Belt loop cover

Abstract

A belt loop cover is provided for removable attachment to an existing belt loop of a garment to conceal the belt loop and / or provide a decorative or functional attachment point. The cover includes a flexible body having a central region configured to overlie the belt loop and first and second end portions that wrap around the belt loop. A securing system retains the end portions in a closed condition and may include mating magnetic elements, a magnet and a ferromagnetic element, snaps, buttons, hook-and-loop fasteners, ties, wires, clasps, or combinations thereof. The body can be formed from fabric, leather, polymeric sheet, or other materials and may include layers, reinforcement, pockets, or channels that position or enclose the securing system. In some embodiments, an accessory coupling element on an outer face releasably retains an ornament or accessory. Kits may include multiple covers and interchangeable accessories.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 778,205, filed Mar. 26, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein to the extent not inconsistent with the present disclosure.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Belt loops are an often neglected part of clothing. They may be included in several types of clothing, such as, but not limited to, pants, slacks, coats, and skirts. Typically, belt loops are constructed of the same material as the clothing. As a result, the belt loops tend to blend in with the clothing, adding little to the visual impact of the clothing.

[0003] Accessorizing and customizing clothing is a common way for people to differentiate themselves and express their personal preferences in the clothing that they wear. For example, people may choose a particular belt to wear with clothing that is a different color, texture, and so forth. Similarly, people may choose to wear jewelry, hats, etc. to further differentiate themselves and express their personality.

[0004] What is left out of the equation is the belt loop. By providing a way for people to customize their belt loops, people can now add a new level of differentiation to their clothing that is changeable and flexible given the particular situation or mood. What is needed is a belt loop cover that allows people to easily cover their existing belt loops with unique and expressive belt loop covers.

[0005] Belt loops are standard functional features in many types of clothing, such as pants, jeans, slacks, skirts, coats, and even certain dresses and accessories. Traditionally, these loops are constructed from the same or similar material as the base garment and are typically sewn in a fixed position. As a result, belt loops often serve a purely utilitarian function and receive little attention as elements of personal style or fashion.

[0006] However, in the fashion industry, personalization and customization continue to be major trends, with consumers seeking ways to express individuality and creativity in their everyday attire. Accessories such as belts, jewelry, scarves, and hats provide avenues for this expression, enabling users to curate their appearance based on personal tastes, trends, and cultural influences. Yet, despite their prominent visibility and frequent use in styling, belt loops have remained largely unchanged in both appearance and function.

[0007] There exists an unmet need in the fashion and accessories market for an easy, non-permanent, and reversible method to personalize belt loops. Providing a customizable belt loop cover not only enhances the aesthetic potential of clothing but also introduces a new category of wearable accessory. Such a solution would allow users to match or contrast their belt loops with various outfits, themes, or occasions. Importantly, a modular belt loop accessory system would enable interchangeable covers without modifying the garment itself, thus preserving the integrity of the original clothing while offering enhanced flexibility in appearance.

[0008] Accordingly, a system is needed that allows wearers to easily, securely, and selectively apply decorative or expressive covers over existing belt loops. Ideally, such covers should be simple to install and remove, should not damage the underlying clothing, and should remain securely in place during regular movement and wear.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] A belt loop cover is provided that allows for a user to cover a belt loop on an article of clothing. The belt loop cover may be constructed of a variety of materials. The belt loop cover includes a fastening device to allow a user to selectively attach and remove the belt loop cover from a belt loop as desired.

[0010] The belt loop cover fastening device may be, for example and without limitation, a set of opposing magnets. The magnets may be secured within portions of the belt loop cover such that when the belt loop cover is installed over a belt loop, the portions with the magnets are brought in close proximity and subsequently are attracted to each other. In this way, the magnets contained within portions of the belt loop cover secure the belt loop cover around the belt loop while still allowing the user to place, for example, a belt through the belt loop / belt loop cover combination. Alternatively, the user may choose to not wear a belt while wearing one or more belt loop covers on an article of clothing.

[0011] The present invention provides a customizable and detachable belt loop cover designed to overlay an existing belt loop on an article of clothing. The belt loop cover comprises a pliable material configured to encase or wrap around the belt loop and includes a fastening mechanism that allows for secure attachment and easy removal.

[0012] In one embodiment, the fastening mechanism comprises at least one pair of opposing magnetic elements embedded within the belt loop cover material. These magnets may be positioned on opposing sides of the cover such that, when wrapped around the loop, the magnets align and securely attract, holding the cover in place. The strength of the magnets may be selected to ensure a balance between retention and removability—strong enough to hold through normal wear, yet easy enough for a user to detach without tools.

[0013] The cover may be constructed from a wide variety of materials including, but not limited to, cotton, denim, polyester, vinyl, leather, synthetic blends, canvas, or decorative fabrics with printed designs, patterns, or textures. The outer surface of the cover may also include embellishments, embroidered elements, logos, or graphic designs to suit fashion preferences.

[0014] The belt loop cover may be part of a modular kit, allowing users to mix and match different styles, colors, and themes. In other variations, covers may feature team logos, initials, numbers, or brand insignias. Additionally, the belt loop covers may be manufactured as part of a DIY kit where users can create custom covers using fabric swatches, adhesives, and fasteners provided.

[0015] Importantly, the belt loop covers are designed to be non-destructive and reversible, allowing users to remove or replace the covers at any time without altering or harming the original garment. This makes them suitable for a broad demographic, including children, fashion enthusiasts, students, professionals, and trendsetters.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The disclosure is described in greater detail by way of the example only and with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

[0017] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of the belt loop cover laid flat, according to embodiments of the disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of a belt loop cover showing the internal structure and location of magnetic or fastening elements, according to embodiments of the disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 3 is a top view of a belt loop cover installed on a standard belt loop, according to embodiments of the disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of a belt loop cover installed on a belt loop illustrating its low profile and fitment over the loop, according to embodiments of the disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 5 is an alternative top view demonstrating different material choices or printed designs on the belt loop cover, according to embodiments of the disclosure; and

[0022] FIG. 6 is a side view of another embodiment with varying thickness or construction details, according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 7 illustrates additional embodiments of the belt loop cover, including embodiments employing a snap fastener arrangement and a removable accessory coupled to the belt loop cover, according to embodiments of the disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 8 illustrates additional embodiments of the belt loop cover, including embodiments employing a button-style fastener and embodiments employing a strap or tie element extending across the belt loop cover, according to embodiments of the disclosure; and

[0025] FIG. 9 illustrates an additional embodiment of the belt loop cover having an alternative exterior appearance and showing a central portion configured to overlie an existing belt loop, according to embodiments of the disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] As embodied and broadly described here and in the Drawings, the present disclosure is directed to a belt loop cover 10.

[0027] Referring to the figures, the belt loop cover (hereinafter referred to as “cover 10”) is constructed from a base material 12, which may be flexible, semi-rigid, or soft depending on the application. The base material may be selected to provide a desirable texture, visual effect, or durability for repeated use. While “fabric” is used herein as a general term, suitable materials include natural fibers such as cotton or wool, synthetic textiles like polyester or nylon, or specialty materials including faux leather, felt, sequined fabric, or vinyl.

[0028] Cover 10 may optionally feature contrasting colors or designs in relation to the underlying garment (e.g., jeans, slacks, skirts). For instance, a striped cover applied to standard blue jeans introduces a bold visual element that draws attention and personalizes the attire. The color scheme and pattern may be themed, seasonal, or personalized with digital printing, embroidery, or hand-drawn elements.

[0029] The outer perimeter of the cover 10 may include stitching 14 to form hemmed edges 16. These hems provide both durability and aesthetic finish, preventing fraying and defining the shape of the cover. The stitching may also be decorative, with colored thread or specialty stitch patterns to enhance the visual appeal.

[0030] Flaps 18 may be incorporated into the structure to form internal pockets or channels that retain magnetic components M. These flaps may be stitched, bonded, or sealed to ensure the magnets remain securely in place. The cover 10 may use a pair of magnets M on opposite sides that, when wrapped around a belt loop, attract and lock together, effectively clamping the cover to the loop.

[0031] Alternative fasteners are also contemplated, including hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro™), snaps, buttons, or other mechanical interlocks. In some embodiments, a hybrid fastening system may be used to enhance stability or offer design flexibility.

[0032] In the embodiment of FIG. 7, cover 10 includes a snap fastener assembly 40 that releasably secures opposing portions of the cover when wrapped around a belt loop. The snap fastener assembly 40 may include a first snap component 42 and a mating snap component 44, which may be secured to the body of cover 10 by stitching, riveting, adhesive bonding, heat staking, or other attachment techniques. Although illustrated as a single snap location, multiple snap fastener assemblies 40 may be provided (for example, spaced vertically and / or horizontally) to accommodate different belt loop widths and to increase retention during wear.

[0033] FIG. 7 further illustrates that cover 10 may carry or cooperate with a removable accessory 80. Accessory 80 may include a decorative element (for example, a charm, logo plate, token, or themed ornament) and may be coupled to cover 10 by a magnetic coupling, snap coupling, hook-and-loop coupling, clip, loop, or other releasable coupling arrangement. In some embodiments, accessory 80 is interchangeable among a plurality of accessories such that a user can change the appearance of the garment without removing cover 10 from the belt loop.

[0034] In the embodiment of FIG. 8, cover 10 may include a button-style fastener arrangement 50. The button-style fastener arrangement 50 may include a button 52 and a cooperating buttonhole 54 (or loop, slot, or elastic catch). The button 52 may be decorative and may simultaneously function as a fastening element. The button-style fastener arrangement 50 may be used alone or in combination with magnetic elements M for alignment and supplemental retention.

[0035] FIG. 8 also illustrates embodiments in which cover 10 includes one or more strap or tie elements 70 that extend across at least a portion of the cover and are configured to wrap around or otherwise engage the belt loop. The strap or tie element 70 may include an end region 72 and may be formed of elastic, fabric, leather, polymer, or other materials. The strap or tie element 70 may be secured by a knot, buckle, hook-and-loop patch, snap, magnetic element, or other closure technique. These strap-based embodiments can be useful for thicker belt loops and for users who prefer a fully non-magnetic fastening approach.

[0036] In the embodiment of FIG. 9, cover 10 may define a central portion 20 configured to overlie and conceal at least a portion of an existing belt loop while maintaining a low profile. The illustrated exterior appearance is exemplary and non-limiting, and the exterior surface 12 of cover 10 may include any of the decorative treatments described herein, including printed graphics, embroidery, appliqué, patches, and textured or reflective finishes.

[0037] The strength and placement of the magnets or fasteners are selected to balance secure attachment with ease of use. For example, rare earth magnets may be used for added retention, especially where thicker or heavier materials are employed.

[0038] While primarily intended for use with belt loops on pants or jeans, the invention is broadly applicable to any loop-type feature on garments or accessories, including but not limited to overalls, jumpsuits, coats, jackets, handbags, backpacks, and even footwear. In this way, the customizable loop cover becomes a universal personalization accessory across multiple wearable formats.

[0039] In one embodiment, belt loop covers 10 may be sold in themed packs (e.g., school spirit, seasonal, minimalist, glam) or made available in “build-your-own” kits. These kits may include fabric blanks, magnetic inserts, decorative stickers, paints, adhesives, and instructions for creating custom designs.

[0040] Users may choose to collect and exchange belt loop covers, similar to trading cards or pins. This social element may be enhanced through branded campaigns, collaborative designs with artists or influencers, and limited edition releases. loop cover 10 is installed on a belt loop of pants P, the magnets are placed in close proximity by wrapping belt loop cover 10. As a result, the magnets are attracted to each other and engage each other magnetically, through the fabric 12 of the belt loop cover 10.

[0041] While the magnets M of the belt loop cover are strong, they may be overcome by the user if enough force is applied. This level of magnetic attraction can be achieved, for example, by using strong magnets M, such as rare earth magnets, though other magnets and / or metallic items may be used. It is contemplated that various configurations of magnets M and / or metallic items may be placed within the flaps 18 of the belt loop cover 10. The Figures and description herein therefore are only exemplary and not limiting.

[0042] As discussed herein, it is contemplated that belt loop covers 10 may be configured in a variety of fabrics and / or colorations. For example, many patterns may be used on fabric 12. A user may choose to display sport team logos on the fabric 12 to show their support for a particular team. In other embodiments, printed matter such as letters, numbers, graphics, etc. may be printed on fabric 12 to further allow the user to differentiate their clothing that include belt loops.

[0043] It is also contemplated that users may make their own belt loop cover 10 using kits provided. This concept allows users to make unique belt loop covers 10 of their own design. Any belt loop cover 10 may be traded or shared with friends, much like other clothing accessories.

[0044] Various modifications and alterations to the specific embodiments described above will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All such variations are included within the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

[0045] The preceding examples illustrate embodiments of the disclosure, but should not be viewed as limiting the scope of the disclosure.

[0046] Other embodiments and uses of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosure as disclosed herein. All references cited herein, including all publications, U.S. and foreign patents and patent applications, are specifically and entirely incorporated by reference. The term comprising, wherever used, is intended to include the terms consisting and consisting essentially of. Furthermore, the terms comprising, including, and containing are not intended to be limiting. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered exemplary only with the true scope and spirit of the disclosure indicated by the following claims.

[0047] The term “body” as used herein may include any flexible, semi-flexible, or combination structure that can be wrapped, folded, or otherwise positioned around a belt loop. The body may be formed as a single piece, multiple pieces joined together, or a laminated stack of layers.

[0048] In some embodiments, the body comprises an outer decorative layer and an inner garment-contacting layer. The garment-contacting layer may be selected to reduce abrasion and may include a soft textile, suede, felt, microfiber, silicone, or other low-friction surface.

[0049] The body may be generally rectangular, oval, circular, polygonal, or custom shaped. In certain embodiments the body includes a narrowed waist region that aligns with the belt loop, and widened end regions that carry fastening elements and provide increased decorative surface area.

[0050] The body may include edge finishing features such as stitching, adhesive bonding, ultrasonic welding, heat sealing, hemming, binding tape, molded edges, or combinations thereof. Edge finishing can improve durability and can also provide a visual border or accent.

[0051] In some embodiments, the body includes an internal stiffener to promote a desired shape or to prevent curling. Non-limiting examples of stiffeners include polymer sheets, woven interfacing, foam, thin metal strips, or cardboard inserts, optionally removable through an access opening.

[0052] The body thickness may be selected based on intended use. For example, thinner constructions may be preferred for comfort and reduced bulk, while thicker constructions may be preferred for a premium appearance, increased stiffness, or to house larger fastening components.

[0053] The body can be configured to wrap around the belt loop in a variety of ways, including a full wrap in which opposing end regions overlap, a partial wrap in which the ends meet at an edge, or a wrap in which one end region folds over the other end region like a flap.

[0054] Where magnets are used, the magnets may be permanent magnets such as neodymium magnets, ceramic magnets, flexible magnetic sheets, or magnetic particles embedded in a polymer matrix. Different magnet types may be selected based on cost, thickness, and holding force.

[0055] Magnets may be arranged as discrete components, strips, arcs, or arrays. In certain embodiments, multiple magnets are distributed along an edge or within a region to provide more uniform coupling and to reduce the chance of misalignment during installation.

[0056] The magnets may be fully enclosed within the body, partially exposed through openings, or housed within removable inserts. Enclosure can reduce corrosion and can prevent direct contact between the magnet and the garment.

[0057] In addition to magnetic coupling between opposing magnets, certain embodiments use a magnet and a ferromagnetic element, such as a steel plate, washer, or strip, to create the releasable coupling. This can reduce part count on one side of the body.

[0058] Fastening elements may alternatively or additionally include hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, buttonholes, ties, cords, laces, buckles, clips, spring clamps, slide fasteners, interlocking ribs, or pressure-sensitive adhesive elements. Hybrid fastening can be used, for example magnets for alignment and a snap for additional security.

[0059] Adhesive elements may include reusable adhesives, repositionable adhesives, micro-suction materials, or removable tapes selected to avoid residue on the garment. In some embodiments, the adhesive is carried on a removable liner that is peeled away during installation.

[0060] For snap-based embodiments, the snap components may be riveted, sewn, or molded into the body. For button-based embodiments, the button may be decorative and may also serve as the mechanical fastener.

[0061] The body may include one or more pockets or channels that receive fastening elements. Pockets may be formed by stitching, heat sealing, bonding, or by attaching a secondary pocket layer to the body. The pockets may be sized to allow replacement of fastening elements.

[0062] Certain embodiments include a safety feature that limits pinch points between coupled fastening elements. For example, the body can include a spacer layer or raised seam that keeps the coupled magnets separated by a controlled distance.

[0063] The belt loop cover may be configured to be reversible. A reversible cover can present a first decorative surface in a first orientation and a second decorative surface in a second orientation, enabling two different looks using a single cover.

[0064] Decorative features may include printed patterns, woven patterns, embroidery, appliqué, patches, logos, slogans, metallic foils, holographic films, gemstones, studs, beads, sequins, or combinations thereof. Decorative features may be permanently attached or removably attached, for example via hook-and-loop or snap interfaces.

[0065] In some embodiments, the belt loop cover includes a removable decorative panel that couples to the body. The removable panel can enable users to swap decorative themes while retaining a common base structure and fastener configuration.

[0066] Functional features may be incorporated into the cover. Non-limiting examples include reflective material for visibility, glow-in-the-dark pigments, RFID tags, NFC tags, QR codes, scannable identifiers, or a writable surface for names or messages.

[0067] The cover may include an accessory coupling feature, such as an eyelet, ring, slot, loop, D-ring, carabiner interface, or magnetically attachable accessory mount. Accessories can include charms, key rings, tools, holders, or identification tags.

[0068] The body may include a tuck-under portion or alignment feature that helps center the cover on the belt loop. For example, a fold line, crease, printed mark, or stitched guide can indicate where the belt loop should be positioned during installation.

[0069] The cover can be sized for standard belt loops, oversized belt loops, or specialty loops. In some embodiments, the cover is provided in multiple sizes, for example small, medium, and large, each having a different wrap length.

[0070] The cover may be adapted for loops other than belt loops, including backpack loops, handbag loops, pet collars, luggage straps, lanyard loops, or equipment loops. The same construction principles may be applied to these alternative loops.

[0071] In certain embodiments, the body includes a cutout, window, or aperture to expose a portion of the underlying belt loop or garment. This can reduce bulk and can provide a visual contrast between the cover and the garment.

[0072] The cover may be configured to be installed with a belt present in the belt loop or with no belt present. In belt-present configurations, the body can be dimensioned to wrap around the belt loop without interfering with belt movement.

[0073] In some embodiments, the fastening elements are positioned so that the coupling occurs on an exterior-facing side of the belt loop, an interior-facing side of the belt loop, or laterally to one side. Different coupling locations can be selected for aesthetics and comfort.

[0074] Manufacturing methods may include cutting, die cutting, laser cutting, molding, casting, 3D printing of rigid or semi-rigid components, sewing, bonding, and combinations thereof. Certain embodiments can be manufactured using low-cost textile processes suitable for themed packs.

[0075] For embodiments using leather or synthetic leather, edge finishing can include burnishing, edge paint, or folded edges. For polymer embodiments, edges can be molded or heat sealed to provide a smooth perimeter.

[0076] Kits may include preassembled covers, partially assembled covers, or components for user assembly. For example, a kit may include blank bodies, decorative overlays, and fastening elements that the user installs to create custom covers.

[0077] Instructional materials may describe installation steps, orientation options, recommended placement on the garment, and safety guidance regarding magnets. In some embodiments, the kit includes a template to assist with centering and alignment.

[0078] The belt loop cover can be used to refresh the appearance of an existing garment, to coordinate with outfits, to display affiliations such as school spirit, to provide seasonal themes, or to provide personalization such as initials or names.

[0079] While the figures illustrate specific embodiments, the disclosed structures and steps may be combined, omitted, or rearranged. For example, a reversible body may be combined with a removable decorative panel and a magnetic fastening arrangement.

[0080] The term “fastening element” is intended to be broad and may include any structure that provides releasable retention of the cover to the belt loop, including magnetic, mechanical, and adhesive retention, and combinations thereof.

[0081] The term “garment” includes pants, jeans, shorts, skirts, coats, uniforms, workwear, and any clothing item having a loop or strap suitable for receiving the cover.

[0082] The foregoing description is provided to support a wide range of claim amendments, including amendments directed to material selections, fastening arrangements, accessory mounts, reversible configurations, replaceable components, and kit-based embodiments.

Claims

1. A belt loop cover comprising:a body configured to wrap around an existing belt loop of a garment; andat least one fastening element carried by the body and configured to releasably secure the body to the existing belt loop in an installed state without damaging the garment.

2. The belt loop cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastening element comprises opposing magnets positioned to magnetically couple to one another when the body is wrapped around the existing belt loop.

3. The belt loop cover of claim 2, wherein the opposing magnets are retained within at least one pocket, channel, or enclosure formed in or on the body.

4. The belt loop cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastening element comprises a snap fastener assembly including a first snap component and a mating snap component.

5. The belt loop cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastening element comprises a button-and-buttonhole arrangement or a hook-and-loop fastener.

6. The belt loop cover of claim 1, wherein the body includes a decorative outward-facing surface selected from printed graphics, embroidery, appliqué, patches, logos, gemstones, studs, reflective material, or a removable decorative layer.

7. A method of using a belt loop cover, the method comprising:providing a belt loop cover having a body and at least one fastening element;positioning the body around an existing belt loop of a garment; andcoupling the at least one fastening element to releasably secure the belt loop cover to the existing belt loop without removing the belt loop from the garment.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein coupling the at least one fastening element comprises magnetically coupling opposing magnets carried by the body.

9. The method of claim 7, further comprising selecting the belt loop cover from a plurality of belt loop covers having different outward-facing decorative appearances.

10. The method of claim 7, further comprising removing the belt loop cover from the existing belt loop and installing a second belt loop cover on the existing belt loop to change an appearance of the garment.

11. The method of claim 7, wherein positioning the body around the existing belt loop comprises orienting a first surface of the body outwardly in a first installed orientation, and further comprising removing the belt loop cover and reinstalling the belt loop cover in a second installed orientation in which a second surface different from the first surface is oriented outwardly.

12. The method of claim 7, further comprising installing the belt loop cover on a belt loop located at a front, side, or rear region of the garment to provide a selected visual placement.

13. The method of claim 7, further comprising coupling an accessory to the belt loop cover while the belt loop cover remains installed on the existing belt loop, wherein the accessory is coupled by a magnetic coupling, a snap coupling, a hook-and-loop coupling, or a clip.

14. A kit comprising: a plurality of belt loop covers, each belt loop cover being configured to wrap around an existing belt loop and to be releasably secured in an installed state using at least one fastening element; and instructions for installing and removing the belt loop covers.

15. The kit of claim 14, wherein at least two belt loop covers of the plurality have different outward-facing decorative appearances.

16. The kit of claim 14, wherein the plurality includes belt loop covers of different sizes or shapes configured for different belt loop dimensions or garment types.

17. The kit of claim 14, wherein at least a first belt loop cover of the plurality includes a magnetic fastening element and at least a second belt loop cover of the plurality includes a non-magnetic fastening element selected from a snap fastener assembly, a button-and-buttonhole arrangement, or a strap or tie element.

18. The kit of claim 14, further comprising at least one of blank belt loop cover bodies, decorative elements, fasteners, or adhesive for user customization of at least one belt loop cover.

19. The kit of claim 14, further comprising a storage container configured to store the plurality of belt loop covers.

20. The kit of claim 14, further comprising at least one accessory configured to be releasably coupled to a belt loop cover to change an outward-facing appearance of the belt loop cover.

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