and terminating at a clip (6). In use, the second portion passes through the tensioner and the clip is releasably securable onto the second portion.

Abstract: A non-encircling comfort pad system that allows the user to selectively attach a pad to and detach the pad from the article of clothing is disclosed. The non-encircling comfort pad system includes a pad having a pad fastener part and a mount fastener part that is attached to the article of clothing. The pad fastener part is configured to engage the mount fastener part such that the pad is held to the article of clothing without requiring any encirclement of the protected body part.

Abstract: A device to hold a garment in place, particularly the event of a gust of air, comprising an attachment member, a connecting member, and a weight, which can be worn either on the inside or outside surface of the garment. In operation the device attaches to a garment and pulls the garment vertically in accordance with gravity.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a drawstring closure that allows two sides of a garment to securely and evenly tighten the garment and the fly of the garment. One embodiment of the invention includes a drawstring closure for use on a garment, including a first front panel, wherein the first front panel comprises a first tab, and wherein the first tab comprises a first opening through which a drawstring can be threaded; a second front panel, wherein the second front panel comprises a second tab, wherein the second tab comprises second and third openings through which a drawstring can be threaded; a first drawstring, wherein the first drawstring is attached to the first tab, the first drawstring is threaded through the third and the first opening; a second drawstring, wherein the second drawstring is attached to the first front panel; and the second drawstring is threaded through the second opening.

Abstract: A textile arrangement that includes at least one flexible circuit board integrated with a textile and a fixedly-integrated electronic component in the flexible circuit board. The flexible circuit board includes a flexible and/or tensile substrate, which is configured to bend and/or stretch at least in one direction. In addition, the flexible circuit board includes at least one electrically-conducting trace, at least one end of the trace being coupled with the component. The electrically-conducting trace is configured to bend and/or stretch with the flexible and/or tensile substrate of the circuit board at least in said one direction, when the circuit board is bent and/or stretched.

Abstract: The invention includes a girth reducing device including a connector, an extension affixed to the connector and fasteners affixed to the extension. The connector may connect to a back band of a bra assembly and the fasteners affixed to the extension may connect to another back band of the bra assembly. The connections may be made in a manner that allows for a reduced girth of the bra from a smallest girth possible utilizing existing coupling systems of the bra.

Abstract: A decorative clasp for mounting to the fabric covered rear closure a bra or bikini top includes a decorative object having a front surface and opposite back surface. The front surface has mounted thereto decorative elements so as to adorn the decorative object. The back surface has a clamp mounted thereto having a base leg and a cooperating covering leg. The two legs cooperate so as to releasably clamp the rear closure of a bra or bikini top therebetween. A plurality of fabric penetrating protrusions are formed or mounted on at least one interior surface of the legs so that the fabric penetrating protrusions penetratingly engage with the threads or nap of the fabric of the rear closure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a shoulder strap retainer for garments, and more particularly to an undergarment strap retention device for retaining a shoulder strap of an undergarment beneath a shoulder strap of an outer garment. Retention of a strap of an undergarment, such as a bra, beneath the shoulder strap of an outer garment is accomplished by a pair of members which are magnetically attracted to each other. One of the members, an anchor assembly, is secured to a strap of an undergarment. The strap of the outer garment is positioned above and adjacent to the undergarment with the inner strap hidden from view. A decorative base plate is placed against the outer surface of the outer garment to engage the magnetic field produced by magnets positioned within the anchor assembly so the magnetic field pulls against the base plate to sandwich the cloth of the outer garment.

Abstract: A placket truss comprising an elongate member including opposed end portions, wherein each of the end portions includes at least one slot sized and adapted to engage the thread of a corresponding button. Each end portion may include a clip, wherein each clip includes at least one slot and the elongate member is adapted to confront the back side of the placket. The slot or slots may extend in the same direction as a length of the elongate member. Alternatively, the slot or slots may extend in a direction transverse to a length of the elongate member. Each clip is adapted to confront the front side of the placket whereby each of the clips is capable of grasping the placket. The elongate member may comprise a strip of resilient material and may be substantially flat.

Abstract: A garment securement assembly includes a garment having a pocket, an opening, and a fastener that cooperate to secure the garment in an aesthetically pleasing and easily manageable fashion. In one form, the garment securement assembly includes a garment, a pocket defining an opening, and a fastener extending out of the pocket through the opening to engage and selectively couple the garment with itself and/or an adjacent garment.

Abstract: To my knowledge there is nothing like T-Pak's Step Outs on the market today. I feel there is a need for this invention because women are limited on what shoes they can wear with long pants. They have to wear a shoe with either a strap on the ankle to keep the heel of the foot from coining up and allowing enough room for the pant leg to make its way under the foot. This causes wrinkling of the bottom of the pant leg and can generally be uncomfortable. It is also a nuisance to have to stop and pull your pant leg out from under your heel.

Abstract: A clothing retainer has a body with a pair of abutments spaced apart along the body. Each of the abutments includes a hook having a mouth for engagement with a fastener on clothing. The mouths are oppositely directed toward one another and inhibit separation of the fasteners engaged by the hooks.

Abstract: Embodiments of apparatus, methods, systems and apparel are described herein for tightening a waist band. In various embodiments, apparel may include a waist band. In various embodiments, apparel also may include an elongate tab having a first end fixed to an outer surface of the waist band and a second end, opposite the first end, that is selectively attachable to multiple portions of a fastening member extending along an outside side or front surface of the waist band. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a drawstring closure that allows two sides of a garment to securely and evenly tighten the garment and the fly of the garment. One embodiment of the invention includes a drawstring closure for use on a garment, including a first front panel, wherein the first front panel comprises a first tab, and wherein the first tab comprises a first opening through which a drawstring can be threaded; a second front panel, wherein the second front panel comprises a second tab, wherein the second tab comprises second and third openings through which a drawstring can be threaded; a first drawstring, wherein the first drawstring is attached to the first tab, the first drawstring is threaded through the third and the first opening; a second drawstring, wherein the second drawstring is attached to the first front panel; and the second drawstring is threaded through the second opening.

Abstract: Devices, methods, and kits for securing clothing, in particular, for securing a bra strap to a blouse strap. The device includes a long, thin material, having a first end, a second end, and a body extending between the first end and the second end. The long, thin material is formed into a plurality of opposing segments. A first of the plurality of opposing segments is continuous with a first end of a second of the plurality of the opposing segments at a first junction, and a first end of the third of the plurality of opposing segments is continuous with a second end of the second of the plurality of the opposing segments at a second junction. A fourth of the plurality of opposing segments is continuous with a second end of the third of the plurality of the opposing segments at a third junction.

Abstract: In combination with a bra having a front anchor strap portion and a rear anchor strap portion, an adjustable bra strap includes an elongated enclosed loop of flexible fabric with one end forming an attachment section. One end of the enclosed loop is coupled to the rear anchor strap portion and the other end is coupled to the front anchor strap portion. The enclosed loop extends through a first coupler with the attached coupler being movable longitudinally along one side of the enclosed loop. An element of a fastener is affixed to the attachment section and a complemental element is affixed to a facing portion of the enclosed loop. The element is positioned to mate with and releasably connect to the complement element in a selected orientation.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the inventive ballistic garment includes a front panel and a rear panel; a plurality of connecting element, wherein each connecting element having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of each connecting element is operatively fastened to a first end of a respective anchor element and each of a second end of each respective anchor element is operatively fixed to the rear panel of the ballistic garment; a locking assembly, wherein the locking assembly is operatively fixed to the ballistic garment; at least one releasable plug for releasably engaging the locking assembly, wherein the at least one releasable plug is operatively attached to the second end of at least one connecting element, and wherein the front panel of the ballistic garment is attached to the rear panel of the ballistic garment when the at least one releasable plug engages the locking assembly.

Abstract: An article of adjustably fitted protective apparel includes a vest and an adjustable tensioning system for selective tensioning of the vest into a snug fit on a body of a wearer of the vest. The adjustable tensioning system includes a rotary tension adjuster disposed on the vest and including a housing and a first spool disposed within the housing, and a tensioning line extends from the housing. The tensioning line is attached directly or indirectly to the vest. A portion of the tensioning line is configured to be wound upon the first spool during manipulation of the rotary tension adjuster in a first rotational direction thereof. Winding of the portion of the first tensioning line draws together first portions of the vest for providing a snug fit of the first portions.

Abstract: Through the use of pocket bags that span from the outer seams of certain pants garments to the components of the fastening system that are capable of reversible engagement, an improved silhouette, can be created for a wearer of the garment. Elastic panels that also span from the outer seams to the fastening systems may be included in order to improve further the look that is created.

Abstract: A brassiere support system includes a brassiere including a back strap and a pair of shoulder straps. The shoulder straps are each attached to the back strap and extend upwardly from the back strap. The shoulder straps are spaced from each other. A connector is removably coupled to each of the shoulder straps to pull the shoulder straps toward each other. The connector is slidable toward or away from the back strap to effect a change in lifting properties of the shoulder straps.

Abstract: An adjustable fastener includes a male part and a female part, both of which are preferably made of soft pliable, sewable plastic. The female fastener part preferably has two or more spaced apart openings. Each having a broad portion and a narrow portion. The male fastener part has a base with an upstanding riser with a flange at the end of the riser. The female fastener part is made of a single thin wall which is sewn to the fabric of the garment. The base of the male part is also made of a single thin wall which is sewn to the fabric of the garment. The single wall construction of the female fastener part makes it more flexible, less easily seen, and not felt so much by the wearer. The female fastener part is provided with a bend between the openings so that it lies flat against the back when the male and female parts are coupled to the tightest position. The center of the riser of the male part is offset from the center of the flange.

Abstract: A strap holder adapted to be connected to first and second garment straps, the strap holder comprising a central portion defining a first surface and a second surface, a first end portion comprising inner and outer surfaces defining a first retainer gap, and a second end portion comprising inner and outer surfaces defining a second retainer gap. The first surface of the central portion meets the outer surface of the first end portion and the inner surface of the second end portion. The second surface of the central portion meets the inner surface of the first end portion and the outer surface of the second end portion. The inner surface of the first end portion defines a first engaging portion, and the inner surface of the second end portion defines a second engaging portion. The first strap is arranged within the first retainer gap such that the first garment strap engages the first engaging portion.

Abstract: A apparatus for use with garments, such as tee shirts, or other clothing fabric or materials, which pulls the garment tighter to the wearer's body without slipping off the garment. The apparatus consists of a single unit with multiple inner members and a relatively thicker outer perimeter. The inner members are spaced apart, leaving an opening through which a portion of the tee shirt, garment or material is inserted. The tee shirt, garment or material is then pulled through the opening to achieve the desired effect. The flexibility of the inner members must permit the tee shirt, garment or material to pass through the apparatus, but be sufficiently strong to hold the apparatus in place for an extended period of time and through vigorous activity.

Abstract: A user selectable interchangeable bra system enables user to customize the selection, style, construction, and usage of a bra both through component purchase and interchangeable fit. An infinite number of different size, color and fits are possible, as well as underwire interchangeableness. The center connector can be selected to provide for user selectable cup separation. Buckle type shoulder strap fittings can be provided with a tiny loop to support body jewelry, and because the shoulder straps are reversible, the body jewelry can be worn on the front or back upper chest, especially where the jewelry can appear to come from underneath the dress to give an appearance of a much more extensive jewelry extent.

Abstract: A bra strap retainer for preventing the straps from falling from the user's shoulders. The bra strap retainer includes a retaining member having an elongate main portion and opposite end portions which are adapted to keep straps of a bra on a user's back in proximate relationship to one another.