Silicone holder fastener, silicone holding unit, garment equipped therewith, manufacturing method, and use

Abstract

The invention relates to a silicone holder fastener (10) for connecting textiles to one another, in particular at least two garments (1, 2) or two sections of the same garment, wherein the silicone holder fastener (10) is made of a flexible material, wherein the silicone holder fastener (10) comprises at least one coupling (13) that is at least interlocking, wherein the silicone holder fastener (10) comprises a fastening portion (15) provided in particular for attachment on the side of one of the garments, wherein at least the coupling (13) that is at least interlocking is provided or formed at least substantially from a silicone-like or silicone-based material.

Description

[0001] FMM0925PTWO Silicone Holder 1 / 34 Nov 2025

[0002] W O patent application

[0003] Silicone holder fastener, silicone holding unit, garment equipped with it, as well as manufacturing process and use

[0004] TECHNICAL AREA

[0005] The present invention relates to a silicone fastener for coupling textiles, in particular at least two articles of clothing, especially stockings and bras, wherein the silicone fastener has at least one positive-locking coupling, and wherein the silicone fastener has a fastening section, in particular for attachment to one of the articles of clothing, for example, a fastening section for a garment component (e.g., a textile band) that is intended to act as a retaining element between the articles of clothing to be coupled. The present invention further relates to a silicone retaining unit equipped with such a silicone fastener. The present invention also relates to an article of clothing equipped with such a silicone fastener.Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a method for producing at least one silicone fastener for coupling textiles, in particular at least two garments, especially for garments made of relatively thin fabric that are worn directly on the body or on the skin. Finally, the present invention also relates to the use of a silicone fastener for forming at least a positive-locking coupling for joining textiles, in particular at least two garments. In particular, the invention relates to devices and methods according to the preamble of the respective independent claim.

[0006] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Clothing fasteners and garment holders are advantageous, if not indispensable, in many situations and for various types of clothing. This is especially true for stocking and bra fasteners. When fastening or connecting garments worn on the body, it's crucial to find a good compromise between ease of use and comfort. On the one hand, manually opening or closing the designated fasteners often needs to be possible blindly, i.e., without visual contact, and especially with one hand by the wearer. On the other hand, even prolonged contact with the body must not result in any ergonomically detrimental effects on comfort. An optimal solution in this regard is, for example,The coupling of stockings and bras also attracted great interest, especially since this coupling, with a comparatively long distance and possibly also comparatively large forces and possibly also in the area of ​​strong / large body movement, can potentially lead to ergonomically disadvantageous effects caused by unfavorable FMM0925PTWO silicone holders 2 / 34 Nov. 2025.

[0008] W O patent application

[0009] The design of the fasteners connecting the garments leads to (compare the fundamentally different body posture when sitting and standing, especially in the abdominal area, in particular the tendency towards a rather compressed abdominal area when sitting in a bent posture, e.g., when working in an office).

[0010] According to the state of the art, clamp or clip connections are typically used to fasten one garment to another. For example, publication DE 20 2012 001 715 Ul describes a clamp-like fastening for bras. Publication US 2011 / 0 191 944 Al also proposes such clamp clips for coupling garments, where one part is inserted and slid into another. However, such fastening devices may be disadvantageous in terms of wearing comfort and / or versatility, and / or may require optimization in terms of ease of use.Furthermore, publication US 2015 / 0 150 312 A1 can be mentioned, which describes a clamping device for an outer garment and its use, in particular, in the context of temporarily holding up a left or right side of the outer garment in the chest area.

[0011] In contrast, there is interest in improving the design of fasteners or holders for connecting textiles, particularly garments, especially those made of relatively thin fabric, and particularly garments worn directly against the skin. Based on the current state of the art, there is therefore a need for holders or fasteners that are as flexible and versatile as possible. Finally, there is also interest in a particularly ergonomic design, especially with regard to wearing comfort and body contact.

[0012] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The objective is to provide advantageously designed fastening devices for connecting garments, particularly for holding a stocking to a bra, thereby ensuring a particularly favorable compromise between handling, ergonomics, comfort, and ease of use. It is also the objective to design such fastening devices in such a way that their use is easily possible even in everyday life while worn on the body. Furthermore, it is the objective to design such fastening devices in such a way that they can be advantageously produced in very large quantities. FMM0925PTWO Silicone holder 3 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0014] W O patent application

[0015] This problem is solved by a silicone retainer closure according to claim 1, by a silicone retaining unit, and by a garment according to the respective dependent claim, by a method according to the dependent method claims, and by uses according to the dependent use claim, wherein two independent claims are claimed with respect to the silicone retainer closure and the silicone retaining unit. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are explained in the respective dependent claims. The features of the exemplary embodiments described below can be combined with one another unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0016] A silicone fastener is provided for coupling textiles, in particular at least two garments, especially stockings and bras (particularly with regard to the coupling required to hold one of the garments together, specifically with regard to holding the stocking), or for coupling two sections of the same garment together, wherein the silicone fastener is designed from a flexible material, in particular at least the load-bearing sections of the silicone fastener, wherein the silicone fastener has at least one at least positive-locking coupling, and wherein the silicone fastener has a fastening section provided in particular for attachment by one of the garments, for example a fastening section for a garment component that is intended to act as a retaining element between the garments to be coupled or between coupling partners of the coupling (e.g.for attaching a band made of textile material);.

[0017] According to the invention, it is proposed that at least the positive-locking coupling is provided or formed at least substantially by a silicone-like or silicone-based material, wherein the positive-locking coupling is designed for coupling by enclosing a section of fabric from one of the textiles or garments. This provides an advantageous compromise, particularly with regard to wearing comfort, ease of use, handling, ergonomics, variability, a wide range of applications, and flexible usability. Advantageously, the fabric section is encased by means of both coupling partners / coupling parts of the closure.

[0018] The closure described here allows the wearer to move freely and without restriction, minimizing the risk of the garment slipping. For example, this closure can be particularly useful for formal wear, dancing, or other forms of athletic activity, offering maximum comfort and secure hold. (FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 4 / 34 Nov. 2025)

[0019] According to the patent application, the fastener itself can / may move relative to the body; the holding / stabilizing function remains largely unaffected. Thanks to the flexible yet shape-retaining material, the fastener conforms to the body's surface and remains virtually invisible from the outside. The material described here also offers advantages in terms of thermal insulation. Finally, it is easily washable, including machine washing.

[0020] The investigations that led to the present invention have shown that the compliant, i.e., comparatively soft, material described here provides advantageous clamping and friction properties. This allows one coupling partner (in particular, a base resting against the body) to be designed as a kind of button head, around which an advantageously equally soft ring with good friction / adhesion properties can be placed. Simultaneously, a section of relatively thin (stocking) fabric from one of the garments to be coupled can be enclosed between the button and the ring. In other words, neither a predefined position of the coupling nor any material or other manufacturing measure on the garment is required to achieve the coupling method described here.This makes the fastener described here universally applicable and relatively easy to adapt to different types of garments, fabrics, or fabric thicknesses. The geometric design of the coupling partners can also be adapted / varied to specific applications, or, for example, modified so that a type of button, which secures the fabric section, is pressed into a designated opening or receptacle and clamped there.

[0021] Thus, the present invention also relates to a fastener which makes it possible to couple two garments together by binding fabric, without the need for any eyelet, loop, or similar fastening device on the first or second garment to be coupled. Based on the present disclosure, the person skilled in the art understands that the application described here, with reference to the coupling of two garments that are otherwise worn separately, is merely exemplary, namely that the coupling according to the invention, or the binding of a fabric section thereby achieved, can also be carried out on one and the same garment, e.g., to tighten the garment around the body circumference, for example, around the hips or the chest. In this respect as well, the subject matter of the claims listed below is not to be understood as limiting.FMM0925PTWO Silicone Holder 5 / 34 Nov 2025.

[0022] W O patent application

[0023] A "compliant material" is understood to be, in particular, a (rubber-)elastic, dimensionally stable material that is inherently so dimensionally stable (i.e., neither flowing nor pasty) that it returns to its original shape as soon as a sufficiently large external force (excluding gravitational forces) is removed. In other words, the compliant material described here is elastic and, at the same time, largely dimensionally stable, thus returning to its intended geometry as soon as an external, especially manual, force is no longer applied. For example, elastomers with rubber-like properties are referred to here as "compliant material."

[0024] The term "silicone-like or silicone-based material" refers specifically to a material from the group of silicone rubbers and silicone elastomers, but also to any dimensionally stable, flexible material with silicone-like properties, including synthetic polymers in general. In this respect, the term silicone is generic but not to be understood as restrictive from a material-technical perspective. Therefore, whenever the present disclosure refers to silicone (material), this is to be understood synonymously as a reference to correspondingly elastic materials that are compatible with skin / body contact and offer comparatively good wearing comfort without compromising the secure closure functionality.Advantageously, the silicone-like or silicone-based material described herein comprises at least one reinforcing substance or filler by means of which the mechanical properties of the coupling partners, in particular also of the button described herein, can be predefined. Based on the present disclosure, a person skilled in the art can find or further develop silicone-like or silicone-based materials for the material-technical optimization of the fastener described herein, particularly with regard to different fabric thicknesses of the garments to be coupled.

[0025] "Edging" refers specifically to the clamping action when wrapping / enclosing the first coupling partner (especially the base or button) with the desired fabric section of one of the garments, combined with slipping or wrapping the second coupling partner around the first coupling partner (button, head), thereby clamping or holding the fabric section. In other words, "binding" refers specifically to slipping the corresponding coupling section over the fabric section to be held and placing the coupling ring over the coupling section, thereby tensioning, clamping, and / or holding the fabric section in a predefined relative position to the FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 6 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0026] W O patent application

[0027] Coupling (and when coupling two articles of clothing together, also relative to the other article of clothing).

[0028] A coupling is to be understood as "at least form-fit" if the coupling principle includes at least form-fit and optionally also frictional engagement. The degree to which the force components acting during coupling or holding are distributed between the form-fit and frictional engagement principles may also depend on the application-specific elasticity of the compliant material. The coupling according to the invention is described as "at least form-fit" because it has been recognized that form-fit facilitates the clamping and enclosing of the material section. Preferably, the at least form-fit coupling is designed as a form-fit and frictional coupling, or preferably, a frictional / frictional connection is also established in the at least form-fit coupling as soon as the corresponding material section is enclosed by the geometrically designed contours of the coupling.

[0029] Insofar as the present disclosure refers to stockings, tights or the fabric used for them, this is to be understood as a synonymous generic reference to comparable articles of clothing such as so-called "shapeware" in general, i.e. also a reference to, for example, leggings, cycling shorts or the like.

[0030] The term "holder closure" refers specifically to the retaining coupling described here, which consists of at least two coupling components that engage in a form-fitting manner; that is, the holder itself, intended for fixing the fabric to be enclosed. The term "closure" indicates the at least form-fitting coupling characteristic. The reference to silicone materials found here should be understood in this context as a general reference to a flexible, dimensionally stable material, especially one with silicone-like, non-paste-like properties.

[0031] The term "holding unit" refers in particular to the holding coupling described here in combination with a strap or similar holding / fastening means for holding the holder closure, especially in a predefinable height position relative to a back band of a bra.

[0032] In other words, the present invention relates to a holder / fastener (textile holder) or a holding unit for fixing and stabilizing, in particular, pantyhose (preventing slippage) by connecting / coupling them with a bra, wherein the holding unit is attached / is attached or can be attached to a bra worn on the body, in particular by means of FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 7 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0033] A patent application exists for a garment component, such as a sewn-on textile band, that wraps around the bra in the area under the wearer's arm and is fixed to the pantyhose, particularly by means of a ring, preferably a silicone ring, which couples with a base of the retaining unit that rests against the body and thereby encloses or clamps the garment to be held. The retainer / fastener can be used flexibly for any type of bra and / or any type of pantyhose. Advantageously, the fastener has an integral, one-piece silicone base, preferably with a fabric application on the back (textile underside or layer on the underside, particularly to optimize wearing comfort), wherein at least a positive-locking coupling is formed at the base. The base is, for example,The tights are designed as a type of button or ball head, particularly in combination with a pocket with a slit or cutout. The tights are preferably coupled to the base by means of a silicone ring. The silicone ring is attached to a band (garment component) made preferably of textile material (for example, the band is wrapped around the ring), and the band is also attached to the base (for example, the band is wrapped around the base) so that a loop can be formed by means of the band when the ring is coupled to the base. The band is preferably designed to be length-adjustable (and correspondingly height-adjustable when worn on the body), in particular by providing a self-locking guide (e.g., a plastic carrier adjustment clip), and thus different lengths between the garments to be coupled can be easily predefined.Other garments (not including bras and / or pantyhose) can also be coupled using such an inventive fastener / holder, with optimized wearing comfort, especially with transparent material.

[0034] It should be understood that the second coupling component described here, which is preferably designed as a ring, does not necessarily have to be made of a particularly flexible material, but can also be comparatively rigid or at least stiffer than the first coupling component. In this respect, the term "at least a positive-locking coupling" should also be understood to mean that at least one of the coupling partners (not necessarily both), in particular the coupling partner in contact with the body, is designed in such a way as to ensure a positive fit. For ergonomic reasons, the coupling partner in contact with the body tends to be designed to be softer than the second coupling partner.Nevertheless, for a particularly effective and secure coupling, it can be advantageous if the two coupling partners have at least approximately the same material properties and, when used on the body, therefore mold themselves in at least approximately the same way. FMM0925PTWO Silicone holder 8 / 34 Nov. 2025.

[0035] W O patent application or deform, so that the edging of the fabric section can be carried out in a particularly effective, safe and ergonomic way.

[0036] It is understood that the coupling-Z-connection technology described here is primarily designed for relatively thin fabrics, especially hosiery fabrics, but can also be implemented for so-called "shapewear," i.e., close-fitting garments such as leggings, cycling shorts, or the like. Based on the present disclosure, a person skilled in the art can design or dimension the coupling partners in such a way that either an advantageous range of fabric thicknesses can be coupled and / or different closures or fasteners can be used for different types or thicknesses of fabric.

[0037] Coupling partners (sizes) are provided. For example, the parameters of the knob height and / or the ring cross-sectional diameter are varied.

[0038] Personalized terms, unless explicitly formulated in the neuter form, may refer to all genders within the context of this disclosure. References to users are primarily intended to refer to female individuals / wearers of the garments described herein. The same applies to the human body, at least insofar as stockings and bras are mentioned. Any foreign language terms or abbreviations used here are standard industry terms and are familiar to those skilled in the art. Any synonymous German terms may be listed here in parentheses for the sake of completeness, or vice versa, for example, regarding the term "ShapeWare" (close-fitting clothing).

[0039] Based on the present disclosure, a person skilled in the art will recognize that the fastener described herein can also be used for joining two pieces of fabric from virtually any textile, e.g., in the household (curtains, tablecloths, or the like). In this respect as well, the reference in the claims to articles of clothing or certain combinations of articles of clothing is to be understood merely as an example, for the purpose of illustrating preferred, particularly advantageous uses, especially those in which wearing comfort is also of particular importance.

[0040] Based on the present disclosure, the person skilled in the art also recognizes that the inventive concept is primarily based on advances in material technology, making it possible to wear the fastener directly on the body surface, particularly under a stocking. In contrast to previously common fasteners made of metallic materials, FMM0925PTWO silicone holders 9 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0041] The patent application in W O offers flexibility, ease of handling, and ergonomic advantages. However, those skilled in the art recognize that, depending on the design of the coupling and its application area or location on the body, at least one of the coupling partners may be made of a comparatively hard material, but advantageously, it may be made of a material that can be shaped by injection molding or thermal pressing. Even though the invention also aims to eliminate the need for the metallic materials used in the prior art for the closure, those skilled in the art may, based on the present disclosure, also devise embodiments or application areas in which at least one of the coupling partners is made of metallic material. The present disclosure suggests, for example, the following three embodiments.

[0042] For example, according to a first variant, the coupling partners of the at least positive-locking coupling enclose the fabric section by placing a ring around a mushroom-shaped button or head, wherein the mushroom-shaped button is advantageously not rotationally symmetrical or not circular.

[0043] For example, according to a second variant, the coupling partners of the at least positive-locking coupling enclose the fabric section by pressing a button or head into a corresponding negative mold. Advantageously, at least one of the coupling partners of such a coupling consists of a relatively harder, more dimensionally stable material.

[0044] For example, according to a third variant, the coupling partners of the at least positive-locking coupling enclose the fabric section by inserting a mushroom-shaped button, preferably on both sides, into a geometrically corresponding elongated slot after the head of the mushroom-shaped button, which encloses the fabric section, has been pushed through a geometrically shaped opening in the elongated slot. Advantageously, at least one of the coupling partners, preferably both coupling partners, of such a coupling consists of a comparatively hard, dimensionally stable material.

[0045] It can therefore be understood that variants of the at least positive-locking coupling can also be based on a concept in which materials of different hardnesses are used, for example, a comparatively inelastic hard material for one / the first coupling partner and a comparatively soft elastic material for one / the second coupling partner, or vice versa. FMM0925PTWO Silicone holder 10 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0046] W O patent application

[0047] According to one embodiment, the silicone retainer fastener, and thus also the at least positive-locking coupling, is formed from two components: a base with a button and a ring that can be coupled to it in a positive-locking manner. The silicone retainer fastener is designed to hold, for example, a garment component, particularly a textile band, between these two components. Specifically, the button of the base is enclosed by the fabric section, and the fabric section is enclosed by the coupled ring. This facilitates a wide range of applications, largely independent of the attachment point or the type of garment or fabric. A button-like extension, button, head, or the like can be provided on the base, particularly in an integral, one-piece design, around which the fabric section can be placed.It is understood that the holding effect can also be applied independently of a garment, especially when stretching a section of fabric from the same garment.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the at least positive-locking coupling comprises a ring, preferably a silicone ring, particularly in the configuration of a second coupling partner, wherein the ring preferably has a cross-sectional diameter of less than 2 mm, more preferably less than 1.5 mm. This facilitates coupling, especially blind coupling without line of sight and largely without the need for a specific spatial orientation of the coupling partners, and also without significant risk of pinching, particularly compared to previously known clamps or clips.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the at least positive-locking coupling comprises a non-circular knob (e.g., oval or racetrack-shaped), particularly in the configuration of one or more coupling partners, and especially in an integral, one-piece configuration at the base of the silicone holder closure, particularly with a knob extension in a first spatial direction at least 30% greater than a knob extension in a second spatial direction. This also facilitates an easy-to-use yet secure positive-locking coupling. Preferably, the first spatial direction is chosen to be transverse to the direction of the tensile force, so that the positive-locking coupling effect can be maximized.

[0050] It has been shown that the button shape, while not circular but rounded (e.g., racetrack or oval), is also advantageous with regard to relative movement of the fastener relative to the body, particularly with regard to avoiding painful pressure or pinching points on the body; the holding / stabilizing function remains largely unaffected by such relative movement, especially since the holding function is multidimensional in FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 11 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0051] W O patent application ensures that the closure can be secured in several spatial directions and that, thanks to the base, it remains relatively stable and aligned on the body surface, especially when used on pantyhose, it also remains covered under the pantyhose and therefore cannot easily wedge itself or tip over or be impaired in any other way in its function.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the cross-sectional diameter of the ring (coupling partner) is larger than the raised section of the knob (coupling partner) relative to the base, so that the ring must be slightly stretched before coupling can occur. In other words, in the coupled state, a slight frictional connection exists, similar to a self-locking mechanism of the relatively thicker ring section in the groove on / under the knob, which is formed for this purpose by the raised section.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the silicone fastener has a base with a slot-like guide (slot, cutout, opening, or the like) defining the fastening section for attaching a garment part or clothing element, or a fastening component (e.g., a band made of textile material), particularly with the base being made entirely of silicone material. A base designed in this way also offers particular advantages with regard to combining the fastener with a garment part, e.g., a textile band, which is wrapped, for example, around an approximately ventral-dorsal section of a bra (especially laterally on both sides of the body around the respective back band of the bra).

[0054] According to one embodiment, the silicone holder closure has a textile underside, in particular with a textile layer applied to the silicone material, e.g., with at least one fabric layer applied by gluing, laminating, or similar bonding. This can further improve wearing comfort, especially with regard to skin contact, perspiration, friction, and similar conditions, particularly during daily and prolonged wear.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the silicone holder fastener is at least substantially transparent, in particular at least the load-bearing sections of the silicone holder fastener, apart from any textile-lined underside. This also facilitates color-neutral use for garments, even in body areas that are little or hardly covered by fabric, or with at least partially transparent clothing. FMM0925PTWO Silicone Holder 12 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0056] W O patent application

[0057] According to one embodiment, the silicone retainer fastener, in both the uncoupled and coupled states, protrudes from the body by a maximum height of 5 mm when used as intended. This also promotes a particularly ergonomic fit and, not least, allows the fastener to be worn or used in body areas that may only be covered by very thin fabrics or tight-fitting garments.

[0058] For example, one coupling partner, in particular the base, has a base area of ​​approximately 15 mm x 17 mm. A knob projecting upwards from the base preferably has the same dimensions in one of its directions of extension, e.g., the same width (transverse extent y) of approximately 15 mm. Advantageously, the base and knob have at least approximately the same thickness (extension in the vertical direction z), e.g., 2 mm, and are connected to each other, e.g., via a web with a circular, oval, or rectangular cross-section, in particular integrally in one piece.

[0059] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a silicone retaining unit according to the corresponding dependent claim, namely by a silicone retaining unit comprising at least one silicone retaining closure according to the present disclosure and a garment component, preferably a length-adjustable textile band, that acts as a retaining element between the first and second coupling partners of the coupling, in particular between the base / button and the ring of the silicone retaining closure. This results in the aforementioned advantages, especially with regard to a particularly universal, size-independent use, especially also for coupling pantyhose and bras together. The length adjustment allows, for example, an adjustment of the retaining function or holding effect (e.g., the effective holding distance between bra and pantyhose) depending on the body posture, e.g., standing or sitting.

[0060] In one embodiment, the silicone retaining unit consists of two coupling parts of the silicone retaining fastener and a more or less elastic band connected to the coupling parts, e.g., sewn in place. This combination offers elasticity and stability on the one hand, and on the other hand also allows for relatively versatile use, especially for garments such as bras and pantyhose, with the pantyhose fabric preferably forming the section to be bound. For example, the elastic band is between 25 and 30 cm long. The band is looped around at least one of the coupling parts of the fastener, in particular on both sides, both in a loop around a slot in the base (first coupling part) and in a loop around the ring (second coupling part). FMM0925PTWO Silicone retainer 13 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0061] W O patent application

[0062] The garment can, for example, be sewn onto one of the coupling partners, which can optionally be done at least partially by machine or completely manually.

[0063] It is understood that the silicone retaining unit is preferably provided in a pre-sewn configuration, in particular by sewing a preferably elastic and / or length-adjustable band to / around the coupling components made of a compliant, dimensionally stable material, or at least looping it around them. The method of pre-assembling these at least three components forming the silicone retaining unit preferably remains application-specific. Alternatively, the silicone retaining unit can also be designed or provided as a kind of kit or assembly, or as a modular group of parts comprising at least a silicone retainer closure (first and second coupling partners) and a band (prefabricated part, preferably a textile band).

[0064] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a silicone holding unit comprising at least one silicone retaining closure according to the present disclosure and a fitting component acting as a retaining element between the first and second coupling partners of the coupling, in particular between the base and ring of the silicone retaining closure, wherein the first and second coupling partners of the coupling as well as the fitting component are designed as additively manufactured parts, preferably with the entire silicone holding unit in an integral, one-piece additively manufactured design. This also facilitates a highly application-specific design, in particular one that can be individually predefined by each user, e.g., adapted to a very specifically designed textile fabric to be held. One of the fastening sections described here on one of the coupling partners may be unnecessary in an additive, integral, one-piece design.

[0065] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a silicone holding unit comprising two silicone retaining fasteners according to the present disclosure and a garment component, preferably a length-adjustable textile band, that acts as a retaining element between a respective first coupling partner of the coupling of the respective silicone retaining fastener. The silicone holding unit can therefore also have two identical coupling partners (in particular buttons) at two ends of the garment component and, in addition, two further coupling partners (in particular, detached rings). The second coupling partner (ring) can, for example, be used / operated independently of the other components, which can further improve handling and ergonomics. In this way, the (respective) silicone retaining fastener can be used even more flexibly for binding or holding textiles, e.g., also for tops.also for adjusting the circumference of a dress or similar garments. FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 14 / 34 Nov. 2025 is not required.

[0066] The patent application necessarily requires that the garment be folded / wrapped. The fastening concept by binding can remain unchanged, in particular by slipping a button-like part (first coupling partner) over the textile, and the bound textile is advantageously secured with a ring (second coupling partner).

[0067] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a garment with an attached or integrated silicone holding unit according to the present disclosure. This results in the aforementioned advantages, particularly with regard to the standardized, pre-assembled provision of, for example, bras with elastic and / or length-adjustable bands and fastening components designed for coupling with pantyhose.

[0068] It should be understood that the fastener or retaining unit described here is preferably provided separately from the respective garment. Experience has shown that this not only allows for greater flexibility and flatter cost structures within the value chain, but also improves flexibility for users. Furthermore, one of the inherent features of the invention is that the fastener can be easily attached to the (thin) fabric of the garment at any point, particularly by folding the fabric over the button and clamping it in place with the ring. Nevertheless, for standard designs (e.g., traditional or festive clothing), it may be advantageous if, for example, a bra already has a length-adjustable retaining unit that incorporates the fastener described here as standard (sewn on by the manufacturer).

[0069] It is therefore to be understood that the inventive concept allows for different types of application on the human body or in the context of at least one textile or garment, for example, with the garment part folded over an arm or shoulder. While the primarily intended type of application is illustrated here with reference to pantyhose and a bra, where the garment part acting between two coupling partners of the silicone retaining unit is advantageously folded over one of the garments, the silicone retainer closure can also be used without a bra (single or doubled, e.g., in the context of tops, or even without any tops at all), or, for example, without pantyhose. Furthermore, redundancy of individual components of the silicone retainer closure or silicone retaining unit can be provided, e.g.,for improved ergonomics when used on only one textile or garment, or for example, by means of two silicone holder closures FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 15 / 34 Nov. 2025.

[0070] The silicone holding unit shown in the patent application may form a loop, and / or, for example, one of the coupling partners may be detached / loose from the closure or garment part. Based on the present disclosure, a person skilled in the art can design and implement these and further applications, in particular by adapting the design of a garment part, especially with a variable number of first and / or second coupling partners, particularly depending on the application site / region on the body and the components to be coupled, without having to deviate from the concept of the present invention.In particular, the skilled person can implement the concept of edging at least one section of fabric using the coupling partners described here (advantageously in the form of a button and ring) in an application-specific and textile-specific manner, with a variable number of coupling partners and variable design of a garment part acting between identical or pairwise corresponding coupling partners.

[0071] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a method according to the corresponding dependent claim, namely by a method for producing at least one silicone holder fastener for coupling textiles, in particular at least two articles of clothing, especially stockings and bras, or for coupling two sections of the same article of clothing, wherein the silicone holder fastener is configured for coupling by enclosing a fabric section of at least one of the textiles or articles of clothing; wherein the silicone holder fastener is produced by at least one molded part made of compliant material by forming it in a negative mold, wherein at least one at least positive-locking coupling of the silicone holder fastener and optionally also a fastening section on the silicone holder fastener is formed by forming.The at least positive-locking coupling is formed by at least one coupling partner made of silicone-like or silicone-based material, in particular by a ring and button, by means of which the enclosing of a fabric section can be ensured. This results in the aforementioned advantages, especially with regard to the cost-effective provision of large quantities of standardized fastener holders for a wide range of textiles, fabrics, and garments. The shaping in the corresponding negative mold can be achieved, for example, by a material injection molding process, especially at comparatively high cycle rates.

[0072] A molded part also includes a part manufactured without machining or material removal, e.g., a part produced by additive manufacturing or a corresponding two-part coupling. FMM0925PTWO Silicone holder 16 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0073] W O patent application

[0074] According to one embodiment, the silicone retaining closure, and thus also the at least positive-locking coupling, is formed from two integral, one-piece components by shaping a material that is pliable at room temperature (but retains its shape): a base and a ring that can be coupled to it in a positive-locking manner. This also benefits from a comparatively less complex value chain and a streamlined manufacturing process. For example, the shaping process includes heat treatment.

[0075] According to one embodiment, one of the coupling partners is provided as a materially flexible ring, preferably a silicone ring. This also makes it possible to utilize existing expertise, processes, and equipment, at least for this coupling component, thereby increasing the availability of this part or coupling partner and reducing costs. This can be considered particularly relevant because the ring may occasionally get lost, especially when the closure is used without the assembly component, i.e., solely in combination with the first and second coupling partners (base with button head and ring).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the additional coupling partner(s) are formed by shaping them as a base with a knob and a slot-like guide defining the fastening section. This enables, among other things, a simple process and a robust part with integrated fastening and coupling functionality, particularly thanks to its integral, one-piece design. Advantageously, no post-processing is required to create or complete the fastening section.

[0077] According to one embodiment, a textile underside is formed on the silicone holder closure, in particular by applying a textile layer to one of the coupling partners, especially to the base of the silicone holder closure, during a forming process step, especially an injection molding process step, particularly by pressing. This also facilitates the most flexible possible provision and design of the closures, in particular in such a way that it can be decided on an application-specific basis whether a textile underside is desired. For example, when coupling shapewear that does not lie directly on the skin, a textile underside may not necessarily be required.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the shaping is carried out by a process from the following group: injection molding, thermal pressing. This also promotes material savings. FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 17 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0079] W O patent application

[0080] Manufacturing with as few production steps as possible allows for good dimensional tolerances and enables cost-optimized production of high quantities.

[0081] Advantageously, each coupling partner is manufactured separately as an individual component. Advantageously, each coupling partner or the coupling itself is heat-treated, particularly to define material properties, minimize potential pollutant exposure, and / or maximize skin compatibility.

[0082] It is understood that, with regard to high production volumes and cost-effective provision of the holder / closure, at least the closure (the coupling) is advantageously a closure that can be realized or manufactured using mass production methods, particularly using at least one negative mold. Nevertheless, based on the present disclosure, the person skilled in the art recognizes that it may be of interest to provide at least the entire silicone holding unit as an additively manufactured component, particularly also in the form of a data set for end users to individually additively create the silicone holding unit in the desired configuration. Accordingly, the term "molds" used here also includes an additive manufacturing process according to predefined geometric 3D printing data. In other words, the present invention also relates to a data set (or...a data carrier containing such a data set) comprising 3D printing data set up for the additive manufacturing of a silicone holding unit comprising the coupling components described here, advantageously in a one-piece integral design.

[0083] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a method for creating a silicone holding unit based on, or comprising, a method for creating a silicone holder closure according to the present disclosure, wherein a silicone holder closure created accordingly is connected to a garment part, preferably a length-adjustable textile band, to form the silicone holding unit, in particular by sewing the garment part to at least one of the coupling partners of the silicone holder closure. Based on the aforementioned advantages, this also enables application-specific customization, in particular by allowing different types of closures (couplings) to be combined with different types of garment parts (or coupling bands).Due to the different materials used for the coupling components (elastomer-like materials) on the one hand and the finished part (especially textile tape) on the other, splitting the value chain or production steps at this point is advantageous. FMM0925PTWO Silicone holder 18 / 34 Nov. 2025.

[0084] W O patent application

[0085] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a silicone holder closure for coupling textiles, in particular at least two articles of clothing, especially stockings and bras, or for coupling two sections of the same article of clothing, wherein the silicone holder closure is at least partially designed from a flexible material, wherein the silicone holder closure has at least one positive-locking coupling with at least one coupling partner made of a silicone-like or silicone-based material; in particular a silicone holder closure according to the present disclosure; wherein the at least one coupling partner of the silicone holder closure is produced by injection molding, in particular in combination with a downstream heat treatment step (for example, tempering in a continuous furnace or in individual batches).Based on the aforementioned advantages, this also enables a particularly efficient supply of even large quantities, with a material-technically optimized design of the retaining closure.

[0086] Alternatively, a user-specific design can be achieved, for example, through additive manufacturing processes, in particular by having the user (or wearer) additively manufacture the fastener themselves to optimize, for example, the coupling effect specifically with regard to a particular textile fabric and / or a particular fabric weight / thickness and / or a particular texture and / or a particular wearing position on the body. In particular, the measures taken to conceive and further develop the present invention have shown that the process optimization described here offers advantages primarily with regard to the robust, durable, and ergonomic design of the holder, especially based on a coupling consisting of at least one molded part.

[0087] The aforementioned problem is also solved by using a silicone holder fastener for coupling textiles, in particular at least two garments or two sections of the same garment, wherein an at least positive-locking coupling of the silicone holder fastener formed from coupling partners is used to enclose a fabric section of one of the textiles or garments, wherein at least one of the coupling partners consists of a flexible material, in particular by securing the fabric section to the first coupling partner via a button of one / the first coupling partner formed by a base and by means of a second coupling partner, preferably designed as a ring, which is materially flexible, in particular by means of a silicone holder fastener according to the present disclosure.especially for holding pantyhose relative to a bra when wearing both pantyhose and a bra. This allows the aforementioned advantages to be realized, particularly with regard to ease of use, good availability, and high FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 19 / 34 Nov. 2025.

[0088] W O patent application

[0089] Wearing comfort. Alternatively, the first coupling partner can also be made of a material that is more flexible.

[0090] The aforementioned problem is also solved by using a silicone retaining fastener according to the present disclosure for coupling textiles of one / the same garment. This also expands the scope of application.

[0091] The aforementioned problem is also solved by using two silicone retaining fasteners, each according to the present disclosure, for coupling textiles together, wherein the silicone retaining fasteners are connected to each other via a garment component. Both silicone retaining fasteners can be part of the same silicone retaining unit.

[0092] The aforementioned problem is also solved by using a silicone holder fastener according to the present disclosure on a top-bearing garment, particularly with redundant design of coupling partners (at least two first coupling partners for enclosing the garment). This also promotes a favorable fit of the garment even when another garment cannot or should not be used for support (i.e., without the need for a bra and / or pantyhose).

[0093] The aforementioned problem is also solved by using a silicone holder closure according to the present disclosure in an arrangement wrapped around an arm or shoulder, particularly without a top-strap garment. This also allows for an even freer, more variable selection across a wide range of uses and also an even wider selection of clothing types, especially for specialized clothing such as...

[0094] Festive attire.

[0095] The aforementioned problem is also solved by using a silicone holding unit according to the present disclosure for joining textile sections of one / the same garment. The silicone holding unit can, for example, also tighten a textile section without requiring any further finishing or post-processing of the textile or garment itself.

[0096] The aforementioned problem is also solved by using a silicone holding unit according to the present disclosure for coupling sections of one / the same textile, wherein FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 20 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0097] According to the patent application, the first coupling partner of the respective silicone holder closure is coupled to a loose second coupling partner of the respective silicone holder closure, each for enclosing the textile. This also provides high variability and advantageous ergonomics.

[0098] The present invention thus facilitates the coupling not only of two (different or at least separate) textiles in the narrower sense, but also of a first textile section on the one hand and a second textile section on the other, e.g., textile sections of the same garment. This enables, not least, a particularly wide range of applications on different body regions and for different pairs of components or textile sections to be coupled.

[0099] Summary: When coupling or connecting garments worn on the body, a good compromise between handling and comfort must be found. On the one hand, manually opening or closing the designated fasteners often needs to be possible blindly (without visual contact), especially with one hand. On the other hand, even prolonged contact with the body must not result in any ergonomically detrimental effects on comfort. Finding an optimal solution in this regard is of great interest, for example, when coupling stockings and bras.According to the invention, a silicone holder fastener is provided for coupling textiles, in particular at least two articles of clothing (especially stockings and bras) or two sections of the same article of clothing, wherein the silicone holder fastener is designed from a flexible material, in particular at least the load-bearing sections of the silicone holder fastener, wherein the silicone holder fastener has at least one at least positive-locking coupling, wherein the silicone holder fastener has a fastening section provided in particular for fastening from one of the articles of clothing, for example a fastening section for a garment part that is intended to act as a retaining element between the articles of clothing to be coupled or between coupling partners of the coupling, wherein at least the at least positive-locking coupling is provided at least substantially by silicone-like or silicone-based material.The invention is formed, wherein the at least positive-locking coupling is designed for coupling by enclosing a section of fabric from one of the textiles or garments. This ensures a particularly advantageous method of coupling, especially considering the requirements of handling, wearing comfort, variability, and ergonomics. The invention also relates to at least one such FMM0925PTWO silicone holder (21 / 34 Nov. 2025).

[0100] W O patent application

[0101] Silicone holder closure equipped silicone holding units or garments as well as corresponding methods and uses.

[0102] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0103] The invention is described in more detail in the following drawings, whereby reference numerals not explicitly described in a particular drawing are made to the other drawings. They show:

[0104] Figures 1A, IB, IC show in two side views and in a top view a coupling partner of a silicone holder closure according to an embodiment;

[0105] Figures 2A, 2B in a top view and in a side view show a silicone holding unit according to an embodiment, comprising a silicone holder closure according to embodiments, wherein a garment part in the form of a textile length-adjustable band is provided between the coupling partners of the silicone holder closure;

[0106] Figure 3 in perspective view in schematic representation an exemplary use of a silicone holder closure or a silicone holding unit, each according to embodiments for coupling pantyhose and bra;

[0107] Figures 4A, 4B each show a silicone retaining unit or a silicone retainer closure in a side view according to exemplary embodiments, with the silicone retaining unit in an arrangement folded around a first garment and coupled to a second garment, in a basic representation without the garments shown;

[0108] Figures 5A, 5B show a top view and a side view of a silicone holding unit with two silicone holder closures according to exemplary embodiments (second coupling partner not shown), wherein the silicone holder closures are connected to each other by a fitting part;

[0109] Figures 6A, 6B show a top view and a side view of a silicone holding unit according to a further embodiment, wherein the loop formed by a garment part is dimensioned relatively large, in particular for an application around the arm or shoulder;

[0110] Figures 7A, 7B show a top view and a side view of a silicone holding unit according to a further embodiment, also with a comparatively long-dimensioned garment part, wherein the garment part and the closure are not arranged in the same plane as intended, but are arranged twisted / rotated relative to each other, in particular by an angle in the range of 90°, especially for the purpose of maximizing wearing comfort;

[0111] Figure 8 Steps of a method for manufacturing a silicone holder closure or a silicone holding unit, each according to exemplary embodiments;

[0112] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES FMM0925PTWO Silicone holder 22 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0113] W O patent application

[0114] The invention will first be explained with general reference to all reference numerals and figures. Specific features or individual aspects, or aspects of the present invention that are clearly visible / representable in the respective figure, will be addressed individually in connection with that figure.

[0115] A silicone fastener 10 is provided for coupling textiles, in particular at least two articles of clothing 1, 2, especially stockings and bras, or for coupling two sections of the same article of clothing, wherein the silicone fastener 10 is designed from a flexible material, in particular at least the load-bearing sections 10a of the silicone fastener, wherein the silicone fastener 10 has at least one at least positive-locking coupling 13, wherein the silicone fastener 10 has a fastening section 15, in particular for fastening from one of the articles of clothing; wherein at least the at least positive-locking coupling 13 is formed at least substantially from a silicone-like or silicone-based material, wherein the at least positive-locking coupling 13 is designed for coupling by enclosing a fabric section 1.1 of one of the textiles orClothing items 1, 2.

[0116] Advantageously, the fabric section is placed over a button-like head 11 of a base 14 of the first coupling partner, in order to then place the second coupling partner, preferably designed in a ring-like form, over it.

[0117] The two coupling partners can be connected, for example, by a garment component 3, such as a textile elastic, length-adjustable band, which can be wrapped around the back band of a bra. The connection is advantageously achieved via a fastening section 15 formed on a base 14, in particular by means of a slot-like guide. Depending on its design, the garment component can also be referred to as a clothing element or fastening component.

[0118] Advantageously, the fabric section is bound by the garment that has the thinner fabric thickness and / or in which the first coupling partner can be worn particularly advantageously (especially ergonomically) on the body.

[0119] By designing at least the load-bearing sections 10a of the silicone holder closure 10 from the flexible, dimensionally stable material, coupling can be simplified on the one hand, and the coupling effect can also be ensured even with the silicone holder encased between the coupling partners. FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 23 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0120] The W O patent application optimizes the lying fabric section. The resulting border 40 can be chosen very freely, both with regard to the garment / textile to be coupled and with regard to its position and / or orientation on the textile. Thus, the respective user can easily adapt the use to their own habits or range of motion.

[0121] A head or knob 11 acting as one of the first coupling partners is preferably not circular, which improves the locking effect. Advantageously, the knob 11 is raised relative to a base 14 by a predefined height Az (raise), whereby this rise Az can be predefined by default or designed to be application-specific, e.g., depending on the type / texture and thickness of the fabric to be bound, the strand thickness of the ring 12 (second coupling partner), or similar boundary conditions. For example, the rise Az corresponds at least approximately to the cross-sectional diameter D 12 of the ring 12; when binding a fabric section, this results in an excess that causes the coupling, which is at least positively locked, to also act as a frictionally locked coupling.Optionally, the height Az and the cross-sectional diameter D12 are geometrically matched to each other with regard to a specific material thickness to be hemmed, such that no significant excess occurs even during hemming; the latter variant may be easier / faster to couple. Based on the present disclosure, the person skilled in the art can specify the optimal compromise depending on the application. A load-bearing web 16, together with the actually positively engaging coupling components, is provided between the base 14 and the button 11, by means of which the height Az can be specified via the exposed length of the web. Thus, the first coupling partner, preferably in a one-piece integral design of the sections base 14, web 16, and button 11 made of flexible (silicone) material, and the second coupling partner 12 (ring) made of flexible (silicone) material, form the at least positively engaging coupling 13 made of flexible (silicone) material described here.

[0122] It is understood that, for further optimization, particularly of ergonomics and wearing comfort, the first coupling partner (essentially the base 14 in the design described here) can be equipped with a textile underside 14.1, for example, with a textile layer 17 applied after the coupling partner has been manufactured (possibly only as required for specific applications). Such a textile layer can also be designed according to the preferences of the wearer, e.g., regarding fabric thickness, type of fabric, texture, or similar boundary conditions. This may also contribute to further optimization of the closure described here with regard to skin compatibility, especially while maintaining maximum flexibility and variability. FMM0925PTWO Silicone holder 24 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0123] W O patent application

[0124] Together with a garment component 3, a silicone retaining unit 20 can be formed by means of the silicone retainer closure 10. Advantageously, the garment component 3 includes a length adjustment 30, in particular with a self-locking deflection 31 (e.g., adjustment clip).

[0125] The following section explains special features of the invention with reference to individual figures or embodiments. The mode of operation of the coupling 13 is also explained in more detail with individual reference to the drawing figures.

[0126] Figure 1 shows a first coupling component 11, 14 of the holder 10. Figure 1A shows the first coupling component, essentially consisting of base 14, web 16, and head 11, viewed in the main extension direction x of the first coupling component. Figure 1B shows that the base 14 extends further in the main extension direction x than the head 11, particularly to provide the fastening section 15 shown in Figure 11. Figures 1A and 1B show that the cross-sectional dimensions of the web are larger in one spatial direction than in the other, particularly in the direction in which the extension of the head 11 is also greater. This also facilitates a geometrically predefined tilting movement, especially for easy coupling and yet secure holding. Figure 11 shows the size- and shape-optimized design of this first component for contact with the body surface.The intended coupling partner is recognizable. The operating principle can also be summarized as follows: a fabric section (not shown here) bound at the head 11 pulls against the main extension direction x (in Fig. IC, therefore downwards), and the holding force acts in the main extension direction x of the coupling and fastening section on a garment part (also not shown here), up to, for example, the back band of a bra.

[0127] The base 14, or at least its approximately flat underside 14.1, extends substantially in a principal extension plane Exy. With such an orientation, the bridge 16 runs at least approximately orthogonally to the principal extension plane Exy, and the head 11 also extends in a predefined orientation to the principal extension plane Exy, namely preferably at least approximately parallel to the principal extension plane Exy. The longitudinal extent xl 1 of the button is advantageously different from the transverse extent yl 1 of the button (e.g., due to an oval or racetrack shape), preferably at least 30% greater in one of the spatial directions of the principal extension plane Exy, and the longitudinal extent xl4 of the base is greater than the longitudinal extent xl 1 of the button. The transverse extent yl4 of the base advantageously corresponds to the transverse extent yl 1 of the button. FMM0925PTWO Silicone holder 25 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0128] W O patent application

[0129] The absolute height zlO of the silicone holder closure (illustrated here in the height direction z, as intended according to a normal orthogonal to the chosen body surface, e.g. abdominal surface) can be kept comparatively small / flat, e.g. below 5mm.

[0130] Figure 2 shows a holding unit 20 formed from a fastener 10 and a garment part 3, the latter here in a length-adjustable design with self-locking deflection 30, 31. Figure 2A shows the overall narrow, band-like design of the holding unit 20; the coupling or fastener as such barely extends beyond the garment part in the width direction (transversely), if at all, i.e., not significantly. Figure 2B shows the advantageously flat, planar design of the first coupling partner 11, 14, whereby the height extension, when the fastener 10 is resting against the body, advantageously does not noticeably exceed the corresponding height extension of the length adjustment 30, 31 of the garment part 3, which may be desired or necessary anyway.For example, the assembly part 3 is wrapped around a / the fastening section at the base of the first coupling partner and sewn to the ring (second coupling partner) or the like.

[0131] The cross-sectional diameter D12 of the ring 12 shown in Fig. 2 can be geometrically corresponding to the increase indicated in Fig. 1, in particular also taking into account the thickness of a standard (pantyhose) fabric to be bound.

[0132] The length adjustment 30 illustrated in Fig. 2 remains optional. In other words: The silicone holding unit can also be provided without length adjustment.

[0133] Figure 3 shows an exemplary use of the holder or fastener 10 between pantyhose 1 and bra 2, where the holder 10 together with a garment part 3 forms the retaining unit 20. Optionally, such a retaining unit 20 can also be provided on the opposite (left) side of the body, i.e., on the right in Figure 3 (not shown here).

[0134] When the retaining unit 20 is used as intended on the body, a force is exerted between the coupled retainer 10 and the enclosed fabric section 1.1 on the one hand, and the back band of the bra 2 on the other, whereby the retaining force can be transmitted or passed on by means of the garment part 3. FMM0925PTWO Silicone retainer 26 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0135] W O patent application

[0136] It is understandable that the button or base is more advantageously worn on the stocking garment than on the bra, especially for reasons of better accessibility and greater wearing comfort.

[0137] It should be understood that the usage shown here is not limiting. Alternatively, only the holder can be attached to at least one fabric section; for example, two overlapping fabric sections of the same garment or different garments can be hemmed, so that the coupling is also achieved without a ready-made part.

[0138] Figure 4 shows a silicone retaining unit in an arrangement folded around a first garment (in particular a bra) and coupled to a second garment (in particular stockings / pantyhose) (in a schematic representation without the garments shown); the coupling, which is at least positively locking, consists of a ring and a button, with the ring shown as a separate component in an exploded view (in Figure 4A), particularly since the ring can optionally be placed around the end of the garment intended for coupling in the manner of a folded loop (especially also by a user), i.e., it does not necessarily have to be already attached to the garment by the manufacturer (e.g., sewn in) or already guided through an opening or passage in the garment. In Figure 4, the ring is shown in the diagram.Figure 4A shows the state already wrapped around one garment (not shown), but still uncoupled; Figure 4B shows the coupled state, in which the ring 12 ensures at least a positive-locking coupling around the knob 11 of the base 14.

[0139] Figures 5A and 5B show a further embodiment in which the silicone holding unit 20 comprises two silicone holder closures 10. A garment part 3, which acts as a retaining element between a respective first coupling partner 11 of the coupling of the respective silicone holder closure 10, can be attached to the corresponding mounting section 15 of the base 14 and can be individually adapted to specific applications, for example, by being adjustable in length. Figure 5A shows that the first coupling partner 11 is configured as a slip-on button at both ends of the garment part 3. Figure 5B shows that the edging of a textile (not shown) can be carried out in the manner already described above (second coupling partner not shown here, advantageously available separately and connectable). FMM0925PTWO Silicone holder 27 / 34 Nov. 2025

[0140] W O patent application

[0141] Figures 6A and 6B show a further embodiment in which the garment part 3 is designed to be comparatively long, particularly to bridge a comparatively large gap between, for example, pantyhose and the shoulder, e.g., for use without top straps. For further details, reference can be made to the embodiments described in the preceding examples, in particular those shown in Figures 2 and 4.

[0142] Figures 7A and 7B show a further embodiment in which the garment part 3 and the base 14 are rotated relative to each other by approximately 90°, for particularly good ergonomics, especially when using the silicone retaining unit without a top strap, e.g., folded over the arm or shoulder. Optionally, the garment part 3 can also be made of the materials of the fastener described here. A swivel, shackle, or similar component defining the alignment can also be provided between the garment part and the base, particularly to ensure even better ergonomic relative alignment of the individual components. Figure 7B nicely illustrates the comparatively large, long loop formed by the garment part, which can, for example, be placed around a shoulder.

[0143] Figure 8 illustrates steps SI, S2, S3, S4 of a method for producing / providing at least one silicone holder closure or at least one silicone holding unit.According to step S1, at least one coupling component of the at least positive-locking coupling of the holder is formed, particularly in geometric oversize relative to one or more other coupling components, particularly using at least one negative mold, advantageously by injection molding, particularly in combination with a downstream heat treatment step; according to step S2, another coupling component of the at least positive-locking coupling of the holder is formed, advantageously by injection molding, particularly in combination with a downstream heat treatment step; according to step S3, at least one of the coupling components is joined to a garment part, advantageously by sewing, to form the holding unit; according to step S4, the holder closure and / or the holding unit is provided, optionally in combination with a fabric section and / or at least one garment.It is understood that step S4 can be implemented optionally after each of steps S1 to S3. The diamond-shaped fields between the individual steps, indicated in Fig. 8, illustrate possible adaptation implementation options for the person skilled in the art, particularly for application-specific optimization of the closure and / or the holding unit and / or the manufacturing process and / or the value chain in general. FMM0925PTWO Silicone holder 28 / 34 Nov. 2025.

[0144] W O patent application

[0145] Reference symbol list

[0146] 1. First item of clothing, e.g., stockings

[0147] 1. 1 (bound / to-be-bound) section of fabric, in particular of the first garment

[0148] 2. Second item of clothing, e.g., bra

[0149] 3. Garment part, clothing element, fastening component, especially of a textile nature

[0150] 10 silicone holder closures

[0151] 10a load-bearing section

[0152] 11 Button (preferably not circular), especially in design as the first coupling partner

[0153] 12 (silicone) ring, especially in configuration as a second coupling partner

[0154] 13 at least a positive-locking coupling made of coupling partners made of flexible material

[0155] 14 base

[0156] 14.1 Underside of the base, advantageously with a textile / fabric surface

[0157] 15 Mounting section, in particular slot-like guide

[0158] 16 Bridge

[0159] 17 Textile layer

[0160] 20 silicone holding units

[0161] 30 length adjustments

[0162] 31 self-critical deflection

[0163] 40 Edging formed by coupled coupling partners and encased fabric section

[0164] D12 Cross-sectional diameter of the ring

[0165] Exy main extension plane of the base

[0166] SI, S2, S3, S4 Steps of a procedure for creating at least the silicone holder closure

[0167] SI, S2 Steps of forming at least one coupling component

[0168] Step 53 for creating the holding unit

[0169] Step 54 for providing the holder closure and / or the holding unit xl 1 Longitudinal extent of the button yl 1 Transverse extent of the button xl4 Longitudinal extent of the base yl4 Transverse extent of the base zlO Absolute height of the silicone holder closure

[0170] Az: Increase of the knob relative to the base, or exposed length of the bridge; z: Height direction

Claims

FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 29 / 34 Nov 2025 W O patent application Patent claims 1. Silicone fastener (10) for coupling textiles, in particular at least two articles of clothing (1, 2), especially stockings and bras, or for coupling two sections of the same article of clothing, wherein the silicone fastener (10) is designed from a flexible material, in particular at least the load-bearing sections (10a) of the silicone fastener, wherein the silicone fastener (10) has at least one at least positive-locking coupling (13), and wherein the silicone fastener (10) has a fastening section (15); characterized in that at least the at least positive-locking coupling (13) is formed at least substantially by silicone-like or silicone-based material, and wherein the at least positive-locking coupling (13) is designed for coupling by enclosing a fabric section (1.1) of one of the textiles or articles of clothing (1, 2).

2. Silicone retainer closure (10) according to claim 1, wherein the silicone retainer closure (10) and thus also the at least positive-locking coupling (13) is formed from two components, namely a base (14) with button (11) and a ring (12) that can be coupled to it at least positively, wherein the silicone retainer closure (10) is designed to have a holding effect, e.g., of a garment part, in particular a textile band, between these two components, in particular with the button (11) of the base (14) enclosed by the fabric section and enclosed by the fabric section through the coupled ring (12).

3. Silicone retaining closure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least positive-locking coupling (13) comprises a ring (12), preferably a silicone ring, wherein the ring (12) preferably has a cross-sectional diameter of less than 2 mm, more preferably less than 1.5 mm.

4. Silicone holder closure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least positive-locking coupling (13) comprises a non-circular button (11), in particular in embodiment as a / the first coupling partner, in particular in integral-one-piece embodiment on a / the base (14) of the silicone holder closure (10), in particular with an extent of the button in a first spatial direction at least 30% greater than an extent of the button in a second spatial direction.

5. Silicone holder closure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 30 / 34 Nov 2025 W O patent application The silicone holder closure (10) has a base (14) on which a slot-like guide defining the fastening section (15) is formed for fastening a garment part or clothing element or a fastening component, in particular with the base (14) being made entirely of silicone material.

6. Silicone holder closure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the silicone holder closure (10) has a textile underside, in particular with a textile layer (17) applied to silicone material.

7. Silicone holder closure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the silicone holder closure (10) is at least substantially transparent, in particular at least the load-bearing sections of the silicone holder closure (10), apart from any textile-designed underside.

8. Silicone retainer closure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the silicone retainer closure (10) in the uncoupled and / or coupled state has a maximum height protruding from the body of 5 mm when used as intended.

9. Silicone holding unit (20) comprising at least one silicone holder closure (10) according to one of the preceding claims and a garment part (3) holding between the first and second coupling partner (11, 12) of the coupling (13) of the silicone holder closure (10), preferably a length-adjustable textile band.

10. Silicone holding unit (20) comprising at least one silicone holder closure (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8 and a fitting part (3) acting to hold between the first and second coupling partner (11, 12) of the coupling (13) of the silicone holder closure (10), wherein the first and second coupling partner (11, 12) of the coupling (13) and the fitting part are designed as additively manufactured parts, preferably with the entire silicone holding unit (20) in an integral-one-piece additively manufactured design.

11. Silicone holding unit (20) comprising two silicone holder closures (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8 and a garment part (3) holding between a respective first coupling partner (11) of the coupling (13) of the respective silicone holder closure (10), preferably a length-adjustable textile band. FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 31 / 34 Nov 2025 W O patent application 12. Garment (1, 2) with a silicone retaining unit (20) attached to or incorporated therein according to one of claims 9 to 11.

13. Article of clothing (1, 2) with a silicone holder closure (10) attached to or incorporated therein according to one of claims 1 to 8.

14. Method for producing at least one silicone holder closure (10) for coupling textiles, in particular at least two articles of clothing (1, 2), especially stockings and bras, or for coupling two sections of the same article of clothing, wherein the silicone holder closure (10) is designed for coupling by enclosing a section of fabric (1.1) at least one of the textiles or articles of clothing; characterized in that the silicone holder closure (10) is produced by at least one molded part made of flexible material by forming in a negative mold, wherein at least one at least positive-locking coupling (13) of the silicone holder closure and optionally also a fastening section (15) on the silicone holder closure (10) is formed by forming, wherein the at least positive-locking coupling (13) is formed by at least one coupling partner (11, 12) formed by forming from silicone-like or silicone-based material, in particular by a ring and button, by means of which an edging (40) of a fabric section (1.1) can be ensured.

15. Method according to the preceding method claim, wherein the silicone holder closure (10) and thus also the at least positive-locking coupling (13) is formed from two integrally formed components by shaping material that is flexible at room temperature, namely a base (14) and a ring that can be coupled to it at least positively.

16. Method according to one of the preceding method claims, wherein one of the coupling partners (12) is provided in the form of a materially flexible ring, preferably as a silicone ring; and / or wherein one / the further coupling partner (11) is formed by shaping as a base (14) with a knob (11) and with a slot-like guide defining the fastening section (15).

17. Method according to one of the preceding method claims, wherein a textile underside (14.1) is formed on the silicone holder closure (10), in particular by applying a textile layer (17) to one of the coupling partners (11, 12), in particular to a / the base (14) of the FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 32 / 34 Nov 2025 W O patent application silicone holder closure (10) is applied during a forming process step, in particular an injection molding process step, especially by pressing.

18. Method according to any of the preceding method claims, wherein the shaping is carried out by a process from the following group: injection molding, thermal pressing.

19. Method for producing a silicone retaining unit (20), comprising a method according to one of the preceding method claims, wherein a silicone retaining closure (10) produced accordingly is connected to a garment part (3) to form the silicone retaining unit (20), in particular by sewing the garment part (3) to at least one of the coupling partners (11, 12, 14) of the silicone retaining closure (10).

20. Silicone holder fastener (10) for coupling textiles, in particular at least two articles of clothing (1, 2), especially stockings and bras, or for coupling two sections of the same article of clothing, wherein the silicone holder fastener (10) is at least partially made of a flexible material, wherein the silicone holder fastener (10) has at least one positive-locking coupling (13) with at least one coupling partner (11, 12) made of a silicone-like or silicone-based material; in particular a silicone holder fastener according to one of claims 1 to 8; wherein the at least one coupling partner (11, 12) of the silicone holder fastener (10) is manufactured by injection molding.

21. Use of a silicone retaining fastener (10) for coupling textiles, in particular at least two articles of clothing (1, 2) or two sections of the same article of clothing, wherein an at least positive-locking coupling (13) of the silicone retaining fastener (10) formed from coupling partners (11, 12) is used to enclose a fabric section (1.1) of one of the textiles or articles of clothing (1, 2), wherein at least one of the coupling partners (11, 12) consists of a flexible material, in particular by the fabric section (1.1) is secured via a button of a first coupling partner (11) of the coupling (13) formed by a base (14) and by means of a second coupling partner (12) preferably designed as a ring, which is materially flexible, on the first coupling partner (11), in particular by means of a silicone retainer closure (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8, in particular for holding pantyhose relative to a bra when wearing pantyhose and bra on the body. FMM0925PTWO silicone holder 33 / 34 Nov 2025 W O patent application 22. Use of a silicone retaining fastener (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8 for coupling textiles of one / the same garment together.

23. Use of two silicone retaining fasteners (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8 for coupling textiles together, wherein the silicone retaining fasteners are connected to each other via a garment part (3).

24. Use of a silicone holder closure (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8 on a top-bearing garment.

25. Use of a silicone holder closure (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8 in an arrangement wrapped around an arm or around a shoulder, in particular without a top-strap garment.

26. Use of a silicone holding unit (20) according to one of claims 9 to 11 for coupling together textile sections of one / the same garment.

27. Use of a silicone retaining unit (20) according to claim 11 for coupling sections of one / the same textile together, wherein the respective first coupling partner (11) of the coupling (13) of the respective silicone retaining closure (20) is coupled to a loose second coupling partner (12) of the coupling (13) of the respective silicone retaining closure (20), in each case for enclosing the textile.

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