WO2005115184A2

WO2005115184A2 - Clothing accessory

Info

Publication number: WO2005115184A2
Application number: PCT/US2005/018259
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kenneth R. Evenson
Original assignee: Evenson Kenneth R
Priority date: 2004-05-25
Filing date: 2005-05-24
Publication date: 2005-12-08
Also published as: US20050273908A1; WO2005115184A3

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention provide a clothing accessory for use with a clothing item having an elongated tail and a knot. The clothing accessory includes at least one flexible strip of material wrapped around at least a portion of the knot. Embodiments of the present invention also provide a method of securing a knot of a clothing item having an elongated tail and a knot. The method includes providing a flexible strip of material proximate the knot, and wrapping the flexible strip of material around at least a portion of the knot.

Description

CLOTHING ACCESSORY BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [01] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to an accessory for a clothing item, and more particularly, to an accessory configured to improve the aesthetic value of the clothing item.

[02] Elongated lengths of material are commonly used as apparel, such as for neckties, scarves, sashes, and belts. Knots may be formed within the elongated lengths of material so that the material loops around a portion of a wearer. For example, neckties are commonly tied so that a knot is proximate a collar of a wearer, while a tail portion of the tie hangs below the knot.

[03] Some necktie wearers, however, have difficulty in tying a proper knot. The aesthetic value of a necktie is based, in part, on the integrity of the knot. A poorly tied knot typically detracts from the appearance of the necktie. Further, a poorly tied knot may reflect poorly on the wearer, similar to an untucked shirt, ill-fitting clothes, or even unkempt hair. While sartorial and personal grooming shortcomings may seem superficial, they do, in fact, take on significance in the workplace, social events, and particularly during a job interview.

[04] Clothing accessories exist that are intended to improve the look of knots, such as tie knots. Conventional accessories include devices that simulate a knot, completely cover a knot, or otherwise join material to obviate the need for a knot. Typically, however, these conventional accessories are not designed to compliment and improve the aesthetics of the knot, while at the same time improving and/or preserving the structural integrity of the knot.

[05] Additionally, many tie wearers prefer the look of a tie having a dimple formed underneath the knot. Tying a proper tie knot, and forming a suitable dimple, however, may prove difficult for many wearers.

[06] Thus, a need exists for an improved necktie accessory that improves the aesthetics of the knot, and preserves the structural integrity of the knot. Further, a need exists for a clothing accessory that improves knots of various clothing items, such as ascots, sashes, neckerchiefs, and the like.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [07] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a clothing accessory for use with a clothing item having an elongated tail and a knot. The clothing accessory includes at least one flexible strip of material wrapped around at least a portion of the knot. For example, the flexible strip of material may be wrapped over substantially all of the knot.

The clothing item may be a tie, applique, scarf, belt, ascot, sash, or kerchief.

[08] The flexible strip of material may include a center portion that is positioned over the knot and two flexible wings integrally formed with, and extending outwardly from, the center portion. The two flexible wings are wrapped around the knot, and fastened behind the knot.

[09] The clothing accessory may include a holding bar, wherein two flexible strips are attached to the holding bar. The holding bar is secured relative to the knot, and the knot is positioned between the two flexible strips. The two flexible strips are then wrapped around the knot, and fastened behind the knot.

[10] The material may be at least one of a flexible metal, such as a metallic fabric, wood, leather, plastic, cotton, polyester, or silk. Additionally, the material may be woven, braided, or meshed. Further, the material may include a filler and/or a liner.

[11] The material may be flat and include a main body bounded by a lower straight edge integrally formed with angled lateral edges and downwardly inclined upper edges. The material may be shaped as a polygon, for example, a trapezoid, ellipse, circle, or various other shapes and sizes. The lateral edges may be joined together to form a loop of the material having a central opening defined therein. A portion of the knot is exposed through the central opening.

[12] The clothing accessory may also include a fastening device extending from a top portion of the loop. The fastening device is configured to be passed through the central opening behind the knot. The fastening device may include an adjustment member that is configured to slide over the fastening device. In one embodiment of the present invention, the clothing item is a tie having a tail, a tag, and the knot, and the fastening device is positioned between the tail and the tag.

[13] The clothing accessory may also include a flexible band connected to the loop and spanning the central opening. The flexible band exerts a compressive force on the elongated tail in order to maintain a dimple in the elongated tail. The flexible band may include a downwardly extending protrusion that extends into the elongated tail to form a dimple. The flexible band may include, or be formed from, a material configured to hold a particular shape and clamp the dimple in place. For example, the flexible band may be a metallic mesh.

[14] Additionally, the clothing accessory may include a decorative insert having a cover and fasteners. The insert is positioned within the central opening to cover the knot, and the fasteners are secured to reciprocal structures of the loop and/or secured around the tie.

[15] A dimpling spring clip may be used that includes prongs configured to retain a portion of cloth therebetween. The dimpling spring clip is positioned behind the elongated tail and retains a portion of the elongated tail between the prongs in order to accentuate a dimple in the elongated tail.

[16] Certain embodiments of the present invention also provide a method of securing a knot of a clothing item having an elongated tail and a knot. The method includes providing a flexible strip of material proximate the knot, and wrapping the flexible strip of material around at least a portion of the knot.

[17] The method may also include forming a loop of material from the flexible strip of material, wherein a central opening is defined by the loop. The knot is positioned within the central opening.

[18] Optionally, the wrapping step may include positioning a center portion of the flexible strip over the knot, wrapping flexible wings extending from the center portion around the knot, and fastening the flexible wings behind the knot.

[19] Alternatively, the method includes providing a holding bar proximate the knot, and providing the flexible strips on the holding bar.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS [20] Figure 1 illustrates a front view of a piece of material configured to form a clothing accessory, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[21] Figure 2 illustrates an isometric view of a loop of material configured to form a clothing accessory, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[22] Figure 3 illustrates a front view of a clothing accessory, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[23] Figure 4 illustrates a side view of a clothing accessory, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[24] Figure 5 illustrates a front view of a clothing accessory with a fastening device pulled through a central passage of the clothing accessory, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[25] Figure 6 illustrates a side view of a clothing accessory with a fastening device pulled through a central passage of the clothing accessory, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[26] Figure 7 illustrates a front view of a clothing accessory positioned around a knot of a necktie, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[27] Figure 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a clothing accessory and necktie through line 8-8 of Figure 7. [28] Figure 9 illustrates a front view of a clothing accessory positioned around a tie knot according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[29] Figure 10 illustrates a front view of a pre-formed clothing accessory according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[30] Figure 11 illustrates a front view of a clothing accessory according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[31] Figure 12 illustrates a front view of a clothing accessory positioned around a tie knot according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[32] Figure 13 illustrates a front view of a pre-formed clothing accessory proximate a tie according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[33] Figure 14 illustrates a front view of a partially formed clothing accessory proximate a tie according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[34] Figure 15 illustrates a front view of a partially formed clothing accessory proximate a tie according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[35] Figure 16 illustrates a front view of a clothing accessory positioned around a tie knot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[36] Figure 17 illustrates a front view of a pre-formed clothing accessory having a holding bar according to an alternative embodiment.

[37] Figure 18 illustrates a front view of a clothing accessory positioned on a tie knot according to an embodiment of the present invention. [38] Figure 19 illustrates a front view of an insert configured to be used with a clothing accessory according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[39] Figure 20 illustrates a front view of an insert configured to be used with a clothing accessory according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[40] Figure 21 illustrates a side view of an insert, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[41] Figure 22 illustrates a dimpling band, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[42] Figure 23 illustrates the dimpling band positioned on a tie, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[43] Figure 24 illustrates a top view of a dimpling band according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[44] Figure 25 illustrates a side view of a dimpling band according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[45] Figure 26 illustrates a front view of a dimpling spring clip in an open position, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[46] Figure 27 illustrates a front view of a dimpling spring clip in a closed position, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[47] Figure 28 illustrates a side view of a dimpling spring clip, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [48] Figure 29 illustrates a top view of a dimpling band, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[49] Figure 30 illustrates a side view of a dimpling band, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[50] Figure 31 illustrates a clothing accessory positioned relative to silk appliques, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[51] Figures 32-34 illustrate a clothing accessory positioned around a knot of a tie, according to embodiments of the present invention.

[52] Figures 35-37 illustrate front views of pieces of material configured to form a clothing accessory, according to embodiments of the present invention.

[53] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments of the present invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, certain embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should be understood, however, that the present invention is not limited to the arrangements and instrumentalities shown in the attached drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [54] Figure 1 illustrates a front view of a piece of material 10 configured to form a clothing accessory, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The material

10 may be any flexible natural or synthetic material such as metallic fabric (e.g., metal meshes, chains, etc.), wood, leather, plastic, cotton, linen, polyester, silk, and the like.

Further, the material may be molded, woven, braided, or meshed in order to make rigid or semi-rigid materials more flexible. In general, the material 10 is flexible enough to be tied into a knot, or wrapped around itself.

[55] As shown in Figure 1, the material 10 is flat and may be shaped in the form of a polygon, such as a frapezoid (not shown). In general, the material 10 may be symmetrical about a centerline 11, such that side 13 is a minor image of side 15. The material 10 is a unitary piece of material that includes a main body 12 bounded by a lower straight edge 14, angled lateral edges 16, and downwardly inclined upper edges 18 that meet at a point 20.

[56] Alternatively, the upper edges 18 may not meet at the point 20, but instead, an upper curved edge may be used instead of the straight upper edges 18. Further, the lower straight edge 14 may be curved. Additionally, the upper edge portions 18 may be upwardly inclined. Further, the material 10 may include an upper straight edge (instead of the angled lateral edges 16) and or upwardly or downwardly inclined lower edge portions. Also, the main body 12 may be various shapes and sizes. For example, the main body 12 may be elliptical, triangular, or various other regular and irregular shapes. [57] Each angled lateral edge 16 forms an angle α at corners 22 with respect to the lower straight edge 14, and an angle β at corners 24 with respect to the downwardly inclined upper edge portions 18. As shown in Figure 1, the angle α is an acute angle that is less than the angle β, which is an obtuse angle. In order to form a material loop for a clothing accessory, the corners 24 and 22, respectively, are aligned and the lateral edges 16 are brought together in the directions of arrows A, until the lateral edges 16 are joined together, thereby forming a seam.

[58] Figures 35-37 illustrate front views of pieces of material 10', 10", and 10'" configured to form a clothing accessory, according to embodiments of the present invention. The shape of the material used to form a clothing accessory may be of varying shapes and sizes, but is preferably symmetrical about a centrally located vertical axis.

[59] Figure 2 illustrates a loop 25 formed by the material 10. As discussed above, the lateral edges 16 are joined together, thereby forming a seam 28 at the junction therebetween. The seam 28 may be secured through various fastening systems and methods, such as by way of sewing, stitching, gluing, fusing, welding, zippering, buttoning, hooking, pinning, riveting, snapping, clipping, tying, and the like. The loop 25 of material 10, which is configured to form a clothing accessory, includes a central passage 30 defined by a lower opening 32, i.e., the back opening, and an upper opening 34, i.e., the front opening, such that the lower opening 32 is larger than the upper opening 34. The central passage 30 gradually constricts from the lower opening 32 to the upper opening 34. That is, the diameter of the central passage 30 decreases from the lower opening 32 to the upper opening 34. The loop 25 is configured to wrap around, or otherwise be positioned about, a tie knot.

[60] Figure 3 illustrates a front view of a clothing accessory 26 having a fastening device 36. The clothing accessory 26 includes the loop 25 of material 10 and the fastening device 36. The fastening device 36 may be a loop of string, elastic, wire, ribbon, plastic, or other such material that is secured to, or extends from, the loop 25 proximate the point 20 where the upper edge portions 18 meet. The top of the loop 25 represented by the point 20 is folded flat to create a triangular shape, and a rigid material such as a plastic may be added to enable a wearer to pull down evenly so that a symmetrical shape is formed. The fastening device 36 includes an adjustment member 38, which may be a bead or any other adjustment device configured to linearly slide over the fastening device 36, disposed thereon. The adjustment member 38 creates an upper loop 40 and a lower loop 42 within the fastening device 36. A stop 39, which may be a bead, knot, or ring, is disposed within the upper loop 40 to prevent the adjustment member 38 from slipping off the fastening device 36. Optionally, the adjustment member 38 may be a slip knot formed in the fastening device 36.

[61] As shown in Figure 3, the clothing accessory 26 is flattened, stretched, or otherwise elongated in the directions of arrow B so that the lower opening 32 is elongated in the directions of arrow B, thereby reducing its width W. An elastic band 44 includes first and second ends 46 and 48 secured to sides 50 and 51, respectively of the clothing accessory 26. The elastic band 44 acts to pull the sides 50 and 51 of the clothing accessory 26 together, thereby reducing the width W of the lower opening 32 in order to provide a tighter fit around a tie knot when the clothing accessory 26 is placed around the tie knot. The elastic band 44 allows the clothing accessory 26 to fit snugly around various sized knots. That is, the clothing accessory 26 conforms, adheres, or otherwise adapts to different sized knots due, at least in part, to the adjustable stretching and pulling motion of the elastic band 44 on the sides 50 of the clothing accessory 26. Additionally, the elastic band 44 may be used to form and preserve a dimple within the tie (as discussed below). Alternatively, the elastic band 44 is not used with the clothing accessory 26.

[62] Figure 4 illusfrates a side view of the clothing accessory 26 shown in Figure 3. As shown in Figure 4, the clothing accessory 26 is elongated to form a profile having a relatively straight back portion 52, and a curved front portion 54 having an outwardly extending nose 56. In order to continue forming the clothing accessory 26 so that it may be used with a tie knot, the fastening device 36 is pulled through the central opening 30 (shown in Figure 3) in the direction of arrow C. The forming steps denoted by arrow C may be performed when the clothing accessory 26 is being positioned around a knot. That is, the process described above occurs while a knot is positioned within clothing accessory 26.

[63] Figure 5 illustrates a front view of the clothing accessory 26 with the fastening device 36 pulled through the central passage 30. Once the fastening device 36 is pulled through the central opening 30, the fastening device 36 hangs down through the central opening 30, thereby pulling the point 20 and the upper edge portions 18 down as well.

Consequently, a top portion 58 of the clothing accessory 26 is formed having a downwardly oriented surface 60 and inwardly-bowed side surfaces 62, which conform to the top and sides, respectively, of a knot formed within the clothing accessory 26. As shown in Figure 5, the shape of the clothing accessory is generally triangular, and in particular, resembles the shape of a tie knot.

[64] Figure 6 illusfrates a side view of the clothing accessory 26 shown in Figure 5. Once the fastening device 36 is pulled through, the back portion 52 curves inwardly toward the central passage 30, while the front portion 54 may bow further out. The adjustment member 38 may be slid up or down to adjust the tightness of the clothing accessory 26 in order to adjust its lenght. For example, sliding the adjustment member 38 in the direction of arrow D may reduce the outwardly bowing effect of the front portion 54, while sliding the adjustment member 38 in the direction of arrow E may increase the bowing effect of the front portion 54. As shown below with respect to Figure 8, the clothing accessory 26 is secured to a tie knot.

[65] Figure 7 illustrates the clothing accessory 26 positioned around a knot 64 of a necktie 66. As shown in Figure 7, the top portion 58 of the clothing accessory 26 is positioned over the knot 64, while the side surfaces 62 of the clothing accessory 26 are positioned (e.g., may conform) to the sides of the knot 64. The knot 64 is exposed through the central opening 30 of the clothing accessory 26 and the tail 68 of the tie 66 is disposed downwardly from the central opening 30. The clothing accessory 26 maintains the integrity of the knot 64, due to the fact that the knot 64 is positioned within the clothing accessory 26, which may conform to the shape of the tie knot 64. Thus, a loosely tied knot may be secured within the clothing accessory 26. Additionally, because only a portion of the tie knot 64 is exposed through the cenfral opening 30, the clothing accessory 26 masks portions of a sub-standard knot, and/or adds to the aesthetic quality of the tie 66.

[66] Figure 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the clothing accessory 26 and necktie 66 through line 8-8 of Figure 7. The tail 68 and a tag 70 of the necktie 66 are passed through the central opening 30. The clothing accessory 26 is disposed over the top 72, front 74 and back 76 of the knot 64. As shown above with respect to Figure 7, however, a portion of the knot 64 may be exposed through the central opening 30 of the clothing accessory 26. The fastening device 36 may be positioned between the tail 68 and tag 70 of the tie 66. Further, a tail portion 78 proximate the point 20 of the clothing accessory 26 is sandwiched between the back 76 of the knot 64 and the back portion 52 of the clothing accessory 26.

[67] In general, the tie 66 is tied in a conventional manner. For example, the tail 68 and the tag 70 are passed through at least a portion of the cenfral opening 30. The tail 68 is wrapped up and over the knot 64 and passed back into the central passage 30. The tag 70 is then passed through the central passage 30. The adjustment member 38 is cinched to firmly hold the tail portion 78 of the clothing accessory 26 in place. The adjustment member 38 may be slid up and down over the fastening device 36 in order be removably secured to the tie 66.

[68] Optionally, the fastening device 36 may be a slip knot or an elastic member that automatically tightens or adapts to secure the tail portion 78 firmly in place.

Additionally, other systems and methods may be used to fasten the tail portion 78 in place, including pins, buttons, snaps, hooks, clips, Velcro, rivets, loop fasteners, and the like.

[69] Figure 9 illustrates a front view of a clothing accessory 80 positioned around a tie knot 64 according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The clothing accessory 80 includes layered materials 82 and 84 for an aesthetic alternative. Various layers may be used. Additionally, the clothing accessories 26 and 80 may be ruffled, fluted, pleated, scalloped, welted, and the like.

[70] Figure 10 illusfrates a front view of a pre-formed (i.e., not formed around a knot) clothing accessory 86 according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The pre-formed clothing accessory 86 includes a right-angled folded-over piece of material 88 with the fastening device 36 extending from an upper corner 90 of the material 88. Optionally, the pre-formed clothing accessory 86 may include two separate pieces of material, instead of the folded-over piece of material 88. In order to form the clothing accessory 86, top corners 92 of outwardly extending bands 94 are joined together in the direction of arrows E, while lower corners 96 of the bands 94 are also joined together to form a seam (similar to the seam 14 described above). Plastic 93 may be positioned within the bands 94 to provide additional rigidity and robustness.

[71] Optionally, the clothing accessory may include a first and second bands of material each secured to a leg of the plastic 93, which in turn is secured to the fastening device 36. As such, the clothing accessory may include three basic components: (1) a plastic union piece, (2) first and second bands, each of which is secured to a leg of the plastic union piece, and (3) the fastening device. [72] Figure 11 illustrates a front view of the clothing accessory 86. Once the corners 92 and 96 are joined, the clothing accessory 86 forms a central passage 98, through which the fastening device 36 is passed. As shown in Figure 11, one of the bands 94 overlaps the other band 88. In order to configure the clothing accessory 86 for use with a tie, the fastening device 36 is passed through the central passage 98 similar to the method discussed above with respect to Figures 3-6. Alternatively, an elastic band similar to that described above with respect to Figure 3 may be used to conform the width of the cenfral opening 30 to a tie knot.

[73] Figure 12 illustrates a front view of the clothing accessory 86 positioned around the tie knot 64. As shown in Figure 12, one of the bands 88 overlaps the other. The tie 66 and tie knot 64 are passed through the central opening and the clothing accessory 86 is positioned about the tie knot 64 similar to the clothing accessory 26.

[74] Figures 13-16 illustrate a front view of a method of forming a clothing accessory 100 about a tie knot 64, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The clothing accessory 100 includes a main body 102 bounded by angled, curved, or scalloped edges 104 and upper and lower edges 106 and 108.

[75] As shown in Figure 13, in order to form the clothing accessory 100 about the tie knot 64, a center 101 of the main body 102 is placed over the tie knot 64. Next, the lower corners 110 are wrapped underneath and around the back of the tie knot in the directions of arrows F. The center 101 may be configured to be a separate piece, and therefore removable, from the rest of the main body 102. [76] Next, as shown in Figure 14, the folded under portions 112 are pulled down in the directions of arrows G so that the folded down portions 112 are positioned over sides of the center portion 101. As shown in Figure 15, the folded down portions are angled over the center portion 101 so that a portion of the center portion 101 is exposed. Then, the portions 112 are wrapped around the back of the tie knot 64 and the ends of the portions 112 are connected with hooks, Velcro, buttons, zippers, snaps, or the like, thereby forming the formed clothing accessory 100 shown in Figure 16. Additionally, as mentioned above, the center 101 maybe an interchangeable part of the clothing accessory and various center portions of different materials, textures, shapes, and colors may be used to change the look of the clothing accessory . Alternatively, the portions 112, as shown in Figure 15, may be overlapped or cross-banded to form an accessory similar to that shown in Figure 12.

[77] Figure 17 illustrates a front view of a clothing accessory 114 having a holding bar 116. The embodiment shown in Figure 17 is similar to that shown with respect to Figures 13-16 except that two material strips 118 are attached to the holding bar 116 proximate to the ends of the holding bar 116. The holding bar 116 may be plastic, metal, cardboard, or any semi-rigid material that is configured to slip into pockets or attach to material. For example, the holding bar 116 may be secured in place with respect to a shirt or the tie knot 64 through hooks under the neck portion of the tie and covered up by a collar. The strips 118 are folded with respect to the tie knot 64 similar to the method discussed with respect to Figures 13-16. [78] Figure 18 illustrates a front view of the clothing accessory 114 positioned on the tie knot 64. Unlike the embodiment shown with respect to Figures 13-16, a portion of the tie knot 64 is exposed through an opening in the clothing accessory 114.

[79] Figure 19 illustrates a front view of an insert 120 configured to be used with a clothing accessory according to an embodiment of the present invention. The insert 120 may be any flexible material having one or more pleats, folds, darts, punch-holes, monograms, embroidery, or various other shapes, features and designs. The insert 120 includes a covering portion 122 having fasteners 124 disposed at distal ends of outwardly extending strips 126. The insert 120 may be any suitable material to be used with, or as, clothing. The insert 120 may be inserted into the cenfral opening of a clothing accessory over an exposed portion of the tie knot. The strips 126 are wrapped around the tie knot and secured together through the fasteners 124, which may be buttons, snaps, hooks, loops, or the like. Optionally, the fasteners 124 may be secured to corresponding reciprocal structures formed on a clothing accessory, such as the clothing accessory 26. The strips 126 may be bands of any suitable material, such as an elastic band, or may be an integrally formed loop, such that the fasteners 124 are unnecessary.

[80] Figure 20 illustrates a front view of an insert 126 configured to be used with a clothing accessory according to an embodiment of the present invention. The insert 126 is similar to the insert 120 except that the covering portion 128 is expanded and tapered toward the fasteners 124.

[81] Figure 21 illustrates a side view of the insert 126 shown in Figure 20. The side view of the insert 126 is similar to that of insert 120. As shown in Figure 21, the insert 126 includes a top fastening hook 128 configured to hook over the top of a clothing accessory (e.g., clothing accessory 26), or into a tie knot.

[82] Figure 22 illustrates a dimpling band 130, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The dimpling band 130 may include, or be formed of, any flexible material that maintains its shape, even when it is stretched. The dimpling band 130 includes a main body 132 having fasteners 134, such as snaps, hooks, loops, and the like, disposed at terminal ends. The dimpling band 130 may be an elastic band, or any other material configured to stretch and pull inwardly. Optionally, the dimpling band 130 may be formed as a unitary loop, such that fasteners are unnecessary.

[83] Figure 23 illusfrates the dimpling band 130 positioned on the tie 66. The fasteners 134 (shown in Figure 22) of the dimpling band 130 may be fastened to corresponding reciprocal structures (not shown) located within the clothing accessory 26. Optionally, the dimpling band 130 may be wrapped around the tie 66 and secured by way of the fasteners 134 securably engaging one another. In any case, the dimpling band 130 exerts a compressive force on the tie 66 in the directions of arrows H, thereby squeezing the tie. The squeezing action on the tie 66 causes a dimple 136 to form and/or be preserved. That is, the dimpling band 130 exerts a minimal to moderate compressive force on the tie, thereby accentuating and preserving a dimple formed in the tie 66. The constant tension of the dimpling band 130 on the tie 66 maintains the dimple 136. The dimpling band 130 may be used with any type of knot, whether it is a horizontal, such as shown, for example, in Figure 33, or a vertical knot, such as shown, for example, in Figure 32, or various other types of knots. [84] Figure 24 illustrates a top view of the dimpling band 130 according to an alternative embodiment. The dimpling band 130 may include a protrusion 138 proximate the center of the dimpling band 130.

[85] Figure 25 illustrates a side view of the dimpling band 130 according to an alternative embodiment. The protrusion 138 extends downwardly from the main body 132. The protrusion 138 is configured to dig or extend inwardly into a tie. As the dimpling band 130 squeezes the tie as described above, the protrusion 138 accentuates the dimple even more due to the fact that the protrusion 138 extends into the tie, thereby precluding cloth material pushed inwardly by the protrusion 139 from bowing out.

[86] Figure 26 illusfrates a front view of a dimpling spring clip 140 in an open position. The dimpling spring clip 140 includes an operative end 142 integrally formed with a closed engagement end 144. The operative end 142 includes two prongs 144 having an opening 146 defined therebetween. The engagement end 144 includes two beams 148 integrally formed with the prongs 144 and a curved flexible member 150.

[87] Figure 28 illustrates a side view of the dimpling spring clip 140. The prongs 144 include smoothed pads 141 located distally from the engagement end 144. Optionally, the ends of the prongs 144 may be rounded over so that clothing does not snag on the prongs.

[88] Referring again to Figure 26, in order to open the dimpling spring so that the opening 146 is defined between the prongs 144, the beams 148 are squeezed together in the directions of arrows I. Consequently, the prongs 144 move away from one another, thereby increasing the size of the opening 146.

[89] Figure 27 illustrates a front view of the dimpling spring clip 140 in the closed position. In order to close the opening 146 between the prongs 144, the exerted pressure on the beams 148 in the directions of arrows I is released. That is, the dimpling spring clip 140 is normally in a closed position.

[90] The dimpling spring 140 is configured to retain material from a necktie between the prongs 144. The dimpling spring 140 may be positioned behind a necktie. The engagement end 144 is then squeezed to separate the opening 146. The opening 146 is then closed to pinch or otherwise retain the cloth material between the prongs 144, thereby providing a dimpling effect on the front of the tie.

[91] Figures 29 and 30 illustrate top and side views, respectively, of a dimpling band 160, according to an alternative embodiment. The dimpling band 160 includes, or is formed of, a flexible material that is configured to retain its shape when positioned around or proximate a tie knot in relation to a clothing accessory, as shown, for example, in Figure 34. The dimpling band 160 may be formed of a fabric or other such material, and/or include a metal mesh underneath or within the fabric or material in order to provide extra rigidity and robustness The dimpling band 160 includes a widened triangular body 162 in order to add a decorative dimension to the necktie or other apparel item. The dimpling band 160 may also include a protruding member 164 to provide a greater dimpling effect. [92] Figure 31 illustrates the clothing accessory 26 positioned relative to silk appliques 169, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The clothing accessory 26 may be positioned around a knot of a silk scarf 170 having silk appliques 169 positioned relative to the scarf 170. Embodiments of the present invention discussed above with respect to Figures 1-30 may be used with the silk appliques 169 and scarf 170.

[93] Figure 32 illustrates a clothing accessory 172 positioned around a knot 64 of a tie 66. As shown in Figure 32, a dimpling band is 130 is secured around the tie 66.

[94] Figure 33 illustrates a clothing accessory 174 positioned around a knot 64 of a tie 66. As shown in Figure 33, a dimpling band is not used.

[95] Figure 34 illustrates a clothing accessory 176 positioned around a knot 64 of a tie 66. As shown in Figure 34, the dimpling band 160 is secured around the tie 66 to provide a greater dimpling effect in the tie 66.

[96] In the embodiments shown above, a filler and/or liner may be secured within the material of the clothing accessory. The filler may be a resilient material such as a plastic, or any such filler or liner commonly found in a tie, and holds the shape of the knot and accessory and adds volume to the clothing accessory and the knot. The liner adds weight to the clothing accessory and keeps the material of the knot and from kinking.

[97] While the embodiments shown with respect to Figures 32-34 show distinctly configured clothing accessories, any of the clothing accessories discussed above may be utilized with the ties shown. [98] Embodiments of the present invention may be used with various clothing items having a knot disposed therein. For example, embodiments of the present invention may be used with neckties, kerchiefs, ascots, scarves, sashes, belts, appliques, clip-on ties, string ties, and the like.

[99] Additionally, the clothing accessory may be a single piece of molded material that is clipped on, clamped onto, or otherwise secured to, or over a tie knot. That is, instead of being a flexible material that forms a loop, the clothing accessory may be a single, molded piece configured to secure over, or around a tie knot.

[100] Generally, embodiments of the present invention provide improved necktie accessories, which improve the aesthetics and structural integrity of the knot. The improved necktie accessories may maintain the structural integrity of the knots, conceal poorly tied knots, or improve the appearance of a clothing item, in general. Further, embodiments of the present invention provide clothing accessories that may be used with various clothing items, such as ascots, sashes, neckerchiefs, and the like.

[101] While the invention has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A clothing accessory for use with a clothing item having an elongated tail and a knot, the clothing accessory comprising: a flexible loop of material defining a central opening, wherein the knot is positioned within said central opening, and said loop covers at least a portion of said knot.

2. The clothing accessory of claim 1, wherein said material is at least one of metal, wood, leather, plastic, cotton, polyester, acetate, and silk.

3. The clothing accessory of claim 1, wherein said material is at least one of woven, braided, and meshed.

4. The clot ng accessory of claim 1, wherein said material includes a main body bounded by a lower edge integrally formed with angled lateral edges and downwardly inclined upper edges.

5. The clothing accessory of claim 1, wherein said material is shaped as a polygon.

6. The clothing accessory of claim 1, wherein said material is shaped as a frapezoid.

7. The clothing accessory of claim 1, wherein lateral edges of said material are joined, thereby forming said loop.

8. The clothing accessory of claim 1, wherein said loop of material covers all of the knot.

9. The clothing accessory of claim 1, wherein a portion of the knot is exposed through said central opening.

10. The clothing accessory of claim 1, further comprising a fastening device extending from a top portion of said loop, wherein said fastening device is configured to be passed through said central opening.

11. The clothing accessory of claim 10, wherein said fastening device comprises an adjustment member that is configured to slide over said fastening device.

12. The clothing accessory of claim 10, wherein the clothing item is a tie having a tail, a tag, and said knot, and wherein said fastening device is positioned between said tail and said tag.

13. The clothing accessory of claim 1, wherein the clothing item is one of a tie, applique, scarf, belt, ascot, sash, and kerchief.

14. The clothing accessory of claim 1, further comprising a flexible band connected to said loop and spanning said central opening.

15. The clothing accessory of claim 14, wherein said flexible band exerts a compressive force on the elongated tail in order to maintain a dimple in the elongated tail.

16. The clothing accessory of claim 14, wherein said flexible band includes a downwardly extending protrusion that extends into the elongated tail to form a dimple.

17. The clothing accessory of claim 1, further comprising a decorative insert having a cover and fasteners, wherein said insert is positioned within said central opening to cover the knot, and said fasteners are secured to reciprocal structures of said loop.

18. The clothing accessory of claim 1, wherein said loop of material includes multiple layers of material.

19. The clothing accessory of claim 1, further comprising a dimpling spring clip having prongs configured to retain a portion of cloth therebetween, wherein said dimpling spring clip is positioned behind the elongated tail and retains a portion of the elongated tail between said prongs in order to accentuate a dimple in the elongated tail.

20. A clothing accessory for use with a clothing item having an elongated tail and a knot, the clothing accessory comprising: at least one flexible strip of material wrapped around at least a portion of the knot.

21. The clothing accessory of claim 20, wherein said at least one flexible strip of material comprises a center portion that is positioned over the knot and two flexible wings integrally formed with, and extending outwardly from, said center portion.

22. The clothing accessory of claim 21, wherein said two flexible wings are wrapped around the knot, and fastened behind the knot.

23. The clothing accessory of claim 20, further comprising a holding bar, and wherein said at least one flexible strip comprises two flexible strips attached to said holding bar.

24. The clothing accessory of claim 23, wherein said holding bar is secured relative to the knot, wherein the knot is positioned between said two flexible strips, and wherein said two flexible strips are wrapped around the knot, and fastened behind the knot.

25. The clothing accessory of claim 20, wherein said material is at least one of metal, wood, leather, plastic, cotton, polyester, acetate and silk.

26. The clothing accessory of claim 20, wherein said material is at least one of woven, braided, and meshed.

27. The clothing accessory of claim 20, wherein said material includes a main body bounded by a lower edge integrally formed with angled lateral edges and downwardly inclined upper edges.

28. The clothing accessory of claim 20, wherein said material is shaped as a polygon.

29. The clothing accessory of claim 20, wherein said material is shaped as a frapezoid.

30. The clothing accessory of claim 20, wherein said at least one flexible strip of material is wrapped over substantially all of the knot.

31. The clothing accessory of claim 26, wherein said angled lateral edges are joined together to form a loop of said material having a central opening defined therein.

32. The clothing accessory of claim 31, wherein a portion of the knot is exposed through said cenfral opening.

33. The clothing accessory of claim 31, further comprising a fastening device extending from a top portion of said loop, wherein said fastening device is configured to be passed through said central opening.

34. The clothing accessory of claim 33, wherein said fastening device comprises an adjustment member that is configured to slide over said fastening device.

35. The clothing accessory of claim 33, wherein the clothing item is a tie having a tail, a tag, and said knot, and wherein said fastening device is positioned between said tail and said tag.

36. The clothing accessory of claim 20, wherein the clothing item is one of a tie, applique, scarf, belt, ascot, sash, and neckerchief.

37. The clothing accessory of claim 33, further comprising a flexible band connected to said loop and spanning said cenfral opening.

38. The clothing accessory of claim 37, wherein said flexible band exerts a compressive force on the elongated tail in order to maintain a dimple in the elongated tail.

39. The clothing accessory of claim 37, wherein said flexible band includes a downwardly extending protrusion that extends into the elongated tail to form a dimple.

40. The clothing accessory of claim 33, further comprising a decorative insert having a cover and fasteners, wherein said insert is positioned within said central opening to cover the knot, and said fasteners are secured to reciprocal structures of said loop.

41. The clothing accessory of claim 20, wherein said at least one flexible strip of material includes multiple layers of material.

42. The clothing accessory of claim 20, further comprising a dimpling spring clip having prongs configured to retain a portion of cloth therebetween, wherein said dimpling spring clip is positioned behind the elongated tail and retains a portion of the elongated tail between said prongs in order to accentuate a dimple in the elongated tail.

43. A method of securing a knot of a clothing item having an elongated tail and a knot, the method comprising: providing at least one flexible strip of material proximate the knot; and wrapping the at least one flexible strip of material around at least a portion of the knot.

44. The method of claim 43, further comprising forming a loop of material from the flexible strip of material, wherein a central opening is defined by the loop.

45. The method of claim 44, further comprising positioning the knot within the central opening.

46. The method of claim 43, wherein said wrapping further comprises: positioning a center portion of the at least one flexible strip over the knot; wrapping flexible wings extending from the center portion around the knot; and fastening the flexible wings behind the knot.

47. The method of claim 43, further comprising: providing a holding bar proximate the knot; and providing the at least one flexible strip on the holding bar.

48. The method of claim 43, wherein said material is at least one of metal, wood, leather, plastic, cotton, polyester, acetate, and silk.

49. The method of claim 43, wherein said material is at least one of woven, braided, and meshed.

50. The method of claim 43, wherein the material includes a main body bounded by a lower edge integrally formed with angled lateral edges and downwardly inclined upper edges.

51. The method of claim 43 , wherein the material is shaped as a polygon.

52. The method of claim 43, wherein the material is shaped as a frapezoid.

53. The method, of claim 43, wherein said wrapping comprises wrapping the flexible strip of material around substantially all of the knot.

54. The method of claim 43, wherein said wrapping comprises providing a central opening that exposes a portion of the knot.

55. The method of claim 54, further comprising securing a flexible band to portions of the at least one flexible strip so that the flexible band spans the central opening.

56. The method of claim 55, wherein said securing further comprises exerting a compressive force on the elongated tail in order to maintain a dimple in the elongated tail.

57. The clothing accessory of claim 55, further comprising providing a protrusion on the flexible band, and positioning the protrusion into the elongated tail to form a dimple thereon.

58. The method of claim 43, wherein the clothing item is one of a tie, applique, scarf, belt, ascot, sash, and neckerchief.

59. The method of claim 43, further comprising providing a decorative insert over an exposed portion of the knot.

60. The method of claim 43, further comprising providing a dimpling spring clip behind the elongated tail, and retaining a portion of the elongated tail between prongs of the dimpling spring clip in order to accentuate a dimple in the elongated tail.