Decorative straps for a bra and a bra incorporating the same

#1. Technical Field

#This invention generally relates to clothing. More particularly, the invention relates to a tops and bras. Specifically, the invention relates to decorative beaded bra straps and to a bra which incorporates the same.

#2. Background Information

#The preferred embodiments of the invention, illustrative of the best mode in which applicant has contemplated applying the principles, are set forth in the following description and are shown in the drawings and are particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims.

#FIG. 1 is front view showing a person wearing a shirt and illustrating the bra straps in accordance with the present invention being visible;

#FIG. 2 is a front view of a bra in accordance with the present invention and showing the decorative bra straps attached thereto;

#Referring to FIG. 1-6, there is shown a woman 10 wearing a shirt or top 12. The shirt 12 has narrow shoulder straps 12a and, consequently, the straps 14 of her bra (not seen) are visible.

#Referring to FIGS. 2-6, there is shown a bra 16 in accordance with the present invention and illustrating thereon the decorative bra straps 14 in accordance with the present invention. Straps 14 are secured to bra 16 by way of first and second end connectors 18, 20. First and second end connectors 18, 20 are substantially identical to each other. Each first end connector 18 is secured through a looped portion 22 (FIG. 2) on the front of bra 16 and each second end connector 20 is secured to a similarly looped portion (not shown) on the back of bra 16. A first end of strap 14 is connected to first end connector 18 and a second end of strap 14 is connected to an adjustment member 24. Second end connector 20 is retained on said strap 14 and is slidable therealong. The adjustment member 24 is provided intermediate first and second end connectors 18, 20 and is slidable along strap 14. The length “L” of strap 14 is that distance between first and second end connectors 18 and 20. Sliding adjustment member 24 along strap 14 effectively changes the length “L” of strap 14. Movement of the adjustment member 24 in the direction of arrow “A” (FIG. 3) will reduce the length “L” of strap 14. Movement of adjustment member 24 in the direction of arrow “B” will increase the length “L” of strap 14. It will be understood that first and second end connectors 18, 20 and adjustment member 24 are well known in the art.

#In accordance with a specific feature of the present invention, bra strap 14 is manufactured substantially entirely from a plurality of beads 26 which are threaded onto a suitable elongated tubular member 28. Beads 26 may be manufactured from a variety of different materials including, but not limited to glass, plastic, metal, shells and polished stones. Preferably, the material selected will be one that is smooth on the skin, won't snag on clothing and is durable, colorful and attractive. Beads 26 may also be of any desired size and shape. Furthermore, any combination and variation in sizes, shapes, colors and materials for beads 26 may be selected without departing from the spirit of the present invention.