AU2013203882A1 - Bra component interconnecting clip, bra, and bra conversion kit using same - Google Patents

Abstract

Abstract In the preferred forms the present invention provides new two part openable bra clips for nursing bras, and a new three way connecting clip for conversion of a nursing bra to a normal bra when not feeding, and bras incorporating the same, wherein all of the clips are easily removable from the bra without the need for cutting or sewing. The present invention also proposes two new removable clip structures that can be applied to all clips and not only those relevant to nursing bras. The first type relates to clips that define fully bounded but openable and closeable openings into which loops on the bra element can be secured. In some forms the clips have multiple rigid parts, whereby one part can be removed or physically opened to allow connection or disconnection with the bra element loop. In others, the clips include a deformable element such that access to the opening can be gained by deformation of a part of the clip which then resiliently closes to secure the clip to the garment. -25 z~It

Description

- 1 Bra component interconnecting clip, bra, and bra conversion kit using same Field of the invention [0001] The present invention relates to clips used in the manufacture of bras for interconnecting component elements of the bra, such as, a shoulder strap with a cup portion. The invention has been developed primarily to facilitate easy conversion of a bra between two distinct forms having different purposes, such as from a maternity or normal bra, to a nursing bra, and vice versa, and will be described with reference to this preferred application. However, it will be appreciated that the clip or clips of the invention are not limited to this particular use. Background of the invention [0002] Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field. [0003] In a conventional top opening nursing bra, the shoulder straps are connected to the front top portion of the bra cups, and underlying sling structure, which holds the shoulder straps in position, via a two piece interacting clip device. The first fixed component has opposed upper and lower closed openings and associated retaining bars and an integrally formed hook or other releasable fastener element. An end of the shoulder strap is passed through the upper closed opening and passed over the retaining bar and secured by sewing down the strap end. Similarly, a top end of the sling structure, which underlies the cup and holds the shoulder strap in place, is connected to the lower opening and lower retaining bar in the same manner. A separate second element, has a lower closed opening and retaining bar for connection with an upper portion of the cup, and a further opening or formation that can releasably connect with the hook element or fastener on the first component. [0004] While this general arrangement works well and facilitates easy opening and lowering of a bra cup to enable breast feeding, the double layer clip structure can be bulky, and a bra incorporating this arrangement will always be considered, or at least associated with, a limited use nursing bra. [0005] Additionally, more and more women are taking bra product selection a lot more seriously, looking not only for superior comfort, support and fit, but at the same time looking for -2 products which have an aesthetic appeal which makes them feel and look good. As a result, women are looking at investing in better quality higher cost products that meet these requirements. [0006] Accordingly, the single use association of most existing nursing bras can deter women from selecting the superior top end bra products available on the market at this stage of motherhood. This is on the basis that they can never really be sure how long they will actually be able to nurse their child, which is dependent on so many factors out of their control, and therefore justify the investment. [0007] Furthermore, in the event of failure or damage to a clip used in any bra, regardless of specific type or purpose, then assuming the bra is worth keeping it is in most instances necessary to unstitch and re-sew the straps to attach a replacement clip. This is time consuming and often impossible to do to a professional standard as would be warranted to do justice to a good bra product. While there are clip products that are generally "s" shaped that can be slid sideways into loops formed in two bra elements, these S clips typically have a very limited simple clip function and may be prone to disconnection, particularly when loading on the clip is heavy and not purely orthogonal to the retaining bars which is usually the case. Summary of the invention [0008] It is an object of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative. [0009] According to a first aspect of the invention there is there is provided a connecting clip for a bra, the clip defining at least one first bounded opening with an associated retaining bar, the at least one first opening and retaining bar being configured for receiving over said retaining bar and into the opening a pre-formed loop provided on a bra element, wherein said first opening is configured to be manipulated between a first open position to receive or remove the pre-formed loop onto said retaining bar, to a second closed position at which the pre-formed loop is then secured to the clip. [0010] In a preferred form, each opposed opening is generally slit shaped to closely accommodate the bra loop material. [0011] In one form, the first opening and retaining bar is defined by two generally rigid boundary elements which are separable to achieve the first open position to receive or remove -3 the pre-formed loop over the retaining bar, and re-connectable to form the second closed position to secure the pre-formed loop to the clip. [0012] In one particularly preferred variation, the two generally rigid boundary elements are hingedly interconnected and incorporate a locking mechanism for locking the clip in the closed position. [0013] In another form, the first opening is bounded, at least in part, by an open ended resiliently deformable arm which extends from or connects to the retaining bar, which arm can be deformed into the first open position to receive the pre-formed loop by sliding over the arm and onto the retaining bar, yet which arm will resiliently return to the second closed position to then secure and retain the pre-formed loop to the clip. The operation may be similar to that of a traditional paper clip. [0014] In a first embodiment of this first aspect, the clip is in the form of a first fixed clip component for securing a shoulder strap to the top of a cup element as in a normal use bra. In this embodiment the clip has two bounded opposed openings with associated retaining bars, and both said openings are configured to be manipulated between first open positions to receive or remove the pre-formed loop elements in the shoulder strap or cup element over the retaining bars, and second closed positions to retain the clip with the bra elements. [0015] In this manner, should the clip become damaged, or the owner wants to enhance the bra by using new clips according to the invention that could incorporate some decorative design, this can be easily achieved without the need for cutting, unstitching or re-sewing the garment in any way. [0016] In a second embodiment of this first aspect, the clip is in the form of a first fixed clip component of a two part clip assembly used in nursing bras. This clip structure is similar to the first embodiment, in that it has two bounded openings with associated retaining bars that can each be opened to respectively accommodate a pre-formed loop on a shoulder strap, and a pre-formed loop at the top of a sling structure disposed behind the cup. However, it also includes an integrally formed first engagement element which forms part of the easily releasable fastener needed for feeding. [0017] In a third embodiment of this first aspect, the clip takes the form of a second releasable clip element for use with the second embodiment described above. This clip -4 includes a first openable and closable bounded opening with associated retaining element and a second engagement formation for connecting with the first engagement formation of the second embodiment. In one preferred arrangement, the first engagement formation is a hook formation and the second engagement formation is a hook or loop designed to engage therewith. The interacting engagement formations may include sprung locking tabs and the like as is known in the art. [0018] In a fourth embodiment of this first aspect, which is a variation of the first embodiment, but adapted for conversion of a nursing bra to a normal or maternity bra, the clip as three bounded openings with associated retaining bars that are all configured to be operable between open and closed positions, the three openings being configured to receive pre-formed loops provided on each of a shoulder strap, a top of a sling portion and a top of a cup. [0019] It will be appreciated that this fourth embodiment will operate to replace a bulky two layer opening clip needed for feeding, with a sleek single layer clip, which can, optionally be decorated for selective aesthetic enhancement of the garment. [0020] In all of the above embodiments, the clip may be made from generally rigid elements separable and interconnectable as discussed above. For embodiments with more than one opening, all openings may be accessed via movement of one component that forms a part of the boundary of all the elements, or there may be separate movable elements associated with each opening. [0021] In a fifth embodiment of this first aspect, there is provided a set of clips for after market conversion of a standard nursing bra without openable and closeable removable clips, the set comprising two of each of said first embodiment, second embodiment and third embodiment clips according to the invention. This enables a nursing bra owner to physically remove existing sewn in unopenable clips, using appropriate cutters, and convert the bra to either a normal or maternity bra, or nursing bra, knowing that future conversion between these forms will be easily achieved. [0022] According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a connecting clip for a bra, the clip defining at least two opposed openings each with an associated retaining bar formation that extends parallel to an axis of a loop formed in a bra element, wherein at least one retaining bar formation is formed by two opposed end supported retaining bar elements -5 with a longitudinal gap there between which communicates with the adjacent opening whereby a pre-formed loop on a bra element can be deformed and fed into the gap between the bar elements and opened out into the adjacent opening to extend over the gap so as to then be retained by the retaining bar elements. [0023] In a preferred form, each opposed opening is generally slit shaped so as to neatly accommodate the bra loop material. Similarly, in preferred forms, the opposed end supported retaining bar elements are of approximately equal length and the gap is generally centrally disposed there between. In this manner it is very difficult for the clip to come undone unintentionally even when loaded unevenly. [0024] In a first embodiment of this second aspect, the clip is in the form of a first fixed clip component for securing a shoulder strap to the top of a cup element as in a normal use bra. In this embodiment the clip has two opposed openings with associated retaining bars, and eachg retaining bar formation is formed by two opposed end supported bar elements with a longitudinal gap there between which communicates with the adjacent opening , whereby a pre-formed loop on a bra element can be deformed and fed into the gap between the bar elements and opened out into the adjacent opening to extend over the gap so as to then be retained by the retaining bar elements. [0025] In this manner, should the clip become damaged, or the owner wants to enhance the bra by using new clips according to the invention that could incorporate some decorative design such as embossed formations or jewel setting or the like, this can be easily achieved without the need for cutting, unstitching or re-sewing the garment in any way. [0026] In a second embodiment according to this second aspect, the clip is in the form of a first fixed clip component of a two part clip assembly used in nursing bras. This clip structure is similar to the first embodiment, in that it has two openings with associated end supported retaining bar elements that can each respectively accommodate a pre-formed loop on a shoulder strap, and a pre-formed loop at the top of a sling structure disposed behind the cup. However, it also includes an integrally formed first engagement element which forms part of the easily releasable fastener needed for feeding. [0027] In a third embodiment according to this second aspect, the clip takes the form of a second releasable clip element for use with the second embodiment described above. This clip includes a first accessible opening with associated end supported retaining bar elements and a -6 second engagement formation for connecting with the first engagement formation of the second embodiment. In one preferred arrangement, the first engagement formation is a hook formation and the second engagement formation is a hook or loop designed to engage therewith. The interacting engagement formations may include sprung locking tabs and the like as is known in the art. [0028] In a fourth embodiment according to this second aspect, which is a variation of the first embodiment, but adapted for conversion of a nursing bra to a normal or maternity bra, the clip as three openings with associated end supported retaining bar elements that are all configured to receive pre-formed loops provided on each of a shoulder strap, a top of a sling portion and a top of a cup. [0029] It will be again be appreciated that this fourth embodiment will operate to replace a bulky two layer opening clip needed for feeding, with a sleek single layer clip, which can, optionally be decorated for selective aesthetic enhancement of the garment. [0030] In a fifth embodiment of this second aspect of the invention, there is provided a set of clips for after market conversion of a standard nursing bra without removable clips, the set comprising two of each of said first embodiment, second embodiment and third embodiment clips according to the invention. This enables a nursing bra owner to physically remove existing sewn in unopenable or non removable clips, using appropriate cutters, and convert the bra to either a normal or maternity bra, or nursing bra, knowing that future conversion between these forms will be easily achieved. [0031] According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a two part clip assembly for use in a nursing bra of the kind having a sling to connect each shoulder strap to the rest of the bra and drop down bra cups that are releasable from the top to enable access for feeding , the clip assembly including: a first clip having a first opening with associated first retaining bar for removably receiving over said first retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on an end of a shoulder strap and a second opening with associated second retaining bar for removably receiving over said second retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on a top portion of a sling element; and a first hook formation; and a second clip element having a third opening with associated third retaining bar for removably receiving over said third retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on a top end of a -7 cup element, the second clip further including a second hook formation selectively interengagable with the first hook formation provided on the first clip. [0032] One or other of said first and second hook formations may comprise an opening or loop formed on one clip that clips over a protuberance or hook formed on other part to create a releasable fastening. [0033] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a three way connecting clip for a nursing bra of the kind having a sling to connect each shoulder strap to the rest of the bra and drop down bra cups that are releasable from the top to enable access for conversion of the bra to a non-feeding bra , the clip including: a first opening with associated first retaining bar for removably receiving over said first retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on an end of a shoulder strap; a second opening with associated second retaining bra for removably receiving over said second retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on a top portion of a sling element; and a third opening with associated third retaining bra for removably receiving over said third retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on a top portion of a cup element. [0034] The clips of the second and third aspect of the invention can be configured in accordance with the clips of the first or second aspect of the invention, or alternatively may incorporate simple open sided opening with associated retaining bars. [0035] In a fifth aspect of the invention there is provided a kit of clips including two clip sets according to the third aspect of the invention in combination with two three way connecting clips of the fourth aspect of the invention. [0036] According to a sixth aspect of the invention there is a provided a bra including the kit of clips of the fifth aspect of the invention. Brief description of the drawings [0037] Several embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [0038] Figure 1 is a front view of a top opening nursing bra with conventional prior art clips; -8 [0039] Figure 2 is an enlarged front view of the strap to sling connection of the bra shown in Figure 1; [0040] Figure 3 is a series of views of a first version clip in accordance with a second embodiment of the first aspect of the invention that forms one part of a two part clip for use in a nursing bra; [0041] Figure 4 is a series of views of a first version clip in accordance with a third embodiment of the first aspect of the invention that forms the other part of a two part clip for use in a nursing bra; [0042] Figure 5 is an enlarged part view of a nursing bra incorporating the interacting clips shown in Figures 3 and 4; [0043] Figure 6 is a series of views of a first version clip in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the first aspect of the invention for conversion of a nursing bra using clips according to the second and third embodiments of the invention previously disclosed, to a standard bra configuration; [0044] Figure 7 is an enlarged part view of a bra incorporating the clip shown in Figure 6; [0045] Figure 8 is a front view of a first version clip in accordance with a first embodiment of the first aspect of the invention; [0046] Figure 9 is a partial front view of a second version clip according to any of the embodiments of the first aspect of the invention illustrating another means by which the clips can be openable and closeable to secure with, and remove from, the garment; and [0047] Figure 10 is a series of views of a first version clip in accordance with a second embodiment of the second aspect of the invention that forms one part of a two part clip for use in a nursing bra; [0048] Figure 11 is a series of views of a first version clip in accordance with a third embodiment of the second aspect of the invention that forms the other part of a two part clip for use in a nursing bra; -9 [0049] Figure 12 is a series of views of a first version clip in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the second aspect of the invention for conversion of a nursing bra using clips according to the second and third embodiments of the invention previously disclosed, to a standard bra configuration; and [0050] Figure 13 is a set of views of three clips for a nursing bra showing and alternative side slide releasable connection. Detailed description of preferred embodiments [0051] Referring firstly to Figures 1 and 2 there is shown a conventional top opening nursing bra shown generally at 1. The bra includes shoulder straps 2, back strap 3 and bra cups indicated 4, each bra cup having a top connecting apex 5 and a lower edge 6. Disposed beneath the cups is the sling shown generally at 7. The sling 7 is usually in the form of a webbing or other material which is of a similar shape to the cups 4, and connected with the lower edges 6, but which incorporates large central opening through which each breast protrudes. This facilitates access to the breast for nursing while keeping the shoulder straps in place, while at the same time usually providing some element of support for the breasts. [0052] In this regard the front portion of each shoulder strap 2 is connected at its front end 8 to an apex 9 of the sling 7 by means of a first fixed clip component 10 as shown in more detail in Figure 2. The first clip component 10 has upper and lower openings 11 and 12 each with respective retaining bars 13 and 14. As shown, the end 8 of the strap 2 is passed through the upper closed opening 11 and over the retaining bar 13 and secured by sewing down the strap end 8 as shown. Similarly, a top end 9 of the sling structure is connected to the lower opening 12 and lower retaining bar 14 in the same manner. Also provided on the clip 10 is a first fastener formation in the form of a hook formation 15. [0053] A separate second clip element 16 is also provided, which has a lower closed opening 17 and retaining bar 18 for connection with an upper portion 5 of the cup 4, and a further opening 19 that can releasably connect with the hook formation 15 on the first component. [0054] In use, when wanting to nurse, the clip 16 at the top of the cup 4 is easily unhooked from the underlying clip 10 by raising the opening 19 up off the hook formation 15, enabling the cup to be lowered so that the breast is exposed, the bra remaining in place by virtue of the sling.

- 10 [0055] The present invention proposes a solution to the limitations of the prior art discussed above by providing new two part openable clips for feeding, and a new three way connecting clip for conversion to a normal bra when not feeding, all of which are easily removable from the bra without the need for cutting or sewing. [0056] The present invention also proposes two new removable clip structures that can be applied to all clips and not only those relevant to nursing bras. The first type relates to clips that define fully bounded but openable and cloeable openings into which loops on the bra element can be secured. In some forms the clips have multiple rigid parts, whereby one part can be removed or physically opened to allow connection or disconnection with the bra element loop. In others, the clips include a deformable element such that access to the opening can be gained by deformation of a part of the clip which then resiliently closes to secure the clip to the garment. Examples embodying these concepts are described with reference to Figures 1 to 9. [0057] The second type relates to more simplified clip structures whereby the clips can be manipulated onto loops formed in the bra elements via gaps provided in the retaining bars adjacent the clip openings. Examples embodying these concepts are described with reference to Figures 10-12. [0058] In the meantime, referring to Figure 3 there is shown a first version of a second embodiment clip according to a first aspect of the invention that is designed to replace the fixed first clip portion 10 of the prior art shown in the previous two Figures. Wherever possible like reference numerals are used to denote corresponding features. [0059] In this particular version, the clip 10' is made from a generally rigid material such as a hard polymer or pressed metal or the like. It can be seen that in the closed position shown in the top Figure, it looks very similar to the prior art clip 10 in that it still has the upper and lower openings 11 and 12 and associated retaining bars 13 and 14. It also has a similar hook formation 15 as shown. As such the major difference resides in the structure that defines the openings and respective retaining bars. In this regard the clip is formed, in this example, from two separate parts including a main body portion 20 that defines the two retaining bars 13 and 14 and a major portion of the boundaries of each of the openings 11 and 12, and a separate moveable closure arm 22. The closure arm 22 is hingedly connected to the main body portion 20 at a pivot point 23 on or adjacent the retaining bar 13 and includes at its distal end a lock formation 24 that is designed to engage a corresponding lock formation 25 provided on the - 11 body 20 at or adjacent the lower retaining bar 14. To further assist in rigidly connecting the two components when in the closed position, where both openings are fully bounded to retain the connected bra elements, the arm may contain a locking edge formation 26 which frictionally engages with a correspondingly shaped aperture or other formation 27 provided on the main body 20. [0060] It will of course be appreciated that numerous alternative means could be provided to secure the two components in the closed position, both at the free end of the arm and/or along its length, while allowing repeated release and closure as required when the clips need to be removed. [0061] Turning next to Figure 4 there is shown a first version of a third embodiment clip according to the invention that is designed to replace the movable second clip portion 16 of the prior art shown in the previous Figures 1 and 2. Once again, wherever possible, like reference numerals have been used to denote corresponding features. [0062] In this first version, the third embodiment clip 16' once again has a similar general appearance, in the closed position, to the prior art clip 16 and varies again primarily in the structure which allows the clip to be opened and closed to be attached to, and removed from, the relevant bra elements as needed. This clip also has a lower closed opening 17 and retaining bar 18 for connection with an upper portion 5 of the cup 4, and a further opening 19 that can releasably connect with the hook formation 15 on the first component 10'. In the illustrated embodiment a hinged arm 22 is again provided which is connected via a pivot 23 to an upper portion of a main body portion 20, which has at its distal end a locking formation 24 that engages a corresponding locking element 25. An intermediate locking edge formation 26 is also provided which connects with a suitably formed aperture 27 on the main body. It will of course be appreciated that functionally, the arm 22 need only operate to provide access to the lower opening 17 and retaining bar 18 which is the portion that needs to connect to fixed pre formed loops on the bra, and not to the top opening 19. However, given the size of the clip, are larger arm can in fact be easier to operate. The clip 16' may also include a sprung tab 28 or similar which in use serves to help retain this top clip element to the underlying clip element 10' in a manner that is already well known with non-opening clips. [0063] Once the two clips 10' and 16' are secured to the bra as shown in Figure 5, it will function and appear similar to the prior art clips that cannot be removed. Please note that in - 12 this Figure, the bra cup is indicated as being transparent purely to explain detail of the underlying sling structure. [0064] Referring now to Figure 6 there is shown a first version fourth embodiment of the invention. This clip 30 is a new form of triple connection fixed clip that is designed to take the place of the two clips used in a nursing bra as previously described. As can be seen the clip includes upper and lower openings 11 and 12 and associated retaining bars 13 and 14 as per the second embodiment. However, it also includes a further opening 31 between these two which also has an associated retaining bar 32. The remaining elements are substantially the same. Use of the clip is illustrated in Figure 7. [0065] Figure 8 shows a first version of a first embodiment clip according to a first aspect of the invention 10", which, as can be seen, is very similar in structure to the second embodiment shown in Figure 3 except that it does not include a hook formation. [0066] With all of the embodiments described in Figures 3 to 8, it will of course be appreciated that not only could different lock/latch type mechanisms be used to secure the clips in the closed position, any reference to hooks or locking protuberances on the one part and corresponding hooks/openings or locking apertures or formations on the other part, can of course be reversed or substitute mechanisms employed. [0067] Furthermore, while the preferred forms illustrated all show two part devices that are hingedly interconnected so components are less easily lost, alternative forms could use elements which can fully or partially disconnect and which inter connect by different mechanisms. Similarly, as alluded to above, the clips could be made of multiple components in excess of the two components described. [0068] Turning now to Figure 9 there is shown a partial front view of a second version clip according to any of the embodiments of the invention illustrating another means by which the clips can be openable and closeable to secure with, and be removed from, the garment. Once again where possible like reference numerals will be used to denote corresponding features. [0069] As can be seen, the clip 40 has the same bounded upper and lower openings 11 and 12 with corresponding retaining bars 13 and 14 which are defined in a generally rigid material such as metal or rigid plastic. However, instead of having a separate rigid arm element 22 as in the previous embodiments, the clip incorporates two resiliently deformable retaining arms 41 - 13 and 42. These are configured to overlap with a central portion of the main body 20 so that in the rest position each of the openings are fully bounded. However, the resilient nature of the arms enables them to be raised from the body 20 such that a loop portion of a bra element can be slid over the distal ends of the arms until positioned over the retaining bars 13 and 14. At which point, the arms 41 and 42 return to their home position as shown and the loops are thereby retained. [0070] Numerous variations to this concept can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For example a single arm could be configured to close both or all openings, depending on how many are provided. Further the arm could be integrally formed or made separately and attached. [0071] Referring next to Figure 11 there is shown a first version of a second embodiment clip according to a second aspect of the invention that is designed to replace the fixed first clip portion 10 of the prior art shown in the previous two Figures. Wherever possible like reference numerals are again used to denote corresponding features. [0072] In this particular version, the clip 50 is again made from a generally rigid material such as a hard polymer or pressed metal or the like. It still has the upper and lower openings 11 and 12 and associated retaining bars shown generally at13 and 14. It also has a similar hook formation 15 as shown formed on the main body portion. The primary difference resides in the formation of the retaining bars and the manner in which access is gained to the adjacent openings. [0073] More specifically, each retaining bar is made up of a pair of opposed retaining bar elements 51 which are supported at their distal ends 52 to extend toward each other in a direction that in use is parallel to the axis of a loop formed in each bra element and provide a gap 53 there between. The gap is sized whereby a pre-formed loop on a bra element can be deformed and fed into the gap between the retaining bar elements and opened out into the adjacent opening to extend over the gap so as to then be retained by the retaining bar elements. [0074] Figure 11 illustrates the corresponding clip for attachment to the bra cup for use with the clip of Figure 10 and Figure 12 shows the three way connecting clip 70 that can be substituted when a nursing capability is no longer required. In this particular version, access to the inner retaining bar elements 51' for the loop formed on the cup is gained via passage - 14 through the gap 53' which is accessed via the outer gap 53 for the sling loop. While the mechanism by which the clips are removable from and attachable with the various bra elements differs from that shown in the previous figures, it will be appreciated that once in use the visual appearance is almost the same as is illustrated in Figures 5 and 7. [0075] Referring finally to Figure 13 there is a series of views of three clips suitable for use with a nursing bra and when converting a nursing bra to a normal bra, that illustrates yet another form of releasable connection. Again like reference numerals are used to denote corresponding features. As can be seen the first two clips 10 and 16 together form a releasable fastener assembly for providing feeding access. The three way clip 30 is configured to replace the two part clip assembly when converting the nursing bra to a normal bra. [0076] In all three clips the openings 1, 12, 17 and 31 are all open at a side 80 adjacent a cantilevered end 81 of each retaining bars 13, 14, 18 and 32. Each retaining bar preferably includes a short return element 82 that helps to prevent the loop from slipping off the retaining bar in use. Operation is substantially the same as for the embodiments described in Figures 10-12 except that the loops are connected from open sides 80 instead of via the gaps provided generally centrally of the retaining bars. [0077] It will be appreciated that while there are numerous ways in which the invention can be put into effect, the preferred embodiments exemplified in Figures 10-12 offer a simple yet secure fastening which can still be released from the garment without the need to cut and/or re-sew material. Further, by having continuous sides, the simple structure lends itself to aesthetic modification to incorporate ornate designs without the need to allow for hinges or fasteners, as per the two part embodiments, or to allow for overlapping resilient arms as per the embodiments such as that illustrated in Figure 9, or allow for side openings such as in Figure 13. [0078] Finally it is envisaged that the clips may be provided individually, in kits on their own for conversion of existing fixed clip bras, and/or as part of a new fully completed convertible bra assembly. [0079] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

Claims (10)

1. A two part clip assembly for use in a nursing bra of the kind having a sling to connect each shoulder strap to the rest of the bra and drop down bra cups that are releasable from the top to enable access for feeding , the clip assembly including: a first clip having a first opening with associated first retaining bar for removably receiving over said first retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on an end of a shoulder strap and a second opening with associated second retaining bar for removably receiving over said second retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on a top portion of a sling element;and a first hook formation; and a second clip element having a third opening with associated third retaining bar for removably receiving over said third retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on a top end of a cup element, the second clip further including a second hook formation selectively interengable with the first hook formation provided on the first clip.

2. A three way connecting clip for a nursing bra of the kind having a sling to connect each shoulder strap to the rest of the bra and drop down bra cups that are releasable from the top to enable access for conversion of the bra to a non-feeding bra , the clip including: a first opening with associated first retaining bar for removably receiving over said first retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on an end of a shoulder strap; a second opening with associated second retaining bra for removably receiving over said second retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on a top portion of a sling element; and a third opening with associated third retaining bra for removably receiving over said third retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on a top portion of a cup element.

3. A connecting clip for a bra, the clip defining at least one opening with an associated retaining bar formation that extends parallel to an axis of a loop formed in a bra element, wherein at least one retaining bar formation is formed by two opposed end supported retaining bar elements with a longitudinal gap there between which communicates with the adjacent opening , whereby a pre-formed loop on a bra element can be deformed and fed into the gap between the bar elements and opened out into the adjacent opening to extend over the gap so as to then be retained by the retaining bar elements.

4. A connecting clip according to claim 3 wherein the opposed end supported retaining bar elements are of approximately equal length and the gap is generally centrally disposed there between. - 16

5. A connecting clip for a bra, the clip defining at least one bounded opening with an associated retaining bar, the at least one first opening and retaining bar being configured for receiving over said retaining bar and into the opening a pre-formed loop provided on a bra element, wherein said first opening is configured to be manipulated between a first open position to receive or remove the pre-formed loop onto said retaining bar, to a second closed position at which the pre-formed loop is then secured to the clip.

6. A connecting clip according to claim 5 wherein the first opening and retaining bar is defined by two generally rigid boundary elements which are separable to achieve the first open position to receive or remove the pre-formed loop over the retaining bar, and re-connectable to form the second closed position to secure the pre-formed loop to the clip.

7. A connecting clip according to claim 5 wherein the first opening is bounded, at least in part, by an open ended resiliently deformable arm which extends from or connects to the retaining bar, which arm can be deformed into the first open position to receive the pre-formed loop by sliding over the arm and onto the retaining bar, which arm will resiliently return to the second closed position to then secure and retain the pre-formed loop to the clip.

8. A connecting clip according to any one of claims 3 to 7 configured as a first clip in a two part clip assembly for use in a nursing bra of the kind having a sling to connect each shoulder strap to the rest of the bra and drop down bra cups that are releasable from the top to enable access for feeding, the first clip having a first opening with associated first retaining bar for removably receiving over said first retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on an end of a shoulder strap and a second opening with associated second retaining bar for removably receiving over said second retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on a top portion of a sling element; and a first hook formation for releasable connection with a second hook element formed on the second clip.

9. A connecting clip according to any one of claims 3 to 7 configured as a second clip in a two part clip assembly for use in a nursing bra of the kind having a sling to connect each shoulder strap to the rest of the bra and drop down bra cups that are releasable from the top to enable access for feeding, the second clip having a third opening with associated third retaining bar for removably receiving over said third retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on a top end of a bra cup element and a second opening with associated second retaining bar for removably - 17 receiving over said second retaining bar a pre-formed loop formed on a top portion of a sling element; and a second hook formation for releasable connection with the first hook element formed on the first clip.

10. A connecting clip substantially as herein described with reference to any one of the embodiments of the invention illustrated in the accompanying drawings and/or examples.