CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/620,244, filed April 4, 2012, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to modular garments, footwear and accessories and an interchangeable clip or connecting element for assembly thereof, particularly, modular swimwear, footwear, and accessories with interchangeable pieces including the interchangeable clip or connecting element.

BACKGROUND

For the most part, women's garments, footwear and handbags cannot be modified after purchase. As an example, swimwear, and particularly bikinis, which comprise a swimsuit top and swimsuit bottom, cannot be modified after purchase. If styles change, a woman must purchase a new swimsuit. Two piece bikinis provide a wearer with a bit more of an opportunity to personalize as the wearer can mix and match different tops and bottoms. However, the wearer is limited to merely swapping tops and bottoms and cannot modify the constituent components which make up each individual swimsuit piece. Various attempts have been made to overcome these limitations.

For instance, United States patent 4,028,740 presents a convertible beach attire comprising a bikini bottom and a detachable modesty panel removably attached to the bottom using a connector. When swimming, the wearer can remove the modesty panel and wear the swimsuit as a traditional bikini. When not in the water, the wearer can attach the modesty panel to more completely cover the lower portion of the body. Although described as convertible, the attire described merely provides an attachment device for draping a modesty panel. The materials comprising the swimsuit are not modified. Additionally, the connectors are non-removable further limiting the ability to customize the appearance of the suit. Thus, the wearer is unable to alter the appearance of the suit after purchase. Similarly, United States patent 4,815,145 discloses a convertible bathing suit which converts from a two-piece bikini to a one-piece suit. The bottom band of the bikini top and the waist band of the bikini bottom are equipped with a number of snaps. A series of different styled panels are equipped with mating snaps such that the panels can be removably attached to the bikini top and bottom so as to cover the midriff of the wearer. Further provided are modesty panels which drape from the bikini bottom. This design, however, does not provide for the alteration of the bikini top and bottom. The style and appearance of the bikini cannot be modified after purchase.

United States patent 6,240,560 provides for a swimsuit bikini with loops for attaching removable fasteners and accessories. The bikini top has a plurality of integrated loops which allow for removable attachment of straps or chains. These straps or chains are used to secure the top to the wearer. Further provided are hook and loop fasteners for removable attachment of additional fabrics such as skirt or gown materials. While this bikini provides for interchangeable designs and accessories, there are a number of drawbacks with this design. First, the ability to customize the design changes is limited by failing to provide for an interchangeable fastening means. The straps are looped upon themselves rather than being removably attached with a stylish clip or clasp. Second, while the sides of the bikini bottom can be modified with different straps or chains, the actual front and rear panels of the bikini are static. That is, there is no way to change the physical appearance of the bikini bottom other than by changing side straps. This limits the customizability of the bikini as the number of tops which aesthetically match to bottoms is restricted.

United States patent application serial number 10/728,294 describes a modular swimsuit and a method of constructing such a swimsuit. The modular swimsuit consists of a bikini top and bottom where the top is constructed of two triangular shaped cups and the bottom is an hour glass shaped piece of fabric. The two halves of the bikini top are held together by a strap. Each of the tops and straps has a loop. The loops are connected by use of a spring-loaded clasp. The front and rear portions of the bottom of the suit are fastened over the wearer's hips using a strap. Similar to the top, the strap is connected to the bottom using a spring-loaded clasp. However, a significant drawback of this design is that, although the bikini bottom can be modified with different straps or chains, the actual front and rear panels of the bikini cannot be changed or exchanged with alternative panels. Additionally, the moving pieces on a spring-loaded clasp can catch on swimsuit and other clothing materials, easily causing damage.

Thus, there is a need for fully customizable modular articles of clothing, including swimsuits and other beachwear, as well as footwear and handbags, hat permit the wearer to change the physical appearance thereof.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates inter alia to a fully customizable swimsuit having a top unit and a bottom unit that permits the wearer to easily change the physical appearance of the swimsuit. The present disclosure also relates to embodiments of interchangeable clips, including a preferred embodiment referred to herein as a connecting element, that facilitate interchangeability of swimsuit units and addition and interchangeability of accessories. The present disclosure also relates to modular articles of clothing, handbags and footwear including the interchangeable clips, preferably, connecting elements.

In one aspect, the disclosure relates to a swimsuit including a suit unit made up of interchangeable top left cups and top right cups and bottom front panels and bottom back panels with integrated loops and interchangeable clips for altering the make-up of the top and/or bottom suit unit while also permitting the attachment of interchangeable components such as straps, charms, and accessories to the swimsuit. The straps, charms, and accessories can be

manufactured from a variety of materials such as, but not limited to, fabric, leather, and synthetics.

The disclosure also provides a variety of interchangeable clips that come in several shapes.

The cups and panels of the suit unit are interchangeable, as are the straps, clips, connecting elements, and accessories. The interchangeability of the various components is achieved by outfitting the swimsuit cups, panels, and straps with integrated loops for attaching the clips/connecting elements of the present invention thereto. The crotch region of the bottom panels is preferably further provided with a releasable closure which enables full

interchangeability of the front and back panels. One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a modular garment including at least two separable and interchangeable cloth panels, each of which includes an integrated loop for inserting a preferred embodiment of an interchangeable clip, referred to herein as a connecting element. The connecting element, once assembled, connects the at least two separable and interchangeable cloth panels. In this preferred embodiment, the connecting element for assembling the at least two separable and interchangeable panels has a closed position and an open position. The connecting element in the closed position includes an encircling elongate member and two ends opposing one another formed by a break in the encircling elongate member, wherein the break between the two ends is sufficiently small to prevent insertion or slippage of the integrated loop therethrough. The connecting element is sufficiently deformable out of the plane of the encircling elongate member to form a transverse gap between the ends in the open position sufficient for assembly of one of the ends into each of the integrated loops. The connecting element maintains the open position without elastic return and is returnable to the closed position by twisting the ends to close the gap upon assembly of the two separable and interchangeable cloth panels.

In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a modular swimsuit including a left cup and a right cup for covering a wearer's breasts, the left and right cups adapted to separate from one another; and an interchangeable clip for releasably attaching a portion of the left and right cups, the clip engaging the left and right cups on a wearer's front. In one embodiment, the

interchangeable clip includes an elongate portion having two opposed ends and at least one bend between the two opposed ends, a gap being formed between the two opposed ends of the clip for receiving a portion of the left and right cups. A retaining portion extends transversely to the elongate portion and is positioned on each of the two opposed ends, the retaining portion forming a widened portion of the clip at each of the two opposed ends. The retaining portion is adapted to resist movement of a receiving portion of the left and right cups past the retaining portion and into the gap, thereby maintaining the respective left and right cups attached to the clip after assembly of the modular garment.

Preferably, at least one of the left and right cups includes a first integrated loop for receiving the clip, the first integrated loop forming an enclosed passage for receiving the clip, a longitudinal extent of the passage extending along a perimeter of the respective left and right cup in which the first integrated loop is formed. In another aspect, the modular swimsuit further includes a lower front panel and a lower back panel which together form a bikini bottom. The lower front panel and the lower back panel are adapted to separate from one another, each of the lower front panel and the lower back panel preferably having a generally triangular shape, wherein each panel has a right hip vertex, a left hip vertex and a crotch vertex, the lower front panel and the lower back panel removably attached to one another at their corresponding vertexes.

The lower front panel and the lower back panel can be removably attached using at least one clip, the clip including an elongate portion having two opposed ends and at least one bend between the two opposed ends, a gap being formed between the two opposed ends of the clip for receiving a portion of each of the lower front and lower back panels, whereby when the at least one clip attaches the lower front panel and the lower back panel, the at least one clip is disposed on a hip of the wearer. The at least one clip can include a retaining portion, forming a widened portion of the clip at each of the two opposed ends. The retaining portion is adapted to resist movement of a receiving portion of the left and right cups past the retaining portion and into the gap, thereby maintaining the respective left and right cups attached to the clip after assembly of the modular swimsuit.

In additional aspects, the crotch vertexes of the lower front panel and the lower back panel are attached by at least one releasable fastener.

The present disclosure also relates to a kit including the interchangeable components for assembling a modular garment. In one aspect, the disclosure relates to a kit for assembling a modular swimsuit including a right and left cup, a lower front and back panel, and assembling elements including at least one clip having an elongate portion having two opposed ends and at least one bend between the two opposed ends, a gap being formed between the two opposed ends of the clip for assembling a right to a left cup or a lower front to lower back panel. A retaining portion extends transversely to the elongate portion and is positioned on each of the two opposed ends, the retaining portion forming a widened portion of the clip at each of the two opposed ends. The retaining portion is adapted to resist movement of a receiving portion of the left and right cups past the retaining portion and into the gap, thereby maintaining the respective left and right cups attached to the clip after assembly of the modular garment. In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a top unit for a swimsuit with interchangeable components. The top unit includes a left cup and a right cup for covering a wearer's breasts, adapted to interchangeably separate from one another. Each of the cups has a medial vertex which is adjacent the other upon assembly. Extending longitudinally along at least a portion of the perimeter of each medial vertex is an integrated loop which forms an enclosed passage for inserting an end of a connecting element for assembly of the cups to form the top unit. The connecting element has a closed position and an open position. The connecting element in the closed position includes an encircling elongate member and two ends opposing one another formed by a break in the encircling elongate member, wherein the break between the two ends is sufficiently small to prevent insertion or slippage of the integrated loop therethrough. The connecting element is sufficiently deformable out of the plane of the encircling elongate member to form a transverse gap between the ends in the open position sufficient for assembly of one of the ends into each of the integrated loops. The connecting element maintains the open position without elastic return and is returnable to the closed position by twisting the ends to close the gap upon assembly of the left cup to the right cup.

In yet another aspect, the disclosure is directed to a bottom unit for a swimsuit with interchangeable components includes a lower front panel and a lower back panel adapted to interchangeably separate from one another, each of the lower front panel and the lower back panel having a generally triangular shape and including a right hip vertex, a left hip vertex and a crotch vertex. Each of the right hip vertex and the left hip vertex includes an integrated loop forming an enclosed passage extending longitudinally along the perimeter thereof. The bottom unit also includes a right connecting element adapted for insertion through and connecting between the integrated loops on the right hip vertices of the lower front panel and the lower back panel, and a left connecting element adapted for insertion through and connecting between the integrated loops on the left hip vertices of the lower front panel and the lower back panel. The right and left connecting elements have an open and closed position. The connecting element in the closed position includes an encircling elongate member and two ends opposing one another formed by a break in the encircling elongate member, wherein the break between the two ends is sufficiently small to prevent insertion or slippage of the integrated loop therethrough. The connecting element is sufficiently deformable out of the plane of the encircling elongate member to form a transverse gap between the ends in the open position sufficient for assembly of one of the ends into each of the integrated loops. The connecting element maintains the open position without elastic return and is returnable to the closed position by twisting the ends to close the gap upon assembly of the lower front panel to the lower back panel along one of the left and right hip vertices.

In still another aspect, the disclosure is directed to a swimsuit including the top unit and bottom unit described above.

In another aspect, the disclosure is directed to a kit including the interchangeable components for assembling the top unit and bottom unit as described above and, optionally, a tote bag for carrying the interchangeable components. Additional connecting elements of various shapes, designs, and colors for variety and accessories such as charms can also be included. The tote bag preferably has an integrated loop for attaching one of the connecting elements of the present disclosure, which can be attached directly to an integrated or external loop provided preferably on the bottom unit of the swimwear, or daisy-chained to one of the assembled connecting elements positioned during use on a hip of a wearer. The tote bag can thus additionally be used for carrying personal items such as money, sunglasses, cell phones and so on after assembly of the swimwear.

In certain aspects, the connecting element can be in the shape of an annular disk, a D, a heart, an oval, or a rectangle.

The connecting element can include a metal alloy, preferably a soft, porous, metal alloy. The metal alloy can include at least one or more of copper, tin, gold, cadmium, antimony, zinc, manganese, and nickel.

In additional aspects, the connecting element can include a rubberized overcoat.

The present disclosure also relates to a modular article of clothing with interchangeable components, which can include footwear, sarongs, cover-ups and so on. The modular article of clothing includes: a first unit of material for covering a portion of a wearer's body; a second unit of material for covering another portion of a wearer's body, wherein each of the first and second unit of material comprise an integrated loop forming an enclosed passage; and a connecting element adapted for insertion through each of the integrated loops for assembly of the first unit to the second unit, the connecting element having a closed position and an open position, the connecting element in the closed position having an encircling elongate member and two ends opposing one another formed by a break in the encircling elongate member, wherein the break between the two ends is sufficiently small to prevent insertion or slippage of the integrated loop therethrough, the connecting element being sufficiently deformable out of the plane of the encircling elongate member to form a transverse gap between the ends in the open position sufficient for assembly of one of the ends into each of the integrated loops, the connecting element maintaining the open position without elastic return and being returnable to the closed position by twisting the ends to close the gap upon assembly of the first unit to the second unit.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments of the present disclosure are further illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings:

FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a bikini style swimsuit of one embodiment of the present disclosure on a wearer.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a bikini top of one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3A is an exploded view of the assembled strap, clip, and cups of a bikini top of one embodiment of the present disclosure taken generally from boxed region 200 of FIG. 2.

FIG. 3B is an exploded view of the disassembled strap, clip, and top cups of a bikini top of one embodiment of the present disclosure taken generally from boxed region 200 of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4A is an exploded view of the assembled clip and top cups of a bikini top of one embodiment of the present disclosure taken generally from boxed region 300 of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4B is an exploded view of the disassembled clip and top cups of a bikini top of one embodiment of the present disclosure taken generally from boxed region 200 of FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a bikini top of an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the untied tie and top cup of a bikini top of a second embodiment of the present disclosure as shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 7A is a front perspective view of a bikini bottom front panel of one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7B is a front perspective view of a bikini bottom back panel of one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8A is an exploded view of the assembled clip and front panel of a bikini bottom of one embodiment of the present disclosure taken generally from boxed region 400 of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8B is an exploded view of the disassembled clip and front panel of a bikini bottom of one embodiment of the present disclosure taken generally from boxed region 400 of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 9A is a front perspective view of a bikini bottom front panel of a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9B is a front perspective view of a bikini bottom back panel of a second

embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a general crotch closure of a bikini bottom of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of a disassembled crotch closure of a bikini bottom of the present disclosure showing a hook and loop closure.

FIG. 12 is an exploded view of a disassembled crotch closure of a bikini bottom of the present disclosure showing a hook and loop closure with additional metal rings and tabs closure.

FIG. 13 is an exploded view of a disassembled crotch closure of a bikini bottom of the present disclosure showing a hook and loop closure with additional buttons closure.

FIG. 14 is an exploded view of a disassembled crotch closure of a bikini bottom of the present disclosure showing a hook and loop closure with an additional singular metal loop and hook closure.

FIG. 15 is an exploded view of a disassembled crotch closure of a bikini bottom of the present disclosure showing a hook and loop closure with additional snaps closure.

FIG. 16A and 16B are a front and side view respectively of a preferred embodiment of a clip, referred to as a connecting element, formed in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 17 is an exploded view of the clip of FIGS. 16A and 16B as assembled with the top right and left cups of the bikini top of FIG. 2, box 300.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the clip of FIGS. 16A and 16B twisted open for assembly.

FIG. 19 is a front view of an embodiment of a tote bag formed in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 is an embodiment of a modular handbag of the present disclosure.

FIG. 21 is an embodiment of a modular shoe of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIG. 1 , an embodiment of a swimsuit of the present disclosure is indicated generally by numeral 100. Swimsuit 100 is made up generally of a suit unit comprised of a swimsuit top 20 and swimsuit bottom 30. Top right and left cups 22 and 24, respectively, are attached to one another by a first clip 40 to create bikini top 20. Bikini bottom 30 is comprised of front and rear panels 32 and 34, respectively, and each is attached to one another using a second clip 40 and a third clip (not shown). Each top cup and bottom panel incorporates at least one integrated loop through which clip 40 is inserted to construct a completed swimsuit 100. Clips 40 can be made out of any suitable material, including but not limited to metal, plastic, ceramic, glass, etc.

In one embodiment, clip 40 is a loop-like member that can be round, rectangular, roughly D-shaped, heart-shaped or any other shape generally having an encircling elongate member with a bend between two opposing ends.

Clips 40 preferably has an open profile. In one embodiment, clip 40 is an open profile clip having a spur on the interior surface of one or both open ends of the clip gap. These spurs prevent the straps from slipping free of the clips while the swimsuit is worn. An optional decorative accessory 70 can be attached to any of clips 40 of a completed swimsuit 100 to further personalize the finished product. As shown in FIG. 1 , bottom panel 32 may further be attached to bikini top 20 to form a "one-piece" swimsuit. A front perspective view of an embodiment of a bikini top of the present disclosure is indicated by numeral 210 in FIG. 2. Bikini top 210 is comprised of two generally triangular shaped cups 212 and 214. In this embodiment, two of the three vertices of the generally triangular shape are sewn with integrated loops 50, while the third vertex has elongated strap or strip 25. The elongated strap or strip is either of single piece construction with its respective cup 212 or 214, or is sewn onto its respective cup. Strap 25 is used to tie the bikini top around the back of the wearer. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, each cup 212 and 214 does not have an integrated strap to tie the swimsuit top behind a wearer' s neck. Rather, these cups have integrated loop 50 at the top vertex of each cup. Neck straps 26 have integrated loops 28 at one end as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. Neck straps 26 are attached to swimsuit top cups 212 or 214 through clip 40. Swimsuit top cups 212 or 214 each have an integrated loop 50 at the vertex located between the breasts, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. Clip 40 is used to removably secure the two cups to one another via integrated loops 50 to form completed bikini top 210. Although shown with attached strap 26, an alternative embodiment is envisioned wherein each top cup 212 and 214 is provided with a third integrated loop. Further provided is a back strap having an integrated loop at one end similar to neck strap 26, with the back strap being removably secured to its respective cup with additional clips 40.

FIG. 3A is an exploded view of the assembled strap, clip, and top cup of a bikini top of one embodiment of the present disclosure taken generally from boxed region 200 of FIG. 2, while FIG. 3B is an exploded view of the disassembled strap, clip, and top cup of a bikini top. During assembly, integrated loop 50 of top cup 214 is inserted within a gap in clip 40 and clip 40 is rotated so that top cup 214 will not become dislodged from clip 40. Similarly, integrated loop 28 of neck strap 26 is inserted within a gap in clip 40 and positioned so that neck strap 26 will not become dislodged from clip 40. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3A, clip 40 has an open profile and a spur on the interior surface of one or both of its open ends. The spurs aid in preventing unwanted disassembly when the swimsuit is being worn.

FIG. 4A is an exploded view of boxed region 300 of FIG. 2 showing the assembled clip and top cups of one embodiment of a bikini top. FIG. 4B is an exploded view of the

disassembled clip and top cups shown in FIG. 4 A. During assembly, integrated loop 50 of each of top cups 212 and 214 is inserted within a gap in clip 40 and clip 40 is positioned so that top cups 212 and 214 will not become dislodged from clip 40 during wear. FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a bikini top of an alternative embodiment of a bikini top as indicated by numeral 220. Bikini top 220 is comprised of two generally triangular shaped cups 222 and 224. In this embodiment, two of the three vertices of the generally triangular shape are sewn with integrated loops 50 (as shown in FIG. 6), while the third vertex has elongated strap or strip 225. The elongated strap or strip is either of single piece construction with its respective cup 222 or 224, or is sewn onto its respective cup. Strap 225 is used to tie the bikini top around the back of the wearer. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, each cup 222 and 224 does not have an integrated strap to tie the swimsuit top behind a wearer's neck. Rather, each cup has integrated loop 50 at its top vertex. Neck straps 26 have integrated loops and are removably attached to swimsuit top cups 222 or 224 through clip 40. Swimsuit top cups 222 or 224 each have an integrated loop 50 at the vertex located between the breasts, as shown in FIG 6. FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the untied tie and top cup 224 of a bikini top of the second embodiment of the present disclosure as shown in FIG. 5. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 5 and 6, cups 222 and 224 are secured to one another between the breasts by tie 240.

In additional embodiments, the top cups 222 or 224 can also be adapted to be reversible and interchangeable so that a left cup can be reversed and used as the right cup. Likewise, a reversible right cup can also be used as a left cup.

FIGS. 7 A and 7B are front perspective views of a bikini bottom front panel and back panel, respectively, of one embodiment of the present disclosure. Each panel is a generally triangular shape piece of fabric having a right hip vertex, a left hip vertex and a crotch vertex. FIGS. 7 A and 7B illustrate one possible arrangement for securing the hip portions of the bottom panels. In this embodiment, each of the hip vertices has integrated loop 50 for removably securing clip 40. Although FIGS. 7A and 7B are shown as a brief, it is further envisioned that alternative bottom panels can be used including but not limited to a thong, French bikini, Tanga, scoop, mid scoop, string bikini, low rise, high waist, hipster, and the like.

FIG. 8A is an exploded view of the assembled clip and bottom panels of a bikini bottom of one embodiment of the present disclosure taken generally from boxed region 400 of FIG. 7A while FIG. 8B is an exploded view of the disassembled clip and bottom panels of the bikini bottom. During assembly, integrated loop 50 of each of bottom panels 32 (and 34) is inserted within a gap in clip 40 with clip 40 positioned so that bottom panels 32 and 34 will not become dislodged from clip 40 during wear. It is further envisioned that interchangeable side pieces can be used to attach bottom front panel 32 to bottom back panel 34 of a bikini in certain

embodiments of the present disclosure. The side pieces can be composed of chains, straps of varying width and/or thickness, or braided straps, and the like.

FIGS. 9 A and 9B are front perspective views of a bikini bottom of an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, an elongated strap 340 passes through integrated loops 50 located at each of the right and left hip areas of bottom front panel 32 to bottom back panel 34. The elongated strap is then tied to secure the bikini bottom at the wearer's hips.

FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a general crotch closure of a bikini bottom of the present disclosure. The crotch vertex of bikini bottom front panel 32 and bottom back panel 34 overlap one another to form closure region 60. Closure region 60 is equipped with a closing means such that the two halves of the bikini bottom are secured in the crotch area, and along with the hip attaching means shown in FIGS 7A through 9B, form a completed bikini bottom 30 as shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a bikini bottom of the present disclosure showing disassembled crotch closure region 60 having a hook and loop closing means 69. One half of hook and loop closing means 69 is affixed, preferably through stitching, to the inner surface of bottom front panel 32 while the second half of hook and loop closing means 69 is affixed to the outer surface of bottom back panel 34. To secure the crotch closure, the two halves of the hook and loop closing means are pressed together so that the bottom front panel 32 is on top of bottom back panel 34.

FIG. 12 is an exploded view of a second embodiment of a bikini bottom of the present disclosure showing disassembled crotch closure region 60 having a hook and loop closing means 69 with additional metal rings 61 and tabs 62 closing means. In a preferred embodiment, three metal tabs 62 are releasably inserted into rings 61 to secure crotch closure region 60. Hook and loop closing means 69 provides additional security and assists in preventing tabs 62 from dislodging from rings 61. Although described as having three tabs and rings, it is envisioned that any number of tabs and rings can be used, depending on the width of the crotch region as well as user comfort. FIG. 13 is an exploded view of an additional embodiment of a bikini bottom of the present disclosure showing disassembled crotch closure region 60 having a hook and loop closing means 69 with additional button closing means. In this embodiment, three buttons 63 are releasably inserted into holes 64 to secure crotch closure region 60. Hook and loop closing means 69 provides additional security and assists in preventing buttons 63 from dislodging from holes 64. Although described as having three buttons, it is envisioned that any number of buttons can be used, depending on the width of the crotch region as well as user comfort

FIG. 14 is an exploded view of a further embodiment of a bikini bottom of the present disclosure showing disassembled crotch closure region 60 having a hook and loop closing means 69 with additional metal clip 65 and catch 66 closing means. In a preferred embodiment, clip 65 is releasably affixed onto catch 66 to secure crotch closure region 60. Hook and loop closing means 69 provides additional security and assists in preventing clip 65 from dislodging from catch 66.

FIG. 15 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a bikini bottom of the present disclosure showing disassembled crotch closure region 60 having a hook and loop closing means 69 with additional snap closing means. In a preferred embodiment, three male snaps 68 are releasably inserted into corresponding female snaps 67 to secure crotch closure region 60. Hook and loop closing means 69 provides additional security and assists in preventing male snaps 68 from dislodging from female snaps 67. Although described as having three snaps, it is envisioned that any number of snaps can be used, depending on the width of the crotch region as well as user comfort.

In yet another embodiment, the snaps 67, 68 are magnetic, preferably, low profile, snaps that can be sewn into the closure region 60.

Referring to FIG. 16A and FIG. 17, the present disclosure is further directed to a preferred embodiment of clip 40 referred to herein as a connecting element 500 that can be used to assemble any of the embodiments of swimwear apparel described herein, as well as other modular garments, footwear, handbags and other accessories. Connecting element 500 is formed of an encircling elongate member 501 having two ends 506 that oppose one another when connecting element 500 is in a closed position upon assembly. In the embodiment shown, connecting element 500 is a thin annular disk, with a rectangular cross-section and having a thickness 504. Connecting element 500 also has an open profile such that a slight break 502 is formed between the open ends of element 500. Unlike the gap of the open-profile embodiments of the clip described above, however, the break 502 in the embodiment 500 is not wide enough to slip the swimsuit material forming an integrated loop therethrough once assembled.

Accordingly, connecting element 500 does not need a spur to prevent slippage. As shown in FIG. 17, once assembled with any portion of a swimsuit, for example, between a left 214 and right 212 portion of the swimsuit top as shown, connecting element 500 can be easily rotated to hide the break 502 within one of the integrated loops 50 without fear of the open ends catching on the swimsuit material.

In contrast to other types of fasteners, connecting element 500 maintains an open profile in use. Preferably, connecting element 500 is formed of an encircling elongate member having a circular or oval profile though other shapes and variations thereof are contemplated within the scope of the disclosure as well, for example, rectangular, D-shaped, heart-shaped, or any other appropriate shape.

As described above, the break 502 in the connecting element 500 is not large enough for slippage of the swimsuit fabric therethrough. Furthermore, connecting element 500 is opened to accommodate assembly not by pulling the element 500 apart or by providing a spring-loaded clasp for opening, but by deforming the element 500 out of the plane of the shape in which it is cast by transversely twisting the ends apart to form a gap large enough for assembly.

For example, the embodiment shown in Figures 16A-18 is cast as a thin annular disk. As shown in Figure 18, the disk is easily twistable transversely to the plane of the disk in its closed position, at least by an amount sufficient to slip the swimsuit material forming an integrated loop over one of its ends 506. In the open position, ends 506 are no longer facing each other opposite break 502 but are separated transversely to the plane of the disk to open a transverse gap large enough for assembly.

Connecting element 500 preferably does not have the elasticity to spring back to its planar closed position, but maintains an open position until force is applied to twist the ends 506 back into its initial closed position. Because of these unique properties, connecting element 500 easily facilitates assembly of the interchangeable swimwear pieces of the present disclosure, or of other pieces of modular garments, footwear, handbags and so on, and interchangeability of the connecting element 500 itself. Once in the open position, any one or more swimwear pieces are attached by slipping the integrated loops onto the element 500 and then twisting the connecting element 500 back into a closed position. The connecting element 500 can then be rotated until the break 502 is within one of the integrated loops and hidden from view.

Connecting element 500 can be formed in a suitable shape and of any material deformable out of the plane of the shape cast by a sufficient distance for assembly without breakage, and without elastic return. Return to the closed position is effected by twisting the ends back to the substantially same original closed position. While connecting element 500 is readily deformable out of the plane of the shape in which it is cast by twisting the ends, preferably it can not as easily be pulled apart and maintained to increase the break 502 in-plane separating the opposing ends.

In one embodiment, connecting element 500 is formed from a metal alloy and is preferably an alloy casting. The alloy is preferably soft, porous, and bendable in accordance with the described embodiments, and can be a low-melting point alloy suitable for rubber molds. For example, the alloy can be a tin and/or copper alloy. In one embodiment, the alloy can include at least one or more of copper, tin, gold, cadmium, and antimony, and is preferably lead- free. The alloy can also include other metals such as zinc, manganese, and nickel.

Referring again to FIGS. 16A and 16B, connecting element 500 is preferably a flat annular disk, with a rectangular profile and thickness 504. In certain embodiments, the back and optionally opposing front surface of the connecting element 500 can be slightly contoured to accommodate positioning against a wearer's body in particular areas, for example, to lie flat against the curved hip of a wearer.

Connecting element 500 is further characterized by a diameter 508 and annular width 510. As one of skill in the art will recognize, the connecting element 500 can be sized with a diameter 508 suited to its placement and desired aesthetic effect on a swimsuit formed in accordance with the present disclosure, or, in other embodiments, suited to its placement and desired aesthetic effect on other modular garments, or on modular footwear or handbags as described herein.

In one embodiment, the connecting element 500 has an annular width 510 greater than or about equal to the thickness 504. Though ends 506 only need to be separable by a transverse distance sufficient for insertion of one of the ends 506 into an integrated loop of the present disclosure, in one embodiment the transverse separation of the ends in an open position is equal to or greater than the thickness 504.

Generally speaking, the thickness 504 is preferably adjusted to be large enough to accommodate the torque required to twist the ends of a connecting element 500 of a particular diameter 508 apart without breakage.

In one embodiment, thickness 504 is at least about 2 mm, preferably about 3 mm.

In another embodiment, connecting element 500 has a diameter 506 of at least aboutlO mm, preferably at least about 12 mm.

Connecting elements of diameters 506 between about 20 mm and about 40 mm are particularly desirable for the described embodiments of a swimsuit. The particular diameter can be chosen as appropriate for connecting, for example, any straps to a top or bottom unit of a swimsuit, or between a left and right cup of a top unit, or a top unit to a bottom unit (see Figure 1, for example), or for connecting the interchangeable panels of the bottom unit together along a wearer's hip.

In one embodiment, the connecting element has a ratio of diameter 506 to thickness 504 of between about 5: 1 and about 9: 1, preferably about 7:1.

In one embodiment, the connecting element has a thickness of between about 2.5 and 3.5 mm; and an annular width between about 3.5 and 4.5 mm; and a diameter 506 of about 18 mm and about 25 mm.

In another embodiment, the connecting element has a thickness of between about 3.0 and 5.0 mm and a diameter 506 of between about 30 mm and about 40 mm.

Connecting element 500 also preferably has an outer surface that is substantially flat and that can be easily marked, for example, by etching or painting, with a brand or logo. Additional embodiments of the connecting element 500 can include a rubberized overcoat.

As described above, in any of the embodiments shown and described in FIGS. l-8b, the embodiment 500 of interchangeable clip 40, referred to herein as a connecting element 500, can be used as any one or more of the clips 40. In a preferred embodiment, all of the clips 40 on the swimsuit shown in FIGS. l-8b are connecting elements 500. Decorative accessories 70, such as those shown in FIG. 1, as well as additional connecting elements 500 of different sizes, shapes, and colors, daisy-chained together, can also be attached to the connecting element 500.

Referring again to FIG. 1 , in additional embodiments of bikini tops or bottoms of the present disclosure, additional integrated accessory loops 52 can also be included, preferably along a top seam of a front or back bottom panel, for attaching an additional connecting element 500 as desired by the wearer, for attaching a cell phone holder or other small pouch for holding money, sunglasses, and so on.

A kit formed in accordance with the present disclosure includes at least all of the pieces for assembling a swimsuit top and/or bottom unit formed in accordance with the present disclosure. The kit can also additionally contain one or more of extra clips 40 of various types preferably connecting elements 500 of various shapes and sizes, accessories 70, front 32 and/or back bottom panels 34, top cups 222, 224, and various straps 26, 240, 340.

Referring to FIG. 19, the kit preferably additionally includes a tote bag 510 for holding the components for assembling the swimwear. As shown in FIG. 19, the tote bag 510 preferably includes an integrated loop 550 though which one of the connecting elements 500 provided with the kit can be inserted. The tote bag 510 can also include drawstring 512 for drawing the top of the bag 510 closed.

After assembling swimwear from the kit components, one of the connecting elements 500 can be attached to the tote bag 510 through integrated loop 550 and then to either one of the additional integrated accessory loops 52 or to one of the connecting elements 500 on the swimwear. Accordingly, the kit also provides an attachable tote bag that can carry money, accessories, cell/smart phones, sunglasses, cosmetics and so on in place of, or in addition to, the kit components, and can be attached to the assembled swimwear, or to any loop, such as a belt loop, on clothing.

Referring, for example, to Figure 5, in further embodiments of the swimwear and kit, any one or more of the straps 26, 240, and 340, of the disclosed embodiments can include an aglet 242 on one of its ends. Preferably, the aglet is of comparable diameter as the thickness of the connecting elements 500 and clips 40. This insures the same good fit through integrated loops 50, whether any part of a swimsuit is assembled by attaching any of the straps 26, 240, 340 through loops 50, or by attaching any of the connecting elements 500 or clips 40 through loops 50.

Referring to FIG. 20, connecting element 620 is another embodiment of connecting element 500 appropriately sized for assembling a modular handbag, and operates the same as the connecting element 500. Element 620 is provided for assembling a modular handbag 610, and to assemble decorative elements 630, 622, through a system of loops 625, 618, 616 sewn into handbag handles, straps, and onto the bag itself 616, in conjunction with the connecting elements 620. Accordingly, the present disclosure also relates to modular handbags and other accessories with interchangeable parts, including the connecting element 620, 500.

With reference to FIG. 20, an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a modular handbag with interchangeable pieces indicated generally by numeral 610. Handbag article 610 is made up generally of bag base 612 having integrated loops 614 and/or 616; and optionally, handles 624 having loop ends 625, where a first loop end 625 is removably attached to a first bag base loop 614 by a first connecting element 620 while a second loop end 625 is removably attached to a second base loop 614 by a second connecting element 620. Optionally, an adjustable shoulder strap 626 having a first loop end 627 is also provided which is removably attached to a first bag base loop 616 by a third connecting element 620 while a second loop end 627 is removably attached to a second bag base loop 616 by a fourth connecting element 620. A completed bag may comprise the bag base with two handles attached, a bag base with a shoulder strap attached, or a bag base having both handles and a strap attached. Although only the front side of bag base 612 is shown, the back side of bag base 612 is constructed in an identical manner as described above.

The interchangeable handbag 610 can be constructed through a three-piece system. In one embodiment, connecting elements 620 are connected to the bag base by slipping one connecting element in the open position onto each of the loops 614 and/or loops 616. These connecting elements can be selected, for instance, to coordinate with the handbag owner's wardrobe and are opened for assembly and then closed as described herein in reference to connecting element 500. Adjustable shoulder strap 626 and/or handles 624 are then attached to the connecting elements previously attached to the bag base. Straps 626 and 624 can be selected to coordinate with the handbag owner's wardrobe and can be constructed of any suitable material, including but not limited to cloth fabric, leather, plastic, etc. Conversely, connecting element 620 can be attached to the straps before being attached to the bag base loops.

Additionally, the handbag of one embodiment includes a bag base 610 having additional integrated loops 618. The number of additional integrated loops can be of any number and is not limited to that shown in FIG. 20. Additional loops 618, which can be a chain of connecting elements 620, can be used to accessorize the handbag. Additional interchangeable components include accessories such as but not limited to charms 630, and chains 622.

Referring to FIG. 21, an appropriately sized connecting element 500 is also provided as connecting element 720 for assembling modular footwear 710, onto which can also be assembled decorative elements through a system of loops sewn directly into the shoe base and/or onto straps connecting to the shoe base as described further below. The connecting element 720 opens for assembly and closes once assembled in the same way as described for element 500 in the swimwear embodiments described further herein.

With reference to FIG. 21, an embodiment of the present disclosure is indicated generally by numeral 710. Footwear article 710 is made up generally of shoe base 712 having a toe section 711 and ankle section 713; integrated loops 714 proximate the toe section 711 and integrated loops 716 proximate the ankle section 713; foot strap 730 having loop ends 732, where one loop end 732 is removably attached to toe section loop 714 by a first connecting element 720; and ankle strap 734 having loop end 736 which is removably attached to ankle section loop 716 by a second connecting element 720. Although only the left side of shoe base 712 is shown in FIG. 21, the right side of shoe base 712 is constructed in an identical manner as described above. Specifically, the interchangeable shoe is constructed through a three-piece system.

In one embodiment, interchangeable connecting elements 720 are connected to the shoe base by slipping one connecting element when in the open position onto each of the loops 714 and 716. These connecting elements can be selected, for instance, to coordinate with the wearer's wardrobe. Interchangeable strap 730 is removably attached to the connecting elements on the toe section of the shoe base, while interchangeable strap 734 is removably attached to the connecting elements at the ankle position of the shoe base. Again, straps 730 and 734 are aesthetically selected to coordinate with the wearer's wardrobe and can be constructed of any suitable material, including but not limited to cloth fabric, leather, plastic, etc. Conversely, connecting elements 720 are removably attached to the straps and removably attached to the shoe base loops.

Another embodiment includes a shoe base having a strap removably attached only at the toe section using a pair of connecting elements. This particular embodiment is suitable for creating a shoe generally known as a flip-flop or a sandal. This embodiment includes a shoe base having a strap removably attached only at the toe section using a pair of connecting elements. The single strap is sufficient to hold the shoe onto the foot while the shoe is being worn. A wearer can construct a shoe by using a shoe base as shown and described herein through the system of integrated loops 714, 716, 736, 732, integrated into straps 730, 734 and in the shoe base 712 itself, for example, using the connecting elements described herein. The shoe base can have loops at both the toe section and heel section wherein the shoe is constructed with connecting elements and straps with only the toe section integrated loops, for example. An additional embodiment includes a modular shoe with a shoe base which includes loops, and connecting elements and straps only at the toe section and nothing at the heel section.

Sarongs and other cover-ups, though not particularly shown in the figures, especially those suitable for use over swimwear are also contemplated as being in the scope of the invention. In these cases, it may be the connecting element only that is interchangeable. In addition, the connecting element may also be used as a closure, for example, to hold a left and right front panel of a cover-up together.

Although illustrative embodiments of the present invention have been described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention and disclosure are not limited to those precise embodiments, and that various changes and modifications may be applied by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For example, though FIGS. 20 and 21 are described in reference to a preferred embodiment, referred to herein as a connecting element, it is understood that other embodiments of a modular handbag or footwear can include other embodiments of the interchangeable clip as described herein.