CUSTOMIZABLE GARMENT AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING A CUSTOMIZABLE GARMENT

Abstract

A customizable garment and a method for producing a customizable garment is disclosed. The customizable garment outwardly appears to be an ordinary garment and includes a pattern for modification marked on an interior surface thereof. The pattern for modification includes at least one pattern and can include a plurality of patterns for modification that allow a consumer to modify easily the structure and/or style of the customizable garment while retaining the functional integrity of the garment.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of customizable garments, and more particularly, is directed to a customizable garment and method for producing a customizable garment having a means for the consumer to modify easily the structure and/or style of the customizable garment without compromising the functional integrity of the garment wherein the means comprises a pattern for modification marked on an interior surface of the garment.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Consumers typically purchase clothing as a finished product that is produced in bulk and sold in mass quantities. The individuality of the finished clothing itself is determined by the designers of the clothing.

To achieve consumer individuality, when wearing the mass-produced clothing, the consumer must purchase many garments of varying styles and colors, alter the finished clothing product, add ornamentation and decorative accessories, or combine the mass-produced articles of clothing in unique combinations, all of which can become cost prohibitive.

Any alteration of finished clothing results in a change in the garment itself and alterations involving cutting the garment material will permanently alter the garment. An improperly cut garment can affect the functional integrity of the garment as well as result in a poor fit, improper sizing or undesirable visual appearance, thereby rendering the garment unusable. Accordingly, to achieve a favorable outcome alteration is typically performed by a tailor or sewing expert which can become cost prohibitive.

Therefore, there is a need for a garment that can be quickly and easily customized to express the consumer's individuality without the need for a tailor or sewing expertise.

The present invention for a customizable garment addresses the above and other issues.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the present invention there is provided an article of clothing, outwardly appearing to be an ordinary, wearable garment, that is easily customized by a consumer without need for any specialized assistance, and in particular, without the need for the specialized assistance of a sewing expert or tailor, to achieve an aesthetically pleasing and properly fitting garment expressing the consumer's individuality. The customizable garment includes a pattern for modification comprising a cutting pattern marked on an inner surface of the customizable garment rendering the garment ready for customization. Preferably, a single customizable garment affords the consumer with multiple styling options.

In a preferred embodiment, the pattern for modification comprises a plurality of cutting patterns marked on the inner surfaces of the front portion and back portion of the customizable garment thereby permitting the consumer to easily customize the garment to the consumer's preference and size without the need for specialized assistance or expertise and further without compromising the functional integrity of the garment. The plurality of cutting patterns affords the consumer multiple styling options permitting the consumer to create a completely different customized look by flipping the customizable garment inside out, selecting a cutting pattern and cutting along the pattern. The invention also contemplates a customizable garment wherein instructions explaining the method to create the customization or showing the progressive customizations that can be created using the cutting patterns are also marked on the inside surface of the garment.

In another embodiment of the present invention there is provided a kit to customize clothing comprising a garment with at least one surface and a pattern for modification marked on said surface. Preferably, the pattern for modification comprises a cutting pattern marked on the inner surface of the customizable garment, and in a preferred embodiment the kit also contains instructions for modification, preferably marked on an inner surface of the customizable garment.

In yet another embodiment the invention contemplates the method for producing a customizable garment by providing an ordinary, wearable garment with a pattern for modification marked on at least one inner surface thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes the step of providing instructions for customizing the garment.

Various other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be made apparent from the following description taken together with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be better understood by reference to the following drawing of which:

FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of a first embodiment of the customizable garment of the present invention showing a pattern for modification marked on the inner surface of the front portion thereof

FIG. 1B illustrates a first embodiment of the customizable garment of the present invention showing a pattern for modification marked on the inner surface of the back portion thereof

FIG. 2A illustrates the outer surface of the front portion of FIG. 1A after customization

FIG. 2B illustrates the outer surface of the back portion of FIG. 1B after customization

FIG. 2C illustrates the outer surface of the front portion of FIG. 1A after an alternative customization

FIG. 2D illustrates the outer surface of the back portion of FIG. 1B after an alternative customization

FIG. 3A illustrates a second embodiment the customizable garment of the present invention showing a pattern for modification marked on the inner surface of the front portion thereof

FIG. 3B illustrates a second embodiment of the customizable garment of the present invention showing a pattern for modification marked on the inner surface of the back portion thereof

FIG. 4A illustrates the outer surface of the front portion of FIG. 3A after customization

FIG. 4B illustrates the outer surface of the back portion of FIG. 3B after customization

FIG. 5A illustrates a third embodiment of the pattern for modification marked on the inner surface of customizable pants

FIG. 5B illustrates the outer surface of the garment of FIG. 5A after customization

FIG. 6 illustrates a progressive pattern of customization derived from FIG. 1A

FIG. 7A illustrates a fourth embodiment of the customizable garment of the present invention showing a pattern for modification marked on the inner surface of the front portion thereof. The dot dot dash line is used to depict the boundary of the customizable garment before customization.

FIG. 7B illustrates a fourth embodiment of the customizable garment of the present invention showing a pattern for modification marked on the inner surface of the back portion thereof. The dot dot dash line is used to depict the boundary of the customizable garment before customization.

FIG. 7C illustrates a side view of FIGS. 7A and 7B

FIG. 8A illustrates a fifth embodiment of the customizable garment of the present invention showing a pattern for modification marked on the inner surface of the front portion thereof. The dot dot dash line is used to depict the boundary of the customizable garment before customization.

FIG. 8B illustrates a fifth embodiment of the customizable garment of the present invention showing a pattern for modification marked on the inner surface of the back portion thereof. The dot dot dash line is used to depict the boundary of the customizable garment before customization.

FIG. 8C illustrates a side view of FIGS. 8A and 8B

FIG. 9A illustrates a sixth embodiment of the customizable garment of the present invention showing a pattern for modification marked on the inner surface of the front portion thereof. The dot dot dash line is used to depict the boundary of the customizable garment before customization.

FIG. 9B illustrates a sixth embodiment of the customizable garment of the present invention showing a pattern for modification marked on the inner surface of the back portion thereof. The dot dot dash line is used to depict the boundary of the customizable garment before customization.

FIG. 9C illustrates a side view of FIGS. 9A and 9B

FIG. 10A illustrates a seventh embodiment of the customizable garment of the present invention showing a pattern for modification marked on the inner surface of the front portion thereof. The dot dot dash line is used to depict the boundary of the customizable garment before customization.

FIG. 10B illustrates a seventh embodiment of the customizable garment of the present invention showing a pattern for modification marked on the inner surface of the back portion thereof. The dot dot dash line is used to depict the boundary of the customizable garment before customization.

FIG. 10C illustrates a side view of FIGS. 10A and 10B

FIG. 11 illustrates an eighth embodiment of the invention showing instructions marked on an inner surface of the customizable garment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B a first embodiment of the customizable garment of the present invention is illustrated therein and it will be seen to include a customizable garment generally designated by the reference numeral 10. In this embodiment the customizable garment 10 is a shirt which can be worn as purchased by the consumer. Although the embodiment of the customizable garment shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B is directed to a shirt, the present invention specifically contemplates that the customizable garment 10 can be any type of garment, including, but not limited to, a shirt, sweatshirt, t-shirt, short-sleeved shirt, tank top, long-sleeved shirt, a collared shirt, button down shirt, pants, and sweatpants.

In FIGS. 1A and 1B the customizable garment 10 includes a body portion comprising a front panel 14 and a back panel 16, sleeve portions 18, 20 and an open-neck portion 22. In this embodiment the front panel 14 and back panel 16 can be formed from two separate pieces of material sewn together along scams 40, 42, 44, 46. However, the invention also contemplates that the panels can be connected by other connecting or bonding means suitable for the material selected, or alternatively that the front panel 14 and back panel 16 can be formed from a single piece of material. The customizable garment can be formed from any type of material, including, but not limited to, textiles, natural or synthetic fabrics, soft woven fabrics, polyester, stretchable materials, spandex, cotton, cotton blends, cotton fleece, polyester, polyester blends, cotton and polyester blends, rayon, tricot, nylon, modal, viscose, wool, alpaca, satin, silk, velvet, lycra and any blend or combination thereof. In a preferred embodiment the material is a cotton and polyester blend material.

The front panel 14 includes an outer surface 24 viewable when the customizable garment is worn, and shown for example in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2C, and an inner surface that is intended to be hidden when the customizable garment 10 is worn. FIG. 1A shows the inner surface of the front panel. The back panel 16 also includes an outer surface 28 viewable when the customizable garment 10 is worn, and shown for example in FIG. 2B and 2D, and an inner surface that is intended to be hidden when the customizable garment 10 is worn. FIG. 1B shows the inner surface of the back panel. The outer surfaces 24 and 28 visible in use can be plain, printed with a graphic or logo, patterned or otherwise decorated, and are shown for example in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D.

In FIGS. 1A and 1B the customizable garment is shown turned inside out such that the customizable garment's inner surfaces are displayed. One or more patterns for modification are marked on at least one inner surface of the customizable garment. The pattern for modification comprises a cutting pattern that is suitable for customization by the consumer without the need for any specialized sewing or tailoring expertise. The pattern for modification can also be suitable for mistake-free, progressive modification.

The patterns for modification marked on the customizable garment of the present invention are specific to the proportions and sizing of the selected ordinary, wearable garment such that any customization according to the pattern for modification selected will be appropriate for the consumer intended to wear the customizable garment. The patterns for modification include but are not limited to cutting patterns to transform an ordinary, wearable garment into a wearable garment with a new look different from the garment purchased. With respect to shirts or tops the pattern for modification includes but is not limited to cutting patterns to customize sleeve length from long sleeves to short sleeves, short sleeves to cap sleeves, or even to remove the sleeves altogether to create a sleeveless top, shoulder less top or a tie shoulder top. The pattern for modification can include one or more cutting patterns to customize the neckline for instance from a crew neck to a choker neck or a boat neck or scoop neck or even a v neck. The pattern for modification can also include one or more cutting patterns to customize the bottom portion of the garment by cropping, fringing, or even creating front or back ties. The pattern for modification can also include one or more cutting patterns that if selected will result in a completely different back such as a back with slits or even a completely different garment silhouette such as a halter top or racerback top. The pattern for modification of the present invention further contemplates the inclusion of cutting patterns for symbols, geometric symbols, Greek letters, letters, numbers, life event oriented designs and or even holiday oriented designs. Marking the customizable garment with a plurality of patterns for modification affords the consumer with multiple options and opportunities for customization and silhouettes from a single garment in an extremely efficient and convenient manner. Identical articles of clothing can be customized differently and even repeatedly.

The patterns for modification of the present invention not only provide the consumer with the means to design the consumer's wardrobe and customize the consumer's garments without any type of specialized assistance in a budget friendly manner. No sewing expert or tailor is needed to ensure that the resulting customized garment will properly fit because the original, ordinary, wearable garment that is customized is already the consumer's proper size. The purchase of a single garment affords the consumer with multiple looks without any additional cost. The only additional tool needed by the consumer to create an entirely new look will be a means to cut the material, including, but not limited to, scissors, clothing shears, a rotary cutter, knife, and sharp blade, including but not limited to a razor. In a preferred embodiment, the invention contemplates the use of scissors.

Any type of cutting will permanently alter the garment. Cutting too much from a garment can affect the functional integrity of the garment as well as result in a poor fit, improper sizing or undesirable visual appearance, thereby rendering the garment unusable. With the present invention, however, the consumer need not worry that cutting the garment will result in a poor fit or improper sizing as the pattern for modification marked on the customizable garment of the present invention is configured such that the garment customized according to the pattern for modification will properly fit the dimensions of the consumer wearing that particular size garment. By simply selecting one or more of the cutting patterns marked on the garment and cutting as guided by the pattern for modification marked thereon, the consumer will be able to create an entirely new silhouette properly sized and fitted expressing the consumer's individuality.

In the present embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B a plurality of patterns for modification is marked on the inner surfaces of front and back panels using dotted lines. However, the markings used to depict a pattern for modification are not intended to be limited to dotted lines. It is specifically contemplated that other symbols can be used to mark, including but not limited to, solid lines, dot dot dash lines, arrows, scissors, geometric symbols and the like, and further that multiple types of markings can be used on the same garment. If multiple types of markings are used on the same garment, it is contemplated that different markings can be used to distinguish the different patterns of customization marked thereon.

The patterns for modification can be marked using any marking means suitable for the material, including but not limited to, dyeing, screen printing, heat transfer printing, direct to garment printing, heat press printing, discharge printing, foil printing, dye sublimation, direct to film printing, offset printing, printing on surface, coating the surface, and even hand drawing the pattern for modification on the surface. The pattern for modification can be marked using an ink, including, but not limited to, permanent or semi-permanent ink; paint; stain; dye; or pigment in any color. In a preferred embodiment the pattern for modification is marked with a permanent ink that does not bleed and is minimally visible or, preferably, invisible on the outer surface, providing the consumer with several opportunities to customize the garment. In another preferred embodiment the pattern for modification is marked on the inner surface by printing with a semi-permanent ink that is invisible on the outer surface and said pattern for modification does not disappear until at least after several washings of the garment. In another preferred embodiment it is contemplated that the pattern for modification is marked by direct to film printing, and in yet another embodiment, the pattern for modification is marked by screen printing with a semi-permanent ink. Furthermore, the pattern for modification can be marked before the customizable garment is cut and sewn or after the garment is cut and sewn. In a preferred embodiment the pattern for modification is printed on the garment after the garment has been cut and sewn. FIGS. 2A and 2B show the outer surfaces 24 and 28 of the customizable garment 10 of FIGS. 1A and 1B after a first customization by cutting along the patterns of modification 62, 64, 58, 50, 54 and 74 to transform an ordinary t-shirt into a customized sleeveless 50 crop-top 54 racer back 74 shirt having a choker neck 64 with a v cut out 62 and tie front 58. FIGS. 2C and 2D show the customizable garment of FIGS. 1A and 1B after an alternative customization by cutting along the patterns for modification 60, 52, 54 and 58 on the front panel 14 and cutting along the patterns for modification 60, 52 and 54 on the back panel to transform an ordinary t-shirt into a customized crop top 54 with a boat neck 60, cap sleeves 52 and tie front 58.

Although two alternative customizations are shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D, when a customizable garment of the present invention is marked with a plurality of cutting patterns, the same garment can be used to create multiple looks through progressive customization by selecting a first pattern for modification marked on the customizable garment such as the fringe bottom pattern for modification 70 cap sleeve pattern for modification 52 and choker neck pattern for modification 64, cutting along the selected marked patterns for modification to create a customized garment having a cap sleeve, choker neck, fringe bottom silhouette. The garment can be worn once or even multiple times with this silhouette. Should the consumer wish to wear a different silhouette, the consumer can again turn the customizable garment inside out, select one or more of the remaining patterns for modification marked on the garment, cut along the pattern for modification, for instance patterns for modification 54, 50 and 72 to create a sleeveless 50 crop top 54 with a slit back 72. As illustrated in FIG. 6, with progressive customization using the cutting patterns for modification marked on the garment the ordinary, wearable garment first purchased can be customized by the consumer into multiple silhouettes and looks reflecting the consumer's personal taste and individuality throughout a period of time without incurring any additional clothing costs.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show a second embodiment of the customizable garment 10 turned inside out such that the customizable garment's inner surfaces 26 and 30 are displayed. FIGS. 4A and 4B show the outer surfaces 24 and 28 of the customizable garment 10 of FIGS. 3A and 3B after customization by cutting along the patterns of modification 64, 50, 54, 76 and 78 to transform an ordinary t-shirt into a customized cropped 54 halter top 50, 76 with ties 78.

FIG. 5A shows a third embodiment of the customizable garment turned inside out such that the customizable garment's inner surface 80 is displayed. A plurality of patterns for modification 82, 84, 86 and 88 is marked on the inner surface thereof. FIG. 5B shows the outer surface 90 of the customizable garment of FIG. 5A after customization by cutting along cutting pattern 82.

FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C illustrate yet another embodiment of the customizable garment turned inside out such that customizable garment 10 inner surfaces of the front panel 14 and back panel 16, respectively, are displayed. In this embodiment customization by changing sleeve length 50, back style 72 (slit back) and crop length 54 is contemplated.

FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C illustrate a further embodiment of the customizable garment turned inside out such that the customizable garment's inner surfaces the front panel 14 and back panel 16 are displayed. In this embodiment the patterns for modification marked thereon contemplate transforming the ordinary t-shirt to a fringe bottomed 70 shirt with cap sleeves 52 and choker neck 64.

FIGS. 9A and 9B and 9C illustrate an embodiment of the customizable garment with patterns for modification suitable to transform the shirt into a cropped 54, sleeveless 50, racer back 74 shirt with a v cut-out 62.

FIGS. 10A, 10B and 10C illustrate an embodiment of the customizable garment with patterns for modification suitable to transform the ordinary t-shirt into a boat neck 60, back cropped 54, tie front 58, 58a, 58b shirt with cap sleeves 52. The pattern for modification need only be marked on one surface. When the pattern for modification is marked on only one surface but the customization desired for more than the marked panel (for instance cropping the garment along pattern for modification 54 shown in FIG. 9A) the user can cut through both panels 14 and 16 following the pattern for modification 54 shown in FIG. 9A.

In a preferred embodiment the customizable garment of the present invention further includes a set of instructions, and, in a particularly preferred embodiment at least one inner surface of the customizable garment of the present invention is marked with a plurality of cutting patterns and the instructions are also marked on an inner surface of the customizable garment as shown in FIG. 11. The instructions can be marked on the garment in any location, but consideration should be given to marking the instructions on an inner surface of the garment in a location not likely to be cut.

The customizable garment of the present invention has particular application as spirit wear. Garments such as t-shirts, sweatshirt and sweatpants are worn by a vast majority of the public for both casual and recreational purposes. The garments typically carry graphic designs to represent an occasion and are specifically worn for the occasion to show spirit or preference. These occasions, include, but are not limited to, spirit events such as sports events, concerts, sorority or fraternity events, birthday parties, bachelorette parties and the like. Unless the same garment is worn to every event during the season the consumer must purchase multiple articles of clothing creating a financial burden. The customizable garment of the present invention, however, provides the consumer with a single garment that can be customized to express the consumer's individuality. In some cases, the same garment may be purchased by multiple attendees with a decision that all members of a particular group customize the garment similarly for a particular event to show membership or spirit. The same set of consumers can choose to customize the garment similarly for a second event or each consumer can opt to customize the customizable garment according to the consumer's preference. With the opportunity for progressive customization the consumer can use the garment long after the initial event without any indication of the relationship to the initial event.

Using the cutting patterns of the present invention as guides each and every consumer is able to customize a garment error-free without embarrassment or concern that the consumer lacks the requisite artistic ability to create an aesthetically pleasing and properly fitting customized garment.

A kit to customize clothing is also specifically contemplated by the present invention. The kit includes a customizable garment with at least one surface and a pattern for modification marked on said surface. Preferably, the pattern for modification comprises a cutting pattern marked on the inner surface of the customizable garment as discussed herein, and in a preferred embodiment the kit also contains instructions for modification, preferably marked on an inner surface of the customizable garment. In a preferred embodiment the garment is suitable for progressive customization. In yet another embodiment the kit further contains cutting means.

In yet another embodiment the kit to customize clothing is a mistake-free cutting customization DIY (do it yourself) kit including a customizable garment with at least one surface and a pattern for modification marked on said surface, as discussed herein, for a spirit event, such as a sports event, concert, sorority event, fraternity event, birthday party, bachelorette party, holiday party, life event party and the like. The mistake-free cutting customization DIY kit can include for further customization paint, ink, stamps, beads, pins, patches, coloring materials, such as pencils, pens, markers, paints, dyes, including but not limited to tie dye materials, and ornamentation that can be attached to the garment. In one application the mistake-free cutting customization DIY kit contemplates an ugly Christmas t-shirt that includes, but is not limited to, a customizable garment with a pattern for modification marked on at least one inner surface thereof, as discussed herein, and one or more ornaments that can be selectively attached to said t-shirt for customization.

In yet another embodiment the invention contemplates the method for producing a customizable garment by providing an ordinary, wearable garment with a pattern for modification marked on at least one inner surface thereof, as discussed herein. In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes the step of providing instructions for customizing the garment.

From the foregoing, it will be observed that numerous modifications and variations can be affected without departing from the true spirit and scope of the novel concept of the present invention. It is to be understood that no limitation with respect to the specific embodiments illustrated herein is intended or should be inferred. The disclosure is intended to cover, by the appended claims, all such modifications as fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A customizable garment comprising a garment having at least one surface and a pattern for modification marked on said surface.

2. The customizable garment of claim 1 wherein said surface is an inner surface of said garment.

3. The customizable garment of claim 2 wherein said garment has at least two inner surfaces and said pattern for modification is marked on said at least two inner surfaces.

4. The customizable garment of claim 3 wherein said pattern for modification comprises a plurality of cutting patterns.

5. The customizable garment of claim 1 wherein said pattern for modification comprises a cutting pattern for a sleeveless shirt, cap sleeve shirt, cropped shirt, cropped pants, tie-front shirt, tie shoulder, scoop neck, boat neck shirt, cut-out, v-neck shirt, choker shirt, fringe bottom shirt, fringe bottom pants, halter, slit back shirt, cold shoulder shirt, racerback shirt or low back shirt.

6. The customizable garment of claim 4 wherein said pattern for modification comprises a cutting pattern for a sleeveless shirt, cap sleeve shirt, cropped shirt, cropped pants, tie-front shirt, tie shoulder, scoop neck, boat neck shirt, cut-out, v-neck shirt, choker shirt, fringe bottom shirt, fringe bottom pants, halter, slit back shirt, cold shoulder shirt, racerback shirt or low back shirt.

7. The customizable garment of claim 2 further comprising instructions marked on said inner surface.

8. The customizable garment of claim 5 wherein said cut-out comprises a symbol, geometric symbol, letter, number, life event-oriented design or a holiday-oriented design.

9. The customizable garment of claim 6 wherein said cut-out comprises a symbol, geometric symbol, letter, number, life event-oriented design or a holiday-oriented design.

10. A kit for customizing a garment comprising a garment having at least one surface and a pattern for modification marked on said surface.

11. The kit of claim 10 wherein said surface is an inner surface of said garment.

12. The kit of claim 11 wherein said pattern for modification comprises a plurality of patterns for modification.

13. The kit of claim 10 wherein said pattern for modification comprises a cutting pattern for a sleeveless shirt, cap sleeve shirt, cropped shirt, cropped pants, tie-front shirt, tie shoulder, scoop neck, boat neck shirt, cut-out, v-neck shirt, choker shirt, fringe bottom shirt, fringe bottom pants, halter, slit back shirt, cold shoulder shirt, racerback shirt or low back shirt.

14. The kit of claim 10 further wherein instructions for customizing are marked on at least one surface of said garment.

15. The kit of claim 13 wherein said cut-out comprises a symbol, geometric symbol, letter, number, life event-oriented design or a holiday-oriented design.

16. A method for producing a customizable garment comprising the step of providing a garment with a pattern for modification marked on at least one inner surface thereof.

17. The method of claim 16 further including the step of providing instructions for customizing the garment.

18. The method of claim 17 wherein the instructions for customizing the garment are marked on at least one inner surface thereof.

19. The method of claim 18 wherein the pattern for modification comprises a cutting pattern for a sleeveless shirt, cap sleeve shirt, cropped shirt, cropped pants, tie-front shirt, tie shoulder, scoop neck, boat neck shirt, cut-out, v-neck shirt, choker shirt, fringe bottom shirt, fringe bottom pants, halter, slit back shirt, cold shoulder shirt, racerback shirt or low back shirt.

20. The method of claim 19 wherein said cut-out comprises a symbol, geometric symbol, letter, number, life event-oriented design or a holiday-oriented design.