FORM-FITTING GARMENT WITH "EASY ZIP" FASTENER AND RELATED METHODS

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001]The present invention relates to garments with a fastener or closure, and more particularly to form-fitting garments that include a discrete fastener or closure that is capable of creating a temporary opening in the garment, for instance, to use restroom facilities without requiring the removal of the entire garment.

[0002]Current form-fitting women's athleisure wear is difficult to remove or redress, especially during or after workouts. Often, there are no closures or fasteners and the entire garment must be removed to use the restroom. This can be inconvenient, time consuming and difficult, particularly for form-fitting garments such as leggings, bodysuits, jumpsuits, swimsuits, leotards, and more. This is especially true of wet and/or sweaty garments.

[0003]With the increase in participation in health and fitness, and expansion of athleisure garments to be worn in various settings—the gym, everyday activities, and even the workplace—the market for athleisure wear is expanding. Therefore, efficiency in form-fitting garments for convenient use of the restroom is necessary.

[0004]Existing solutions for ease of restroom use without removal of an entire garment include snap closures, drop seats, flaps, and hidden zippers on loose fitting clothing, such as overalls and cargo pants. These solutions are not suitable for form-fitting clothing, however, and have drawbacks including difficulty fastening and unfastening and taking away from the overall aesthetic appearance of the garment. With the increased demand for form-fitting clothing and athleisure wear, such as bodysuits and jumpsuits, there remains a need for a convenient solution that allows a user to conveniently use the restroom without removing the entire garment, but without distracting from the aesthetic of the garment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0005]The present invention relates to clothing with fasteners or closures, and more particularly to form-fitting garments that preferably include a discrete fastener or closure.

[0006]One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a form-fitting garment, for instance athleisurewear, clubwear or workwear, that includes at least one fastener that can create an opening in the garment to permit access for a desired purpose, for instance for going to the restroom, without requiring the removal of the entire garment. This is particularly beneficial for bodysuits, jumpsuits, leotards, and swimwear, where currently, the entire garment must be removed for an individual to go to the restroom. This is particularly inconvenient when accessing a public restroom or outdoors, where there isn't a location to securely place the garment during its temporary removal, and awkwardly, the individual is left with no other option that to be naked or exposed while using the restroom or toilet, including the individual's entire upper body or chest area. The present invention addresses these drawbacks, where the fastener, for instance a zipper, can be slidably engaged to create an opening, for instance opening on lower half of the garment, or on an underside area, for temporary access to the restroom facilities. In certain embodiments, the fastener is capable of creating an opening on lower half of the garment, for instance an area that substantially aligns with the pubic area of an individual, while the rest of the garment remains in place. These advantages are particularly beneficial for form-fitting garments that may be difficult or cumbersome to remove or redress, and where the inclusion of a zipper or buttons may otherwise impact the garment's fit or aesthetic. In certain embodiments, the fastener is discrete and is not visible when the garment is worn by the individual.

[0007]Another aspect of the present invention relates to a fastener for garments that may be difficult to remove or redress, and then put on again, when the garment is sweaty or wet. For instance, swimwear that is wet can be particularly difficult to quickly and efficiently remove for purposes of going to the restroom, and then put back onto wet skin. The present invention alleviates that issue, by including a fastener that is capable of creating a temporary opening, while the rest of the swimwear remains in place while using the restroom. This could be particularly advantageous for swimwear that is designed to be aerodynamic, for instance unitards worn in swimming competitions, where conventional designs incorporate a single zipper up the back of the garment, but not in a location that would permit the swimmer from quickly and conveniently use the restroom while wearing the garment.

[0008]Another aspect of the present invention relates to a garment, for instance, an undersuit that may be worn similar to a bodysuit and layered under other garments, where the undersuit comprises a fastener that is capable of creating an opening, such as an opening on the lower half of the undergarment, or an underside opening, so the undergarment can remain on the individual even when the individual uses the restroom facilities.

[0009]These and other aspects, objects, and features of the present disclosure and claimed invention will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon studying the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010]In the drawings:

[0011]FIGS. 1A and 1B identify potential placement of a fastener capable of creating an opening according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012]FIG. 2A is a back view of a jumpsuit according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0013]FIG. 2B is a front view of a jumpsuit according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0014]FIG. 3A is a front view of a bodysuit according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0015]FIG. 3B is a back view of a bodysuit according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0016]FIG. 4A is a front view of a swimsuit according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0017]FIG. 4B is a back view of a swimsuit according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0018]FIG. 5A is a front view of shorts according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0019]FIG. 5B is a side view of shorts according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0020]FIG. 5C is a back view of shorts according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0021]FIG. 6A is a front view of capris according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0022]FIG. 6B is a side view of capris according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0023]FIG. 6C is a back view of capris according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0024]FIG. 7A is a front view of leggings according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0025]FIG. 7B is a side view of leggings according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0026]FIG. 7C is a back view of leggings according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027]The present invention relates to clothing with fasteners or closures, and more particularly to form-fitting garments that preferably include a discrete fastener or closure.

[0028]One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fastener for a form-fitting garment, for instance athleisurewear, clubwear or workwear, where the fastener may create a partial opening in the garment to permit access for a desired purpose, for instance for going to the restroom, without requiring the removal of the entire garment. This is particularly beneficial for bodysuits, jumpsuits, leotards, and swimwear, where currently the entire garment must be removed for the user to go to the restroom. This is particularly inconvenient when accessing a public restroom or outdoors, where there isn't a location to securely place the garment during its temporary removal and resulting in the user being entirely naked and exposed for an otherwise quick restroom break. The present invention permits the convenient ability to create a temporary access opening in the garment while the rest of the garment remains in place, which is particularly beneficial for form-fitting garments.

[0029]Another aspect of the present invention relates to a fastener for garments that may be difficult to remove, and then put on again, when the garment is sweaty or wet or the individual is sweaty or wet.

[0030]The garments of the present invention have many potential applications. For instance, athletes are often expected to train and perform for long durations. Track athletes, for instance, are expected to wear form-fitting clothing, including jumpsuits and unitards that are aerodynamic. The same is expected of cyclists and other athletes wearing form-fitting garments. The present disclosure would provide greater flexibility during those long training sessions, where the athlete can quickly access the restroom without removing all form-fitting garments and/or removing the garment in its entirety.

[0031]For instance, it is generally understood that swimwear that is wet can be particularly difficult to quickly and efficiently remove for purposes of going to the restroom, and worse, redress or put back on after using the restroom. Not only does the garment bunch up, the fabric does not easily glide over wet skin. The present invention overcomes those problems, by including a discrete fastener that creates a partial, but discrete opening in the garment, while the rest of the swimwear can remain in place.

[0032]For instance, it is common the stage performances and live entertainment shows have “quick-changes” backstage where actors and dancers are expected to quickly and efficiently change into another garment, and there may be limited time go to the restroom. The present disclosure would provide greater flexibility in those moments, where the performer can quickly access the restroom without removing all form-fitting garments and/or provide modesty when required to change garments around others.

[0033]Another aspect of the present invention relates to a garment that may be worn as an undergarment, for instance, an undersuit that is designed to be worn similar to a bodysuit and layered under other garments, and including a discrete fastener, so the garment can remain in place while using the restroom. In at least one embodiment, the garment is an undergarment.

[0034]In certain embodiments, the undersuit is form-fitting and available in different cuts and colors. In certain embodiments, the undersuit is comfortable and supportive, yet not constrictive. In certain embodiments, the undersuit would include adequate bust support. In certain embodiments, it is anticipated that the undersuit would not be noticeable when wearing an outer garment. In alternative embodiments, the undersuit would complement or coordinate with the outer garment. Persons of ordinary skill would readily appreciate the versatility and flexibility of the garments of the present disclosure, for instance recognizing that the garment may be appropriate as an undergarment for dresses, suits, pants and blouse combinations, matching sets and more.

[0035]While there are many benefits of the garments of the present disclosure, persons of ordinary skill in the art would understand the varied applicability across different types of garments, particularly those that do not include easy access or openings that permit the user to quickly and efficiently use the restroom facilities.

[0036]Certain embodiments of the present invention provide an aesthetic appearance and feel which are pleasing to some people and can be unisex or designed specifically for certain individuals, such as women, men, or children. According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, the garments include “athleisure” wear, which include garments appropriate for exercise, as well as for everyday activities. According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, the garments include smooth lines and a form-fitting silhouette. In certain embodiments, the garments are specifically designed for athletes.

[0037]As used herein, the term “garments” includes but is not limited to leggings, pants, shorts, tights, yoga pants, joggers, jumpsuits, rompers, unitards, leotards, tracksuits, shirts, blouses, skirts, jackets, undergarments, and swimwear.

[0038]According to at least one embodiment, the garments of the present invention generally relate to athleisure wear.

[0039]For purposes of description herein, the term “fastener” includes but is not limited to a zipper, one or more snaps, rivets, buttons, hooks, hook and loop fasteners. In preferred embodiments, the fastener is a zipper. In certain embodiments, the fastener is not visible, or not substantially visible, to others when the garment is worn. In alternative embodiments, the fastener is incorporated into the design or aesthetic of the garment.

[0040]For purposes of description herein, the term “fabric” includes but is not limited to natural and synthetic materials. According to at least one embodiment, the fabric includes a synthetic material, such as rayon, polyester, nylon, lycra, spandex fibers, and blends thereof. According to an alternative embodiment, the fabric includes a woven or knit fabric, such as cotton and cotton blends, linen and linen blends, wool and wool blends, denim, double or poly knits and canvas. In certain embodiments, the fabric may include a blend of natural and synthetic materials. For instance, according to at least one embodiment, the fabric may include a blend of cotton, rayon, polyester, or nylon, and spandex fibers.

[0041]For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in the Figures. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0042]It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described invention and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the invention disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.

[0043]For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated. For instance, the fasteners of the present invention can move in one direction or another in order to couple or uncouple two pieces of fabric.

[0044]It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

[0045]It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.

[0046]It is also to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present disclosure and claimed invention, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.

[0047]It is to be understood that the disclosed innovations may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limit of that range, and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range, is encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges, and are also encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the scope of the present disclosure. All ranges and parameters, including but not limited to percentages, parts, and ratios, disclosed herein are understood to encompass any and all sub-ranges assumed and subsumed therein, and every number between the endpoints. For example, a stated range of “1 to 10” should be considered to include any and all sub-ranges beginning with a minimum value of 1 or more and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less (e.g., 1 to 6.1, or 2.3 to 9.4), and to each integer (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) contained within the range. In this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. All combinations of method steps or process steps as used herein can be performed in any order, unless otherwise specified or clearly implied to the contrary by the context in which the referenced combination is made.

[0048]To the extent that the terms “includes” or “including” or “have” or “having” are used in the specification or the claims, it is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as that term is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “or” is employed (e.g., A or B) it is intended to mean “A” or “B” or both “A” and “B”. When the Applicant intends to indicate “only A or B but not both” then the term “only A or B but not both” or similar structure will be employed. Thus, use of the term “or” herein is the inclusive, and not the exclusive use. Also, to the extent that the terms “in” or “into” are used in the specification or the claims, it is intended to additionally mean “on” or “onto.” In this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0049]Typically, a garment has one or more surfaces of fabric and a closure, for instance a zipper, which permits the user to put on the garment and then secure the garment by coupling a first surface of the garment with a second surface the garment. Depending on the garment and the desired aesthetic, the closure may include a number of fasteners including but not limited to a zipper, buttons, snaps, or a hook-and-eye closure.

[0050]In certain embodiments, the garment of the present disclosure includes a fastener that is integral with the garment, so that the fastener is not visible or noticeable, or not substantially visible or noticeable, to others when the garment is worn.

[0051]In certain embodiments, the garment includes at least one fastener. It is contemplated in the present disclosure that due to sizing or other design elements, in alternative embodiments, the garment may include one or more fasteners, for instance two fasteners or three fasteners.

[0052]The present disclosure shall not be limited to the garments themselves, where the features and benefits of the present disclosure may have applicability in other areas, such as in combination with other garments, ensembles and accessories.