WO2022056177A1 - Ok, interchangeable shoes and decorations - Google Patents

Abstract

A shoe and a shoe system for providing a plethora of distinct looks. The shoe and shoe system include features that accommodate a plurality of interchangeable components and a plurality of accessories. Each interchangeable component and each accessory are compatible with each shoe in the shoe system.

Description

INTERCHANGEABLE SHOES AND DECORATIONS

CROSS-REERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a non-provisional of and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.63/076,279, filed on September 9, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] A shoe is an item of footwear intended to protect and comfort the human foot when making contact with the ground. Shoes are also used as a fashion article. Fashion has often dictated many shoe design elements, such as types of materials, colors, heel heights, and flexibility.

SUMMARY

[0003] The disclosure describes a concept where one shoe can provide endless possibilities and limitless styles to accommodate varying fashion trends and preferences. The disclosure provides consumers with many style choices without purchasing multiple pairs of shoes. The present disclosure seeks to help eliminate fashion waste and be the leading source for sustainable and interchangeable shoes. In addition, the shoe concepts described herein provide a versatile, affordable, personalized with multiple looks making it easier to travel and satisfy every occasion without compromising style.

[0004] The interchangeable shoe designs described herein satisfy the market needs and contribute positively to the global fashion waste crisis that is the second largest waste pollution contributor in the world. Fast fashion was all the rage in years past, but now the regret and waste has taken a toll. In today’s fashion world, shoes need to serve a variety of personalized looks. Consumers still want multiple fashion looks yet many cannot afford to buy higher quality shoes for each desired look. These eco-friendly consumers are searching for a multi-use shoe.

[0005] It is evident that consumers want fashionable designs that reflect individualism, convenience when traveling, eco-friendly and comfortable materials, and an array of accessories that provide an endless number of options and fashion looks, easily changeable looks with the

1

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) accessories, and multi-use styles. To achieve these desires, personalized, made-to-order shoes with interchangeable components for multiple looks are disclosed herein. One pair, endless possibilities providing imaginative solutions to celebrate personal brands and raise women up.

[0006] The present disclosure presents interchangeable built-in shoe components across multiple styles of shoes. The styles of shoes include, but are not limited to boots, pumps, sandals, ballet flats, sneakers, and the like. Each pair of shoes includes a base style and an interchangeable top or upper portion that has the ability to be varied to achieve many different looks. Each pair of shoes is offered in a variety of sizes, heel heights, heel styles, colors and patterns, and each has a removable, interchangeable top or upper portion or decorative straps with built-in accessories that can be easily changed between the different shoe bases and across styles.

[0007] Other aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] FIGS. 1-6 and 37-39 illustrate various views of a boot according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIGS. 7-15 illustrate various views of a sneaker according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIGS. 16-20 and 34-36 illustrate various views of a sandal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIGS. 21-26 and 31-33 illustrate various views of a pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIGS. 27-29 illustrate various views of a ballet lift according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIGS. 30A-30D illustrate various accessories removably attachable to a shoe shown in FIGS. 1-29 and 31-39. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.

[0015] As illustrated in the figures, a particular shoe style is shown. For example, FIGS. 1-6 and 37-39 illustrate a boot style shoe, FIGS. 7-15 illustrate a sneaker style shoe, FIGS. 16-20 and 34-36 illustrate a sandal style shoe, FIGS. 21-26 and 31-33 illustrate a pump style shoe, and FIGS. 27-29 illustrate a ballet lift style shoe. Although not specifically illustrated, additional shoe styles are also contemplated.

[0016] In general, a shoe includes a sole, an upper, and a heel. The sole typically includes an insole and an outsole. The sole may include a midsole. The insole of the shoe is the first layer of the sole. It is directly beneath the foot and is attached to the upper of the shoe. The insole is usually contoured and structured to cradle the foot. The insole may include a shock-absorbing material like ethylene vinyl acetate. The insole may include an anti-microbial additive to reduce the possibility of bacterial growth and shoe smell. The insole positions and cradles the foot in the shoe. Shoe soles may be of a simple, one-layer type or may be constructed using multiple layers. They are made from various materials like natural rubber, leather, polyurethane and PVC compounds.

[0017] A midsole is an optional layer positioned between the insole and the outsole of the shoe. It is utilized for better shock absorption and cushioning of the shoe. The midsole is typically padded with extra support under the heel portion of the shoe where the applied pressure is at a maximum.

[0018] The outsole of the shoe is the outermost layer of the sole and comes in contact directly with the ground. The outsole can be one continuous piece or made from an assembly of various parts. An outsole may comprise a waterproof, tough, and appealing material, and provides enough friction between the shoe and the ground. The outsole may include grooves or other patterns to enhance the friction with the ground for better traction.

[0019] The shoe upper is connected to the sole and is the part of the shoe covering the foot. The upper may comprise leather, fabric, synthetic materials, recycled, eco-friendly materials including knit, recycled rubber, vegan leathers, etc., or a combination thereof. The upper includes the vamp, tongue and eyelets, throat, puff, quarters and linings.

[0020] The heel is at the rear of the shoe, at the bottom, and positioned below the heel of the foot when in the shoe. The heel functions to support and/or raise the rear part of the shoe. The height of the heel may vary from a few millimeters to several inches (e.g., 0.25” - 6”) and vary in width and shape. The heel may comprise leather, plastic, rubber, metal, or synthetic materials as described above.

[0021] FIGS. 1-6 illustrate a boot 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The boot 10 includes a sole 14, an upper 18, and a heel 22. The boot 10 further includes a shaft 26 extending from the upper 18 and the heel 22. The shaft 26 is generally the portion that rises over the ankle of the foot and can vary in height. In one example, the shaft can rise to extend over the knee.

[0022] As shown in the figures, the boot 10 can include a loop 30 positioned at a top portion 34 of the shaft 26 and at the rear or heel 22. In other embodiments, the loop 30 can be positioned at a front portion of the shaft 26 or at a left side or right side of the shaft 26. In alternative embodiments, the boot 10 can include more than one loop 30 that may be positioned circumferentially around the top portion 34 of the shaft 26. A circumference of the one or more loops 30 can vary or they may all be the same circumference. The loop 30 can be stitched with the fabric of the shaft 26. The loop 30 may comprise a material that matches a material of the shaft 26 or may comprise an entirely different material.

[0023] With continued reference to FIGS. 1-6, the boot 10 includes an interchangeable component 38 at an upper portion 42 of the shaft 26. The interchangeable component 38 can range in height between 0.25” - 48”. The shaft 26 and the interchangeable component 38 include a coupling mechanism 46 that allows the interchangeable component 38 to be removed from the shaft 26. The interchangeable component 38 can be added to another shoe having a different style, such as the sneaker illustrated in FIGS. 7-15 or the sandal illustrated in FIGS. 16- 20, or the pump illustrated in FIGS. 21-26. In one embodiment, the coupling mechanism 46, as illustrated, is a zipper that extends circumferentially around the shaft 26. Alternative coupling mechanisms 46 include hook and loop, magnets, buttons, snaps, and the like. At least a portion of the coupling mechanism 46 is sewn or otherwise securely attached to the boot 10.

[0024] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 4, the boot 10 can include different fashionable looks by exchanging the interchangeable component 38. By way of example, the interchangeable component 38 illustrated in FIG. 1 can be unzipped from the coupling mechanism 46 and swapped for a different interchangeable component 38 with a fur-like appearance that is zipped onto the coupling mechanism 46 to give the boot 10 a different fashionable look. Other interchangeable components 38 may include feathers, ribbons, flowers, bows, rhinestones, metal links, studs, pom poms, stripes, metallics, fruit, and the like.

[0025] FIGS. 37-39 illustrate a boot 10’ according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The boot 10’ includes a sole 14’, an upper 18’, and a heel 22’. The boot 10’ further includes a shaft 26’ extending from the upper 18’ and the heel 22’. The shaft 26’ is generally the portion that rises over the ankle of the foot and can vary in height. In one example, the shaft 26’ can rise to extend over the knee.

[0026] As shown, the boot 10’ can include a loop 30’ positioned at a top portion 34’ of the shaft 26’ and at the rear or heel 22’. In other embodiments, the loop 30’ can be positioned at a front portion of the shaft 26’ or at a left side or right side of the shaft 26’ . In alternative embodiments, the boot 10’ can include more than one loop 30’ that may be positioned circumferentially around the top portion 34’ of the shaft 26’. A circumference of the one or more loops 30’ can vary or they may all be the same circumference. The loop 30’ can be stitched with the fabric of the shaft 26’. The loop 30’ may comprise a material that matches a material of the shaft 26’ or may comprise an entirely different material.

[0027] With continued reference to FIGS. 37-39, the boot 10’ includes a removable strap 54. The strap 54 extends circumferentially around the upper portion 42’ of the shaft 26’ and loops through the loop 30’ and a first aperture 58 and a second aperture 62. The first aperture 58 and the second aperture 62 are adjacent to each other and positioned in the front of the shaft 26’. The first aperture 58 and the second aperture 62 may be positioned anywhere (e.g., on the sides of the boot 10’) along the upper portion 42’ of the shaft 26’. Additionally, the boot 10’ may include a plurality of first apertures 58 and second apertures 62. These apertures 58 and 62 may also be included in the sneaker (described below), or other shoe style that includes a higher upper. The strap 54 includes a buckle that enables the strap to be removed from the boot 10’. The strap 54 includes a height between about 0.25” to 1.0”. In other constructions, the strap 54 may include a height that is greater than 1.0”.

[0028] The strap 54 can receive various accessories 66 to provide different fashionable looks. For example, some of the accessories 66 are shown in FIGS. 30A-D. Additional accessories 66 are unlimited to keep up with fashion trends. Each of the accessories 66 includes a three-part attachment system so that each accessory can attach to each part of every style of shoe. The three-part attachment system includes a loop 70 in the middle of each accessory 66 configured to receive a strap, ribbon, laces, and the like, that is able to be pulled through the loop 70 and attach to the shoe where the user desires. In addition, the accessory 66 has an additional two loops/two additional open/close securing mechanisms (e.g., magnets (or snaps, hook and loop, zippers, clips, and the like) that open and close around other straps and areas of the variety of styled shoes. By way of example, FIGS. 30B and 30C illustrate an accessory 66 in the form of a bow that can removably couple to a strap 54 and be moved along the strap 54 and positioned as desired. The accessory 66 in FIG. 30B includes a loop 70 and two additional loops, one to the left and one to the right of the loop 70 to receive the strap 54. The accessory 66 in FIG. 30C includes a loop 70 and two additional open/close loops that couple together with magnets 72 to receive the strap 54. FIG. 30D illustrates an accessory 66 in the form of a flower that can removably couple to a strap 54 and be moved along the strap 54 and positioned as desired. The accessory 66 in FIG. 30D includes a loop 70 and two clips 76, one to the left and one to the right of the loop 70 to clip onto the strap 54. The clips 76 may be oriented in any direction to secure the accessory 66 to the strap 54.

[0029] Like the boot 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1-6, the boot 10’ can include different fashionable looks by exchanging the accessories 66 coupled to the strap 54. Additionally, the strap 54 can be interchangeable to include different looks (e.g., different fabrics, colors, textures, and the like). The strap 54 can also accommodate charms that are removably coupled to the strap 54 or the loop 30’.

[0030] FIGS. 7-15 illustrate a sneaker 70 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The sneaker 70 includes a sole 74, an upper 78, and a heel 82. The sole 74 includes a thickness that can range between 0.25” - 3”. In one construction, the thickness of the sole 74 ranges between 0.5” - 2”. In another construction, the thickness of the sole 74 ranges between 1” - 1.5”. As is apparent in FIGS. 11-12, the thickness of the sole 74 can vary along its length or width to accommodate contouring and attachment to the upper 78. For example, the thickness (e.g., vertical height) at the outer portion of the sole 74 is greater than the thickness in the middle of the sole 74. In one construction, as illustrated in FIGS. 7-9 and 13-15, the sole 74 includes a heel portion 106, a toe portion 110, and a middle portion 114 that is contoured. The middle portion 114 includes a smaller width than the heel portion 106 and the toe portion 110 and connects the heel portion 106 and the toe portion 110 by a small strip 118 of sole material.

[0031] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, the sole 74 includes a split-sole having a heel portion 106 and a toe portion 110. The heel portion 106 and the toe portion 110 are completely separate from one another and only coupled with the fabric upper 78.

[0032] The sneaker 70 can include a primary loop 94 positioned at a top portion 98 of the upper 78 and at the rear or heel 82. In other embodiments, the primary loop 94 can be positioned at a front portion of the upper 78 or at a left side or right side of the upper 78. In alternative embodiments, the sneaker 70 can include more than one primary loop 94 that may be positioned circumferentially around the top portion 98 of the upper 78. A circumference of the one or more primary loops 94 can vary or they may all be the same circumference. The primary loop 94 can be stitched with the fabric of the upper 78. The primary loop 94 may comprise a material that matches a material of the upper 78 or may comprise an entirely different material.

[0033] The sneaker 70 can include one or more secondary loops 102 on an exterior surface of the shoe. One or more secondary loops 102 can be coupled (e.g., stitched) to the sole 74 and/or the upper 78. The secondary loop(s) 102 can comprise ribbon or other suitable fabric of relevant width dimensions (e.g., 0.25” - 2”). The secondary loop(s) 102 can include a height from a connection point on the shoe to its peak of about 0.10” - 3”. In another construction, the secondary loop(s) 102 can have a height of about 0.25” - 1”.

[0034] With reference to FIGS. 7-8 and 14-15, the sneaker 70 includes an interchangeable component 122 at the top portion 98 of the upper 78. The interchangeable component 122 can range in height between 0.25” - 48”. The top portion 98 of the upper 78 and the interchangeable component 122 include a coupling mechanism 126 that allows the interchangeable component 122 to be removed from the upper 78. The interchangeable component 122 can be added to another shoe having a different style, such as the boot 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1-6, or the sandal illustrated in FIGS. 16-20, or the pump illustrated in FIGS. 21-26. In one embodiment, the coupling mechanism 126, as illustrated, is a zipper that extends circumferentially around the top portion 98 of the upper 78. Alternative coupling mechanisms 126 include hook and loop, buttons, snaps, and the like. At least a portion of the coupling mechanism 126 is sewn or otherwise securely attached to the upper 78 of the sneaker 70.

[0035] With continued reference to FIGS. 7-8 and 14-15, the sneaker 70 can include different fashionable looks by exchanging the interchangeable component 122. By way of example, the interchangeable component 122 illustrated in FIG. 15 can be unzipped from the coupling mechanism 126 and swapped for a different interchangeable component 122 with a furlike appearance that is coupled to the coupling mechanism 126 to give the sneaker 70 a different fashionable look. Other interchangeable components 122 may include feathers, ribbons, flowers, bows, rhinestones, metal links, studs, pom poms, stripes, metallics, fruit, and the like. The sneaker 70 can also include a zipper 130 positioned on the upper 78 and oriented vertically at the side or rear of the upper 78 to allow for ease of access into the shoe.

[0036] FIGS. 16-19 illustrate a sandal 150 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The sandal 150 includes a sole 154, an upper 158, and a heel 162. As shown, the sandal 150 can include a loop 166 positioned at a top portion 170 of the upper 158 at the rear of the shoe. The loop 166 can be stitched with the fabric of the upper 158. The loop 166 may comprise a material that matches a material of the upper 158 or may comprise an entirely different material. [0037] With continued reference to FIGS. 16-19, the sandal 150 includes a removable strap 174. The strap 174 extends through the loop 166. The strap 174 may include a buckle that enables the strap to be removed from the sandal 150. The strap 174 includes a height between about 0.25” to 1.0”. In other constructions, the strap 174 may include a height that is greater than 1.0”.

[0038] The strap 174 can receive various accessories 66 as described above and shown in FIGS. 30A-30D to provide different fashionable looks. The sandal 150 can include different fashionable looks by exchanging the accessories 66 coupled to the strap 174. Additionally, the strap 174 can be interchangeable to include different looks (e.g., different fabrics, colors, textures, and the like). The strap 174 can also accommodate charms that are removably coupled to the strap 174 or the loop 166. The strap 174 can be replaced with a ribbon 182 as illustrated in FIG. 19. The ribbon 182 can wrap around a user’s ankle and beneath the sandal and tied in a bow to be secured in position.

[0039] FIG. 20 illustrates a sandal 150’ according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The sandal 150’ includes a sole 154’, an upper 158’, and a heel 162’. As shown, the sandal 150’ can include a loop 166’ positioned at a top portion 170’ of the upper 158’ at the rear of the shoe. The loop 166’ can be stitched with the fabric of the upper 158’. The loop 166’ may comprise a material that matches a material of the upper 158’ or may comprise an entirely different material.

[0040] The sandal 150’ includes a removable strap 174’. The strap 174’ extends through the loop 166’. The strap 174’ may include a buckle that enables the strap to be removed from the sandal 150’. The strap 174’ includes a height between about 0.25” to 1.0”. In other constructions, the strap 174’ may include a height that is greater than 1.0”.

[0041] The strap 174’ can include a coupling mechanism 186 to couple to an interchangeable component 190 (see 122 in FIG. 15). The interchangeable component 190 can range in height between 0.25” - 48”. The interchangeable component 190 can be added to another shoe having a different style, such as the boot 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1-6, or the sneaker illustrated in FIGS. 7-15, or the pump illustrated in FIGS. 21-26. In one embodiment, the coupling mechanism 186, as illustrated, is a zipper that extends circumferentially around the strap 174’. Alternative coupling mechanisms 186 include hook and loop, buttons, snaps, and the like.

[0042] With continued reference to FIG. 20, the sandal 150’ may also include a zipper 194 at a toe strap 198 that extends across the user’s toe area. As illustrated, the zipper 194 is located at a pinky toe side of the toe strap 198. The zipper location can vary and may be positioned in the middle or on the big toe side of the toe strap 198. The zipper 194 can accommodate an interchangeable component and many variable attachments.

[0043] FIGS. 34-36 illustrate a sandal 150” according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The sandal 150” includes a sole 154”, an upper 158”, and a heel 162”. As shown, the sandal 150” can include a loop 166” positioned at a top portion 170” of the upper 158” at the rear of the shoe. The loop 166” can be stitched with the fabric of the upper 158”. The loop 166” may comprise a material that matches a material of the upper 158” or may comprise an entirely different material.

[0044] The sandal 150” includes a removable strap 174”. The strap 174” extends through the loop 166”. The strap 174” may include a buckle that enables the strap to be removed from the sandal 150”. The strap 174” includes a height between about 0.25” to 1.0”. In other constructions, the strap 174” may include a height that is greater than 1.0”.

[0045] The strap 174” can receive various accessories 66 as described above and shown in FIGS. 30A-30D to provide different fashionable looks. The sandal 150” can include different fashionable looks by exchanging the accessories 66 coupled to the strap 174”. Additionally, the strap 174” can be interchangeable to include different looks (e.g., different fabrics, colors, textures, and the like). The strap 174” can also accommodate charms that are removably coupled to the strap 174” or the loop 166”.

[0046] With continued reference to FIGS. 34-36, the sandal 150” may also include a secondary strap 202 at a toe strap 198’ that extends across the user’s toe area. As illustrated, the secondary strap 202 extends across the toe strap 198’. The secondary strap 202 is secured between the sole 154” and the toe strap 198’ at each side of the shoe but is otherwise unsecured between the two side edges. The secondary strap 202 may be oriented as shown in the FIGS, or may be oriented at a diagonal across the toe strap 198’. In other constructions, more than one secondary strap 202 may be utilized. As such, the secondary strap 202 can accommodate an interchangeable component and many variable attachments or accessories as described above.

[0047] FIGS. 21-26 illustrate a pump 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The pump 300 includes a sole 304, an upper 308, and a heel 312. As shown in the figures, the pump 300 can include a primary loop 316 positioned at a top portion 318 of the upper 308 and at the rear or heel 312. The primary loop 316 can be stitched with the fabric of the upper 308. The primary loop 316 may comprise a material that matches a material of the upper 308 or may comprise an entirely different material.

[0048] With continued reference to FIGS. 21-26, the pump 300 can include one or more secondary loops 320 on an interior surface of the shoe. One or more secondary loops 320 can be coupled (e.g., stitched) to the sole 304 and/or the upper 308. The secondary loop(s) 320 can comprise ribbon or other suitable fabric of relevant width dimensions (e.g., 0.25” - 2”). The secondary loop(s) 320 can include a height from a connection point on the shoe to its peak of about 0.10” - 3”. In another construction, the secondary loop(s) 320 can have a height of about 0.25” - 1”.

[0049] With specific reference to FIG. 26, the pump 300 includes a removable strap 324 (hidden under the fur). The strap 324 extends through the primary loop 316. The strap 324 may include a buckle that enables the strap to be removed from the pump 300. The strap 324 includes a height between about 0.25” to 1.0”. In other constructions, the strap 324 may include a height that is greater than 1.0”. The strap 324 can receive various accessories 66 as described above and shown in FIGS. 30A-30D to provide different fashionable looks. The pump 300 can include different fashionable looks by exchanging the accessories 66 coupled to the strap 324. Additionally, the strap 324 can be interchangeable to include different looks (e.g., different fabrics, colors, textures, and the like). The strap 324 can also accommodate charms that are removably coupled to the strap 324 or the primary loop 316. The strap 324 can be replaced with a ribbon 328 as illustrated in FIG. 21. The ribbon 328 can wrap around a user’s ankle and through the secondary loops 320 and tied in a bow to be secured in position. [0050] FIGS. 31-33 illustrate a pump 300’ according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Like the sandal 150” described above, the pump 300’ may include a secondary strap 332 at a toe area of the upper 308’. As illustrated, the secondary strap 332 extends across the toe area and is secured between the sole 304’ and the upper 308’ at each side of the shoe but is otherwise unsecured between the two side edges. The secondary strap 332 may be oriented as shown in the FIGS, or may be oriented at a diagonal across the toe area of the upper 308’ . As illustrated, two secondary straps 332 are shown, however, in other constructions, one secondary strap 332 may be utilized. As such, the secondary strap(s) 332 can accommodate an interchangeable component and many variable attachments or accessories as described above.

[0051] FIGS. 27-29 illustrate a ballet lift 400 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The ballet lift 400 includes a sole 404, an upper 408, and a heel 412. As shown in the figures, the ballet lift 400 can include a primary loop 416 positioned at the rear or heel 412. The primary loop 416 can be stitched with the fabric of the upper 408. The primary loop 416 may comprise a material that matches a material of the upper 408 or may comprise an entirely different material.

[0052] With continued reference to FIGS. 27-29, the ballet lift 400 can include one or more secondary loops 420 on an interior surface of the shoe. One or more secondary loops 420 can be coupled (e.g., stitched) to the sole 404 and/or the upper 408. The secondary loop(s) 420 can comprise ribbon or other suitable fabric of relevant width dimensions (e.g., 0.25” - 2”). The secondary loop(s) 420 can include a height from a connection point on the shoe to its peak of about 0.10” - 3”. In another construction, the secondary loop(s) 420 can have a height of about 0.25” - 1”.

[0053] With specific reference to FIG. 29, the ballet lift 400 includes a ribbon 424 that can wrap around a user’s ankle and through the secondary loops 420 and tied in a bow to be secured in position. Alternatively, the ballet lift 400 can include a removable strap as described above to accommodate various accessories 66 as described above and shown in FIGS. 30A-30D to provide different fashionable looks. The accessory 66 shown in FIG. 29 clips onto the upper 408 and secured in the desired position. In other constructions, the accessory 66 may include a magnet to attach to the upper 408. [0054] A shoe and a shoe system for providing a plethora of distinct looks is disclosed herein. The shoe and shoe system include features that accommodate a plurality of interchangeable components and a plurality of accessories. Each interchangeable component and each accessory is compatible with each shoe in the shoe system.

[0055] The interchangeable components as described herein are modular elements. The interchangeable component may be built as a top portion of the shoe and can interchange with top portions of other shoes. Tops of shoes include features and trims that accessorize and personalize each shoe to the individual’s styles and desires for a variety of looks for different occasions and complementing outfits. Examples of interchangeable components include, but are not limited to: fur, feathers, ribbons, flowers, bows, rhinestones, metal links, studs, pom poms, stripes, metallics, fruit, and the like. Similarly, the sizes and styles of the interchangeable components shown in the drawings are not so limited, but may vary to accommodate alternative sizes and styles.

[0056] Each interchangeable component includes secured attachments, wherein each portion of the upper has inherent features built into the upper, or entire portions of the upper becomes a removable top that substantially constructed into the uppers primarily through horizontal zippers and loops (built in the back, sides inner and outer sole loops built into each design) that integrate the topping into the body of the shoe upper (zipped, hook and looped, snapped, magnetic or any attachment to top of shoe that goes around the ankle and is incorporated into the shoes design with removable interchangeable elements). Attachments are part of each shoe design and only fit on a particular line of shoes and interchange with each base style offered. The interchangeable component is a portion of the shoe that creates a modular component with secure fastening, not a loose accessory nor decorative elements that are permanent like most options on the market today.

[0057] As described herein, various styles of shoes can be mixed and matched with an endless variety of interchangeable components. This disclosure saves consumers money by providing multiple, interchangeable looks for each pair of shoes and helps to eliminate waste from over consumption by purchasing less pairs of shoes and inspires a slow fashion movement while still receiving all the quality and desired looks.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A shoe comprising: a sole; an upper connected to the sole; a heel connected to the upper; a primary loop connected to the upper; and a strap coupled to the loop, the strap configured to receive one of a plurality of accessories that slide onto the strap and are moveable to a desired location.

2. The shoe of claim 1, further comprising one or more secondary loops stitched between the sole and the upper.

3. The shoe of claim 2, wherein the one or more secondary loops are positioned on an interior surface of the shoe.

4. The shoe of claim 2, further comprising a ribbon configured to loop through the primary loop and the one or more secondary loops.

5. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the one of a plurality of accessories includes a first loop, a second loop, and a third loop.

6. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the one of a plurality of accessories includes a first loop and a second loop having a magnet to secure the second loop around the strap.

7. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the one of a plurality of accessories includes a first loop and a clip to attach to the strap.

8. The shoe of claim 1, further comprising a first coupling mechanism coupled to the upper.

9. The shoe of claim 8, further comprising an interchangeable component including a second coupling mechanism configured to couple with the first coupling mechanism.

10. The shoe of claim 9, wherein the coupling mechanism is a zipper.

11. A shoe system comprising: a first shoe of a first configuration, the first shoe including a first sole, a first upper connected to the first sole, a first heel connected to the first upper, and a first coupling mechanism connected to the first upper; a second shoe of a second configuration different than the first configuration, the second shoe including a second sole, a second upper connected to the second sole, a second heel connected to the second upper, and a second coupling mechanism connected to the second upper; and a plurality of interchangeable components, each interchangeable component including a third coupling mechanism configured to couple with the first coupling mechanism and the second mechanism.

12. The shoe system of claim 11, wherein the first coupling mechanism, the second coupling mechanism, and the third coupling mechanism is a zipper.

13. The shoe system of claim 11, wherein the first shoe includes a primary loop connected to the first upper.

14. The shoe system of claim 13, further comprising a strap coupled to the primary loop, the strap configured to receive one of a plurality of accessories that slide onto the strap and are moveable to a desired location.

15. The shoe system of claim 14, wherein the one of a plurality of accessories includes a first loop, a second loop, and a third loop.

16. The shoe of claim 14, wherein the one of a plurality of accessories includes a first loop and a second loop having a magnet to secure the second loop around the strap.

17. The shoe of claim 14, wherein the one of a plurality of accessories includes a first loop and a clip to attach to the strap.

18. A shoe system comprising: a plurality of shoes, each shoe having a loop configured to receive a strap applied around a user’s ankle or each shoe having a first coupling mechanism; a plurality of accessories, each accessory including a loop centrally positioned relative to the accessory, wherein each accessory is configured to slide onto the strap on each of the plurality of shoes; and a plurality of interchangeable components, each interchangeable component including a second coupling mechanism configured to couple to the first coupling mechanism on each of the plurality of shoes, wherein the plurality of accessories and the plurality of interchangeable components are configured to provide different looks for each shoe when applied thereto.

19. The shoe system of claim 18, wherein the plurality of shoes are selected from a group consisting of a sneaker, a pump, a boot, a ballet lift, and a sandal.

20. The shoe system of claim 18, wherein the first coupling mechanism and the second coupling mechanism is a zipper.

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