CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/471,442, filed on March 15, 2017, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to apparel accessories, in particular tools for inserting pocket squares into pockets.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Pocket squares are square pieces of cloth typically measuring between 12 and 17 inches (30-43 cm). They are folded in a variety of methods and inserted into the breast pocket of jackets and coats. The breast pocket typical measures 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) wide and at least 3 inches (7.6 cm) in length.

[0004] The small width of the breast pocket makes it difficult to insert a cloth pocket square, especially when the jacket or coat is worn. The pocket square has a natural tendency to fold over or bunch up inside the pocket. Insertion can be aided by a tool such as a stick or comb.

[0005] Pocket square holders in the prior art require the user to insert the pocket square into a rigid holder. The holder with the pocket square is then inserted into the breast pocket. The rigidity of the holder enables it to be inserted without folding over. [0006] For example, U.S. Patent No. 4,897,900 ("Holder for Pocket Square") illustrates a two- panel case with a hinge. A portion of the pocket square is placed between the two panels and the panels are folded together and locked in place by a locking mechanism.

[0007] One disadvantage of pocket square holders in the prior art is that they rely on a rigid panel. While the rigid panel can aid in inserting the pocket square into the pocket, it does not conform to the contours of the jacket or coat and the user's body. As a result, the outline of the holder can be visible from the outside. In addition, the rigid panels can create creases in the jacket and place stress on the jacket fabric.

[0008] Another disadvantage of pocket square holders in the prior art is that they are bulky. They add weight and volume to the pocket. This can alter the appearance of the jacket or coat.

[0009] Yet another disadvantage of prior art pocket square holders is that they are not adjustable. Thus, it is not guaranteed that the pocket square will fit squarely within a pocket as pocket sizes may vary.

[0010] A disadvantage with pocket square holders in the prior art that have a hinge or locking mechanism is that the jacket fabric on the inside of the pocket and/or the fabric from the pocket square can get caught on or in the hinge or locking mechanism. Not only does this inhibit insertion and removal but it can also damage the jacket or coat as well as the pocket square.

[0011] Therefore, a need exists for a tool for aiding a user to fold and secure a pocket square in a folded configuration while providing guidance for inserting a pocket square into a pocket that is flexible, lightweight, thin, and reduces the likelihood of getting stuck in the pocket. SUMMARY

[0012] The following presents a simplified summary of some embodiments of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some embodiments of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0013] In general, the pocket square tool of the present invention comprises a pliable outer rod in a closed loop, having a substantially straight horizontal top edge and a curved U-shaped bottom edge, and a substantially straight pliable horizontal intermediate rod extending a horizontal distance between a left edge of the outer rod and a right edge of the outer rod and parallel to the top edge of the outer rod.

[0014] In the preferred embodiment, there are two intermediate rods parallel to each other. Other embodiments may have additional intermediate rods. The intermediate rods can be coupled to the outer rod or formed integral to it.

[0015] The present invention also provides various methods of securing a pocket square using the tool of the present invention.

[0016] In a first embodiment, the present invention is a tool comprising: an outer rod forming a closed loop, having: a top edge; and a bottom edge; and an intermediate rod extending between a left edge of the outer rod and a right edge of the outer rod. At least one of the outer rod and the intermediate rod are adjustable, thereby causing the tool to be adjustable in size. The

intermediate rod includes: a first intermediate rod; and a second intermediate rod. The first intermediate rod and the second intermediate rod are substantially parallel to each other. The intermediate rod is coupled to the outer rod. Alternatively, the intermediate rod is formed integral with the outer rod. At least one of the outer rod and the intermediate rod is composed of pliable material.

[0017] In another embodiment, the present invention includes a tool for securing a pocket square comprising: a pliable outer rod forming a closed loop, having: a substantially straight horizontal top edge; and a curved U-shaped bottom edge; and a substantially straight pliable horizontal intermediate rod extending a horizontal distance between a left edge of the outer rod and a right edge of the outer rod and substantially parallel to the top edge of the outer rod; wherein the pocket square is secured between at least the top edge and the intermediate rod. At least one of the outer rod and the intermediate rod are adjustable, thereby causing the tool to be adjustable in size. The substantially straight pliable horizontal intermediate rod includes: a first substantially straight pliable horizontal intermediate rod; and a second substantially straight pliable horizontal intermediate rod. The first substantially straight pliable horizontal intermediate rod and the second substantially straight pliable horizontal intermediate rod are substantially parallel to each other. The intermediate rod is coupled to the outer rod. The intermediate rod is coupled to the outer rod by a threaded coupling. Alternatively, the intermediate rod is formed integral with the outer rod.

[0018] In a further embodiment, the present invention is a method of securing a pocket square comprising: providing a tool including: an outer rod forming a closed loop having: a top edge; and a bottom edge; and at least one intermediate rod extending between a left edge of the outer rod and a right edge of the outer rod; inserting a portion of the pocket square between a pair of rods selected from the outer rod and the at least one intermediate rod of the tool; and positioning the combination of the tool and the pocket square within a pocket of a garment. The portion of the pocket square is inserted between the top edge of the outer rod and the at least one intermediate rod. The at least one intermediate rod includes an upper intermediate rod and a lower intermediate rod; wherein the portion of the pocket square includes a first portion and a second portion; wherein the first portion of the pocket square is inserted between the top edge of the outer rod and the upper intermediate rod; and wherein the second portion of the pocket square is inserted between the bottom edge of the outer rod and the lower intermediate rod. The method further comprises: folding a corner of the pocket square before the step of inserting. Alternatively, the method further comprises, after the step of inserting and before the step of positioning, folding free portions of the pocket square over at least one edge of the tool. In another alternative embodiment, the method further comprises, before the step of inserting, laying the tool on the pocket square.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0019] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of presently preferred embodiments of the invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there are shown in the drawings embodiments which are presently preferred. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

[0020] In the drawings:

[0021] FIG. 1 is a front view of an embodiment of a pocket square tool of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 2 is an illustration of a first step of a first embodiment of a method of the present invention for securing a pocket square.

[0023] FIG. 3 is an illustration of a second step of the method of FIG. 2.

[0024] FIG. 4 is an illustration of a third step of the method of FIG. 2. [0025] FIG. 5 is an illustration of a fourth step of the method of FIG. 2.

[0026] FIG. 6 is an illustration of a first step of a second embodiment of the method of the present invention for securing a pocket square.

[0027] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a second step of the method of FIG. 6.

[0028] FIG. 8 is an illustration of a third step of the method of FIG. 6.

[0029] FIG. 9 is an illustration of a first step of a third embodiment of the method of the present invention for securing a pocket square.

[0030] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a second step of the method of FIG. 9.

[0031] FIG. 11 is an illustration of a third step of the method of FIG. 9.

[0032] FIG. 12 is an illustration of a fourth step of the method of FIG. 9.

[0033] To facilitate an understanding of the invention, identical reference numerals have been used, when appropriate, to designate the same or similar elements that are common to the figures. Further, unless stated otherwise, the features shown in the figures are not drawn to scale, but are shown for illustrative purposes only.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The article "a" is intended to include one or more items, and where only one item is intended the term "one" or similar language is used. Additionally, to assist in the description of the present invention, words such as top, bottom, side, upper, lower, front, rear, inner, outer, right and left are used to describe the accompanying figures. The terminology includes the words above specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. [0035] Referring to FIG. 1, an embodiment of a pocket square tool 100 of the present invention comprises a pliable outer rod 102 in a closed loop, having a substantially straight horizontal top edge 104 and a curved U-shaped bottom edge 106, and a substantially straight pliable horizontal intermediate rod 108 extending a horizontal distance between a left edge of the outer rod 102 and a right edge of the outer rod 102 and parallel to the top edge 104 of the outer rod 102.

[0036] Also in the exemplar embodiment, the pocket square tool 100 comprises a first intermediate rod 108 about 0.5 inches from the top edge 104 of the outer rod 102 and a second intermediate rod 110 about 0.5 inches from the bottom edge 106 of the outer rod 102.

[0037] In the exemplar embodiment, the width of the pocket square tool 100 from the left edge to the right edge of the outer rod is about 3 inches and the length of the tool 100 from the top edge 104 to the bottom edge 106 is about 4 inches. In other embodiments, the pocket square tool 100 can be smaller or larger. A width of 3 to 3.75 inches and a length of 4 to 5 inches is optimal and enables the pocket square tool 100 to fit in most breast pockets.

[0038] In another embodiment, the size of the tool 100 is adjustable. For example, each rod 102, 108, 110 could be constructed with one or more portions having threaded ends. Each portion could then be coupled with a threaded housing such that each portion could be adjusted in length through the threaded engagement. With this configuration the rod ends are not exposed and therefore damage to the fabric of the garment and pocket square is avoided.

[0039] The rods 102, 108, 110 can be made of any pliable material including copper, aluminum, steel, metal alloy, and plastic. The thickness of each rod 102, 108, 110 is thin in diameter, preferably less than 1/16 inch (1.58 mm) to minimize bulk and weight of the tool 100. The pliable material enables the pocket square tool 100 to conform to the breast pocket and allow for the user to adjust the tool 100 accordingly. [0040] The intersections of the rods 102, 108, 110 are configured such that the ends of the rods 102, 108, 110 are not exposed to prevent the tool 100 from damaging the fabric of the pocket or the pocket square. For example, the intersections could be coated with a soft material such as rubber or silicone.

[0041] Referring to FIGS. 2-5, a first embodiment of a method of securing a pocket square 200 using the pocket square tool 100 of the present invention is shown. The method comprises a first step of folding the pocket square 200 to form a corner 202 at or about a central portion of the pocket square 200. The corner 202 is then inserted between the top edge 104 of the outer rod 102 and the first intermediate rod 108, as shown in FIGS. 2-3. Referring to FIG. 4, the first embodiment of the method of using the pocket square tool 100 comprises a second step of inserting a free portion 204 of the pocket square 200 between the bottom edge 106 of the outer rod 102 and the second intermediate rod 110. Referring to FIG. 5, the first embodiment of the method of using the pocket square tool 100 comprises a third step of folding the free portion 204 of the pocket square 200 which extends outside the side and bottom edges of the pocket square tool 100 over the respective edges. The pocket square tool 100 and folded pocket square 200 combination is then inserted into a pocket with the corner 202 extending upwardly from the pocket.

[0042] Referring to FIGS. 6-8, a second embodiment of a method of securing a pocket square 200 using the pocket square tool 100 of the present invention is shown. The method comprises a first step of folding the pocket square 200 to form a corner 202 at or about a central portion of the pocket square 200. The folded pocket square 200 is inserted between the top edge 104 of the outer rod 102 and the first intermediate rod 108 such that a free portion 204 of the pocket square 200 extends upwardly from the tool 100, as shown in FIG. 6. Referring to FIG. 7, the second embodiment of the method of using the pocket square tool 100 further comprises a second step of inserting the corner 202 of the pocket square 200 between the bottom edge 106 of the outer rod 102 and the second intermediate rod 110. Referring to FIG. 8, the second embodiment of the method of using the pocket square tool 100 further comprises a third step of folding any portions of the pocket square 200 that extend outside the side and bottom edges of the pocket square tool 100 over the respective edges. In, FIG. 8, the corner 202 of the pocket square 200 extending outside the bottom edge 106 of the outer rod 102 is folded over the bottom edge 106. The pocket square tool 100 with pocket square 200 can then be inserted into a breast pocket such that the free portion 204 extends from the pocket.

[0043] Referring to FIGS. 9-12, a third embodiment of a method of securing a pocket square 200 using the pocket square tool 100 is shown. In this embodiment, the method comprises a first step of laying the pocket square tool 100 on top of an open pocket square 200 having top, bottom, left, and right corners such that the top edge 104 of the outer rod 102 lies on a horizontal axis extending from the left corner of the pocket square 200 to the right corner of the pocket square 200 and the pocket square tool 100 is horizontally centered along a vertical axis extending from the top corner of the pocket square 200 to the bottom corner of the pocket square 200, as shown in FIG. 9. Referring to FIG. 10, the third embodiment of the method of using the pocket square tool 100 comprises a second step of folding the pocket square 200 in half over the pocket square tool 100 such that the top corner of the pocket square 200 overlaps the bottom corner of the pocket square 200. Referring to FIG. 11, the third embodiment of the method of using the pocket square tool 100 comprises a third step of inserting at least one of the top and bottom corners of the pocket square 200 between the bottom edge 106 of the outer rod 102 and the second intermediate rod 110. Referring to FIG. 12, the third embodiment of the method of using the pocket square tool 100 comprises a fourth step of folding any portions of the pocket square 200 that extend outside the side and bottom edges of the pocket square tool 100 over the respective edges. The pocket square tool 100 with pocket square 200 can then be inserted into a breast pocket with the folds facing outward from the jacket or with the folds hidden and facing inward from the jacket.

[0044] Other methods of securing a pocket square using the pocket square tool 100 of the present invention are possible. Thus, the pocket square tool 100 of the present invention is capable of accommodating multiple methods of folding a pocket square for a user to present a variety of pocket square styles.

[0045] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention will be, therefore, indicated by claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes, which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims, are to be embraced within their scope.