Garment fastener

Abstract

A garment fastener (10) for fastening a second garment component to a first garment component. The garment fastener (10) including a first component coupling formation (20) operatively associated with the first garment component. The garment fastener further includes a second component coupling formation (24) operatively associated with the second garment component. The second component coupling formation (24) is adapted for detachable coupling with the first component coupling formation (20) to fasten the second garment component to the first garment component.

Description

GARMENT FASTENERFIELD

[0001] The invention concerns a garment fastener. In one particular but non-exclusive aspect the invention concerns a garment fastener adapted to fasten a bra strap to a bra chest band.BACKGROUND

[0002] A brassiere, commonly known as a bra, typically comprises a chest band configured to encircle a wearer’s torso, a pair of breast cups, and shoulder straps that connect at or adjacent the cup apex and the rear portion of the chest band. The straps assist in stabilising the cups and distributing load. In conventional constructions, the strap-to-bra interface is commonly provided by stitched loops, rings, sliders or small hooks. Such interfaces are generally intended for infrequent adjustment of strap length. Strap width, stiffness and geometry are usually fixed at manufacture.

[0003] For users and for garments with varying strap allowances, limitations of known interfaces may be experienced. Small-format hooks or light-gauge rings can concentrate load at the apex or rear anchor, plastic components may deform and fixed strap widths can restrict wardrobe compatibility. Users who require wider, softer, or more supportive straps for comfort and posture may be unable to obtain a suitable brassiere having thinner, discreet straps preferred for certain outerwear.

[0004] Known brassiere arrangements also provide limited options for altering strap path (e.g., straight, cross-back, halter) without re-sewing or specialty hardware, and may not reliably resist unintended release under dynamic loads or repeated use.OBJECT

[0005] One objection of the present invention is to address the above drawbacks associated with conventional brassieres or at least to provide a useful alternative.SUMMARY

[0006] According to a first aspect there is disclosed herein a garment fastener for fastening a second garment component to a first garment component, the garment fastener including:a first component coupling formation operatively associated with the first garment component; anda second component coupling formation operatively associated with the second garment component, the second component coupling formation adapted for detachable coupling with the first component coupling formation to fasten the second garment component to the first garment component,wherein the second component coupling formation includes a longitudinally extending neck member and a transverse spindle member secured to the neck member, andwherein the first component coupling formation includes (i) a spindle slot operatively adapted to slidably receive the spindle member of the second component coupling formation, and (ii) a neck recess operatively adapted to hold the neck member of the second component coupling formation to secure the first component coupling formation to the second component coupling formation.

[0007] Preferably the neck member is adapted to be held within the neck recess by way of a friction fit.

[0008] Preferably the neck member is located within the neck recess by rotating the spindle member about a spindle longitudinal axis.

[0009] Preferably the first component coupling formation includes a spindle housing operatively adapted to hold a housing end portion of the spindle member when the spindle member is located in the spindle slot.

[0010] Preferably the first component coupling formation defines a spindle slot entry whereby the spindle member is slidably introduced into the spindle slot.

[0011] Preferably the spindle housing defines a spindle recess adapted to hold the housing end portion of the spindle member.

[0012] Preferably the neck member is located in the neck recess by pivoting the spindle member within the spindle slot, the housing end portion of the spindle member being adapted to rotate within the spindle housing.

[0013] Preferably the first component coupling formation is provided on a first component attachment body.

[0014] Preferably the first component attachment body includes a first component hoop adapted to hold a portion of the first garment component.

[0015] Preferably the second component coupling formation is provided on a second component attachment body.

[0016] Preferably the second component attachment body includes a second component hoop adapted to hold a portion of the second garment component.

[0017] Preferably the neck member longitudinally extends between a second component hoop end and a spindle end, the neck member being secured to the second component hoop at the second component hoop end.

[0018] Preferably the spindle member is secured to the spindle end of the neck member.

[0019] Preferably the first garment component is a brassiere chest band and the second garment component is a brassiere strap.

[0020] Preferably the first garment component is an activewear garment and the second garment component is a shoulder strap.

[0021] Preferably the first garment component is an item of swimwear and the second garment component is a shoulder strap.

[0022] Preferably the first garment component is an item of clothing and the second garment component is selected from a shoulder strap, back strap, collar piece, decorative panel and sleeve.

[0023] Preferably the first garment component is selected from a medical garment, post-surgical garment, maternity garment and nursing garment.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described hereinafter, by way of examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0025] In the drawings:

[0026] Figure l is a front perspective view of a portion of a garment, here a brassiere, including a first embodiment garment fastener securing a brassiere strap to a front section of a brassiere chest band;

[0027] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the brassiere of Figure 1 having a second garment fastener securing the brassiere strap to a rear section of the brassiere chest band;

[0028] Figure 3 is a front perspective view of the garment fastener of Figure 1 prior to being employed in a brassiere;

[0029] Figure 4 is a rear perspective view of the garment fastener of Figure 3;

[0030] Figure 5 is a rear perspective view of the garment fastener of Figure 3 wherein a first component attachment body thereof is spaced apart from a second component attachment body;

[0031] Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of the second component attachment body of Figure 5 in the process of being coupled to the first component attachment body; and

[0032] Figure 7 shows three different sized second garment component attachment assemblies.DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0033] Figures 1 and 2 show a first embodiment garment fastener, generally indicated with the reference numeral 10. The garment fastener 10 is shown in use with a brassiere 12 wherein the garment fastener 10 is employed to attach a second garment component 14, here a brassiere strap, to a first garment component 16, here a brassiere chest band. Although not illustrated, the brassiere 12 will include four garment fasteners 10, one garment fastener 10 being positioned at each of the left and right cup apex of the brassiere 12 and one garment fastener 10 being position at each of the left and right upper rear portions of the brassiere chest band 16 to enable selective attachment, routing and interchange of brassiere straps in the manner described below.

[0034] Referring also to Figures 3 to 5, the garment fastener 10 includes a first component attachment body 18 having a first component attachment formation 20 adapted to attach the first component attachment body 18 to the first garment component / brassiere chest band 16 as shown. The garment fastener 10 also includes a second component attachment body 22 operatively adapted for attachment to the second garment component / brassiere stap 14. The second component attachment body 22 includes a second component coupling formation 24 and the first component attachment body 18 includes a complemental first component coupling formation 26. The second component coupling formation 24 is adapted for detachable coupling with the first component coupling formation 26 so as to provide for detachable attachment of the second garment component / brassiere strap 14 to the first garment component / brassiere chest band 16. This feature enables the second garment component / brassiere strap 14 to be replaced withanother non-illustrated second garment component / brassiere strap 14 with its own second component coupling formation 24 which is adapted to couple with the first component coupling formation 26 remaining on the first garment component / brassiere chest band 16.

[0035] The embodiment garment fastener 10 allows women the freedom to express personal style without sacrificing comfort or health. Traditional brassieres come with rigid, non-customisable straps, often forcing women to choose between supportive, thicker brassiere straps or more delicate brassiere straps that fit under thinner tops or dresses. Fuller-bust women are often unable to wear outfits they would like to as their brassieres are incompatible with their wardrobe. For example, if a woman wears a top or a shirt with thinner brassiere straps, she may feel restricted, forced to choose between comfort and style. The embodiment garment fastener 10 facilitates interchangeability between different brassiere straps by allowing a user to switch between thicker brassiere straps for support and thinner brassiere straps for fashion choices. The brassiere can now effectively be adapted to suit the wearer’s outfit, whether she is wearing a sleeveless top, a formal dress, or a casual tee shirt.

[0036] The embodiment garment fastener 10 also seeks to address problems arising from wearing incorrect brassiere sizes. For fuller-busted women, wearing an incorrect brassiere size can lead to posture problems, shoulder pain and skin indentations from poorly designed brassiere straps. These health problems can accumulate over time, contributing to neck, shoulder and back pain and may in severe cases even result in spinal misalignment due to improper support.

[0037] The embodiment garment fastener 10 provides that women can interchange their brassiere straps based on their health needs. A woman with softer skin due to age can swap out her regular brassiere straps for foam straps to provide a gentler and more comfortable fit. If thicker straps are required for better support or due to a shorter torso, the straps can be adjusted to ensure they do not cause pain or dig into the skin. The embodiment garment fastener 10 further allows for rigid brassiere straps that can improve posture to deter hunching or slouching often caused by the weight of the bust. A user may also criss-cross the brassiere straps at the back for added support and versatility. The embodiment garment fastener 10 facilitates a combination of fashion with functionality. It not only serves a physical purpose but also allows a user to express her individuality. With the option to mix and match different straps and colours, the embodiment garment fastener 10 offers enhanced customisation options. Whether for medical reasons, versatility, personal style, or a better fit, the embodiment garment fastener 10 offers women the freedom to alter a brassiere to meet their aesthetic and practical needs.

[0038] It is envisaged that the garment fastener 10 can be employed with posture-checking straps, medical-grade support straps, and customised colours to match current fashion trends.

[0039] The first component attachment formation 20 includes a first component hoop 28 adapted to hold a portion of the first garment component / brassiere chest band 16. During production of the first garment component / brassiere chest band 16, a portion of the first garment component / brassiere chest band 16 will be passed through an opening 30 formed by the first component hoop 28 and folded back on itself. Hereafter the folded portion of the first garment component / brassiere chest band 16 is secured with stitching so that the first component attachment body 18 is attached to the first garment component / brassiere chest band 16.

[0040] The second component attachment body 22 includes a second component attachment formation 32 adapted to hold a portion of the second garment component / brassiere strap 14. In this embodiment the second component attachment formation 32 includes a second component hoop 34 adapted to hold a portion of the second garment component / brassiere strap 14. During production of the second garment component / brassiere strap 14, a portion of the second garment component / brassiere strap 14 is passed through an opening 36 formed by the second component hoop 34 and folded back on itself. Hereafter the folded portion of the second garment component / brassiere strap 14 is secured with stitching so that the second component attachment body 22 is attached to the second garment component / brassiere strap 14.

[0041] In this embodiment the second component coupling formation 24 is connected to the second component hoop 34.

[0042] The second component coupling formation 24 includes a neck member 38 which longitudinally extends between a second component hoop end 40 and a spindle end 42. The neck member 38 is secured to the second component hoop 34 at the second component hoop end 40.

[0043] The second component coupling formation 24 further includes a transverse spindle member 44 secured at the spindle end 42 of the neck member 38. The first component coupling formation 26 includes a spindle slot 46 which is operatively adapted to slidably receive the spindle member 44 of the second component coupling formation 24. The first component coupling formation 26 includes a neck recess 48 operatively adapted to hold the neck member 38 of the second component coupling formation 24, in this embodiment in a friction fit. The first component coupling formation 26 includes a spindle housing 50 operatively adapted to hold ahousing end portion 52 of the spindle member 44 when the spindle member 44 is located in the spindle slot 46 and slid there along.

[0044] The first component coupling formation 26 defines a spindle slot entry 54 whereby the spindle member 44 is slidably introduced into the spindle slot 46. The spindle housing 50, in turn, defines a spindle recess 56 adapted to hold the housing end portion 52 of the spindle member 44. To secure the second garment component / brassiere strap 14 to the first garment component / brassiere chest band 16, the neck member 38 is located proximate the neck recess 48. Then, by rotating the spindle member 44 about a spindle longitudinal axis 55 the neck 38 is located in and held in a friction fit within the neck recess 48. This is achieved by a user applying force on the second component hoop 34, shown in Figure 6, to rotate the spindle member 44 within the spindle slot 46. To facilitate such rotation the housing end portion 52 of the spindle member 44 is adapted to rotate within the spindle recess 56 of spindle housing 50.

[0045] As shown in Figure 7, the garment fastener can be provided in a range of embodiments 60.1, 60.2, 60.3, corresponding to different brassiere strap widths, for example 13 mm, 17 mm, and 21 mm. Each embodiment garment fastener 60.1, 60.2, 60.3 includes a second component attachment body 62.1, 62.2, 62.3 and a first component attachment body 64.1, 64.2, 64.3 of matching proportions as described above. These width variations are designed to offer a spectrum of support options depending on user preference and anatomy, wherein thicker brassiere straps provide enhanced load distribution for fuller busts, while thinner brassiere straps provide a more discreet aesthetic for lighter garments.

[0046] The second component attachment body 62.1, 62.2, 62.3 and the first component attachment body 64.1, 64.2, 64.3 are configured such that each second component attachment body 22 is interchangeably mateable with each first component attachment body regardless of respective width. This configuration provides for bi-directional compatibility, meaning that a narrower second (strap) component attachment body 22 can be coupled to a wider first component attachment body 20, and a wider second (strap) component attachment body 22 can likewise be coupled to a narrower first component attachment body 20, thereby achieving interchangeability across all size variants. This arrangement allows a user to freely select and interchange straps of different widths, materials, and functions without limitation or need for adapters, facilitating flexibility of support and style within a single brassiere system.

[0047] The embodiment garment fastener is produced from a recycled zinc alloy which has been powder coated to provide strength and durability. It will of course be appreciated that a range of materials could be employed to produce the garment fastener.

[0048] In further non-illustrated embodiments, the garment fastener is incorporated into activewear garments, such as sports bras, posture-support tops, or hybrid performance apparel. The garment fastener retains the same internal coupling geometry as described above comprising a neck member, spindle member, spindle slot, spindle housing, and neck recess. In these embodiments the garment fastener is produced from suitable materials adapted to resist perspiration, heat, and repeated mechanical stress.

[0049] In one embodiment, the garment fastener is positioned at the shoulder strap junctions of a sports bra or active top. The first component attachment body is sewn or welded to the front or rear panel of the garment, and the second (strap) component attachment body is fixed to the removable shoulder strap. This permits the wearer to interchange straps of different width, elasticity, or tension characteristics according to the level of activity. For example:• a reinforced strap for high-impact training,• a ventilated or mesh strap for yoga or recovery, or• a posture-assisting strap incorporating stiffer or directional elastic.

[0050] The garment fastener will preferably maintain coupling under repeated dynamic loading yet allows rapid manual release by pivoting the second component (strap) attachment body relative to the first component attachment body. The garment fastener may be over-moulded in a sweat-resistant elastomer or coated with antimicrobial finish to avoid irritation during extended wear.

[0051] In another non-illustrated embodiment, the garment fastener connects a front body panel to a back band of a garment at one or both lateral sides of the torso. This arrangement allows the wearer to don or remove the garment without overhead movement and keeps the closure accessible and flush against the ribcage. The above discussed attachment internal coupling assembly mechanism remains unchanged and only the external housing contour and orientation are adapted for low-profile comfort.

[0052] When positioned at the side, the garment fastener serves as the structural bridge between front and rear support panels, maintaining even circumferential tension around the body. This placement preserves the biomechanical principle that approximately 85 % of bust support derivesfrom the back band rather than the shoulder straps. The side garment fastener, therefore, enables secure, adjustable back-band anchoring while leaving the shoulders free of excess load.

[0053] The garment fastener may also be integrated into modular back-band systems of varying width or rigidity, permitting the same garment to be re-configured for high-impact, low-impact, or recovery modes. The garment fastener is contoured to match the body’s lateral curve and may include soft-touch over-moulding or fabric covering for comfort during side flexion. Materials for this embodiment garment fastener are selected for resistance to perspiration, detergents, and laundering heat, including POM, glass-reinforced nylon, PEEK, or coated titanium.

[0054] In further non-illustrated embodiments, the garment fastener is employed in medical, post-surgical, maternity, or nursing garments designed to accommodate changes in body size, sensitivity, and mobility. The embodiment garment fastener retains the same internal coupling geometry as previously described, comprising the neck member, spindle member, spindle slot, spindle housing, and neck recess while the orientation, external contour, and materials that are suitable for medical-grade comfort and accessibility.

[0055] Following breast surgery or limited-mobility conditions, many users cannot lift or rotate the arms to don overhead garments. In such cases the garment fastener is positioned along one or both lateral sides or front panels of the garment to permit full opening and front- or side-closure without arm elevation. The garment fastener connects a front support panel to a rear band or side panel, providing secure circumferential support while remaining reachable by the wearer or a caregiver.

[0056] In maternity or nursing applications, the garment fastener may be located at the cup-apex region to allow single-hand release and re-attachment for breastfeeding. The same garment fastener can be used to interchange strap types of differing width, elasticity, or softness to accommodate daily fluctuations in breast size and skin sensitivity during pregnancy and lactation.

[0057] In medical and maternity applications of the embodiment garment fastener includes soft-touch, hypoallergenic surfaces and rounded edges to prevent irritation of surgical sites or sensitive tissue. Preferred materials include medical-grade PEEK, PC-ISO, titanium, or stainless 316L, optionally over-moulded with silicone, TPU, or parylene coatings for comfort and hygiene. The materials are chosen to enable the garment fastener to be autoclavable or capable of repeated hospital laundering.

[0058] For postural support garments, the garment fastener may link back-band panels at each lateral side, distributing load evenly around the torso of a wearer rather than through the shoulders. This configuration maintains the biomechanical principle that approximately 85 % of bust support is provided by the band while the straps serve primarily for balance.

[0059] Optional features include:• a soft-closure detent calibrated for gentle release forces (5-10 N) suitable for limited hand strength;• a colour-change or tactile indicator confirming full engagement;• antimicrobial or anti-biofilm coatings; and• modular strap or band components that can be replaced individually to extend garment life.

[0060] In a further non-illustrated embodiment, the garment fastener is employed in swimwear articles, such as bikini tops, one-piece suits, tankinis, or hybrid athletic swim garments. The embodiment garment fastener allows straps of different widths, materials, rigidity levels, and configurations to be interchanged on a single swimwear base without sewing, adhesives, or permanent hardware.

[0061] In swimwear applications, the internal locking mechanism of the garment fastener comprising a neck member, spindle member, spindle slot, spindle housing, and neck recess is maintained with common dimensions to enable interchangeability across strap widths and garment bases. The external contours of the garment fastener may differ between models for aesthetic, ergonomic, or hydrodynamic purposes and may include smooth, faceted, or profile-reduced forms, decorative bezels, or soft-touch over-mould sleeves, while preserving the internal coupling geometry.

[0062] Traditional swimwear relies on small plastic rings or stitched junctions that are non-replaceable, non-adjustable, and prone to failure through exposure to ultraviolet radiation, salt, heat, and chlorine. Such components also restrict users to a single strap geometry. The embodiment garment fastener provides a hydrodynamic, low-profile assembly that maintains secure coupling under water load yet may be detached intentionally by hand through a defined pivot motion.

[0063] The embodiment garment fastener comprises a first component attachment body fixed to the apex or rear band of the swim garment, and a second component (strap) attachment bodyaffixed to the removable strap. Each garment fastener is formed from a marine-grade, UV-stabilised polymer or titanium alloy, presenting smooth radii and a skin-compatible finish. The embodiment second component coupling formation includes a neck member and a transverse spindle member adapted to pivot into a complementary spindle slot and spindle housing of the embodiment first component coupling formation. A micro-detent and elastomeric insert maintain frictional engagement when submerged, resisting hydrostatic pressure and vibration

[0064] The geometry of the clasp housing is configured to disperse water flow and avoid turbulence; edges are curved to prevent snagging on fabric, skin, or hair. The outer surface of at least one embodiment includes a hydrophobic nanocoating to reduce drag and resist biofilm accumulation. Optional laser-etched micro-channels along the housing promote rapid drying after immersion.

[0065] The garment fastener enables bi-directional interchangeability of straps of varying width without adapters. Wider straps can connect to narrower bases and vice versa, allowing one swimsuit to be reconfigured for sport, leisure, or aesthetic wear. The user may therefore alternate between:• a supportive strap of thick, reinforced elastic for active swimming or surfing,• a thin decorative strap for tanning or resort use, or• a soft foam strap for post-sun skin recovery or sensitive skin conditions.

[0066] In further non-illustrated embodiments, the garment fastener includes a thermo-responsive elastomeric seal that expands slightly under heat to maintain tight coupling in warm environments and relaxes for easy release in cooler conditions.

[0067] The garment fastener may be integrated beneath a reversible or double-faced fabric channel, enabling aesthetic concealment on luxury designs or, conversely, left externally visible as a branded decorative feature.

[0068] In a yet a further embodiment the garment fastener is employed in fashion garments including but not limited to dresses, blouses, shirts, corsetry, bodysuits, jumpsuits and convertible outerwear. The garment fastener retains the same internal coupling geometry as described above comprising a neck member, spindle member, spindle slot, spindle housing and neck recess while the external contours, scale and materials of the garment fastener may vary to satisfy aesthetic and stylistic requirements.

[0069] The garment fastener can function as a modular connector between garment panels or removable accessories such as straps, sleeves, decorative harness elements or interchangeable design components. The garment fastener further allows one garment body to support multiple styling configurations without sewing, adhesives, or permanent hardware. Example applications include:• interchangeable shoulder or back straps on a dress;• convertible halter-, cross-, or off-shoulder configurations;• detachable sleeve or collar pieces on blouses or outerwear; and• removable bodice-to-waistband or decorative panel connections for corsetry and evening wear.

[0070] While the operating principles of the first and second coupling formation of the embodiment garment remain unchanged to facilitate interoperability across sizes and categories, the outer contour of the garment fastener may assume alternate shapes — oval, circular, rectangular, faceted, or sculpted contours — and be formed from metals, coated polymers, composites, or textile-covered substrates. Such variations of the garment fastener alter the visual and tactile character thereof without changing its internal operation or interchangeability with other garment fasteners described above.

[0071] Preferred materials for fashion embodiments of the garment fastener include aluminium, brass, titanium, stainless steel, coated zinc alloys, engineering-grade polymers, or recycled composites, optionally plated, anodised, or over-moulded with fabric, leather, or elastomeric skins. Decorative finishes may include embossing, engraving, enamelling, gem-set or logo detailing, and colour or surface treatments consistent with the garment’s aesthetic.

[0072] Fashion embodiments of the garment fastener provide designers and consumers with a convertible architecture that supports garment personalisation, repair, and longevity. The garment fastener facilitates detachable or replaceable elements to be sold separately as styling kits, thereby extending garment lifespan and reducing material waste. All such versions operate using the same mechanical engagement of the spindle member within the spindle slot and housing recess to provide a secure yet releasable connection.

[0073] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.KEY TO REFERENCE NUMERALS IN DRAWINGSGarment fastenerBrassiereSecond garment component / brassiere strap First garment component / brassiere chest band First component attachment bodyFirst component attachment formation Second component attachment bodySecond component coupling formationFirst component coupling formationFirst component hoopOpeningSecond component attachment formation Second component hoopOpeningNeck memberSecond component hoop endSpindle endSpindle memberSpindle slotNeck recessSpindle housingHousing end portionSpindle slot entrySpindle longitudinal axisSpindle recess2., 60.3 Garment fastener2, 62.3 Second component attachment body 2, 64.3 First component attachment body

Claims

CLAIMS1. A garment fastener for fastening a second garment component to a first garment component, the garment fastener includinga first component coupling formation operatively associated with the first garment component; anda second component coupling formation operatively associated with the second garment component, the second component coupling formation adapted for detachable coupling with the first component coupling formation to fasten the second garment component to the first garment component,wherein the second component coupling formation includes a longitudinally extending neck member and a transverse spindle member secured to the neck member, andwherein the first component coupling formation includes (i) a spindle slot operatively adapted to slidably receive the spindle member of the second component coupling formation, and (ii) a neck recess operatively adapted to hold the neck member of the second component coupling formation to secure the first component coupling formation to the second component coupling formation.

2. A garment fastener according to claim 1, wherein the neck member is adapted to be held within the neck recess by way of a friction fit.

3. A garment fastener according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the neck member is located within the neck recess by rotating the spindle member about a spindle longitudinal axis.

4. A garment fastener according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first component coupling formation includes a spindle housing operatively adapted to hold a housing end portion of the spindle member when the spindle member is located in the spindle slot.

5. A garment fastener according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first component coupling formation defines a spindle slot entry whereby the spindle member is slidably introduced into the spindle slot.

6. A garment fastener according to claim 5, wherein the spindle housing defines a spindle recess adapted to hold the housing end portion of the spindle member.

7. A garment fastener according to claim 6, wherein the neck member is located in the neck recess by pivoting the spindle member within the spindle slot, the housing end portion of the spindle member being adapted to rotate within the spindle housing.

8. A garment fastener according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first component coupling formation is provided on a first component attachment body.

9. A garment fastener according to claim 8, wherein the first component attachment body includes a first component hoop adapted to hold a portion of the first garment component.

10. A garment fastener according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second component coupling formation is provided on a second component attachment body.

11. A garment fastener according to claim 9, wherein the second component attachment body includes a second component hoop adapted to hold a portion of the second garment component.

12. A garment fastener according to claim 9, wherein the neck member longitudinally extends between a second component hoop end and a spindle end, the neck member being secured to the second component hoop at the second component hoop end.

13. A garment fastener according to claim 12, wherein the spindle member is secured to the spindle end of the neck member.

14. A garment fastener according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first garment component is a brassiere chest band and the second garment component is a brassiere strap.

15. A garment fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the first garment component is an activewear garment and the second garment component is a shoulder strap.

16. A garment fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the first garment component is an item of swimwear and the second garment component is a shoulder strap.

17. A garment fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the first garment component is an item of clothing and the second garment component is selected from a shoulder strap, back strap, collar piece, decorative panel and sleeve.

18. A garment faster according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the first garment component is selected from a medical garment, post-surgical garment, maternity garment and nursing garment.

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