US3542034A - Foundation garments - Google Patents

Description

I United States Patent [1113,542,034

[72] Inventor Anne Klein 1,851,730 3/1932 Rutherford 24/201 166 E. 65th St., New York, New York 2,074,035 3/1937 Ward 24/201 10021 2,260,778 10/1941 Hodge..... 24/201 [21] Appl. No. 641,620 2,765,471 9/1956 Cousins... 24/201 [22] Filed May 26,1967 1 1 1,388,098 10/1921 Connor 2/240 Continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 478,118, 1,510,325 9/1924 Landon 128/535 Aug. 9, l965,now PatentNo. 1,833,163 11/1931 lchinger... 2/239 3,331,372 I 2,103,446 12/1937 Boyle 128/535 [45] Patented 0ct.24, 1970 2,136,250 11/1938 Peck 128/535 2,505,242 4/1950 Herbener 128/535 4 FOUNDATION GARMENTS Primary ExaminerAde1e M. Eager 12 Claims, 3S'Drawing Figs. Attorney-Lining and Siege! [52] U.S.Cl. 128/535, 2/240, 24/201, 128/528 [51] 1nt.Cl. A4lc1/00 [50] FleldofSearch. 128/521,

24/73, 201 ABSTRACT: Foundation garments comprising fastener structure comprising, in turn, cooperating male and female ele- [56] Rererences cued ments secured with the garment adjacent the lower marginal UNITED STATES PATENTS portion thereof adapted to be interengaged to support hosiery, 1,427,561 8/1922 Starn 24/201.l orthe 1ike,re1ative to the garment.

Patented Nov. 24, 1970 Sheet 4 of 5 FIG FIG-.30 F/G.3l

AMI z 267 Patented Nbv. 24, 1970 3,542,034

Sheeti of 5 IN VEN TOR. All/M ALE'l/V copending U.S.- Pat. application Ser. No. 478,118'entitled FOUNDATION GARMENT and filed Aug. 9, 1965, now US. Pat. No. 3,33l,372 issued Julyl8, I967.

The present invention pertains, generally, to foundation garments and, more particularly, relates to foundation garments, such as girdles, panty-girdles, and the like, comprising fastener structure for removably connecting a plurality of articles, such as a pair ofhosiery, thereto.

- It is a primary object of the present invention to provide a foundation garment, such as a girdle, parity girdle, and the like, that is constructed and arranged to present, fastener structure, such-as hosiery supporters or garters, for removable connecting a plurality of articles, for example, a pair of hosiery, thereto in such a manner as to render said fastener structure virtually inconspicuous or virtually invisible when in use. I

Another primary object of this invention, in addition to the foregoing object, is to provide a'foundation garment that is constructed and arrangedto present fastener structure that is constructed and arranged to be capable of fabrication as an integral part of said foundation garment, or as a separate element whichcan then be attached-to the foundation garment in any suitable manner to render saidv fastener structure virtually inconspicuous or'invisible when in'use.

Ari additional primary object of this invention, in addition.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 5-5 of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of another embodiment of fastener structure constructed in accordance with principles of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a view similar-to FIG. 6, showing yet another embodiment of fastener structure;

be visible at the. lower marginal portion of an outer garment,

enabling the presentation ofa foundation garmentthat will appeal to the fastidious woman, notwithstanding present style trends of short outer garments, and will not cause embarrassment by exposure of the fastener structure.

Yet another primary object of this invention, in addition to the foregoing objects, is to provide a foundation garment comprising fastener structureat or adjacent the lower marginal portion of the. garment which is integral with the garment,

' rather than merely depending therefrom, as are conventional tion will be apparent'froma study of the specification following taken with the drawingsgwhich together show, illustrate, describe and disclose certain preferred embodiments or modifications of the invention and what is now considered to be the best mode of practicing the principles thereof. Other embodiments or modifications may be suggested to those having the benefit of the teachings herein, and such other embodiments or modifications are intended to be reserved especially as they fall within the scope and spirit ofthe subjoined claims.

IN THE DRAWING FIG. I is a perspective view ofa foundation garment constru'ctcd in accordance with the principles of the present invention, showing fastener structure of the invention as forming a part thereof;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged detailed viewof the fastener structure that forms an element-of the foundation garment illustrated in FIG. 1, taken from the outside thereof;

FIG. 3 is a view similar to FIG. 2, but taken from the inside of the foundation garment shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 isa view similar to FIG. 2, illustrating the fastener structure in a closed or operative position, and the manner in which a stocking is'gripped or held thereby;

FIG. 8 is a view similar to FIGS. 6 and 7, showing a further embodiment of fastener structure;

FIG. 9 is a view similar to FIGS. 68, showing a still further embodiment of fastener structure;

FIG. 10 is a view similar to FIG. 3, but illustrating a modification of the fastenerstructure illustrated therein;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 11-11 of FIG. 10',

FIG. 12 is a view similar to FIG. 10 illustrating another modification of fastener structure;

FIG. 13 is a view similar to FIGS. 10 and 12 illustrating yet another embodiment or modification of fastener structure;

FIG. 14 is a view similar to the preceding figures illustrating yet another embodiment of fastener structure;

FIG. 15 is a view similar to preceding figures illustrating a still further modification of fastener structure;

FIG. 16 is a view similar to preceding figures illustrating 7 another and still further modification offastener structure;

FIG. 17 is a view similar to the preceding figures, but illustrating a still further embodiment 'of fastener structure;

FIG. 18 is a view similar to the preceding figures, but illustrating a yet still further embodiment of the fastener structure;

FIG. 19 is a view similar to the preceding figures illustrating still another fastener structure;

FIG. 20 is another view of the fastener structure of FIG. 19, but showing the fastener structure as it approaches the closed position;

FIG. 21 is a view similar to FIG. 19, but illustrating yet another embodiment or modification of fastener structure according to the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is another view of the fastener structure of FIG. 21, but illustrating the fastener in the closed or engaged position thereof; a 1

FIG. 23 is'a view similar to the preceding figures, but illustrating'a still additional embodiment of fastener structure;

FIG. 24 is a view similar to FIG. 22, but illustrating a still additional embodiment or modification offastener structure;

- FIG. 25. is a view similar to FIG. 24, but illustrating another and yet still further embodiment or modification of fastener structure;

FIG. 26 is a view similar to the preceding figures, but illustrating an even yet still further embodiment or modification of fastener structure;

FIG. 27 is a schematic view illustrating one step in a method of fabricating fastener structures in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 28 is a view similar to FIG. 27, but viewed from the opposite side thereof;

, FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a foundation garment illustrating one step in a method of fabrication thereof utilizing fastener structure in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 30 is an enlarged detailed view of the fastener structure of FIGS. 27 and 28 assembled with the garment of FIG. 29;

FIG. 31 is a view similar to FIG. 30, but viewed from the other side of the garment;

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of another fastener structure fabricated in accordance wt with the principles of the present invention; 4

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of still another fastener structure fabricated in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional illustration, taken along line 34-34 of FIG. 33; and

FIG. 35 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 32 of yet another fastener structure fabricated in accordance with the principles of this invention.

With particular reference now to the drawing, and particularly to FIG. 1, there is shown and illustrated therein a foundation garment constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, and designated generally by the reference character 10. The garment 10 is illustrated as being of a slip-on type for exemplary purposes only, it being understood that the present invention is equally applicable to other types of foundation garments, such as panty girdles, garter belts, and in general to any type of undergarment that is constructed and arranged to present the requisite characteristic ofsufficient strength. In addition, it will beunderstood that the foundation garment 10 can be fabricated in any suitable manner, and of any suitable material or combination of fabrics.

The foundation garment or girdle 10 comprises a plurality of fastening assemblies 20 and 22, which may also be denoted as hosiery supporters or garters. The fastening assemblies 20 and 22 are of identical construction, it being necessary therefore to present a detailed description of only one. Accordingly, and with particular reference now to FIGS. 2-5, the fastening assembly, hosiery supporter or garter 22 will be seen to comprise an aperture 24 of keyhole-shaped configuration which is cut out of the material from which the garment 10 itself is fabricated. A keeper 26 of corresponding configuration extends about the periphery of the aperture 24, and is affixed to the fabricof the garment 10 in any suitable manner.

The keeper 26, in addition to performing a other functions, hereinafter to be described, performs the function of reinforcing the fabric of the garment 10 at the periphery of the aperture 24, and may be fabricated of any suitable material, such as metal or plastic. The keeper 26 itself will be seen to comprise a wide portion 28 and a narrow portion 30.

The keeper 26 may be a fixed to the garment 10 in any suitable manner.

The fastener assembly 22 or hosiery supporter or garter, further comprises a stud member 32 which, in the illustrated embodiment is fabricated of a separate piece of material of any suitable type, and is affixed to the garment 10 on the inside surface thereof in any suitable manner, as through the medium of stitching 35, so tha't'the stud member 32 extends outwardly or downwardly therefrom. A stud head 34, which. may be fabricated of'any suitable material, such as rubber or plastic, is mounted on the stud member 32 in any suitable manner.

In the use and operation of the foundation garment l and fastener assemblies 20 and 22, all constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the welt or top margin portion 38 of a stocking is positioned against the stud head 34 of the stud member 32. The stud member 32 is then moved relative to the garment to a location at which the stud head 34, with .the stocking welt 38 folded or positioned thereagainst can be inserted through the wide portion 28 of the keeper 26. Once inserted through the wide portion 30 of the keeper 28, this combination of stocking welt 38 and stud head 34 is then drawn or moved into the narrow portion 30 of the keeper 26, that is, moved to an operative position of the fastener assembly. In this position, the stud head 34 will be frictionally engaged within the narrow portion 30 of the keeper 26, thus gripping and securely holding and maintaining the stocking welt 38 and thus the stocking therein. At this point, it will be understood that, while the garment 10 has been illustrated as comprising a pair of fastener assemblies only at the front thereof, a similar pair will be positioned at the rear thereof.

At this point, it is also to be understood that terminology such as keyhole-shaped configuration" is to be interpreted and construed in its'broadest possible sense, since this language is not in any way intended to be limiting. Rather, this language is intended to mean only that an aperture is provided having a wide portion and a narrow portion, relative to the stud head, enabling a stud head to be inserted through the former, and firmly frictionally held, gripped and engaged in a latter portion. With respect to the manner in which the stud head cooperates with the narrow portion of the keeper,

reference is now had particularly to FIG. 5. As shown therein, the stud head 34'comprises a neck 40 that is particularly adapted to be disposed in frictional engagement with the keeper 26 in the narrow portion 30 thereof. This neck or neck portion 40, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. l-5, as well as in the other embodiments hereinafter described, disclosed, shown and illustrated, except where specifically otherwise stated, is preferably ofgenerally cylindrical configuration.

With particular reference now to FIGS. 6-9, wherein like reference characters indicate like parts, but wherein the suffix A, B, C and D, respectively, are added, there are illustrated therein a certain functional modification of the fastener assemblies herein described. More particularly, it will be understood that the scope of the present invention is not to be limited to the conventional shape and configuration of the aperture 24 and the stud member 32. Thus, in FIG. 6, the aperture 24A is generally of key-shaped configuration. with the wide portion 28A being substantially semicircular in form. The stud head 34A is similarly of semicircular configuration. In FIG. 7, the aperture 248 is of angular and curvilinear configuration, the stud head 348 being generally of annular configuration. The narrow portion 308 is slightly tapered to insure a firm frictional relationship between the keeper (not shown in FIGS. 6-9) and the stud head 348. In FIG. 8, the aperture 24C is again of angular configuration, but the narrow portion 30C is not tapered. In fact, the wide portion 28C and the narrow portion 30C can be of substantially the same shape and dimensions, since, in this embodiment, the stud head 34C is of generally elliptical configuration. In the operation of this embodiment, the studhead 34C may be inserted through the portion 28C since its major axis extends in the same direction as the long dimension of that portion, and will be firmly frictionally maintained in the portion 30C since its major axis is perpendicular to the long dimension of this portion. In FIG. 9, the stud head 34D is again of generally annular configuration, while the aperture 24D is of generally teardrop shapedconfiguration, thus presenting the wide portion 28D and the narrow portion 30D.

As pointed out above, the keeper 26 is not shown in FIGS. 6-9. However, it will be understood that fastener assemblies constructed in accordance with the principles of these figures will comprise such a keeper extending about the periphery of the aperture, and being of corresponding configuration, to line and reinforce the same.

In the embodiments or modifications of the fastener structure hereinabove shown and described the keeper member 26 extends through the aperture 24 in the body of the garment l0 and generally along the periphery of the apertures 24.

With particular reference now to FIGS. 10-14, wherein like reference characters indicate like parts, but wherein the suffix-A, B, C and D, respectively, are added, there are illustrated therein certain functional and structural modifications of the fastener assemblies hereinabove described. More particularly, it will be understood that the scope of the present invention is not to be limited to the keepers extending through the fabric comprising the body of the garment 10. Thus, in FIG. 10, the fastener comprises a keeper member 42A secured with the body of the garment 10, in generally overlying relationship thereto in generally any desired manner, such as, by means of stitching 44A. The keeper member 42A comprises a generally key-shaped aperture 46A extending therethrough and a keeper element 48 A extending generally peripherally about the aperture 46A, A flange 50A extends generally radially outwardly of the keeper element 48A. The flange 50A may, for example, be provided with a plurality of apertures 52A to enable the stitching 44A to secure the keeper member 42A relative to the garment 10. A stud member 54A, substantially identical with the stud members 32, and in turn comprising a stud head 56A may be secured relative to the keeper member 42A, in any convenient manner, and in substantially any desired configuration relative thereto, as, for example, being secured directly to the garment 10, as by means of stitching 58A generally longitudinally above the keeper member 42A. In FIG. 11, the flange 50A is of generally uniformw'idth completely about the keeper.element 48A so that the keepermember' 42A is, itself, substantially key-shaped in configuration. However, the flange portion 50A maybe of substantiallyany desired-configuration,

' member 548 is secured with the keeper member 423, as by means of stitching58B. The stud member 548 may beeither preassembled with the keeper member'42B or, if desired, secured therewith after attachment of thekeeper member 428 with the garment 1,0. In FIG. 13, the flange 50C is of generally diamond-shaped configuration, and, is' shown, for example, as being provided with at least onepair of spaced apart apertures 52C to enable securement of the keeper member 42C with the garment by means of stitching 44C,"similarly to conventional button attachment. The stud member 540 is formed 'or fabricated integrally with the body fabric of the garment 10, and extends outwardly or downwardly therefrom. The stud head 56C,-'.which may be fabricated of 'any suitable material, such as rubber, plastic, or the like, is mounted on the stud member 54C in any suitable manner. In FIG. 14, the aperture 46D is of generally angular or curvilinear teardrop shaped configuration, as shown, the keeper element 48D extending peripherally thereabout, with the flange portion 50D extending generally uniformly outwardly therefrom to itself be defined by an angular, curvilinear teardrop shaped configuration. The flange 50D ofithekeepermember 42D may be secured with the body fabric of the garment 10, for example,- a by means of stitching 44D extending at least partially about the flange portion 50D. The studmembe'r'54D which has secured therewith the stud head 56D is secured with the body fabric'of the foundation garment 10 at a generally offset loca-.'

tion, as by means of stitching 58D,.or the like, as shown. It will be'understood that FIGS; 10- I4 are exemplary only,-and, the scope of the present invention is not tobe deemed limited to the precise configurations therein shown and illustrated. Moreover, the various attachment. means hereinabov'e described, while described in relation to aparticular configuration keeper mem'berare each equally suitable for use with substantially. any other keeper member configuration. Furthermore,th e variously configured keeper members may also be secured'with the body of the garment by substantially any other means, as by being'fused thereto, cemented thereto,

riveted thereto, or the like. Likewise,the variously configured, positioned and arranged stud members areeach equally suitable for use with any ofthe variously configured keeper mem bers and may be secured, either to the keeper members to form a preassernbled fastener assembly or be secured directly with the garment by substantially anyjdesired attachment means, such as cement, fusing, riveting, stitching, molding, or the likc,'without regard tothe configuration and arrangement ofthe keeper members."

With particular'referencenow to FIGS. -120, wherein like reference characters indicate like parts, but wherein the suffix A, B, C, D and E, respectively, are added, there are illustrated therein a certain functional modification of the fastener assemblies hereinabov'e described. More particularly, the

, fastener assemblies may be fabricated to substantially convenposition, as by means of stitching, adhesive, or the like, in a conventional manner. The stud member 64A is provided, at the free end thereof with a stud head 68A fabricated of rubber, plastic, or the like, in a'conventional manner, and secured to the stud member 64A, in substantially any desired manner. The keeper member 62A comprises an end portion 70A which is disposed generally oppositely from the loop 66A of the stud member 64A and the endportion 70A may, for example, be provided with an aperture 72A enabling the keeper member 62A to be fixably positioned relative to the body fabric of a garment 10 by means of stitching 74A extending through the stud member 64A adjacent one end portion of the keeper .member 62A and stitching 76A securing the end portion 70A to the-garment 10. In FIG. 16, the end portion 708 of the keeper member 623 is provided with a plurality of apertures 72B enabling a plurality of stitches 768 to secure the end portion 703 of the keeper member'62B to the garment 10, as

' shown in solid lines. Stitching 768 may secure the end portion 70Bto the garment 10 in the-manner of a button. Stitching 74B secures the stud member 64B and the other end portion of the keeper member 628 to the garment 10. In FIG. 17, the end portion 70C of the keeper member62C is provided with a slot or notch 72C enabling the stitching 76C to secure the lower end portion of the keeper member 62B to the garment 10. The upper end portionof the keeper member'62C and the stud member 64C is secured, as by means of stitching 74C, or the like, as hereinabove described. In addition to the use of stitching, or the like, to secure the keeper members 62 with the garment 10, a clip or clasp type arrangement may also be utilized. More particularly, in FIG. 18, the lower end portion 70D of the keeper member62D is provided with an extension 72D'adapted to be wrapped around the lower peripheral edge v of the garment 10, and clipped or crimped thereto, as shown.

ln-FIGS. 19 and 20, the keeper member 62E is secured with the garment 10 by means of a clip or clasp 76E extending about the lower end portion 70E of the keeper member 62E. The stud head 68E of the stud member 64E may be provided with a groove or slot 78 E to fit around the area of the keeper member 62E which is fastened to the garment 10 by the clip or claspv 76E. Similarly, loops of thread, stitching, or the like, may be utilized similarly to the clip or clasp 76E and the stud head 68E grooved or relieved in a similar manner to provide clearance therefor.

- With reference now to FIGS. 21-23, wherein like reference characters indicate like parts, but wherein the suffix A and B, respectively, are added, there are illustrated therein a certain functional modification of the fastener assemblies 'hereinabove described. More particularly, it will be understood that not only the keeper member maybe fixedly positioned relative to the garment, but likewise, the stud head may be so secured. Moreover, fastener assemblies adapted to have the stud head fixedly secured to the garment may be either preassembled or adapted to have the keeper member and the stud head separately secured withthe garment. Thus,

in FIGS. 21 and 22 there is shown and illustrated a fastener assembly 80A which comprises a keeper member 82A and a stud member 84A, the stud member 84A being adapted to be fixedly positioned relative to the garment 10, in any desired manner, for example, by means of stitching, cement or other adhesive, fusing or other bonding, metal clips, clasps, prong fastenings,.or the like. The stud member 84A comprises a stud head 86A fabricated of rubber, plastic, or the like. The stud member 84A may be fabricated of a unitary structure including the stud head 86A, or may comprise a plurality of component parts preassembled to define the stud member 84A. The keeper member 82A comprises a keeper element 87A fabricated, for example, of a metal, either formed wire, stamped, or the like, or of a plastic, or other suitable material and a bodily flexible member such as a cloth strap 88A. The keeper member 82A is secured with the fabric of the garment 10 in any. desired manner, for example, by means of stitching 90A, or the like, securing the strap 88A to the garment 10. Accordingly, the garment 10 serves to retain the stud member 84A and the keeper member 82A in proper position when disengaged and to prevent loss of either element, as seen in FIG. 21, which illustrates the fastener assembly 80A in the disengaged position and FIG. 22 which illustrates the fastener assembly 80A in the engaged or closed position. In FIG. 23, the strap 88B of the keeper member 828 which comprises the fastener assembly 808 extends a substantial distance from the keeper element 87B and the stud head 86B is secured directly thereto. The strap 88B is secured with the fabric of the garment in a plurality of locations, for example, by means of stitching 90B spaced from the stud head 86B and stitching 92B adjacent the stud head 8613, The fastener assembly 808, may, similarly to the previously described fastener assemblies, be secured with the body of the garment 10 in substantially any other manner, for example, by means of a'cement or other adhesive, by fusing or bonding, by over edge or zigzag stitching, by means of clasps or clips, or the like.

With particular reference now to FIGS. 24-26, wherein like reference characters'indicate like parts, but wherein the suffix A, B AND C, respectively, are-added, there are illustrated therein certain modifications of keeper elements for use in the present invention. More particularly, it will be understood that the scope of the present invention is not to be limited to the conventional shape and configuration of keeper elements, for example, as shown in FIGS. 21-23. Thus, in FIG. 24, there is shown and illustrated a keeper member 94A provided with a generally transversely extending bar 96A across the wide portion 98A of the'keeper element 94A to define an elongate aperture 100A. The elongate aperture 100A is adapted to enable the engagement therewithin of a strap or other bodily flexible member 102A, as shown in phantom. In FIG. 25, the keeper element 948 is provided with a generally straight cross bar 968 which defines a peripheral portion of the keeper element 94B, as shown, to enable the securement therewith of a strap or other bodily flexible member 102B. In FIG. 26, the cross bar 96C of the keeper element 94C, rather than being straight as in the previous embodiments or modifications, is, instead, of generally curvilinear configuration. Moreover, the particular dimensions of the keeper member 94A, 94B and 94C, and particularly the depth and configuration of the narrowed portions thereof, also is subject to considerable variation, as shown;

Each of the embodiments or modifications of fastener assemblies and foundation garments utilizingsuch fastener assemblies have illustrated-the garment generally schematically as comprising a single piece or panel offabric. While the panel to which the fastener members are applied may be of any desired size or shape, up to and including a unitary panel from which the entire garment is fabricated, it is to be understood that the present invention is not to be deemed limited to fastener members secured only with underlying garment panels of extensive dimensional extent, but, rather, it is within the ambit'of the present invention to have the fastener members structurally associated with relatively small fabric like panels which may be overlaid upon main structural body panels of a garment, inserted within cutout portions of such body panels, or, as generally indicated above, which themselves comprise structural garment panels.

Accordingly, with particular reference now to FIGS. 27- -31, it will be seen that fastener assemblies constructed in accordance with the principles of this invention, and especially those which comprise relatively small underlying panels, are capable of being fabricated by gang manufacturing techniques, that is, in strips of substantial quantities. As an example, a strip of material 110 may be structurally associated with a series or plurality of eyelet members 112 extending peripherally around a plurality or series of key-shaped apertures 114 extending therethrough enabling the separation of the strip 110 along generally alternately diagonal cutting lines 116 to provide a plurality of fastener assemblies 118 of generally configuration. Ifdesired, and with reference particularly to FIG. 28, stud members 120 provided with stud heads 122 may be preassembled withthe strip 110 positioned relative to the apertures 114 and keeper elements 112.

The keeper element or eyelet members 112 may, for example, be secured with the strip of material by encasing the keeper elements or eyelet members 112 in thermoplastic material 113 and fusing the thermoplastic material 113 to the strip of material 110, the strip of material 110 being preferably chosen to have a thermoplastic content as an aid in fusing the material 113 thereto.

Similarly, the strip of material 110, for example, may comprise a thermoplastic material and the eyelet elements 112 comprise metal eyelets, enabling the cutting lines 116 to be preliminarily weakened, as by perforations, or the like; if desired, to enable ready separation of the individual fastener assemblies 118. Moreover, if the strip 110 comprises a thermoplastic material then the fastener assemblies 118 may be fused into place onto a garment, especially if the garment is fabricated of a fabric comprising a thermoplastic fiber content. Such fusing operation may, if desired, be coupled with an automatic severing of the fastener assemblies 118 from the strip 110 during the fusing operation along the cutting lines 116, as is readily apparent.

Whether the strip 110 comprises a thermoplastic material or not, and whether or not the fastener assemblies 118 are severed from the strip 110 at the point of fastener assembly manufacture or where the fastener assemblies are integrated into and assembled into a garment, the garment 124, (see FIG. 29) may be provided with generally triangular recesses 126 adjacent the lower margin thereof and the fastener assemblies 118 structurally associated with the garment 124 in overlying relationship to the recesses 126 to provide a gusset therefor, the assemblies 118 being secured with the garment 124 by fusing, zigzag stitching, or the like, (see FIGS. 30 and 31). The recesses 126 may be cut into the garment 124 either before or after the fastener assembly 118 is secured in position.

In each of the embodiments or modifications hereinabove described, the fastener assembly is associated with a stocking, or the like, by positioning the stocking between the stud head and the keeper and then providing relative movement between the stud head and keeper in a first direction, whereby the stud head and the large portion of the keeper will be interengaged, with the stocking welt therebetween followed by relative movement between the stud head and keeper in a second direction, transverse to the first direction whereby a sliding movement engages the stud head with the narrow portion of the keeper, gripping the stocking welt therebetween. It will be understood that the scope of the present invention is not to be deemed limited to such conventionally operable fasteners but, rather, encompasses fasteners operable by other modes, for example, and without limitation, fasteners operable by relative movement in only a single direction, utilize relative rotative movement or require or permit relative movement in more than two directions. For example, and with particular reference now to FIGS. 3235, wherein like reference characters indicate like parts, but wherein the suffix A, B and C, respectively, are added, there are illustrated therein certain additional functional modifications of fastener assemblies requiring relative movement between the component parts in only a single direction. Thus, in FIG. 32, there is shown and illustrated a fastener assembly 104A comprising a male member 106A and a female member 108A movably interconnected by means of a flexible member 110A. The fastener assembly 104A is adapted for use in either a substantially conventional manner, for example, by securing the strap member 110A to a foundation garment, or by securing one or the other of the male member 106A and the female member 108A to a foundation garment, as by means of stitching 111A.

The male member and female members 106A and 108A, respectively, may be of substantially any desired peripheral configuration, either regular or irregular, but are, preferably, of similar peripheral configurations, the male member 106A being adapted to fit within and engage with the female member 108A, which is provided with a recess 112A, therefor. At least one of the male member 106A and the female member 108A is provided with locking or latching means, such as a ridge 114A extending peripherally outwardly of the male member 106A or a groove 116A provided within the female member 108A generally peripherally outwardly of the recess 112A thereof. Either one or both of the male and female members may be so provided with such locking means,

and the recess 112A may comprise eithera bottom recess, as

shown, or may comprise'a through aperture. Moreover, the

t latching means may extend entirely or substantially entirely sembly 104B comprises the male-member 1068 .and female member 108B, tlierecess l'12Bofthe female member 1083 having a differing configuration from the overall configuration of the female member 1088. At least one of the male and female members 1068' and 10.88 are provided with a ridge 1148 or groove 116B,.respectively.

In FIG. 35, the fastener assembly 104C comprises an annular female member 108C having an aperture 112C extending entirely therethrough; a 'disklike male member 106C and a strap lIOC extendingtherebetween. In this embodiment the annular femalemember 108C is provided with a bead 116C extending generally radially inwardly of the aperture 112C and the male member 106C is provided with a mating groove 114C. The male member 106C is provided with a plurality of apertures 109C enabling the securem'ent of the assembly 104C to a garment, as by'means of stitching 111C.

In the use and operation of the fastener assemblies 104, constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the weltor top marginal portion 118 ofa stocking is positioned between the male member 106 and the female 'member l 8, as shown inphantom lines in FIG.:34 and the maleand female members m'oved relative to one. another to the solid'line posit ion to frictionally engage the welt or top marginal portion 118 between the male member andassociated ridge ll4'and the female member l08and associated groove 116, thus gripping and securely holding and maintaining the stocking we'lt 118 and thus the stocking therein. It will be understood, that while the ridge 114 is shown and described as being associated with the male member 106 and the groove 116 is shown and described as being associated with the female member 108,;the relative relationship thereof may be reversed, that is, the groove being associated with the male member and the ridge being associated with the female member.

It has hereinbefore been pointed out that foundation garments and fastener assemblies constructed in accordance with the principles of this invention are constructed and arranged to have either the keeper element or the studelement fixedly positioned relative to the garment Thus, in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 -5, the keeper element is fixedly associated with the garment by being passed through an aperture provided therein, so that, in fact, the garment panel itself forms an integralpart or element ofthe fastener assembly. In the embodiment of FIGS. 10- 14, the keeper element is formed or fabricated relative to or fixedly associated with an outwardly extending flange which, in turn, is adapted to be fixedly associated with the garment panel, so that, again, the keeper element is fixedly positioned relative to the garment and the garment itself forms an integral part or element of the fastener structure, at least, where the stud member is secured directly to the garment, rather than to the flange. Similarly, in FIGS. 15-20, the keeper element is secured a't/or adjacent a plurality of portions thereof to the garment panel to retain the keeper element positioned relative to the garment. Similarly,

the stud member of this embodiment may be structurally associated directly with the keeper element or directly with the garment panel, or, as-s hown, directly-with both the keeper element and the garment panel. Again, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 27-41, the keeper element is fixedly disposed or positioned relative to the foundation garment by being structurally associated with the strip of material which is sewn or otherwise secured with the garment, either within a recess or in overlying relationship thereto. Alternatively, and as shown in FIGS. 27.33, the stud member may be fixedly positioned relative to the foundation garment, and as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 6-9, 24-26, and 3235 the studs and keepers, or male and female members, may be of diverse configuration, either for use with one of the members being fixedly positioned relative to the garment, or, for use in a generally conventional manner, that is, by depending from a single attachment location on the garment.

Hence, the fastener assemblies constructed in accordance with the principles ofthe present invention may be completely separately fabricated,.and then attached or affixed to the foundation garment in a suitable manner, as by stitching, or maybe fabricated as separate elements or components and separately affixed or attached to the foundation garment in a suitable 'manner and suitably positioned relative to one another. Irrespective of whether the fastener assemblies are completely separately fabricated of the foundation garment,

or at least a portion thereof is fabricated integrally therewith, at least a portion of the foundation garment preferably overlaps a portion of the welt of the stockings or hosiery to be removably supported thereby. Accordingly, the present invention enables the elasticity or distensibility of the foundation garment and of the hosiery to provide the necessary give or stretch" therebetween as the wearer assumes different attitudes and positions. Such construction, configuration, arrangement and disposition is in direct and novel contradistinction to conventional foundation garments and hosiery supporters, wherein a separate connecting strip of elastic material is relied upon. As hereinbefore pointed out, however, the novel keepers and studs, or male and female members of the present invention, are capable 'of utilization-with such conventional In accordance with the above principles, it has been found that there is a substantial reduction in riding, bunching", or wrinkling the hosiery or stockings upon the legs of the wearer. In addition, it has been found that this construction and arrangement substantially reduces riding or bunching of the foundation garment upon the wearers torso particularly in the area known as the thighs. Still further, it has been found that this construction and arrangement of foundation garments and the fastener assembly results in a downward force or pull by the stockings or hosiery, and an upward force or pull by the foundation garment, of sufficient magnitude to urge the fastener assemblies towards the legs of the wearers body, and into the flaccid tissues of the thighs at that location.

these features combine to substantially reduce, if not completely eliminate, the ever present unsightly bulge visithat fastener assemblies of the present invention are virtually invisible, that is inconspicuous during use.

Moreover, fastener assemblies and foundation garments constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention are, in addition to being aesthetically appealing and more comfortable than conventional garments, susceptible to relatively inexpensive, efficient, and simple manufacture. The various embodiments or modifications of fastener assemblies and foundation garments constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention and herein described, disclosed, illustrated and shown, are, generally, suitable to be arranged with the fastener assemblies being disposed either interiorly or exteriorly of the foundation garment. However, the embodiments of the present invention wherein the keeper element is fixedly positioned or disposed relative to the foundation garment are somewhat superior, especially in that the use thereof is easier, if the stud member is disposed generally interiorly of the garment. In contradistinction, the embodiments ofthe present invention wherein the stud is fixedly disposed or positioned relative to the foundation garment are found to be superior, especially in that use thereof is simpler and easier, where the fastener projects generally exteriorly of the foundation garment. Furthermore, such arrangements are found to be more comfortable to the wearer, since in both instances, the stud extends generally outwardly of the wearers body, rather than projecting inwardly theretowards.

While the invention has been described, disclosed, illustrated and shown in terms of certain preferred embodiments or modifications which it has assumed in practice, the scope of the invention should not be deemed to be limited by the precise embodiments or modifications herein described, disclosed, illustrated or shown, such other embodiments or modifications as may be suggested to those having the benefit of the teachings herein being intended to be reserved especially as they fall within the scope and spirit of the claims hereto appended.

I claim:

l. A foundation garment, having a lower edge and a lower portion, comprising, in combination, at least one fastener assembly being provided with a stud and a keeper connected with a portion of said foundation garment at least one of said stud and keeper being directly, fixedly, and positionally secured to said foundation garment above said lower edge, said stud and keeper fastening hosiery above said lower edge with said hosiery partially overlapping said lower portion.

2. A foundation garment as set forth in claim 1 wherein said keeper is directly fastened to said foundation garment and said stud is secured to said keeper. 3 A foundation garment as set forth in claim 2 wherein said stud is provided with a studhead and a stud member, said keeper being directly fastened to the foundation garment and said stud member being directly secured to said keeper.

4. A foundation garment as set forth in claim 3 wherein said stud member is directly secured to said keeper by looping a portion of said stud member around the portion of said keeper.

5. A foundation garment as set forth in claim 4 wherein said looping portion of said stud member is directly fastened to said foundation garment.

6. A foundation garment as set forth in claim 1 wherein the shapeof said stud corresponds to the shape ofsaid keeper.

7. A foundation garment as set forth in claim 6 wherein said keeper and stud are generally ofa curvilinear configuration.

8. A foundation garment as set forth in claim 6 wherein said keeper and stud are generally of an irregular configuration.

9. A foundation garment as set forth in claim 8 wherein said keeper is provided with four grooves and said stud is provided with four complementary ridges.

10. A foundation garment as set forth in claim 6 wherein one of said stud and keeper is a male member and the other one of said stud and keeper is a female member. I

11. A foundation garment as set forth in claim 10 wherein one of said stud and keeper is provided with an annular protruding ridge with the other of said stud and keeper being provided with a complementary annular groove whereby a snap-type fastener is formed between said stud and keeper.

12. A foundation garment as set forth in claim 7 wherein said keeper is directly fastened to said foundation garment and said stud is directly secured to said keeper.

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