US20100306902A1

US20100306902A1 - Multi-use decorative accessory strap system

Info

Publication number: US20100306902A1
Application number: US12/779,267
Authority: US
Inventors: Cherylb Bourque
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2009-05-15
Filing date: 2010-05-13
Publication date: 2010-12-09

Abstract

The present invention relates to an adjustable and interchangeable multi-use decorative accessory strap system for providing and enhancing the appearance and function of fashion accessories. More specifically, it relates to a strap component designed using snap fasteners and metal rings that allows for the strap to be utilized as an adjustable belt that can be configured to create various styles, an adjustable handbag strap that can be configured into varying lengths to achieve various styles and functions for new and existing handbags with existing rings to include purses, shoulder bags and messenger bags. The strap can be also utilized as an adjustable headband.

A smaller configuration of the present invention of as multi-use decorative accessory strap system is utilized to change the appearance and function of an existing shoe apparatus that does not provide support for the heel and ankle. By adding the present invention of the adjustable strap to the back of the existing foot retaining strap of a flip flop or opened back sandal it serves to change the appearance of the existing shoe apparatus and improves the function by providing more support for the heel and ankle of the end user. This smaller version of the present invention can also be configured to be utilized as a bracelet and finally a key chain.

The goal of the multi-use decorative accessory strap system is to provide a low cost, customizable product that is environmentally friendly and offers consumers a multitude of options in a single product with the ability to enhance new and existing accessories.

Description

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Most current clothing and accessories on the market offer limited functions and sizing options and very limited opportunities for uses and options beyond the scope of their intended use. The present invention is a multi-use decorative accessory strap system allowing the end user to utilize a single accessory for multiple accessorizing opportunities. The prior art of the strap or belt as it relates to accessories is limited to its functionality. More specifically belts and straps of known design previously created and utilized for the purposes of functionally providing a better fit for a particular garment or creating a decorative fashion statement are known to exist. Additionally, straps for handbags of known design previously created and utilized for the purpose of functionally providing a means to carry a handbag are known to exist. Also known to exist are designs for headbands with interchangeable options as is shoes offering a degree of plurality of interchangeable surfaces. While these devices fulfill their intended objectives they do not offer the degree of adjustability and opportunity for multiple uses across a number of fashion accessories as does the present invention.
Multiple varieties of belts are available on the market today to secure clothing for fit and/or to make an aesthetic fashion statement. They are also available in a variety of sizes forcing manufacturers to make numerous belts to accommodate the varying sizes of their consumers. Certain sizes are more popular then others causing retailers to run short of particular sizes and overstock other sizes. Traditionally these belts are adjustable to a certain degree to fit a particular size waist allowing for a limited adjustability for additional styles and sizes in a single design. Most belts are designed with a post and buckle design or a fixed ring and strap belt design. As with the buckle belts, they often loose their shape and the holes that accept the post get stretched out making the belt too big and require consumers to poke additional holes in the belt to achieve a more comfortable and functional fit. Also, if a user loses weight or gains weight they are forced to either poke additional holes in their belts or buy new ones to accommodate their new size. Fixed ring belts pose a similar problem in that they loosen with movement requiring the end user to constantly retighten the belt for adequate fit and function. This is especially a problem with sports belts of this type used for football. Additionally, low waisted pant styles that are popular amongst young consumers often require a secure belt that will not loosen in order to keep their pants from slipping below the hip and exposing undergarments.
Most belts are designed for a specific use, either to be worn at the low waist to secure a garment such as a pant or skirt or designed to fit at the high waist to cinch the smallest portion of the waist such as over a shirt or dress. Most belts do not allow for both options forcing consumers to purchase separate sized belts to fulfill their need for a variety of sizes and styles.
The present invention configured as a belt creates a plurality of sizes in a single design allowing consumers to achieve various fit requirements in addition to a variety of style requirements without the need to purchase multiple belts.
Today's educated consumers are confident in their sense of style and are seeking clothing and decorative accessories that allow them to be in control of their overall look and are choosing to wear pieces that reflect their own individual personalities instead of a manufactured copy. By allowing consumers the opportunity to change their look with a single product that they can alter to fit their comfort needs and style aesthetic gives them confidence that their style is original and they are less likely to see the same look on someone else.
As our world struggles to become sustainable and reduce our carbon footprint consumers are carefully considering their purchases for clothing and accessories. The less is more approach is affecting not only the type of purchases but also the number of items being bought by today's consumers. Consumers are looking for designs that can offer them flexibility and multiple purposes to reduce their amount of possessions and acquire more practical and functional products in an effort to simplify their lives without sacrificing their style and comfort.
Shoes and handbags on the market today are especially affected by this shift in consumer spending habits as many companies are allowing consumers to design their own versions of manufacturer's styles online but at a very high price for customization.
It should also be noted that consumers are seeking products that can replenish broken accessories or update their current accessories to reflect newer styles. The present invention fulfills this need by providing a replacement strap for existing handbags and allowing for updated embellishments to be added to the snapped surface of the strap for a new and updated look.
The objects of the present invention fulfill the desires and purchasing habits of today's consumers by offering an affordable, high quality and sustainable product that offers practicality and an opportunity for consumers to create their own design aesthetic for a multitude of uses while remaining environmentally conscious.
By way of example, the following patents disclose various adjustable designs for belts and straps, handbag straps, sandal systems and headbands but fall short of the concept of achieving these numerous functions with one design as does the present invention.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,463,455 to Kirk discloses a two part belt with locking means.
U.S. Pat. No. D,381,787 to Littleton discloses an adjustable belt.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,465,536 to Hyman discloses an adjustable belt.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,370,286 to Newman discloses an adjustable strap.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,389,605 to Srivastava discloses a wrap belt.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,999,853 to Tanner discloses a belt having adhering means for size adjustment.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,371,346 to Sharma discloses an interchangeable equipment carrier sling/waist belt.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,463,455 to Kirk discloses a two part adjustable belt with locking means.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,542,246 to Grosz discloses a handbag convertible to a shoulder.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,153,092 to Haslam discloses convertible handbag.
U.S. Pat. No. D,425,298 to Lentz discloses handbag and strap design.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,159,729 to Schwartz discloses a handbag with adjustable handle and strap.
U.S. Pat. No. D,294,195 to Starks discloses handbag with convertible strap.
U.S. Pat. No. 9,922,215 to Reiss discloses handbag and case with multi-purpose strap.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,769,204 to Phillips discloses a sandal system.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,172,330 to Kao discloses a sandal with removable strap.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,200,959 to Spann discloses modifiable footwear.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,706,836 to McKeown discloses a hair ornament and hair control device securing assembly.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,427,123 to Odenthal discloses a headband kit.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,826,597 to Chou discloses a hairband made with two differently colored pieces.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,237,611 to LeCrone et al discloses an ornamental banded clothing device receiving interchangeable ornamentation.
Respectively, the present invention of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system substantially departs from existing designs of the prior art by achieving the functionality of these cited concepts by providing an invention that provides a greater degree of plurality of uses and functions in a single device that fulfills a need unachieved by any prior art. It can be appreciated that the present invention represents a new use for a multi-use decorative accessory strap system to provide consumers with a multi use device to fulfill multiple needs for the function, fit and aesthetics of new and existing decorative fashion accessories.

OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES

Accordingly, it is the object of the present invention to present a novel form of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system whereas the ends of the strap are fastened over a variety of rings or ties to create a plurality of designs for belts, headbands, handbag straps, key chains and bracelets.
It is also an object of the present invention to present a novel multi-use decorative accessory strap system that is adjustable by use of various snap fasteners to a plurality of sizes for belts, headbands, handbag straps, sandal straps, key chains and bracelets.
This advantage becomes useful to consumers as a belt in the event that they either gain or lose weight, become pregnant, to accommodate growing children or to fulfill the desired fit necessary for specific low waisted garment styles. This advantage becomes useful to consumers as a shoe strap when additional support is needed for a new or existing shoe apparatus known as a flip flop. For example, older individuals or smaller children who desire the style of a flip flop shoe but require additional support in order to wear the shoe more comfortably and safely.
The advantage of the present invention as a handbag strap becomes useful when the strap of existing handbags with existing rings becomes broken and no longer usable. The present invention can be easily attached therefore extending the life of the handbag. Also, if an existing handbag with existing rings is desired but does not have the appropriate strap length or comfort for the end user it can be replaced with the present invention to achieve the ideals of the end user.
The advantage of the present invention as a headband becomes useful when a new look is desired or if a situation arises when a headband is needed but not available. The user can convert the belt configuration of the present invention to the headband configuration and solve the need without having to purchase another accessory.
It is yet another object of the present invention to present a novel multi-use decorative accessory strap system that may be easily and efficiently manufactured and marketed.
An even further object of the present invention is to present a multi-use decorative accessory strap system that may be manufactured at a low cost for goods and labor and offered at an attractive and affordable price to consumers.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The general purpose of the present invention as to be described in detail is to provide the function of a single strap design system that encompasses a plurality of uses in a method that has all the advantages and none of the disadvantages of the prior art. Additionally, the present invention will achieve advantages not defined or addressed in the prior art.
To achieve this claim, the present invention is comprised of two equally sized pieces of fabric or other man made material known to those skilled in the art. These fabric components are fused or sewn together and may or may not be reinforced by webbing or other structural material for stability, durability and aesthetic design options. The strap component may have a variety of widths and lengths depending on the sizes desired for a particular aesthetic appearance.
Prior to fusing the two fabric components, one of the sides has a number of male stud snap fasteners attached to the outer facing side at an equal distance apart. Once fused there is a plain side and a snapped side. At each end of the strap a female snap fastener is added to the snapped side with the cap component of the female snap facing the plain side and the female fastener facing the same direction as the male snapped side. The ends of the strap are now equipped to snap onto the existing male snap parts to create various strap lengths. When the strap ends are folded inward and snapped closed tow loops are created at each end. Prior to snapping ends closed one or two D-rings, O-rings or Square rings depending on the style to be achieved are inserted into the loops created by the fold and the ends are than snapped closed to secure the rings in place. Once snapped with rings placed in loops on one or both ends the strap is gathered to form a circle whereas each end is either looped through one or two rings and are snapped on either side to adjust the fit and/or tied with a fashion tie or ribbon to achieve the desired style. The strap may also be reversed to create additional styles revealing the snapped side or a coordinating material. Snap on embellishments may also be added to achieve a custom look. In addition to the strap being utilized as a belt the same concept can be applied to its use as a headband by reducing the size of the strap and affixing to one's head. The end loops can be fastened as aforementioned in the belt configuration with rings or by inserting a fashion tie or ribbon through the end loops and tying according to desired fit.
In addition to the present invention functioning as multiple belt styles and use as a head band, the strap can also be attached to any new of existing handbag with preexisting D-rings, O-rings or square rings. The present invention is snapped securely onto the rings of any handbag on either end and can be adjusted to create the length of a purse, shoulder bag or a messenger bag style depending on the length desired by the end user for style or comfort and function.
Additionally a smaller configuration of the present invention can be utilized to achieve both a change in appearance and function of a new or existing shoe apparatus such as a flip flop. The foot retaining strap of existing flip flops or open back sandals prevents the top portion of the foot from slipping out of the shoe base. The heel end of the foot is unsecured and therefore the shoe apparatus provides no support for the heel end or ankle of the back of the foot. The present invention achieves the opportunity to provide additional support for this type of shoe apparatus by snapping each end of the configured strap to the bases of each side of the foot retaining strap. With the addition of the present invention the show apparatus now offers additional support for the heel and ankle not previously achieved by the existing shoe design. The strap when added to the foot retaining strap may be adjusted by decreasing its size by snapping to down to a smaller size for the desired fit. Additionally, elastic material know by those skilled in the art may be added to the interior of the strap for additional comfort and resistance.
The present invention in its smaller configuration can also be used as a bracelet by snapping one end closed around a D-ring, O-ring or square ring and then threading the unsnapped end through the ring and snapping closed to the desired size. As with the aforementioned strap configuration as a belt the smaller configured version may also be adorned with snap cap embellishments is so desired by the end user.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

In order to better understand the present invention the above and other objects and advantages of the present invention it will become apparent in the following description when read in conjunction with the drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a detailed top view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system with rings.

FIG. 2 is a detailed bottom view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system without rings.

FIG. 3 is a detailed top view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system without rings.

FIG. 4 is a detailed bottom view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system with rings.

FIG. 5 is a detailed side view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system without rings.

FIG. 6 is a detailed perspective view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system with rings in one example of a configuration as a belt.

FIG. 7 is a detailed perspective view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system with rings in a second example of a configuration as a belt.

FIG. 8 is a detailed perspective view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system with rings in a third example of a configuration as a belt.

FIG. 9 is a detailed perspective view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system with rings in a fourth example of a configuration as a belt.

FIG. 10 is a detailed perspective view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system with rings in a fifth example of a configuration as a belt.

FIG. 11 is a detailed perspective view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system with rings in a sixth example of a configuration as a belt.

FIG. 12 is a detailed top view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system adjusted to its shortest length without rings to show an example of a configuration as a headband.

FIG. 13 is a detailed perspective view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system adjusted to its shortest length without rings to show and example of a configuration as a headband with fashion tie inserted into end loops.

FIG. 14 is a detailed perspective view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system adjusted to its smallest size without rings to show an example of a configuration as a headband as it may be worn by end user.

FIG. 15 is an exploded side view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system attached to a new or existing hand bag with existing rings.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system adjusted to its shortest length and attached to a new or existing hand bag with existing rings.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system adjusted to its longest length and attached to a new or existing hand bag with existing rings.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a shoe apparatus with a smaller version of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system attached to the back of the foot retaining strap.

FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of a shoe apparatus with a smaller version of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system attached to the back of the foot retaining strap.

FIG. 20 is a front view of a smaller version of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system with rings configured to form a key chain.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a smaller version of a multi-use decorative accessory strap system with rings configured to form a bracelet.

REFERENCE NUMERALS OF DRAWINGS

24 multi-use decorative accessory strap system
26 top surface of multi-use decorative accessory strap system
28 male stud snap fastener component
30 cap side of female snap fastener component
32 bottom surface of multi-use decorative accessory strap system
34 metal ring
36 underside of female snap fastener component
38 fashion tie
40 new or existing handbag with existing ring
42 show apparatus with attached smaller version of multi-use decorative accessory strap system
44 smaller version of multi-use decorative accessory strap system
48 base of shoe apparatus
50 small key ring
52 large key ring
54 end loops created by folding over and snapping back of strap surface to front of strap surface.
56 smaller ring for bracelet

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

A preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 1. The strap 24 is constructed of two fused or sewn pieces of cotton canvas or other natural or manmade materials known to those skilled in the art. The strap 24 can also be reinforced between the two pieces of fabric with webbing or constructed with additional materials for stability, durability and aesthetic options. The strap 24 may have a variety of widths and lengths.
The strap 24 has an inside 26 and an outside 32. Protruding from the inside 26 are male snap parts 28 which may be made of various metals, plastics or other materials known to those skilled in the art and are spaced at varying distances along the center of the strap 24. These male snap parts 28 are fastened to the inside of the strap 24 prior to the two sides 26 and 32 being fused or sewn together so that only the male stud snap part 28 is visible on the inside of the strap 26. FIG. 2 shows the outside of the strap 32 which covers the back component of the male snap part 28.
At each end of the strap 24 when laid flat protrudes the female end of the snap part 36 as shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 2 shows the opposite side of the female snap part known as the cap 30 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
As shown in FIG. 1 the ends of the outside of the strap 32 can be folded over a ring 34 made of various metals or any other natural or manmade material known to those skilled in the art and in various shapes and sizes. Once the end of the strap 24 is folded over a loop is created 54 allowing the ring 34 to be inserted and the end of the belt containing the female snap part 36 can be fastened to any of the male snap parts 28 protruding from the surface of the inside of the strap 26. The decision of which male snap part 28 that the female snap part 36 is fastened to will dictate the resulting length of the strap 24.
FIG. 4 shows the strap 24 with rings 34 attached at either end and a view of the outside of the strap 32.
FIG. 5 is a side view of the strap 24 showing how the loops 54 are created by the fold of the ends of the strap 24. At each end the female snap parts bottom 36 and top 30 are fastened to secure the ends of the strap.
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention in FIGS. 6 and 7 shows the strap utilized as a belt. The strap 24 can be worn as a belt showing only the outside of the strap 32 as in FIG. 7 whereas the end of the strap is snapped over a single ring and the other end of the strap is inserted through the ring 34 and then snapped to the male snap part 28 to secure the belt to varying sizes desired by the end user.
In FIG. 6 the strap 24 is shown as a belt style showing the male snap parts facing outward and a portion of the outside of the strap 32 facing outward on each end where it is fastened to the ring. In this configuration the outward facing male snap parts 28 can be covered by removable female snap cap parts allowing a plurality of design choices for the end user.
In another embodiment FIGS. 8 and 9 show that the strap 24 can be utilized as additional belt styles using two rings 34. In this configuration the end of the strap is looped over two rings 34 and secured to the male snap and the other end of the strap 24 is inserted and looped around only one ring and then fastened to a male snap part on the other end whether they are facing inside or the outside of the belt.
In a further embodiment of the present invention as shown if FIGS. 10 and 11 a fashion tie 38 constructed of fabric or any other natural or manmade material known to those skilled in the art is tied to gather the rings 34 providing two additional belt styles.
In yet another embodiment of the present invention the strap 24 can be configured to create as a headband as shown in FIGS. 12, 13 and 14. The strap 24 is folded down to its shortest length as shown in FIG. 12 whereby two loops 54 at each end are created. FIG. 13 shows how the fashion tie 38 is inserted into the loops 54. FIG. 14 shows the strap 24 on the head of the end user with the ends secured by tying the fashion ties in a knot or bow. As with the belt, the head band can also been worn with the addition of one or two rings creating additional style options for the end user. As with the belt the strap 24 utilized as a headband can be adjusted to the desired fit of the end user by choosing varying lengths dictated by the varying locations of the male snaps 28.
In still another embodiment of the present invention, the strap 24 can be utilized as a handbag strap as shown in FIGS. 15, 16 and 17. The strap 24 can be adjusted to varying lengths as desired by the end user for comfort and style. FIG. 16 shows the strap 24 snapped to its shortest length allowing a new or existing handbag with existing rings 40 to be worn as a purse or FIG. 17 shows the strap 24 snapped to its longest length allowing a new or existing handbag with rings 40 to be worn as a messenger style bag.
As with the belt, the strap 24 as a handbag strap can be worn with the male snap parts facing outward shown in FIG. 17 and covered by removable decorative snap caps 30 or with the male snaps 28 facing inward showing only the fabric on the outside of the strap 32.
In addition to the previously described embodiments of the present invention, a smaller version of the strap 44 presents further embodiments of the present invention as is shown in FIGS. 18, 19, 20 and 21.
This smaller version of the strap 44 is added to a shoe apparatus 42 known as a flip flop as shown in FIG. 18. The ends of the smaller version of the strap 44 are inserted into the inside back of the foot retaining strap 46 where it meets the foot bed 48. The smaller version of the strap 44 is then looped around the end of the foot retaining strap 46 and fastened to the male snap parts 28 creating a supportive and decorative strap for the existing shoe apparatus. This smaller version of the strap 44 can be adjusted for fit and the male snap parts 28 can be covered by decorative female snap caps 30 as desired by the end user. The smaller version of the strap 44 creates additional support for the heel and ankle of the end user and creates both an additional style and function of the existing shoe apparatus.
A further embodiment of the smaller version of the strap 44 is shown in FIG. 20 and is configured as a key chain by adding rings 50 and 52 created for the purpose of holding keys at either end of the strap 44.
In yet a further embodiment of the smaller version of the strap 44 as shown in FIG. 21 is the strap 44 utilized as a bracelet by using a single ring 56 of a smaller size. This configuration is similar to the aforementioned FIG. 6.
While the principles of the invention have been described herein, it is to be understood by those skilled in the art that this description is made only by way of example and not as a limitation to the scope of the invention. Other embodiments are contemplated within the scope of the present invention in addition to the exemplary embodiments shown and described herein. These additional embodiments are not limited to fashion accessories and may be modified to apply to many surfaces and objects for a variety of functions and decorative purposes. Any and all modifications and substitutions by one of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A multi-use decorative accessory strap system providing a plurality of configurations for fashion accessories comprising, in combination:

(a) of two equally sized pieces of fabric or other natural or manmade material known to those skilled in the art. These fabric components are fused or sewn together and reinforced by webbing or other structural material for stability, durability and aesthetic design options. The strap component may be comprised of a variety of widths and lengths depending on the style desired for a particular aesthetic appearance or function.

(b) a series of male snaps parts of varying sizes and materials added to the outer surface of the inside surface of the strap prior to the two surfaces being fused or sewn together. At each end of the strap a female snap fastener of varying sizes and materials is added to the male snapped side of the strap. The cap component of the female snap part of varying sizes and materials is facing the outside of the strap and the female fastener snap part is facing the same direction as the male snapped side on the inside of the strap. The ends of the strap are now equipped to snap onto the existing male snap parts to create various strap lengths. When the strap ends are folded inward and snapped closed two loops are created at each end. Additional female snap caps of varying sizes and materials are added to the surface of the exposed male snaps for embellishment.

(c) a single or several D-rings, O-rings, square rings or fashion ties of varying sizes, shapes, lengths and materials depending on the style to be achieved are placed in the loops and then the ends of the strap are snapped and secured over the ring to create the desired length and function of the strap.