BOWTIE CLIP

Abstract

Disclosed embodiments provide a bowtie clip that fits comfortably against the neck of a wearer. Bowtie clips in accordance with disclosed embodiments can include a front portion that comprises a flat surface. A first clip is attached to the front portion, where the first clip includes a first gripping element and a second gripping element. Similarly, a second clip is attached to the front portion. The second clip can be substantially similar to the first clip. The second clip can also include a first gripping element and a second gripping element. The first clip and second clip can clip on to the collar tabs of a shirt in order to secure the bowtie to a shirt.

Description

FIELD

The present invention relates generally to fashion accessories, and more particularly to a bowtie clip.

BACKGROUND

The bowtie plays a significant role in modern formal and business attire, balancing tradition with personality. Although not as common as the necktie in business settings, the bowtie remains a distinctive accessory that can convey a variety of messages in different contexts.

In formal settings, the bowtie is a staple of black-tie events, and is often worn with tuxedos and evening attire. In this context, it adheres to strict formal standards. Black bowties are customary for black-tie affairs, while white bowties may be used for ultra-formal occasions, such as state dinners or academic ceremonies. Wearing a bowtie at such events signal adherence to tradition and respect for the occasion.

In business attire, especially in creative industries or among professionals who want to stand out, bowties can be used to express individuality and personal style. Unlike the conventional necktie, a bowtie can convey a sense of confidence, or playfulness. Moreover, bowties are often associated with academics, doctors, and entrepreneurs. Some people in professional settings wear a bowtie to indicate intellectualism or non-conformity.

Bowties have historically been favored by professionals such as doctors and professors, in part, because unlike neckties, bowties do not dangle and get in the way. This practicality has given the bowtie a reputation for being worn by individuals who are both practical and knowledgeable. The bowtie can also symbolize reliability and attentiveness, especially in fields where precision and cleanliness are critical.

In recent years, the bowtie has made a resurgence as a fashion accessory. Fashion-forward individuals and designers have incorporated bowties into modern ensembles that break away from formal traditions. Bowties are now seen with blazers, open-collar shirts, or sweaters, giving them a versatile, chic appeal. Bowties can enable the wearer to make a bold statement, blending vintage elegance with modern flair. The bowtie remains a powerful accessory that balances tradition, individuality, and modern fashion.

SUMMARY

In one aspect of disclosed embodiments, there is provided a bowtie clip, comprising: a front portion, the front portion comprising a flat surface; a first clip affixed to the front portion, wherein the first clip comprises a first gripping element and a second gripping element; and a second clip affixed to the front portion, wherein the second clip comprises a first gripping element and a second gripping element, wherein a void is formed between the first clip and the second clip.

In another aspect of disclosed embodiments, there is provided a bowtie clip, comprising: a front portion, the front portion comprising a flat surface; a first clip affixed to the front portion, wherein the first clip comprises a first gripping element and a second gripping element; and a second clip affixed to the front portion, wherein the second clip comprises a first gripping element and a second gripping element, wherein a U-shaped void is formed between the first clip and the second clip.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The structure, operation, and advantages of the present invention will become further apparent upon consideration of the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures (FIGS). The figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting.

Certain elements in some of the figures may be omitted, or illustrated not-to-scale, for illustrative clarity. The cross-sectional views may be in the form of “slices”, or “near-sighted” cross-sectional views, omitting certain background lines which would otherwise be visible in a “true” cross-sectional view, for illustrative clarity.

Often, similar elements may be referred to by similar numbers in various figures (FIGS) of the drawing, in which case typically the last two significant digits may be the same, the most significant digit being the number of the drawing figure (FIG). Furthermore, for clarity, some reference numbers may be omitted in certain drawings.

FIG. 1A shows a top-down view of a bowtie clip in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 1B shows a front view of the bowtie clip of FIG. 1A, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 1C shows a side view of the bowtie clip of FIG. 1A, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 1D shows a perspective view of the bowtie clip of FIG. 1A, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 2 shows a bowtie attached to a bowtie clip in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 3A shows a bowtie attached to a shirt, indicating hidden components, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 3B shows the bowtie attached to the shirt of FIG. 3A, without illustrating hidden components, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 4 shows additional details of the bowtie clip of FIG. 1A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One of the main challenges of putting on a bowtie is the added complexity compared to a traditional necktie. Unlike a necktie, which is tied in a simple loop and knot, a bowtie requires more precise folding and shaping to achieve a symmetrical appearance. A bowtie involves several steps of folding, looping, and adjusting, which can be tricky to master. The process is often compared to tying shoelaces, but getting the proportions right adds complexity. In comparison, a necktie typically involves one of a few familiar knots, such as the four-in-hand or Windsor knot, which many people find easier to learn and perform consistently.

A major difficulty in putting on a bowtie is aligning both sides of the bow evenly, ensuring the loops are the same size. Even a slight imbalance can make the bowtie look sloppy or lopsided. In contrast, a traditional necktie is more forgiving in this regard, as small imperfections in the knot are less noticeable. Clip-on bowties can mitigate some of the aforementioned disadvantages. However, using clip-on bowties can introduce several additional disadvantages, particularly when the clip quality is subpar.

Inadequate grip strength in the clips can lead to the bowtie shifting position throughout the day, creating a sloppy or unprofessional appearance. In some cases, poorly secured clips may cause the bowtie to fall off unexpectedly, which can be embarrassing, especially in formal or professional settings. In contrast, clips that are too firm or stiff can make it difficult to attach or remove the bowtie, requiring excessive force. This problem becomes particularly frustrating when trying to adjust or readjust the bowtie during wear, potentially causing discomfort. Furthermore, firm clips with sharp edges or tight mechanisms can cause wear-and-tear or even tear fabric when attached to delicate shirt collars. The risk of garment damage is higher for shirts made of fine materials, such as silk or light cotton, which might snag or become wrinkled around the clip area.

Disclosed embodiments mitigate the aforementioned disadvantages by providing a novel bowtie clip constructed from a durable plastic that fits comfortably against the neck of a wearer. Bowtie clips in accordance with disclosed embodiments can include a front portion that comprises a flat surface. A first clip is attached to the front portion, where the first clip includes a first gripping element and a second gripping element. Similarly, a second clip is attached to the front portion. The second clip can be substantially similar to the first clip. The second clip can also include a first gripping element and a second gripping element. The first clip and second clip can clip on to the collar tabs of a shirt in order to secure the bowtie to a shirt.

The descriptions throughout this disclosure contain simplifications, generalizations and omissions of detail and is not intended as a comprehensive description of the claimed subject matter but, rather, is intended to provide a brief overview of some of the functionality associated therewith. Other systems, methods, functionality, features, and advantages of the claimed subject matter will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the figures and the remaining detailed written description. The above as well as additional objectives, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent in the following detailed description.

In the following description, specific example embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosed embodiments. For example, specific details such as specific method orders, structures, elements, and connections have been presented herein. However, it is to be understood that the specific details presented need not be utilized to practice embodiments of the present disclosure. It is also to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical, architectural, programmatic, mechanical, electrical and other changes may be made without departing from the general scope of the disclosure. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

References within the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “embodiments”, or “one or more embodiments” are intended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one implementation (embodiment) of the present disclosure. The appearance of such phrases in various places within the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Further, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various aspects are described which may be aspects for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. Moreover, the use of the terms first, second, etc. do not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms first, second, etc. are used to distinguish one element (e.g., a person or a device) from another.

It is understood that the use of specific component, device and/or parameter names and/or corresponding acronyms thereof, are for example only and not meant to imply any limitations on the described embodiments. The embodiments may thus be described with different nomenclature and/or terminology utilized to describe the components, devices, parameters, methods and/or functions herein, without limitation. References to any specific protocol or proprietary name in describing one or more elements, features or concepts of the embodiments are provided solely as examples of one implementation, and such references do not limit the extension of the claimed embodiments to embodiments in which different element, feature, protocol, or concept names are utilized. Thus, each term utilized herein is to be provided its broadest interpretation given the context in which that term is utilized.

Within the descriptions of the different views of the figures, the use of the same reference numerals and/or symbols in different drawings indicates similar or identical items, and similar elements can be provided similar names and reference numerals throughout the figure(s). The specific identifiers/names and reference numerals assigned to the elements are provided solely to aid in the description and are not meant to imply any limitations (structural or functional or otherwise) on the described embodiments.

FIG. 1A shows a top-down view of a bowtie clip 100 in accordance with disclosed embodiments. FIG. 1B shows a front view of the bowtie clip of FIG. 1A, in accordance with disclosed embodiments, as viewed in the direction of arrow A of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1C shows a side view of the bowtie clip of FIG. 1A, as viewed in the direction of arrow B of FIG. 1B, in accordance with disclosed embodiments. Referring again to FIG. 1A, an exemplary bowtie clip 100 in accordance with disclosed embodiments is shown. The bowtie clip 100 includes a front portion 102. In embodiments, the front portion 102 can have a flat surface. A first clip 108 is affixed to the front portion 102. Similarly, a second clip 110 is also affixed to the front portion 102. In one or more embodiments, the first clip 108 and second clip 110 may be of similar size and structure to each other. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the first clip 108 and second clip 110 may be oriented apart from each other, thereby forming a void 104 between the first clip 108 and the second clip 110. In one or more embodiments, the void 104 is a U-shaped void, as shown in FIG. 1A, having a width W, and a depth D. In one or more embodiments, the width W can have a value ranging from 15 millimeters to 20 millimeters. In one or more embodiments, the depth D can also have a value ranging from 15 millimeters to 20 millimeters. Other dimensions are possible in disclosed embodiments.

The first clip 108 can further include a first gripping element 116, and a corresponding second gripping element 118. Similarly, the second clip 110 can include a first gripping element 122, and a corresponding second gripping element 124. In one or more embodiments, the second gripping elements are longer than the first gripping elements. In one or more embodiments, the first gripping elements (116, 122) are located closer to the front portion 102 than the second gripping elements (118, 124). FIG. 1D shows a perspective view of the bowtie clip of FIG. 1A, in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 2 shows a bowtie attached to a bowtie clip in accordance with disclosed embodiments. Bowtie 205 is attached to bowtie clip 100 by wrapping a portion of the bowtie 205 around the flat portion (102 of FIG. 1A) in the area of the void 104 disposed between first clip 108 and second clip 110 of the bowtie clip 100. The bowtie 205 can be attached to a shirt by inserting collar tabs of a shirt that is being worn by a user, into the first clip 108 and the second clip 110, such that the collar tabs are each disposed between a first gripping element and a corresponding second gripping element.

FIG. 3A shows a bowtie attached to a shirt, indicating hidden components, in accordance with disclosed embodiments. As shown in FIG. 3A, a bowtie 305 is affixed to collar tab 311 and collar tab 313 of a shirt 317. A middle section 307 of bowtie 305 can include fabric that is wrapped around the flat portion (102 of FIG. 1A) in the area of the void (e.g., 104 of FIG. 1A) disposed between first clip 308 and second clip 310. Accordingly, the bowtie 305 is held in place due to the first clip 308 gripping collar tab 311 and the second clip 310 gripping collar tab 313. In embodiments, first clip 308 has a structure similar to first clip 108 shown in FIG. 1A-1D, and second clip 310 has a structure similar to second clip 110 shown in FIG. 1A-1D.

FIG. 3B shows the bowtie attached to the shirt 317 as shown in FIG. 3A, but without illustrating hidden components, in accordance with disclosed embodiments. In the view depicted in FIG. 3B, it can be seen that the bowtie 305 is affixed to collar tab 311 and collar tab 313, and in normal use, the bowtie clip of disclosed embodiments is not visible to an observer. Thus, disclosed embodiments enable a neat and tidy look when wearing a bowtie.

FIG. 4 shows additional details of the bowtie clip of FIG. 1A. FIG. 4 includes additional detail of first clip 108 as shown in FIG. 1A. As previously stated, first clip 108 includes first gripping element 116, and second gripping element 118. The bowtie clips in accordance with disclosed embodiments, including the first gripping element 116 and second gripping element 118 may be comprised of a plastic. The plastic may be bendable and have a memory, such that it returns to its original position after being deflected. Thus, the first gripping element 116 and second gripping element 118 may be flexible and also possess shape memory properties, meaning that the gripping members can deform under stress but will revert to their original shape when the stress is removed. This feature enables a user to slide a collar tab between the first gripping element 116 and the second gripping element 118 by gently spreading apart the first gripping element 116 and the second gripping element 118. In one or more embodiments, the bowtie clip of disclosed embodiments is comprised of plastic. In one or more embodiments, the bowtie clip of disclosed embodiments is comprised of Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), polyamide, polycarbonate, and/or polyurethane. In some embodiments, other materials may be used instead of, or in addition to, the aforementioned materials.

In one or more embodiments, a gap, indicated at G, is formed between the first gripping element 116 and its corresponding second gripping element 118. To attach the bowtie clip of disclosed embodiments to a shirt with collar tabs, a wearer can use the gap indicated at G to guide the collar tab in between the first gripping element 116 and its corresponding second gripping element 118. A contact region 408 is formed at the approximate midpoint of the second gripping element 118. At the contact region 408, the first gripping element 116 and its corresponding second gripping element 118 can make physical contact with a collar tab (e.g. 311 of FIG. 3A), serving to secure a bowtie clip of disclosed embodiments to a shirt with collar tabs. In embodiments, the first gripping elements are configured and disposed to form a contact region with corresponding second gripping elements at a midpoint of the corresponding second gripping elements.

In one or more embodiments, the first gripping element 116 has a length L1, and the second gripping element 118 has a length L2. In one or more embodiments, length L2 is greater than length L1. In one or more embodiments, the first gripping element 116 is closer to the front portion 102 than the second gripping element 118 is to the front portion 102. That is, in embodiments, the first gripping elements are located closer to the front portion than the second gripping elements.

As can now be appreciated, disclosed embodiments provide a bowtie clip that features easy-to-use collar tab clips with firm contact regions that offers several practical and aesthetic benefits. The added space at the distal end of the clips allows the collar tab to slide in smoothly without requiring excessive force, making it easier to attach the bowtie. This convenience is particularly helpful when dressing quickly or adjusting the bowtie on the go. Moreover, once the collar tab is in place, the contact region provides a firm grasp, ensuring that the bowtie remains securely fastened. This prevents shifting or sagging, thereby maintaining a neat and professional appearance throughout the day. Thus, disclosed embodiments enable a bowtie clip that combines ease of attachment with a reliable grip, offering the ideal mix of functionality, comfort, and durability. The bowtie clip of disclosed embodiments is well-suited for both occasional users and frequent bowtie wearers alike.

The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosure in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The described embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

As used herein, the term “or” is inclusive unless otherwise explicitly noted. Thus, the phrase “at least one of A, B, or C” is satisfied by any element from the set {A, B, C} or any combination thereof, including multiples of any element.

While the disclosure has been described with reference to example embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular system, device, or component thereof to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed for carrying out this disclosure, but that the disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A bowtie clip, comprising: a front portion, the front portion comprising a flat surface;a first clip affixed to the front portion, wherein the first clip comprises a first gripping element and a second gripping element; anda second clip affixed to the front portion, wherein the second clip comprises a first gripping element and a second gripping element, wherein a void is formed between the first clip and the second clip.

2. The bowtie clip of claim 1, wherein the second gripping elements are longer than the first gripping elements.

3. The bowtie clip of claim 2, wherein the first gripping elements are located closer to the front portion than the second gripping elements.

4. The bowtie clip of claim 1, wherein the first gripping elements are configured and disposed to form a contact region with corresponding second gripping elements at an approximate midpoint of the corresponding second gripping elements.

5. The bowtie clip of claim 4, wherein the first gripping elements are configured and disposed to form a gap with corresponding second gripping elements at a distal end of the corresponding second gripping elements.

6. The bowtie clip of claim 1, wherein the bowtie clip is comprised of plastic.

7. The bowtie clip of claim 1, wherein the bowtie clip is comprised of Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA).

8. The bowtie clip of claim 1, wherein the bowtie clip is comprised of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS).

9. The bowtie clip of claim 1, wherein the bowtie clip is comprised of polyamide.

10. The bowtie clip of claim 1, wherein the bowtie clip is comprised of polycarbonate.

11. The bowtie clip of claim 1, wherein the bowtie clip is comprised of polyurethane.

12. A bowtie clip, comprising: a front portion, the front portion comprising a flat surface;a first clip affixed to the front portion, wherein the first clip comprises a first gripping element and a second gripping element; anda second clip affixed to the front portion, wherein the second clip comprises a first gripping element and a second gripping element, wherein a U-shaped void is formed between the first clip and the second clip.

13. The bowtie clip of claim 12, wherein the U-shaped void has a width ranging from 15 millimeters to 20 millimeters.

14. The bowtie clip of claim 12, wherein the second gripping elements are longer than the first gripping elements.

15. The bowtie clip of claim 14, wherein the first gripping elements are located closer to the front portion than the second gripping elements.

16. The bowtie clip of claim 12, wherein the first gripping elements are configured and disposed to form a contact region with corresponding second gripping elements at an approximate midpoint of the corresponding second gripping elements.

17. The bowtie clip of claim 16, wherein the first gripping elements are configured and disposed to form a gap with corresponding second gripping elements at a distal end of the corresponding second gripping elements.

18. The bowtie clip of claim 12, wherein the bowtie clip is comprised of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS).

19. The bowtie clip of claim 12, wherein the bowtie clip is comprised of polyamide.

20. The bowtie clip of claim 12, wherein the bowtie clip is comprised of polycarbonate.