Adjustable-length garments and methods of use

Abstract

Adjustable-length garments and methods of use. The garment includes a downward-hanging portion having a variable length. A length adjustment mechanism is disposed on an interior side of the downward-hanging portion so to be hidden from view from an exterior side of the downward-hanging portion. The length adjustment mechanism includes a generally vertically extending channel on the interior side of the downward-hanging portion, and a drawstring that has an upper portion disposed inside the channel and secured to the downward-hanging portion and a lower portion disposed outside the channel. Extracting part of the upper portion of the drawstring from the channel shortens the variable length of the downward-hanging portion. A securement mechanism is provided for securing the lower portion of the drawstring along the interior side of the downward-hanging portion so that the drawstring is hidden and not visible from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 762,261 filed Feb. 24, 2025, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The invention generally relates to clothing, and more particularly to adjustable-length garments and methods of their use.

[0003] A person may wish to wear a garment, such as a skirt, dress, skort, pants, top, etc., of differing lengths at various times to adjust to different situations and settings. Conventionally, this is accomplished by removing the garment and then putting on a different garment that is more appropriate or amenable to the new circumstances. Sometimes, however, this may be inconvenient or otherwise not desirable.

[0004] It would be desirable if garments were available that were capable of having their lengths adjusted while being worn.BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The intent of this section of the specification is to briefly indicate the nature and substance of the invention, as opposed to an exhaustive statement of all subject matter and aspects of the invention. Therefore, while this section identifies subject matter recited in the claims, additional subject matter and aspects relating to the invention are set forth in other sections of the specification, particularly the detailed description, as well as any drawings.

[0006] The present invention provides, but is not limited to, adjustable-length garments and methods of their use.

[0007] According to a nonlimiting aspect, an adjustable-length garment includes a downward-hanging portion having an interior side, an oppositely-disposed an exterior side, and a variable length extending from an upper end of the downward-hanging portion to a bottom edge of the downward-hanging portion. The garment further includes at least a first length adjustment mechanism disposed on the interior side of the downward-hanging portion. The first length adjustment mechanism includes a channel extending in a vertical direction of the downward-hanging portion, and a drawstring that has an upper portion disposed inside the channel and secured to the downward-hanging portion. The drawstring further has a lower portion disposed outside the channel, wherein extracting at least part of the upper portion of the drawstring from the channel shortens the variable length of the downward-hanging portion at a cinched position of the adjustable-length garment. A securement mechanism is provided for securing the lower portion of the drawstring along the interior side of the downward-hanging portion so that the lower portion is hidden and not visible from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion.

[0008] According to another nonlimiting aspect, a method of using the garment includes holding the lower portion of the drawstring while raising the bottom edge of the downward-hanging portion to cause at least part of the upper portion of the drawstring to be extracted from the channel, causing the bottom edge of the downward-hanging portion to arrive at a cinched position in which the variable length of the downward-hanging portion has been shortened. The method further includes securing the lower portion of the drawstring with the securement mechanism so that the lower portion is hidden and not visible from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion.

[0009] Technical aspects of adjustable-length garments and methods as described above preferably include the ability to readily adjust the length of a downward-hanging portion of a garment while the garment is worn, and then hide the length adjustment mechanism so that it is not visible from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion

[0010] These and other aspects, arrangements, features, and / or technical effects will become apparent upon detailed inspection of the figures and the following description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 are, respectively, front, rear, and side views of a skort with a skirt that incorporates length-adjusting mechanisms in accordance with some nonlimiting aspects of the invention.

[0012] FIGS. 4 and 5 are exterior side views depicting an exterior detail “A” of the skirt of FIG. 3 in relaxed and cinched positions, respectively, and show a length adjustment mechanism according to a first embodiment disposed on the interior side of the skirt.

[0013] FIGS. 6 and 7 are interior side views depicting an interior detail of the skirt of FIGS. 4 and 5 and show the skirt in a cinched position, one of the length adjustment mechanisms disposed on the interior side of the skirt, and a drawstring of the length adjustment mechanism in a loose (untucked) position (FIG. 6) and tucked into a pocket (FIG. 7).

[0014] FIGS. 8 and 9 are interior side views depicting an interior detail of a skirt such as shown in FIG. 3 and show the skirt in a cinched position, wherein a length adjustment mechanism according to another embodiment is disposed on the interior side of the skirt and a drawstring of the length adjustment mechanism is shown in a loose (untucked) position (FIG. 8) and tucked into a pocket (FIG. 9).

[0015] FIGS. 10, 11, and 12 are interior side views depicting an interior detail of a skirt such as shown in FIG. 3 and show a length adjustment mechanism disposed on the interior side of the skirt according to another embodiment, wherein FIGS. 10 and 11 show the skirt in relaxed and cinched positions, respectively, and FIGS. 11 and 12 show a drawstring of the length adjustment mechanism secured with a securement loop and in a loose (untucked) position (FIG. 11) and tucked into a pocket (FIG. 12).

[0016] FIGS. 13 and 14 are interior side views depicting an interior detail of a skirt such as shown in FIG. 3 and show a drawstring of a length adjustment mechanism disposed on the interior side of the skirt and secured with a securement loop according to another embodiment, wherein FIGS. 13 and 14 show the skirt in relaxed and cinched positions, respectively.

[0017] FIGS. 15, 16, and 17 are interior side views depicting an interior detail of a skirt such as shown in FIG. 3 and show a length adjustment mechanism disposed on the interior side of the skirt according to another embodiment, wherein FIGS. 15 and 16 show the skirt in relaxed and cinched positions, respectively, and FIGS. 16 and 17 show a drawstring of the length adjustment mechanism in a loose (untucked) position (FIG. 16) and tucked into a pocket (FIG. 17).DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The intended purpose of the following detailed description of the invention and the phraseology and terminology employed therein is to describe one or more nonlimiting embodiments of the invention, and to describe certain but not all aspects of what is depicted in the drawings, including the embodiment(s) to which the drawings relate. The following detailed description also identifies certain but not all alternatives of the embodiment(s). As nonlimiting examples, the invention encompasses additional or alternative embodiments in which one or more features or aspects shown and / or described as part of a particular embodiment could be eliminated, and also encompasses additional or alternative embodiments that combine two or more features or aspects shown and / or described as part of different embodiments. Therefore, the appended claims, and not the detailed description, are intended to particularly point out subject matter regarded to be aspects of the invention, including certain but not necessarily all of the aspects and alternatives described in the detailed description.

[0019] To facilitate the description provided below of adjustable-length garments 10 represented in the drawings, relative terms, including but not limited to, “proximal,”“distal,”“vertical,”“horizontal,”“lateral,”“front,”“rear,”“side,”“forward,”“rearward,”“top,”“bottom,”“upper,”“lower,”“above,”“below,”“right,”“left,” etc., may be used in reference to the orientation of the garments 10 as represented in the drawings and corresponding to the orientation of the garments 10 when worn by an individual.

[0020] As used herein the terms “a” and “an” to introduce a feature are used as open-ended, inclusive terms to refer to at least one, or one or more of the features, and are not limited to only one such feature unless otherwise expressly indicated. Similarly, use of the term “the” in reference to a feature previously introduced using the term “a” or “an” does not thereafter limit the feature to only a single instance of such feature unless otherwise expressly indicated.

[0021] Turning now to nonlimiting embodiments represented in the drawings, the adjustable-length garments 10 are represented in FIGS. 1 through 3 as a skort, though it should be understood that the term “garment” is used herein to encompass other items, including skirts, dresses, pants, tops, etc. Because the garments 10 are represented as a skort in the drawings, each garment 10 represented in the drawings can be described as including a downward-hanging portion 14 extending vertically downward from an upper portion of the garment 10, represented as a waistband 12, and an integrated inner short 16 that is at least partially if not completely covered by the downward-hanging portion 14. As a matter of convenience, the downward-hanging portion 14 will be referred to hereinafter as a skirt, though it should be understood that in other forms and embodiments of the garments 10, the downward-hanging portion 14 might not be described as a skirt per se.

[0022] In FIGS. 1 through 3, the skirt 14 of the garment 10 can be seen as having an exterior side (visible in FIGS. 1 and 2) and an interior side (concealed in FIGS. 1 and 2) that faces the short 16. In the form of a skort as shown, the short 16 may be incorporated into the garment 10 as a result of being attached to the waistband 12. The garment 10 may include additional features. For example, the garment 10 is shown as lacking a top above the waistband 12, but if in the form of a dress the garment 10 may further have a bodice or other top portion (with or without the waistband 12) located above the skirt 14 for the purpose of covering portions of the torso. The garment 10 can be constructed of one or more flexible fabrics, such as one or more natural fabrics including cotton, silk, and / or wool, and / or one or more synthetic fabrics, such as polyester.

[0023] In FIGS. 1 through 3, the skirt 14 of the garment 10 can be seen as also having a vertical (longitudinal) length “L” between an upper end of the skirt 14 (adjacent the waistband 12) and a bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14 that may be defined by a hem in accordance with conventional practices. The length L is not required to be uniform along the entire circumference of the skirt 14 at its bottom edge 14A, depending on the desired style of the garment 10. The length L will at times be referred to herein as a variable length L due to the garment 10 incorporating one or more length adjustment mechanisms 18 (two of which are represented in FIGS. 1 and 2) that are adapted to alter the position of the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14 relative to the waistband 12 and, therefore, relative to the wearer's legs. The bottom edge 14A is generally adjustable from a “relaxed” position depicted on the righthand side of FIG. 1 and the lefthand side of FIG. 2, to a “cinched” position, such as but not limited to the cinched position depicted on the lefthand side of FIG. 1 and the righthand side of FIG. 2. In preferred embodiments, the length adjustment mechanisms 18 are capable of adjusting the length L to essentially an infinite number of positions between the relaxed and cinched positions shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and optionally to positions above the particular cinched position shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0024] The length adjustment mechanisms 18 are shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 as located on opposite lateral sides of the garment 10, and as shown may be incorporated into side seams 24 of the skirt 14 of the garment 10. As will be described in more detail below in reference to FIGS. 4 through 17, which depict various different embodiments of the length adjustment mechanism 18, each length adjustment mechanism 18 comprises a channel 20 and a drawstring 22 that, in combination, allow a wearer to adjust the length L of the skirt 14 while the garment 10 is worn. In the drawings, the length adjustment mechanisms 18 are depicted as located on the interior side of the skirt 14 of the garment 10 so as not to be visible from the exterior side of the garment 10. The length adjustment mechanisms 18 are hidden in the embodiments shown in the drawings for aesthetic reasons as a result of being entirely located on the interior side of the skirt 14. However, it is foreseeable that in some instances it may be acceptable or even desirable for the length adjustment mechanisms 18 (or portions thereof) to be exposed and visible on the exterior side of the garment 10.

[0025] The channel 20 of each length adjustment mechanism 18 is represented in the drawings as extending in a vertical direction of the skirt 14. The channel 20 may be formed by a layer of flexible fabric sewn onto the skirt 14 at the side seams 24 or formed by portions of the side seams 24. The channel 20 is shown in the drawings as extending downward from a location at or near the waistband 12 to a location near but spaced apart from the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14.

[0026] FIGS. 4 through 7 are detailed exterior views (FIGS. 4 and 5) and interior views (FIGS. 6 and 7) of a region “A” in FIG. 3 that show a first embodiment of a length adjustment mechanism 18. In FIGS. 4 through 7, the drawstring 22 of the length adjustment mechanism 18 is represented as comprising two segments, each labeled as 22 in FIGS. 4 through 7 and referred to herein as drawstring segments or simply segments. The segments of the drawstring 22 may be portions of a single cord or may be two entirely separate cords. Each segment has an upper portion 22A disposed within the channel 20 and a lower portion 22B that is disposed outside the channel 20 and terminates with an end 22D, such that the drawstring 22 has two ends 22D disposed outside the channel 20. An upper end (not shown) of each segment of the drawstring 22 may be attached at an upper end of the channel 20 at or near the waistband 12. The lower portions 22B of each segment of the drawstring 22 protrude outside the channel 20 through two eyelets (holes) 26 near the lower end 20A of the channel 20 and are tied together to form a knot 22C that prevents the lower ends 22B of the segments from being retracted into the channel 20 through the eyelets 26.

[0027] Optionally, a securement mechanism is provided for securing the lower portions 22B of the drawstring 22 along the interior side of the garment 10 above the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14 so that the drawstring 22 can be hidden from view from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion. For example, FIGS. 4 through 7 show the inclusion of a pocket 28 provided below the channel 20 as a securement mechanism that receives and secures the lower portions 22B of the segments of the drawstring 22 below the knot 22C. As previously noted, for aesthetic reasons the length adjustment mechanism 18, and therefore its channel 20 and the segments of the drawstring 22, are hidden in the exterior side views of FIGS. 4 and 5 as a result of being located on the interior side of the skirt 14, but the length adjustment mechanism 18 is visible in FIGS. 6 and 7 which show the interior side of the skirt 14. Other securement mechanisms, such as buttons, hook-and-loop fasteners, and / or clips, can be used to gather and / or hide the lower portions 22B of the segments of the drawstring 22 along the interior side of the garment 10 so they are hidden from the exterior.

[0028] The segments of the drawstring 22 are preferably not required to be fixedly attached to any other portion of the channel 20 or skirt 14 at any point below where it is affixed at or near the upper end of the channel 20 (adjacent the waistband 12). FIG. 4 shows the configurations of the drawstring 22 and its segments corresponding to the aforementioned relaxed position. With the arrangement shown in FIGS. 4 through 7, the action of sliding the skirt 14 upward while holding the lower portions 22B of the segments of the drawstring 22 to prevent the segments from traveling upward with the channel 20 causes a lower part of the upper portion 22A of each segment to be extracted from the channel 20 through the eyelets 26. Sliding the skirt 14 upward results in the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14 being raised upward (indicated by the arrow in FIG. 5) to arrive at a cinched position in which the length L of the skirt 14 has been shortened (adjusted). FIGS. 5, 6, and 7 show the lower portions 22B of the segments of the drawstring 22 outside the lower end 20A of the channel 20 as having been (re)tied just below the eyelets 26 to prevent the segments of the drawstring 22 from retracting back into the channel 20 and thereby retain the skirt 14 in its cinched (shorted) position. The lower portions 22B of each segment of the drawstring 22 extending outside the channel 20 may then be secured along the interior side of the garment 10 above the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14 with the securement mechanism (pocket 28) so as to be hidden from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion. For example, FIG. 7 shows the lower portions 22B of the segments of the drawstring 22 below the knot 22C as tucked into the pocket 28 below the channel 20 to secure the segments of the drawstring 22 and prevent the drawstring 22 from being exposed below the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14.

[0029] If and when it is desired to again lengthen the skirt 14, the lower portions 22B of the segments of the drawstring 22 can be untied or otherwise released, and the skirt 14 pulled downward to retract the upper portion 22A of the segments of the drawstring 22 back into the channel 20. If it is desired to further shorten the length the skirt 14, the knot 22C can be untied and the skirt 14 slid upward while holding the lower portions 22B of the drawstring 22 to cause more of the lower parts of each upper portion 22A of the drawstring 22 to be extracted from the channel 20 through the eyelets 26, after which the knot 22C can be retied just below the eyelets 26 to secure the segments of the drawstring 22 outside the lower end 20A of the channel 20 and thereby retain the skirt 14 in its cinched (shorted) position by preventing the drawstring 22 from retracting back into the channel 20.

[0030] FIGS. 8 through 17 represent detailed interior views of a region of a skirt 14 corresponding to region “A” in FIG. 3, and show other embodiments of length adjustment mechanisms 18. In FIGS. 8 through 17, consistent reference numbers are used to identify the same or functionally related / equivalent elements. In view of similarities between embodiments represented in the drawings, the following discussion will focus primarily on aspects of the embodiments of FIGS. 8 through 17 that differ from the embodiment of FIGS. 4 through 7 in some notable or significant manner. Other aspects of the embodiments of FIGS. 8 through 17 that are not discussed in any detail may be, in terms of structure, function, materials, etc., essentially as was described for the embodiment of FIGS. 4 through 7.

[0031] FIGS. 8 and 9 represent the drawstring 22 as a single continuous segment and, instead of the two separate ends 22D shown in FIGS. 4 through 7, the lower portions 22B of the drawstring 22 disposed outside of the channel 20 define a loop 22D of the single continuous segment. Similar to FIGS. 4 through 7, FIGS. 8 and 9 represent a pocket 28 as a securement mechanism for securing the lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 along the interior side of the garment 10 and above the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14, so that the lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 can be hidden from view from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion of the garment 10. The lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 protrude outside the channel 20 through the two eyelets (holes) 26 near the lower end 20A of the channel 20, which allows for the lower portions 22B to be tied to form a knot (not shown) that prevents the lower ends 22B of the segments from being retracted into the channel 20 through the eyelets 26.

[0032] FIGS. 10 and 11 also represent the drawstring 22 as a single continuous segment and the lower portions 22B of the drawstring 22 disposed outside of the channel 20 as defined by a loop 22D of the single continuous segment. Instead of a pocket 28 as shown in FIGS. 4 through 7, FIGS. 10 and 11 represent a securement loop 30 as a securement mechanism for securing the lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 along the interior side of the garment 10 and above the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14. The length of the lower portions 22B of the drawstring 22 and the position of the securement loop 30 are selected such that the lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 can be maintained above the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14 and therefore hidden from view from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion of the garment 10. To promote its securement capability and prevent or at least inhibit the lower portion 22B of the drawstring 22 from retracting into the channel 20, the securement loop 30 may be constructed of an elastic material capable of gripping the exterior of the drawstring 22. The downward-hanging portion of the garment 10 can be lengthened by releasing (removing) the lower portion 22B of the drawstring 22 from the securement loop 30 and pulling downward on the downward-hanging portion to retract the drawstring 22 back into the channel 20. FIG. 12 represents that the embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 11 can further utilize a pocket 28 similar to what was described in reference to FIGS. 4 through 9.

[0033] FIGS. 13 and 14 represent an embodiment similar to that of FIGS. 10 and 11, but with the further inclusion of a second securement loop 30 as part of a securement mechanism for securing the lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 along the interior side of the garment 10 and above the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14. The second securement loop 30 is shown as placed below the other securement loop 30 and immediately above the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14 to ensure that the drawstring 22 will not be exposed below the bottom edge 14A. Either or both of the securement loops 30 may be constructed of an elastic material capable of gripping the exterior of the drawstring 22.

[0034] FIGS. 15 through 17 represent an embodiment similar to that of FIGS. 8 and 9, but with the length of the lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 protruding outside the channel 20 being shorter so as to reduce the risk that the drawstring 22 may be exposed below the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14. FIG. 16 shows that the lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 are able to sufficiently protrude outside the channel 20 through the two eyelets (holes) 26 of the channel 20 to allow the lower portions 22B to be tied to form a knot 22C that prevents or at least inhibits retraction of the lower portions 22B into the channel 20 through the eyelets 26. FIG. 17 represents that the embodiment of FIGS. 15 and 16 can further utilize a pocket 28 similar to what was described in reference to previously described embodiments.

[0035] It should be appreciated that the garments 10 may utilize any number of length adjustment mechanisms 18 that are identical or similar to the length adjustment mechanisms 18 shown in the drawings.

[0036] As previously noted above, though the foregoing detailed description describes certain aspects of one or more particular embodiments of the invention, alternatives could be adopted by one skilled in the art. For example, the adjustable-length garment 10 and its components could differ in appearance and construction from the embodiments described herein and shown in the drawings, functions of certain components of the adjustable-length garment 10 could be performed by components of different construction but capable of a similar (though not necessarily equivalent) function, and various materials could be used in the fabrication of the adjustable-length garment 10 and / or its components. As such, and again as was previously noted, it should be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited to any particular embodiment described herein or illustrated in the drawings.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]The intended purpose of the following detailed description of the invention and the phraseology and terminology employed therein is to describe one or more nonlimiting embodiments of the invention, and to describe certain but not all aspects of what is depicted in the drawings, including the embodiment(s) to which the drawings relate. The following detailed description also identifies certain but not all alternatives of the embodiment(s). As nonlimiting examples, the invention encompasses additional or alternative embodiments in which one or more features or aspects shown and / or described as part of a particular embodiment could be eliminated, and also encompasses additional or alternative embodiments that combine two or more features or aspects shown and / or described as part of different embodiments. Therefore, the appended claims, and not the detailed description, are intended to particularly point out subject matter regarded to be aspects of the invention, including certain...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 762,261 filed Feb. 24, 2025, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The invention generally relates to clothing, and more particularly to adjustable-length garments and methods of their use.

[0003] A person may wish to wear a garment, such as a skirt, dress, skort, pants, top, etc., of differing lengths at various times to adjust to different situations and settings. Conventionally, this is accomplished by removing the garment and then putting on a different garment that is more appropriate or amenable to the new circumstances. Sometimes, however, this may be inconvenient or otherwise not desirable.

[0004] It would be desirable if garments were available that were capable of having their lengths adjusted while being worn.BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The intent of this section of the specification is to briefly indicate the nature and substance of the invention, as opposed to an exhaustive statement of all subject matter and aspects of the invention. Therefore, while this section identifies subject matter recited in the claims, additional subject matter and aspects relating to the invention are set forth in other sections of the specification, particularly the detailed description, as well as any drawings.

[0006] The present invention provides, but is not limited to, adjustable-length garments and methods of their use.

[0007] According to a nonlimiting aspect, an adjustable-length garment includes a downward-hanging portion having an interior side, an oppositely-disposed an exterior side, and a variable length extending from an upper end of the downward-hanging portion to a bottom edge of the downward-hanging portion. The garment further includes at least a first length adjustment mechanism disposed on the interior side of the downward-hanging portion. The first length adjustment mechanism includes a channel extending in a vertical direction of the downward-hanging portion, and a drawstring that has an upper portion disposed inside the channel and secured to the downward-hanging portion. The drawstring further has a lower portion disposed outside the channel, wherein extracting at least part of the upper portion of the drawstring from the channel shortens the variable length of the downward-hanging portion at a cinched position of the adjustable-length garment. A securement mechanism is provided for securing the lower portion of the drawstring along the interior side of the downward-hanging portion so that the lower portion is hidden and not visible from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion.

[0008] According to another nonlimiting aspect, a method of using the garment includes holding the lower portion of the drawstring while raising the bottom edge of the downward-hanging portion to cause at least part of the upper portion of the drawstring to be extracted from the channel, causing the bottom edge of the downward-hanging portion to arrive at a cinched position in which the variable length of the downward-hanging portion has been shortened. The method further includes securing the lower portion of the drawstring with the securement mechanism so that the lower portion is hidden and not visible from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion.

[0009] Technical aspects of adjustable-length garments and methods as described above preferably include the ability to readily adjust the length of a downward-hanging portion of a garment while the garment is worn, and then hide the length adjustment mechanism so that it is not visible from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion

[0010] These and other aspects, arrangements, features, and / or technical effects will become apparent upon detailed inspection of the figures and the following description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 are, respectively, front, rear, and side views of a skort with a skirt that incorporates length-adjusting mechanisms in accordance with some nonlimiting aspects of the invention.

[0012] FIGS. 4 and 5 are exterior side views depicting an exterior detail “A” of the skirt of FIG. 3 in relaxed and cinched positions, respectively, and show a length adjustment mechanism according to a first embodiment disposed on the interior side of the skirt.

[0013] FIGS. 6 and 7 are interior side views depicting an interior detail of the skirt of FIGS. 4 and 5 and show the skirt in a cinched position, one of the length adjustment mechanisms disposed on the interior side of the skirt, and a drawstring of the length adjustment mechanism in a loose (untucked) position (FIG. 6) and tucked into a pocket (FIG. 7).

[0014] FIGS. 8 and 9 are interior side views depicting an interior detail of a skirt such as shown in FIG. 3 and show the skirt in a cinched position, wherein a length adjustment mechanism according to another embodiment is disposed on the interior side of the skirt and a drawstring of the length adjustment mechanism is shown in a loose (untucked) position (FIG. 8) and tucked into a pocket (FIG. 9).

[0015] FIGS. 10, 11, and 12 are interior side views depicting an interior detail of a skirt such as shown in FIG. 3 and show a length adjustment mechanism disposed on the interior side of the skirt according to another embodiment, wherein FIGS. 10 and 11 show the skirt in relaxed and cinched positions, respectively, and FIGS. 11 and 12 show a drawstring of the length adjustment mechanism secured with a securement loop and in a loose (untucked) position (FIG. 11) and tucked into a pocket (FIG. 12).

[0016] FIGS. 13 and 14 are interior side views depicting an interior detail of a skirt such as shown in FIG. 3 and show a drawstring of a length adjustment mechanism disposed on the interior side of the skirt and secured with a securement loop according to another embodiment, wherein FIGS. 13 and 14 show the skirt in relaxed and cinched positions, respectively.

[0017] FIGS. 15, 16, and 17 are interior side views depicting an interior detail of a skirt such as shown in FIG. 3 and show a length adjustment mechanism disposed on the interior side of the skirt according to another embodiment, wherein FIGS. 15 and 16 show the skirt in relaxed and cinched positions, respectively, and FIGS. 16 and 17 show a drawstring of the length adjustment mechanism in a loose (untucked) position (FIG. 16) and tucked into a pocket (FIG. 17).DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The intended purpose of the following detailed description of the invention and the phraseology and terminology employed therein is to describe one or more nonlimiting embodiments of the invention, and to describe certain but not all aspects of what is depicted in the drawings, including the embodiment(s) to which the drawings relate. The following detailed description also identifies certain but not all alternatives of the embodiment(s). As nonlimiting examples, the invention encompasses additional or alternative embodiments in which one or more features or aspects shown and / or described as part of a particular embodiment could be eliminated, and also encompasses additional or alternative embodiments that combine two or more features or aspects shown and / or described as part of different embodiments. Therefore, the appended claims, and not the detailed description, are intended to particularly point out subject matter regarded to be aspects of the invention, including certain but not necessarily all of the aspects and alternatives described in the detailed description.

[0019] To facilitate the description provided below of adjustable-length garments 10 represented in the drawings, relative terms, including but not limited to, “proximal,”“distal,”“vertical,”“horizontal,”“lateral,”“front,”“rear,”“side,”“forward,”“rearward,”“top,”“bottom,”“upper,”“lower,”“above,”“below,”“right,”“left,” etc., may be used in reference to the orientation of the garments 10 as represented in the drawings and corresponding to the orientation of the garments 10 when worn by an individual.

[0020] As used herein the terms “a” and “an” to introduce a feature are used as open-ended, inclusive terms to refer to at least one, or one or more of the features, and are not limited to only one such feature unless otherwise expressly indicated. Similarly, use of the term “the” in reference to a feature previously introduced using the term “a” or “an” does not thereafter limit the feature to only a single instance of such feature unless otherwise expressly indicated.

[0021] Turning now to nonlimiting embodiments represented in the drawings, the adjustable-length garments 10 are represented in FIGS. 1 through 3 as a skort, though it should be understood that the term “garment” is used herein to encompass other items, including skirts, dresses, pants, tops, etc. Because the garments 10 are represented as a skort in the drawings, each garment 10 represented in the drawings can be described as including a downward-hanging portion 14 extending vertically downward from an upper portion of the garment 10, represented as a waistband 12, and an integrated inner short 16 that is at least partially if not completely covered by the downward-hanging portion 14. As a matter of convenience, the downward-hanging portion 14 will be referred to hereinafter as a skirt, though it should be understood that in other forms and embodiments of the garments 10, the downward-hanging portion 14 might not be described as a skirt per se.

[0022] In FIGS. 1 through 3, the skirt 14 of the garment 10 can be seen as having an exterior side (visible in FIGS. 1 and 2) and an interior side (concealed in FIGS. 1 and 2) that faces the short 16. In the form of a skort as shown, the short 16 may be incorporated into the garment 10 as a result of being attached to the waistband 12. The garment 10 may include additional features. For example, the garment 10 is shown as lacking a top above the waistband 12, but if in the form of a dress the garment 10 may further have a bodice or other top portion (with or without the waistband 12) located above the skirt 14 for the purpose of covering portions of the torso. The garment 10 can be constructed of one or more flexible fabrics, such as one or more natural fabrics including cotton, silk, and / or wool, and / or one or more synthetic fabrics, such as polyester.

[0023] In FIGS. 1 through 3, the skirt 14 of the garment 10 can be seen as also having a vertical (longitudinal) length “L” between an upper end of the skirt 14 (adjacent the waistband 12) and a bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14 that may be defined by a hem in accordance with conventional practices. The length L is not required to be uniform along the entire circumference of the skirt 14 at its bottom edge 14A, depending on the desired style of the garment 10. The length L will at times be referred to herein as a variable length L due to the garment 10 incorporating one or more length adjustment mechanisms 18 (two of which are represented in FIGS. 1 and 2) that are adapted to alter the position of the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14 relative to the waistband 12 and, therefore, relative to the wearer's legs. The bottom edge 14A is generally adjustable from a “relaxed” position depicted on the righthand side of FIG. 1 and the lefthand side of FIG. 2, to a “cinched” position, such as but not limited to the cinched position depicted on the lefthand side of FIG. 1 and the righthand side of FIG. 2. In preferred embodiments, the length adjustment mechanisms 18 are capable of adjusting the length L to essentially an infinite number of positions between the relaxed and cinched positions shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and optionally to positions above the particular cinched position shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0024] The length adjustment mechanisms 18 are shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 as located on opposite lateral sides of the garment 10, and as shown may be incorporated into side seams 24 of the skirt 14 of the garment 10. As will be described in more detail below in reference to FIGS. 4 through 17, which depict various different embodiments of the length adjustment mechanism 18, each length adjustment mechanism 18 comprises a channel 20 and a drawstring 22 that, in combination, allow a wearer to adjust the length L of the skirt 14 while the garment 10 is worn. In the drawings, the length adjustment mechanisms 18 are depicted as located on the interior side of the skirt 14 of the garment 10 so as not to be visible from the exterior side of the garment 10. The length adjustment mechanisms 18 are hidden in the embodiments shown in the drawings for aesthetic reasons as a result of being entirely located on the interior side of the skirt 14. However, it is foreseeable that in some instances it may be acceptable or even desirable for the length adjustment mechanisms 18 (or portions thereof) to be exposed and visible on the exterior side of the garment 10.

[0025] The channel 20 of each length adjustment mechanism 18 is represented in the drawings as extending in a vertical direction of the skirt 14. The channel 20 may be formed by a layer of flexible fabric sewn onto the skirt 14 at the side seams 24 or formed by portions of the side seams 24. The channel 20 is shown in the drawings as extending downward from a location at or near the waistband 12 to a location near but spaced apart from the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14.

[0026] FIGS. 4 through 7 are detailed exterior views (FIGS. 4 and 5) and interior views (FIGS. 6 and 7) of a region “A” in FIG. 3 that show a first embodiment of a length adjustment mechanism 18. In FIGS. 4 through 7, the drawstring 22 of the length adjustment mechanism 18 is represented as comprising two segments, each labeled as 22 in FIGS. 4 through 7 and referred to herein as drawstring segments or simply segments. The segments of the drawstring 22 may be portions of a single cord or may be two entirely separate cords. Each segment has an upper portion 22A disposed within the channel 20 and a lower portion 22B that is disposed outside the channel 20 and terminates with an end 22D, such that the drawstring 22 has two ends 22D disposed outside the channel 20. An upper end (not shown) of each segment of the drawstring 22 may be attached at an upper end of the channel 20 at or near the waistband 12. The lower portions 22B of each segment of the drawstring 22 protrude outside the channel 20 through two eyelets (holes) 26 near the lower end 20A of the channel 20 and are tied together to form a knot 22C that prevents the lower ends 22B of the segments from being retracted into the channel 20 through the eyelets 26.

[0027] Optionally, a securement mechanism is provided for securing the lower portions 22B of the drawstring 22 along the interior side of the garment 10 above the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14 so that the drawstring 22 can be hidden from view from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion. For example, FIGS. 4 through 7 show the inclusion of a pocket 28 provided below the channel 20 as a securement mechanism that receives and secures the lower portions 22B of the segments of the drawstring 22 below the knot 22C. As previously noted, for aesthetic reasons the length adjustment mechanism 18, and therefore its channel 20 and the segments of the drawstring 22, are hidden in the exterior side views of FIGS. 4 and 5 as a result of being located on the interior side of the skirt 14, but the length adjustment mechanism 18 is visible in FIGS. 6 and 7 which show the interior side of the skirt 14. Other securement mechanisms, such as buttons, hook-and-loop fasteners, and / or clips, can be used to gather and / or hide the lower portions 22B of the segments of the drawstring 22 along the interior side of the garment 10 so they are hidden from the exterior.

[0028] The segments of the drawstring 22 are preferably not required to be fixedly attached to any other portion of the channel 20 or skirt 14 at any point below where it is affixed at or near the upper end of the channel 20 (adjacent the waistband 12). FIG. 4 shows the configurations of the drawstring 22 and its segments corresponding to the aforementioned relaxed position. With the arrangement shown in FIGS. 4 through 7, the action of sliding the skirt 14 upward while holding the lower portions 22B of the segments of the drawstring 22 to prevent the segments from traveling upward with the channel 20 causes a lower part of the upper portion 22A of each segment to be extracted from the channel 20 through the eyelets 26. Sliding the skirt 14 upward results in the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14 being raised upward (indicated by the arrow in FIG. 5) to arrive at a cinched position in which the length L of the skirt 14 has been shortened (adjusted). FIGS. 5, 6, and 7 show the lower portions 22B of the segments of the drawstring 22 outside the lower end 20A of the channel 20 as having been (re)tied just below the eyelets 26 to prevent the segments of the drawstring 22 from retracting back into the channel 20 and thereby retain the skirt 14 in its cinched (shorted) position. The lower portions 22B of each segment of the drawstring 22 extending outside the channel 20 may then be secured along the interior side of the garment 10 above the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14 with the securement mechanism (pocket 28) so as to be hidden from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion. For example, FIG. 7 shows the lower portions 22B of the segments of the drawstring 22 below the knot 22C as tucked into the pocket 28 below the channel 20 to secure the segments of the drawstring 22 and prevent the drawstring 22 from being exposed below the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14.

[0029] If and when it is desired to again lengthen the skirt 14, the lower portions 22B of the segments of the drawstring 22 can be untied or otherwise released, and the skirt 14 pulled downward to retract the upper portion 22A of the segments of the drawstring 22 back into the channel 20. If it is desired to further shorten the length the skirt 14, the knot 22C can be untied and the skirt 14 slid upward while holding the lower portions 22B of the drawstring 22 to cause more of the lower parts of each upper portion 22A of the drawstring 22 to be extracted from the channel 20 through the eyelets 26, after which the knot 22C can be retied just below the eyelets 26 to secure the segments of the drawstring 22 outside the lower end 20A of the channel 20 and thereby retain the skirt 14 in its cinched (shorted) position by preventing the drawstring 22 from retracting back into the channel 20.

[0030] FIGS. 8 through 17 represent detailed interior views of a region of a skirt 14 corresponding to region “A” in FIG. 3, and show other embodiments of length adjustment mechanisms 18. In FIGS. 8 through 17, consistent reference numbers are used to identify the same or functionally related / equivalent elements. In view of similarities between embodiments represented in the drawings, the following discussion will focus primarily on aspects of the embodiments of FIGS. 8 through 17 that differ from the embodiment of FIGS. 4 through 7 in some notable or significant manner. Other aspects of the embodiments of FIGS. 8 through 17 that are not discussed in any detail may be, in terms of structure, function, materials, etc., essentially as was described for the embodiment of FIGS. 4 through 7.

[0031] FIGS. 8 and 9 represent the drawstring 22 as a single continuous segment and, instead of the two separate ends 22D shown in FIGS. 4 through 7, the lower portions 22B of the drawstring 22 disposed outside of the channel 20 define a loop 22D of the single continuous segment. Similar to FIGS. 4 through 7, FIGS. 8 and 9 represent a pocket 28 as a securement mechanism for securing the lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 along the interior side of the garment 10 and above the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14, so that the lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 can be hidden from view from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion of the garment 10. The lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 protrude outside the channel 20 through the two eyelets (holes) 26 near the lower end 20A of the channel 20, which allows for the lower portions 22B to be tied to form a knot (not shown) that prevents the lower ends 22B of the segments from being retracted into the channel 20 through the eyelets 26.

[0032] FIGS. 10 and 11 also represent the drawstring 22 as a single continuous segment and the lower portions 22B of the drawstring 22 disposed outside of the channel 20 as defined by a loop 22D of the single continuous segment. Instead of a pocket 28 as shown in FIGS. 4 through 7, FIGS. 10 and 11 represent a securement loop 30 as a securement mechanism for securing the lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 along the interior side of the garment 10 and above the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14. The length of the lower portions 22B of the drawstring 22 and the position of the securement loop 30 are selected such that the lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 can be maintained above the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14 and therefore hidden from view from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion of the garment 10. To promote its securement capability and prevent or at least inhibit the lower portion 22B of the drawstring 22 from retracting into the channel 20, the securement loop 30 may be constructed of an elastic material capable of gripping the exterior of the drawstring 22. The downward-hanging portion of the garment 10 can be lengthened by releasing (removing) the lower portion 22B of the drawstring 22 from the securement loop 30 and pulling downward on the downward-hanging portion to retract the drawstring 22 back into the channel 20. FIG. 12 represents that the embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 11 can further utilize a pocket 28 similar to what was described in reference to FIGS. 4 through 9.

[0033] FIGS. 13 and 14 represent an embodiment similar to that of FIGS. 10 and 11, but with the further inclusion of a second securement loop 30 as part of a securement mechanism for securing the lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 along the interior side of the garment 10 and above the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14. The second securement loop 30 is shown as placed below the other securement loop 30 and immediately above the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14 to ensure that the drawstring 22 will not be exposed below the bottom edge 14A. Either or both of the securement loops 30 may be constructed of an elastic material capable of gripping the exterior of the drawstring 22.

[0034] FIGS. 15 through 17 represent an embodiment similar to that of FIGS. 8 and 9, but with the length of the lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 protruding outside the channel 20 being shorter so as to reduce the risk that the drawstring 22 may be exposed below the bottom edge 14A of the skirt 14. FIG. 16 shows that the lower portions 22B and loop 22D of the drawstring 22 are able to sufficiently protrude outside the channel 20 through the two eyelets (holes) 26 of the channel 20 to allow the lower portions 22B to be tied to form a knot 22C that prevents or at least inhibits retraction of the lower portions 22B into the channel 20 through the eyelets 26. FIG. 17 represents that the embodiment of FIGS. 15 and 16 can further utilize a pocket 28 similar to what was described in reference to previously described embodiments.

[0035] It should be appreciated that the garments 10 may utilize any number of length adjustment mechanisms 18 that are identical or similar to the length adjustment mechanisms 18 shown in the drawings.

[0036] As previously noted above, though the foregoing detailed description describes certain aspects of one or more particular embodiments of the invention, alternatives could be adopted by one skilled in the art. For example, the adjustable-length garment 10 and its components could differ in appearance and construction from the embodiments described herein and shown in the drawings, functions of certain components of the adjustable-length garment 10 could be performed by components of different construction but capable of a similar (though not necessarily equivalent) function, and various materials could be used in the fabrication of the adjustable-length garment 10 and / or its components. As such, and again as was previously noted, it should be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited to any particular embodiment described herein or illustrated in the drawings.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]The intended purpose of the following detailed description of the invention and the phraseology and terminology employed therein is to describe one or more nonlimiting embodiments of the invention, and to describe certain but not all aspects of what is depicted in the drawings, including the embodiment(s) to which the drawings relate. The following detailed description also identifies certain but not all alternatives of the embodiment(s). As nonlimiting examples, the invention encompasses additional or alternative embodiments in which one or more features or aspects shown and / or described as part of a particular embodiment could be eliminated, and also encompasses additional or alternative embodiments that combine two or more features or aspects shown and / or described as part of different embodiments. Therefore, the appended claims, and not the detailed description, are intended to particularly point out subject matter regarded to be aspects of the invention, including certain...

Claims

1. An adjustable-length garment comprising:a downward-hanging portion having an interior side, an oppositely-disposed exterior side, and a variable length extending from an upper end of the downward-hanging portion to a bottom edge of the downward-hanging portion; andat least a first length adjustment mechanism disposed on the interior side of the downward-hanging portion, the first length adjustment mechanism comprising:a channel extending in a vertical direction of the downward-hanging portion;a drawstring having an upper portion disposed inside the channel and secured to the downward-hanging portion, the drawstring further having a lower portion disposed outside the channel, wherein extracting at least part of the upper portion of the drawstring from the channel shortens the variable length of the downward-hanging portion at a cinched position of the adjustable-length garment; anda securement mechanism for securing the lower portion of the drawstring along the interior side of the downward-hanging portion so that the lower portion is hidden and not visible from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion.

2. The adjustable-length garment of claim 1, wherein the securement mechanism comprises a pocket attached to the interior side of the downward-hanging portion, disposed below the channel, and adapted to receive and secure the lower portion of the drawstring.

3. The adjustable-length garment of claim 1, wherein the securement mechanism comprises at least one securement loop attached to the interior side of the downward-hanging portion, disposed below the channel, and adapted to receive and secure the lower portion of the drawstring.

4. The adjustable-length garment of claim 3, wherein the securement mechanism further comprises a pocket attached to the interior side of the downward-hanging portion, disposed below the channel and below the at least one securement loop, and adapted to receive and secure the lower portion of the drawstring.

5. The adjustable-length garment of claim 1, wherein the drawstring comprises two segments, the lower portion of the drawstring comprises two ends of the two segments that are disposed outside of the channel, and the two ends of the two segments are adapted to be tied together outside of the channel to secure the adjustable-length garment at the cinched position.

6. The adjustable-length garment of claim 5, the first length adjustment mechanism further comprising a pocket attached to the interior side of the downward-hanging portion, disposed below the channel, and adapted to receive and secure the two ends of the two segments along the interior side so that the two ends are hidden from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion.

7. The adjustable-length garment of claim 1, wherein the drawstring comprises a single continuous segment, and the lower portion of the drawstring is defined by a loop of the single continuous segment disposed outside of the channel.

8. The adjustable-length garment of claim 7, the first length adjustment mechanism further comprising a pocket attached to the interior side of the downward-hanging portion, disposed below the channel, and adapted to receive and secure the loop of the single continuous segment along the interior side so that the loop is hidden from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion.

9. The adjustable-length garment of claim 7, the first length adjustment mechanism further comprising at least one securement loop attached to the interior side of the downward-hanging portion, disposed below the channel, and adapted to receive and secure the loop of the single continuous segment along the interior side so that the loop is hidden from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion.

10. The adjustable-length garment of claim 9, wherein the at least one securement loop is constructed of an elastic material capable of gripping the lower portion of the drawstring.

11. The adjustable-length garment of claim 9, the first length adjustment mechanism further comprising a pocket attached to the interior side of the downward-hanging portion, disposed below the channel and below the at least one securement loop, and adapted to receive and secure the loop of the single continuous segment.

12. The adjustable-length garment of claim 1, further comprising a second length adjustment mechanism that comprises:a second channel extending in the vertical direction of the downward-hanging portion; anda second drawstring having an upper portion disposed inside the second channel and secured to the downward-hanging portion, the second drawstring further having a lower portion disposed outside the second channel, wherein extracting at least part of the upper portion of the second drawstring from the second channel shortens the variable length of the downward-hanging portion at a second cinched position of the adjustable-length garment.

13. The adjustable-length garment of claim 12, wherein the first length adjustment mechanism and the second length adjustment mechanism are spaced apart from each other on opposite sides of the downward-hanging portion.

14. The adjustable-length garment of claim 1, wherein the downward-hanging portion is or is part of a skirt, dress, skort, pants, or top.

15. The adjustable-length garment of claim 1, wherein the garment is a skort, the downward-hanging portion is a skirt, and the skirt overlies a short.

16. A method of using the adjustable-length garment of claim 1, the method comprisingholding the lower portion of the drawstring while raising the bottom edge of the downward-hanging portion to cause at least part of the upper portion of the drawstring to be extracted from the channel, causing the bottom edge of the downward-hanging portion to arrive at a cinched position in which the variable length of the downward-hanging portion has been shortened; andsecuring the lower portion of the drawstring with the securement mechanism so that the lower portion is hidden and not visible from the exterior side of the downward-hanging portion.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising:tying the lower portion of the drawstring disposed outside the channel to prevent the drawstring from retracting back into the channel and to secure the downward-hanging portion in the cinched position; andlengthening the downward-hanging portion by untying the lower portion of the drawstring and pulling downward on the downward-hanging portion to retract the drawstring back into the channel.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein the securement mechanism comprises a pocket attached to the interior side of the downward-hanging portion, and the securing step comprises securing the lower portion of the drawstring with the pocket.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein the securement mechanism comprises at least one securement loop, and the securing step comprises securing the lower portion of the drawstring with the at least one securement loop to inhibit the lower portion of the drawstring from retracting back into the channel and to secure the downward-hanging portion in the cinched position.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the securement mechanism further comprises a pocket attached to the interior side of the downward-hanging portion, and the securing step comprises securing the lower portion of the drawstring with the pocket.

Images