FOLDING GARMENT BAG WITH INTEGRATED PROTECTION SYSTEM

Abstract

A folding garment bag including an internal hanging system for securing clothes, a padded lining for maintaining the position of the clothes, a smooth, integrated separating layer for separating garments within the bag, and a three-sided zipper that allows the bag to open flat for loading. The zipper includes a zipper shield to protect garments. The internal hanging system includes offset hanger loops and securable straps for hanging garments. The padded lining is made from a compressible material to minimize movement of the clothes. The smooth, integrated separating layer is stretchable across the bag to create a barrier between layers of clothes. The folding garment bag includes an hourglass shape to reduce excess material and weight, and a handle and clasp for ergonomic carrying and hanging.

Claims

1. A folding garment bag, comprising: an internal hanging system for securing clothes; a padded lining for maintaining the position of the clothes; a smooth, integrated separating layer for separating garments within the bag; and a three-sided zipper that allows the bag to open flat for loading, wherein the zipper includes a zipper shield to protect garments.

2. The folding garment bag of claim 1 wherein the internal hanging system includes offset hanger loops and securable straps for hanging garments.

3. The folding garment bag of claim 2 wherein the offset hanger loops are positioned at different heights to allow for nesting of hangers.

4. The folding garment bag of claim 1 wherein the padded lining is made from a compressible material to minimize movement of the clothes.

5. The folding garment bag of claim 1 wherein the smooth, integrated separating layer is stretchable across the bag to create a barrier between layers of clothes.

6. The folding garment bag of claim 1 including an hourglass shape to reduce excess material and weight.

7. The folding garment bag of claim 6 including a handle and clasp for ergonomic carrying and hanging.

8. A method of protecting and transporting hanging clothes, comprising: securing clothes within a folding garment bag using an internal hanging system; maintaining the position of the clothes with a padded lining; separating garments within the bag using a smooth, integrated separating layer; and opening the bag flat for loading using a three-sided zipper; wherein the zipper includes a zipper shield to protect garments.

9. The method of claim 8 wherein securing clothes within the folding garment bag comprises using offset hanger loops positioned at different heights to allow for nesting of hangers.

10. The method of claim 9 wherein securing clothes within the folding garment bag further comprises using securable straps for hanging garments without hangers.

11. The method of claim 8 wherein the padded lining is made from a compressible material to minimize movement of the clothes during transport.

12. The method of claim 8 wherein the smooth, integrated separating layer is stretchable across the bag to create a barrier between layers of clothes.

13. The method of claim 8 including folding the garment bag in half to create a compact form for storage or transport.

14. The method of claim 13 including standing the folded garment bag in an upright position using an internal structure integrated into the garment bag.

15. A folding garment bag system comprising: a bag body having an hourglass shape; an internal hanging system integrated into the bag body for securing clothes; a padded lining within the bag body for maintaining the position of the clothes; a smooth, integrated separating layer within the bag body for separating garments; and an ergonomic handle and hanging clasp attached to the bag body for carrying and hanging the bag.

16. The folding garment bag system of claim 15 wherein the internal hanging system comprises offset hanger loops positioned at different heights to allow for nesting of hangers.

17. The folding garment bag system of claim 16 wherein the internal hanging system includes securable straps for hanging garments without hangers.

18. The folding garment bag system of claim 15 wherein the padded lining is made from a compressible material to minimize movement of the clothes during transport.

19. The folding garment bag system of claim 15 wherein the smooth, integrated separating layer is stretchable across the bag body to create a barrier between layers of clothes.

20. The folding garment bag system of claim 19 including an internal structure integrated into the bag body, allowing the garment bag to be folded in half and stand in an upright position.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] A further understanding of the nature and advantages of particular embodiments may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and the drawings, in which like reference numerals are used to refer to similar components. When reference is made to a reference numeral without specification to an existing sub-label, it is intended to refer to all such multiple similar components.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of the interior of the folding garment bag in an open position with the separating layer folded against the rear lining;

[0020] FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the interior of the folding garment bag in an open position with the separating layer folded against the front lining;

[0021] FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of the folding garment bag in a closed position with the front lining zippered against the rear lining;

[0022] FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of an interior portion of the folding garment bag showing the garment hooks;

[0023] FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of the folding garment bag in the folded and standing position;

[0024] FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the folding garment bag in the folded and

[0025] standing position; and

[0026] FIG. 7 is a front elevational view of a designer folding garment bag in a closed position.

[0027] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate embodiments of the invention and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] While various aspects and features of certain embodiments have been summarized above, the following detailed description illustrates a few exemplary embodiments in further detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice such embodiments. The described examples are provided for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0029] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art however that other embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without some of these specific details. Several embodiments are described herein, and while various features are ascribed to different embodiments, it should be appreciated that the features described with respect to one embodiment may be incorporated with other embodiments as well. By the same token, however, no single feature or features of any described embodiment should be considered essential to every embodiment of the invention, as other embodiments of the invention may omit such features.

[0030] In this application the use of the singular includes the plural unless specifically stated otherwise and use of the terms and and or is equivalent to and/or, also referred to as non-exclusive or unless otherwise indicated. Moreover, the use of the term including, as well as other forms, such as includes and included, should be considered non-exclusive. Also, terms such as element or component encompass both elements and components including one unit and elements and components that include more than one unit, unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0031] Lastly, the terms or and and/or as used herein are to be interpreted as inclusive or meaning any one or any combination. Therefore, A, B or C or A, B and/or C mean any of the following: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; A, B and C. An exception to this definition will occur only when a combination of elements, functions, steps or acts are in some way inherently mutually exclusive.

[0032] As this invention is susceptible to embodiments of many different forms, it is intended that the present disclosure be considered as an example of the principles of the invention and not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments shown and described.

[0033] This invention, which is a folding garment bag relates to transporting hanging clothes and more specifically to the ability to transport hanging clothes in a way that minimizes wrinkling and damage while improving the ease of packing and transport. When traveling, often people must figure out a way to carry clothes with them. The typical garment bag for hanging clothes relies on hangers passing through an opening at the top of the bag and a simple exterior barrier on most or all sideswith no or few other features in the interior of the bag to help safeguard the clothes through the transport process. It is the object of this invention to provide a garment bag that simplifies the task of transporting hanging clothes, especially those prone to wrinkling, made with delicate fabrics, or that are easily damaged. The system incorporates novel interior features engineered to secure, pad, and separate garments as well as exterior features designed to improve portability and access to the interior.

[0034] The instant invention solves the problem in transporting garments by providing a bag used for hanging clothes in a way that minimizes wrinkling and the likelihood of damage to clothes while improving the ease of packing and transport. The instant invention is a system for transporting hanging clothes in a way that minimizes wrinkling and the likelihood of damage to clothes while improving the ease of packing and transport. One application for this invention is for transporting dresses and other formal garments made of delicate fabrics to events such as weddings, galas, or business meetings. For the transportation of such clothing, it is critical that the articles be protected from the elements and secure in the bag to prevent bunching, wrinkling, and collapsing. The invention incorporates novel interior features to secure, pad, and separate garments as well as novel exterior features to improve portability and access to the interior. Below, we detail these elements.

[0035] Three key features comprise the interior engineering: (1) a system to hang clothes inside the bag with or without hangers, (2) a puffy, padded lining to hold clothes securely in place when the bag is zipped closed, and (3) a smooth, integrated layer that stretches across the bag in-between clothes preventing garments from touching while in the bag. All three of these are novel elements in a hanging bag and together create a new way to transport garments as shown in FIG. 1.

[0036] The solution relies on an internal hanging system that can be used with or without hangers. The system for hanging clothes is contained entirely within the bag. This accomplishes several things. First, it eliminates the need to carry the bag by an uncomfortable hanger; instead, an exterior handle can be used. Second, it makes for a better match between garment form and hanging architecture. As seen in FIG. 2, there are two loops centered in the top of the bag for hooking hangers through. These loops are slightly offset and of different lengths so that hangers can nest as needed. There are also two strap-like pieces that are affixed to the top of the bag near the center and can snap to the bag more distally. These hanging straps eliminate the need for hangers with many garments (especially dresses) and can be used instead with a garment's built-in hanging straps, shoulder straps, etc.

[0037] To hold the transported garment in place, exactly as it is placed in the bag, the interior is lined with a puffy, padded lining. The soft, compressible lining minimizes movement inside as shown in FIG. 1.

[0038] To minimize wrinkles but also prevent multiple garments from rubbing against each other, a smooth fabric layer is integrated into the bag. It can be stretched across the bag and attached to the other side, effectively putting a barrier between different layers of clothes. A similar anti-wrinkle technique is employed by many clothes manufacturers by layering tissue paper when shipping items. Here, we use that same principal in a permanent embodiment as shown in FIG. 1.

[0039] The instant invention offers an innovative shape that is designed for clothes and several functions to make packing and transporting garments easier and more enjoyable including a side zip for packing and unpacking, a plush interior to support and hold garments in place, a soft layer to minimize wrinkles and protect in between garments, hooks for hangers, straps to hang clothing directly inside the bag, a folding capability to carry the bag comfortably by hand or forearm, and the ability to place the bag down on the ground like a purse or other piece of luggage. The bag is made for people traveling by foot, car, or plane. Its main objective is to offer stylish design and innovative features that make traveling with clothes fashionable and functional.

[0040] Furthermore, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a garment bag including a base portion having a bottom and a method of forming side walls including a zipper or other fastening methods such as buttons or clasps. The sidewalls extending from the closed bottom to a top region to define an interior space. The collapsible portion is formed from a flexible material and includes an opening means. The collapsible portion is positionable in a first position in which the collapsible portion is collapsed into the interior space and a second position in which the collapsible portion extends away from the top region of the base portion such that the opening means provides access to the interior space. Preferably, the collapsible portion further includes a generally enclosed top end and said opening means is formed on a portion of the generally enclosed top end.

[0041] According to one aspect of the present invention, at least two handles that are connected to the base portion proximate the top region, and arranged such that when the upper portion is collapsed into the interior space, the garment bag can be carried by the at least two handles.

[0042] According to another aspect of the present invention, the base portion is formed from a flexible material such as cloth, canvas, nylon fabric, stretch fabric, Lycra, elastane and spandex or a rigid material such as polyethylene sheet.

[0043] Furthermore, the disclosed folding garment bag is designed to transport hanging clothes with enhanced protection and convenience. The interior of the bag features an innovative hanging system that accommodates clothes with or without hangers, a padded lining to secure garments in place, and a smooth fabric layer to separate multiple garments and prevent wrinkling. The exterior of the bag is engineered with an ergonomic hourglass shape, a three-sided zipper for easy access, the ability to fold and stand, and a handle with a clasp for versatile carrying options. The bag can be constructed from various materials and designed in different sizes and shapes to suit a wide range of garments and user preferences. Additional features such as pockets, compartments, and security mechanisms can be incorporated to enhance the bag's functionality.

[0044] The instant invention is a folding garment bag including an internal hanging system for securing clothes with or without hangers, a padded lining for maintaining the position of the clothes, and a smooth, integrated layer for separating garments within the bag. The internal hanging system may include offset loops and strap-like pieces for hanging garments. The padded lining may be made from a compressible material to minimize movement of the clothes. The smooth, integrated layer may be stretchable across the bag to create a barrier between layers of clothes. The folding garment bag may have an hourglass shape to reduce excess material and weight. The folding garment bag may include a three-sided zipper that allows the bag to open flat for easy loading and the zipper has a zipper shield to protect garments. The folding garment bag may include a handle and clasp for ergonomic carrying and hanging. The folding garment bag may be capable of being folded in half and standing in place due to its internal structure. The folding garment bag may be constructed from materials selected based on environmental conditions and user preferences. The folding garment bag may include various sizes and shapes to accommodate different types of garments.

[0045] Other and further advantages and features of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Referring now to the drawings FIGS. 1-7, and more particularly to FIGS. 1 and 2, there is shown the interior of the folding garment bag, showing the front padded lining 102a, rear padded lining 102b and integrated separating layer 110, which is preferably attached along separating layer edge 114 to the seam between the front padded lining 102a and the rear padded lining 102b. The folding garment bag 100 includes a shield 115 for protecting the garments from snagging on the zipper. The zipper shield 115 may alternately be placed in different or additional locations along the male zipper portion 118 or the female zipper portion 116 of the zipper. FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of the interior of the folding garment bag 100 in an open position with the separating layer 110 folded against the rear lining 102b and FIG. 2 shows the separating layer 110 folded against the front lining 102a. FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of the folding garment bag in a closed position with the front lining zippered against the rear lining showing the exterior of the garment bag 100. When the front lining is zippered against the rear lining, the male zippered portion 118 is engaged with the female zippered portion 116 along at least a portion of the male zippered portion 118 and the female zippered portion 116. The upper front access panel 160 and lower front access panel 150 make up the access panel which is adjacent and exterior to the front padded lining 102a.

[0047] FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of an interior portion of the folding garment bag showing garment hooks including offset hanger loops 205 and direct-hang, securable straps 210. Clasp 130 secures upper handle portion 123 to lower handle portion 122. The upper handle portion 123 and the lower handle portion 122 are detachable and re-attachable and may be extended over a rod or through an opening.

[0048] FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of the folding garment bag in the folded and standing position including front panel 161 and rear panel 151. The front panel 161 and the rear panel 151 each consist of an upper and lower portion, respectively, of the closed garment bag rear and front liners and separating layer. A base panel 190 is disposed between a pair of live hinges 180 to allow folding of the front panel 161 to the rear panel 151. FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the folding garment bag in the folded and standing position.

[0049] FIG. 7 is a front elevational view of a designer folding garment bag 100 with the front lining in a closed position. The folding garment bag 100 may include patterns and colors on the exterior surface. Matching patterns or colors may also be included on one or more interior portions of the garment bag.

[0050] One aspect is directed to the folding garment bag 100 as shown in FIGS. 1-6. The folding garment bag may combine multiple novel elements to create an improved method for transporting hanging clothes. These elements may work together to address common issues associated with traditional garment bags, such as garment shifting, wrinkling, and difficulty in handling during travel. The garment bag 100 may include an internal hanging system comprising offset hanger loops 205 and securable straps 210.

[0051] In some cases, the offset hanger loops 205 may be positioned at the top of the garment bag 100. The offset hanger loops 205 may be of different lengths, which may allow hangers to nest as needed when multiple garments are hung within the garment bag 100. This arrangement may help to distribute the weight of the garments more evenly and reduce crowding at the top of the bag.

[0052] The garment bag 100 may also include securable straps 210. These securable straps 210 may extend from attachment points near the center of the garment bag 100. In some implementations, the securable straps 210 may be designed to fasten to corresponding attachment points on the interior surface 102 of the garment bag 100.

[0053] The internal hanging system may provide multiple options for securing garments within the garment bag 100. For example, the offset hanger loops 205 may accommodate traditional hangers, allowing users to hang garments in a conventional manner. Alternatively, the securable straps 210 may be used with garments that have built-in hanging straps or shoulder straps, potentially eliminating the need for separate hangers in some cases.

[0054] In some implementations, the combination of offset hanger loops 205 and securable straps 210 may allow users to customize the hanging arrangement based on the specific garments being transported. This flexibility may help to minimize wrinkling and shifting of garments during transport.

[0055] The internal hanging system may be designed to work in conjunction with other features of the garment bag 100, such as the padded lining and separating layer to provide comprehensive protection and organization for transported garments.

[0056] FIG. 1 illustrates an interior view of the garment bag 100, showing additional features designed to protect and organize garments during transport. The garment bag 100 may include a padded lining 105 and a separating layer 110 integrated into the interior surface 102.

[0057] In some cases, the padded lining 105 may extend across the interior surface 102 of the garment bag 100. The padded lining 105 may be made from a compressible material, such as foam, batting, or synthetic fibers. This compressible material may allow the padded lining 105 to conform to the shape of garments placed within the garment bag 100, helping to maintain the position of the clothes during transport.

[0058] The garment bag 100 may also include a separating layer 110. In some implementations, the separating layer 110 may be a smooth, integrated layer that spans across the interior of the garment bag 100. The separating layer 110 may be stretchable, allowing it to be extended across the bag and attached to the opposite side. This stretchable property may enable the separating layer 110 to create a barrier between different layers of clothes within the garment bag 100.

[0059] The combination of the padded lining 105 and the separating layer 110 may work in conjunction with the offset hanger loops 205 and securable straps 210 shown in FIG. 4 to provide comprehensive protection for garments. The padded lining 105 may help minimize movement of clothes within the garment bag 100, while the separating layer 110 may prevent different garments from rubbing against each other, potentially reducing the risk of wrinkling or damage during transport.

[0060] In some cases, the separating layer 110 may be made from a smooth, low-friction material such as nylon or polyester. This smooth surface may allow garments to slide easily against the separating layer 110, further reducing the potential for wrinkling or catching on other items within the garment bag 100.

[0061] The padded lining 105 and separating layer 110 may be permanently integrated into the garment bag 100, or in some implementations, may be removable for cleaning or replacement. The ability to remove these components may allow for easier maintenance of the garment bag 100 and may extend its usable life.

[0062] FIG. 3 shows and exterior view of the garment bag 100 and while these figures do not directly show an exterior padded lining, the figure illustrates how the overall design of the garment bag 100 may accommodate these interior features while maintaining a sleek exterior appearance and functionality.

[0063] The garment bag 100 may include an exterior surface which forms the outer shell of the bag. In some cases, the exterior surface may be made from a durable, water-resistant material to protect the contents of the garment bag 100 from environmental factors.

[0064] The garment bag 100 may feature an hourglass shape that follows the natural contours of garments. This shape may help minimize excess material in the design, potentially reducing the overall weight of the garment bag 100 and improving its handling characteristics. The hourglass shape may also contribute to a more secure fit for the garments inside, as the contoured shape may help prevent shifting during transport.

[0065] In some implementations, the garment bag 100 may include a zipper system that runs along three sides of the bag. When the front lining is zippered against the rear lining, the male zippered portion 118 is engaged with the female zippered portion 116 along at least a portion of the male zippered portion 118 and the female zippered portion 116. The zipper system may work in conjunction with the zipper shield 115 which may help protect garments from catching or snagging on the zipper teeth during closure.

[0066] The garment bag 100 may incorporate ergonomic features to enhance portability and ease of use. As shown in FIG. 3A, the garment bag 100 may include an ergonomic handle 120, 121 integrated into the design. In some cases, the ergonomic handle 120, 121 may be shaped to accommodate a user's wrist or forearm, potentially allowing for more comfortable carrying of the garment bag 100 over extended periods.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 4, clasp 130 secures an upper handle portion 123 of the handle 120 to lower handle portion 122. The upper handle portion 123 and the lower handle portion 122 are detachable and re-attachable and may be extended over a rod or through an opening.

[0068] Additionally, the garment bag 100 may feature a clasp 130 for securing the upper handle 120 to the lower handle 121 when the garment bag 100 is in the folded position. The clasp 130 may be positioned at the top portion of the garment bag 100 and opens the top handle 120 so that the handle 120 can go over fixed bars and may allow for secure hanging of the bag from various fixtures, such as closet rods, luggage cart rods, or hotel room hooks. In some implementations, the hanging clasp 130 may be designed to support the weight of the garment bag 100 and its contents when fully loaded.

[0069] The exterior design elements of the garment bag 100 may work in harmony with the interior features, such as the padded lining 105, separating layer 110, offset hanger loops 205, and securable straps 210, to create a comprehensive solution for garment protection and transport. The combination of these exterior and interior features may contribute to the overall functionality and user-friendliness of the garment bag 100.

[0070] In some cases, the garment bag 100 may be designed to fold in half, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. This folding capability may allow the garment bag 100 to stand upright when not in use, potentially making it more convenient for storage in various settings, such as hotel rooms or small closets. The folded configuration may also provide a more compact form factor for transport, which may be beneficial when navigating through crowded spaces or storing the garment bag 100 in overhead compartments during travel.

[0071] The garment bag 100 may incorporate a zipper system designed to enhance accessibility and protect garments during transport. In some cases, the zipper system may extend along three sides of the garment bag 100, allowing the bag to open completely flat for easy loading and unloading of garments.

[0072] The three-sided zipper configuration may provide several advantages over traditional garment bag designs. For example, when fully unzipped, the garment bag 100 may lay flat on a surface, potentially allowing users to easily place or remove garments without the need for awkward maneuvering or twisting. This feature may be particularly beneficial when packing or unpacking delicate or formal wear that requires careful handling.

[0073] In some implementations, the zipper system may work in conjunction with the zipper shield 115. The zipper shield 115 may be a protective element integrated into the interior surface 102 of the garment bag 100. The zipper shield 115 may extend along the length of the zipper, creating a barrier between the zipper teeth and the garments stored within the bag.

[0074] The zipper shield 115 may serve multiple purposes. In some cases, the zipper shield 115 may help prevent garments from catching or snagging on the zipper teeth during closure or opening of the garment bag 100. This protection may be particularly important for delicate fabrics or garments with intricate details that could be damaged by contact with the zipper mechanism.

[0075] Additionally, the zipper shield 115 may provide an extra layer of protection against external elements. For example, in cases where the garment bag 100 is exposed to moisture or dust, the zipper shield 115 may help prevent these elements from entering the bag through the zipper seam, potentially offering additional protection for the garments inside.

[0076] The combination of the three-sided zipper system and the zipper shield 115 may work in harmony with other features of the garment bag 100, such as the padded lining 105 and the separating layer 110, to provide comprehensive protection for garments during transport. These features may collectively contribute to the garment bag's ability to minimize wrinkling and damage to clothes while improving the ease of packing and carrying.

[0077] The garment bag 100 may include an internal structure that allows the garment bag 100 to be folded in half and stand upright when not in use. This folding and standing mechanism may enhance the portability and storage capabilities of the garment bag 100, providing users with additional convenience during travel or when storing the garment bag 100 in compact spaces.

[0078] In some cases, the internal structure may comprise a series of reinforced panels or stiffeners integrated into the construction of the garment bag 100. These panels may be strategically positioned within the layers of the garment bag 100, such as between the exterior surface and the padded lining 105. The placement of these panels may allow the garment bag 100 to maintain its shape when folded, while still providing flexibility for easy packing and unpacking of garments.

[0079] The folding mechanism may be designed to work in harmony with other features of the garment bag 100. For example, the padded lining 105 and separating layer 110 may be constructed to accommodate the folding action without compromising their protective functions. In some implementations, the separating layer 110 may include a central fold line that aligns with the folding point of the garment bag 100, allowing for smooth folding without creating additional wrinkles in the garments.

[0080] When folded, as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the garment bag 100 may take on a more compact form factor. This folded configuration may reduce the overall footprint of the garment bag 100, potentially making it easier to store in limited spaces such as hotel room closets or overhead compartments during travel. The ability to stand upright in this folded state may also provide added convenience, allowing users to easily access the contents of the garment bag 100 without fully unfolding it.

[0081] The standing mechanism may be achieved through a combination of the internal structure and the overall design of the garment bag 100. In some cases, the hourglass shape of the garment bag 100 may contribute to its ability to stand upright when folded. The contoured shape may create a stable base when the garment bag 100 is folded in half, distributing the weight evenly and preventing the bag from tipping over.

[0082] Additionally, the placement of features such as the clasp 130 and ergonomic handle 120, 121 may be optimized to maintain balance when the garment bag 100 is in its folded, standing position. For example, the clasp 130 may be positioned in a way that allows it to serve as a stabilizing point when the garment bag 100 is folded and standing upright.

[0083] The folding and standing mechanism may work in conjunction with the internal hanging system, including the offset hanger loops 205 and securable straps 210 shown in FIG. 4. These components may be designed to accommodate the folding action without interfering with the garments or causing additional wrinkling. In some implementations, the offset hanger loops 205 and securable straps 210 may be positioned to allow garments to naturally fold along with the garment bag 100, minimizing the need for rearrangement when unfolding.

[0084] The combination of the folding capability and the ability to stand upright may provide users with enhanced flexibility in how they use and store the garment bag 100. For instance, users may choose to partially unfold the garment bag 100 while keeping it standing, allowing for quick access to specific garments without fully laying out the bag. This feature may be particularly useful in situations where space is limited, such as in small hotel rooms or during quick changes at events.

[0085] The garment bag 100 may be constructed using a variety of materials selected based on environmental conditions and user preferences. In some cases, the exterior surface of the garment bag 100 may be made from durable, water-resistant fabrics such as nylon, polyester, or treated canvas. These materials may provide protection against moisture, dust, and other potential environmental hazards during transport.

[0086] The interior surface 102 of the garment bag 100 may be lined with softer, more delicate materials to protect the garments from abrasion. In some implementations, the padded lining 105 may be constructed from materials such as quilted cotton, microfiber, or synthetic padding to provide cushioning and minimize movement of the clothes within the garment bag 100.

[0087] The separating layer 110 may be made from smooth, low-friction materials such as silk, satin, or specialized synthetic fabrics. These materials may allow garments to slide easily against the separating layer 110, potentially reducing the risk of wrinkling or snagging during transport.

[0088] In some cases, the offset hanger loops 205 and securable straps 210 may be constructed from durable, flexible materials such as nylon webbing or reinforced elastic. These materials may provide strength and resilience to support the weight of hanging garments while allowing for easy manipulation when securing clothes within the garment bag 100.

[0089] The zipper shield 115 may be made from a soft, pliable material that can effectively protect garments from contact with the zipper teeth. In some implementations, this may be a strip of felt, brushed nylon, or another non-abrasive fabric.

[0090] The garment bag 100 may be available in various sizes and shapes to accommodate different types of garments. In some cases, the overall dimensions of the garment bag 100 may be adjusted to suit specific clothing items such as long dresses, suits, or outerwear. The hourglass shape of the garment bag 100 may be modified to create a more rectangular or tapered silhouette depending on the intended use.

[0091] The clasp 130 and ergonomic handle 120, 121 may be customized in terms of size, shape, and material to enhance user comfort and functionality. In some implementations, these components may be made from lightweight yet durable materials such as reinforced plastics or aluminum alloys.

[0092] The garment bag 100 may also offer customization options in terms of color and pattern for the exterior surface. This may allow users to select designs that suit their personal preferences or match specific travel needs, such as high-visibility colors for easy identification on luggage carousels.

[0093] In some cases, the internal features of the garment bag 100 may be customizable to suit different garment types. For example, the number and positioning of offset hanger loops 205 and securable straps 210 may be adjusted to accommodate various clothing styles and sizes. The thickness and density of the padded lining 105 may also be customized based on the level of protection required for different types of garments.

[0094] The customization options for the garment bag 100 may extend to the folding mechanism and standing capability. In some implementations, the internal structure that allows the garment bag 100 to fold and stand upright may be adjustable, allowing users to modify the folded dimensions to suit specific storage or travel requirements.

[0095] The garment bag may incorporate multiple features that work together to protect and transport hanging clothes while minimizing wrinkling and damage. In some cases, the interaction between these components may enhance the overall functionality and ease of use of the garment bag.

[0096] The interior surface of the garment bag may include the padded lining, which may help secure garments in place during transport. The compressible nature of the padded lining may allow the garment bag to conform to the shape of the clothes, potentially reducing movement and friction that could lead to wrinkling.

[0097] In conjunction with the padded lining, the separating layer may provide an additional level of protection. The separating layer may be stretchable and extend across the interior of the garment bag, creating a barrier between different garments. This separation may help prevent clothes from rubbing against each other, which may further reduce the risk of wrinkling or damage during transport.

[0098] The offset hanger loops and securable straps, as shown in FIG. 4, may work together to provide a versatile hanging system within the garment bag. The offset hanger loops may accommodate traditional hangers, while the securable straps may be used for garments with built-in hanging features. This combination may allow for customized hanging arrangements based on the specific garments being transported.

[0099] The zipper shield may protect garments from catching on the zipper teeth when closing or opening the garment bag. This feature may work in tandem with the padded lining and separating layer to provide comprehensive protection for the clothes inside the garment bag.

[0100] On the exterior of the garment bag, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the hanging clasp and ergonomic handle may enhance portability and ease of use. The hanging clasp may allow the garment bag to be suspended from various fixtures, while the ergonomic handle may provide a comfortable carrying option.

[0101] The ability of the garment bag to fold in half, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, may work in conjunction with the internal features to maintain garment protection even in a compact form. The folding mechanism may be designed to align with the placement of the padded lining, separating layer, and hanging system to minimize additional wrinkling when the garment bag is folded.

[0102] The combination of these features may create a comprehensive system for garment protection and transport. The interaction between the interior components (padded lining, separating layer, offset hanger loops, and securable straps) and the exterior elements (zipper shield, hanging clasp, and ergonomic handle) may provide multiple layers of protection while enhancing usability. This integrated approach may help address common issues associated with transporting hanging clothes, such as wrinkling, shifting, and difficulty in handling during travel.

[0103] Since many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described embodiments of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The instant invention will have numerous designs and have multiple embodiment colors. The disclosure covers the structural elements and not the design of this particular example. Furthermore, it is understood that any of the features presented in the embodiments may be integrated into any of the other embodiments unless explicitly stated otherwise. The scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

[0104] In addition, the present invention has been described with reference to embodiments, it should be noted and understood that various modifications and variations can be crafted by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing disclosure should be interpreted as illustrative only and is not to be interpreted in a limiting sense. Further it is intended that any other embodiments of the present invention that result from any changes in application or method of use or operation, method of manufacture, shape, size, or materials which are not specified within the detailed written description or illustrations contained herein are considered within the scope of the present invention.

[0105] Insofar as the description above and the accompanying drawings disclose any additional subject matter that is not within the scope of the claims below, the inventions are not dedicated to the public and the right to file one or more applications to claim such additional inventions is reserved.

[0106] Although very narrow claims are presented herein, it should be recognized that the scope of this invention is much broader than presented by the claim. It is intended that broader claims will be submitted in an application that claims the benefit of priority from this application.

[0107] While this invention has been described with respect to at least one embodiment, the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains and which fall within the limits of the appended claims.