Patent Application
20170135422
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Problem Solved: Hooded scarves with pockets positioned at the bottom restrict scarf length, consequently limiting wearing options and fashion possibilities. Limited length is required for the pockets to be comfortably accessible. Therefore, it becomes impossible to utilize the pockets and have the article function as a scarf simultaneously—wearer would have to choose between wearing the article as a scarf OR using the pockets. Even if length is restricted, positioning pockets at the bottom varies in efficiency and usefulness depending upon the height/size of the individual user and how the user is wearing the scarf. Bottom pockets are not secure and their front placement eliminates reversibility and the ability to keep the pockets functional and ergonomic. Hooded scarves that have closures and are not restricted by length but do not have pockets severely limit versatility and functionality. Omitting a closure leads to scarf ends getting in the way when bending or leaning forward, which can be a safety hazard. However, simply moving the scarf ends out of the way may cause the contents to fall out of the pockets. Removing items then wrapping scarf ends around neck to get the scarf out of the way securely negates pocket functionality. This also restricts the various ways to wear the hooded scarf (i.e. closed to the back, crossed in front, closed into the back, etc.) Therefore the fundamental problem with current design of hooded scarves is that those with closures do not have pockets, and those with pockets do not have closures, so the consumer must choose between styling and function.
Hooded scarves either have pockets located in the front and/or at the bottom or have no pockets at all. Some have a closure option but do not have pockets. As a byproduct of adding front pockets the scarf is either too short, causing the consumer to be unable to comfortably wrap the scarf around their neck to keep warm while using the pockets, or too long so the user cannot reach the pockets to use them to place things or keep warm.
The synergistic use of hood, side pockets, inside cell phone pocket, closure apparatus and no restriction in length allows an individual of any size/weight/arm length ergonomically correct and secure access/retrieval to and from pockets while provided hand and neck warmth, in addition to allowing greater flexibility for wear options (i.e. reversibility and styling options). The closure apparatus expands wear and fashion possibilities while eliminating aforementioned issues with dangling scarf ends (including safety) and makes an accessory design available as an apparel item, jacket or vest like. Also allowing the individual to purchase one item instead of multiple as it acts like a scarf, hat, gloves, jacket, vest, purse/bag etc all in one; hybrid of an apparel and accessory item.
As stated above, hooded scarves with pockets positioned at the bottom restricts scarf length, consequently limiting wearing options and fashion possibilities. Limited length is required for the pockets to be comfortably accessible. Therefore, it becomes impossible to utilize the pockets and have the article function as a scarf simultaneously—wearer would have to choose between wearing the article as a scarf ORusing the pockets. Even if length is restricted, positioning pockets at the bottom varies in efficiency and
usefulness depending upon the height/size of the individual user and how the user is wearing the scarf. Bottom pockets are not secure and their front placement eliminates reversibility and the ability to keep the pockets functional and ergonomic. Hooded scarves that have closures and are not restricted by length but do not have pockets severely limit versatility and functionality. Omitting a closure leads to scarf ends getting in the way when bending or simply leaning forward, which can be a safety hazard. However, simply moving the scarf ends out of the way may cause the contents to fall out of the pockets. Removing items then wrapping scarf ends around neck to get scarf out of the way securely negates the pocket functionality. This also restricts the various ways you can wear the hooded scarf (i.e. closed to the back, crossed in front, closed into the back, etc.) Therefore the fundamental problem with current design of hooded scarves is that those with closures do not have pockets, and those with pockets do not have closures, so the consumer must choose between fashion and function. The invention claimed here solves this problem.
Positioning pockets on the side renders the piece reversible permitting greater wear possibilities while simultaneously keeping the pocket contents more secure. The side pocket is more ergonomic, comfortable and natural. The scarf section can be made to virtually any length so that the scarf is always able to function as a scarf and always capable of wrapping about the neck while retaining pockets. The closure apparatus creates greater wear and fashion flexibility (i.e. around one shoulder, under the arm, as a vest, etc.) The synergy of hood, scarf, pockets and closure renders the hooded scarf into a functional vest when closed from the back making the accessory also an apparel piece. The closure adds additional safety to the design, eliminating hanging scarf ends that can get caught in moving machinery, bicycle spokes, car doors, etc., while offering functionality with pockets and reversibility all at once.
The claimed invention differs from what currently exists. The unique design synergy of hood, scarf, side pockets and closure renders the hooded scarf into a vastly more fully functional piece. Unlike any other article of its general type, length is not restricted creating far greater wearability and fashion flexibility, a closure offers greater pocket content security and enhanced wearing flexibility and better accessory value through more fully integrated elements, and a side pocket creates the option for ergonomic reversible wear, enhancing its value as a fashion accessory and apparel item.
This invention is an improvement on what currently exists. The unique design synergy of hood, scarf, side pockets and closure renders the hooded scarf into a vastly more fully functional piece. Unlike any other article of its general type, length is not restricted creating far greater wearability and fashion flexibility, a closure offers greater pocket content security and enhanced wearing flexibility and better accessory value through more fully integrated elements, and a side pocket creates the option for ergonomic reversible wear, enhancing its value as a fashion accessory and apparel item.
When using the pockets on a hooded scarf you can only wear the item with the scarf down otherwise your items will fall out or be at high risk to fall out. It limits the length of the scarf and cannot be adapted to varying individual user height/weight/arm length and paradoxically, cannot be used as a scarf (i.e. wrapped about the neck). Lacking the closure apparatus, wearing options are restricted and the scarf ends interfere with daily activities and, in some circumstances, safety. Having a hooded scarf with a closure apparatus only takes away from the item's usability with nowhere to place belongings. Front pockets eliminate the option for reversibility, limiting the item's flexibility as a fashion accessory or apparel item.
The synergistic use of hood, side pockets, closure apparatus, and no restriction in length allows an individual of any size/weight/arm length ergonomically correct and secure access/retrieval to and from pockets while provided hand and neck warmth, in addition to allowing greater flexibility for wear options (i.e. reversibility and styling options). The closure apparatus expands wear and fashion possibilities while eliminating aforementioned issues with dangling scarf ends (including safety) and makes an accessory design available as an apparel item.
1. side pockets (hidden or not, with or without closure)
2. scarf closure (snaps, button, zipper, Velcro, hook and eye or permanent)
3. a hood
4. a scarf (two separate or one long)
5. inside pocket (hidden or visible)
The (1.) pockets can be placed anywhere along the outside edge of the (4.) scarf from where the hood meets the scarf to the bottom of the (4.) scarf. The desired position is anywhere within 35″ from where the hood meets the scarf, but is not limited to this area (1.) Pockets can be inserted or sewn on the outside or on top of the (4.) scarf at any width of the (4.) scarf and in any pocket width or size. The shape of the (1.) pocket includes but is not limited to a rounded end, a square, a circle, front (1.) pockets mimicking a sweatshirt shape, pouch (1.) pocket shape etc. The (1.) pocket can be made then inserted in between the (4.) scarf panels or sewn on the (4.) scarf itself making the (2.) pocket made from the (4.) scarf; placing single or more stitches across the top of the (4.) scarf leaving an opening for a (1.) pocket. The (1.) pockets can be closed or open. (1.) Pocket closures include, but are not limited to, a zipper, buttons, Velcro, snaps, etc. The (3.) hood can have a drawstring mimicking a hooded sweatshirt or have a closure, single or more, to allow the consumer to pull the (3.) hood closer to their face for warmth. The (4.) scarf can be one long piece, mimicking a standard (4.) scarf, then (3.) hood sewn in the middle of the (4.) scarf so that the (4.) scarf ends fall evenly down the front of the consumer or sewn offset so the (4.) scarf ends hang asymmetrically down the front of the consumer. The (3.) hood can be sewn on to the edge or placed in the middle or opposite edge of the scarf. The (3.) hood can be attached permanently or have a detachable option to take the (3.) hood off. The detached style (3.) hood can be on the single (4.) scarf style or on the two separate attached to the sides of the (3.) hood (4.) scarf style. In the case of the two separate attached (4.) scarf style, whereas the (4.) scarf ends are attached separately to the (3.) hood sides, the (4.) scarf ends may also have an attachment option so that the (4.) scarf will make one long (4.) scarf when attached to each other, simulating a standard (4.) scarf. The (4.) scarf can be any length. The (4.) scarf can be sewn shut on the sides or left open. The (2.) closure can be placed anywhere along the (4.) scarf, with emphasis to the bottom of the (4.) scarf, with a single closure, (ex. a button, snap) or the closure can be the width of the scarf with any closure (ex. buttons, snaps, zippers, Velcro, etc.) (2.) Closure can also be sewn shut permanently without the option to open or close. The (4.) scarf can be closed on the sides or left open. This includes but is not limited to partially sewn on the back or front sides of the (4.) scarf. The inside (5.) pocket can be sewn on top or inserted. The (2.) closure allows the user to get the (4.) scarf out of the way and simulate a vest with when snapped to the back and using the (1.) pockets in the front. The inserted (5.) inside pocket can be open or closed. The closure can be, but is not limited to, a single closure or multiple closures including, but not limited to, snaps, buttons, zipper, Velcro, etc. The hooded scarf can be made in any material including both synthetic and natural, but not limited to, cotton, polyester, wool, leather, suede, waterproof, or any combination of material or blended material.
