Detachable hair bang

Abstract

A detachable hair bang includes a base adapted to promote airflow during use. The base is cut in a substantially arcuate configuration. The base has first and second sides. The first side is made of non-coated monofilament material. The second side is made of coated monofilament material to provide smooth and comfortable feel when applied to the forehead area of a user. Three symmetrically disposed toupee clips are stitched to the second side. The first and second sides define a front convex edge. A first set of hair strands is hand-knotted into the front convex edge one hair strand at a time to promote a natural look for the base. A second set of hair strands may be hand-knotted into the non-coated monofilament first side one to four hair strands at a time, as needed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application is a continuation-in-part of pending U.S. utility patent application Ser. No. 11/297,960, filed Dec. 9, 2005, for "Hairpiece", which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

[0002] Portions of the disclosure of this patent document may contain material that is subject to copyright and/or mask work protection. The copyright and/or mask work owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright and/or mask work rights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND

[0003] The popularity of hair supplements for cosmetic use has dramatically increased in recent years. The desire to enhance one's physical appearance is more prevalent today than ever. Traditionally, the desire to change or enhance one's hair has been accomplished through the use of wigs, hair weaves or hairpieces.

[0004] Hair weaving, while allowing some airflow to the scalp, requires the assistance of another individual to weave the hair into the user's personal hair. Methods for securing the hair weave include hair bonding adhesive, weaving threads, hair clips, combs, braiding, or knotting human or synthetic hair to the wearer's hair. These methods of attachment, however, may cause discomfort as well as damage to the user's hair.

[0005] A hairpiece may be constructed of artificial or natural hair that is attached to a cap or base portion. The base portion is used to fix the hairpiece onto the head of a user. Artificial hair may be made by using a fibrous form of polyester, rayon, cotton, etc. The base portion may be made of synthetic or natural fiber. The hair may be attached to the base portion manually and/or by using sewing machines. Nowadays, most artificial hair is made of various types of synthetic fibers. The reasons for this include ease of manufacture, low cost, readiness in obtaining the desired color of hair, and the desire for less troublesome washing and care for the hair. Hairpieces are especially useful for users who have experienced hair loss.

[0006] Hair loss is a long-standing problem affecting both genders. While some people affected by hair loss simply accept the resulting change in appearance, others choose to retain a full head of hair. Hair loss can diminish one's confidence and actually be a physically perceived discomfort to women, whether it is a permanent condition related to chemical imbalance, illness, or chemotherapy treatment.

[0007] One early solution involved the use of full-head wigs to simply mask an individual's balding head. While the use of a wig covers regions of lost or thinning hair, such wigs were not the answer for everyone. Wigs that cover the entire head provided too much coverage for users who needed only partial coverage. In an attempt to help such users, hairpieces of various sizes were created. These hairpieces had the advantage of exposing an individual's existing hair, while covering only the balding areas. However, these hairpieces employed relatively thick cloth-based caps which brought about additional problems. The thick cloth-based caps looked unnatural on a user's head. Since hairpieces were worn specifically to improve the appearance of their users, these unnatural looking hairpieces proved to be unacceptable solutions for many consumers.

[0008] To improve the appearance of hairpieces, designers started making relatively thin hairpiece bases. These bases, however, created an unnatural looking front hairline for those who wore them. As a result, the mounting structure was visible to even the casual observers.

[0009] Additionally, these hairpiece bases did not promote sufficient airflow over the scalp portion under the hairpiece. Built-up heat and moisture made these hairpieces quite uncomfortable. To address this problem, lace-front hairpieces were created. Lace-front hairpieces included front pieces made from woven mesh onto which hairs had been attached. These hairpieces did, in some instances, improve the front hairline of wearers. Unfortunately, these hairpieces did not sufficiently address the airflow problem characteristic of earlier hairpiece designs.

[0010] To improve airflow and comfort, hairpieces were created with bases made entirely from mesh-like material. These hairpieces improved, to a certain extent, breathability. However, the mesh bases lacked sufficient structural integrity to be removed and re-applied on a regular basis. The bases tended to become stretched out of shape with repeated use.

[0011] The need exists, therefore, for a hairpiece that is breathable, blends inconspicuously with a user's existing hair and scalp color, shows no mounting structure, and has the structural integrity needed to withstand multiple applications and removals. Such a hairpiece should have sufficient shape retention capability to facilitate such multiple applications and removals and a front portion that looks natural.

[0012] One hair look that constantly cycles in and out of fashion has been the "fringe" which is British for the American term "bang". Throughout recent hair history bangs have been seen in large numbers on the fashion walkways from time to time. Whether one calls it a "fringe" or a "bang", this hairstyle has become quite popular not only with fashion models and celebrities, but also with the average consumer.

[0013] Bangs can be worn to minimize large foreheads, help control annoying cowlicks or disguise forehead lines. Bangs work in harmony with a wide range of hair accessories from headbands to clips. Bangs can be an instant fix for a bad haircut or a decision that is made in haste and repented in leisure. Bangs may be cut to enhance one's face shape and should be selected in accordance with one's hair type, texture and condition.

[0014] Bangs seem to come and go into hair fashion with predictable regularity along with the regular cycles of long, short, straight and curly tresses. Cutting and then growing out bangs can be as painful as dealing with yo-yo hems and changing waistlines. To address this problem, hairdressers have been known to use clip on bangs. Hair bang makers, however, have not able so far to minimize the size and weight of the hair bang so that it is easy to use not only by people who want to use bangs, but also by people with thinning forehead hair.

SUMMARY

[0015] Exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are generally directed to a detachable hair bang.

[0016] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the detachable hair bang comprises a base adapted to promote airflow during use. The base is cut in a substantially arcuate configuration. A first side on the base is made of non-coated monofilament material. A second side on the base is disposed opposite the first side and made of coated monofilament material to provide smooth and comfortable feel when applied to the forehead area of a user. A front convex edge is defined by the first and second sides of the base. A first set of hair strands is hand-knotted into the front convex edge one hair strand at a time to promote a natural look for said base. A second set of hair strands is hand-knotted into the non-coated monofilament first side of the base one to four hair strands at a time.

[0017] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the detachable hair bang comprises a base adapted to promote airflow during use. The base is cut in a substantially arcuate configuration. A first side on the base is made of non-coated monofilament material. A second side on the base is disposed opposite the first side and made of coated monofilament material to provide smooth and comfortable feel when applied to the forehead area of a user. At least three symmetrically disposed toupee clips are removably attached to the second side of the base. A front convex edge is defined by the first and second sides of the base. A first set of hair strands is hand-knotted into the front convex edge one hair strand at a time to promote a natural look for said base. A second set of hair strands is hand-knotted into the non-coated monofilament first side of the base one to four hair strands at a time.

[0018] In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, the detachable hair bang comprises a base adapted to promote airflow during use. The base is cut in a substantially arcuate configuration. A first side on the base is made of non-coated monofilament material. A second side on the base is disposed opposite the first side and made of coated monofilament material to provide smooth and comfortable feel when applied to the forehead area of a user. At least three symmetrically disposed strips of double-sided tape are coupled to the second side of the base. A front convex edge is defined by the first and second sides of the base. A first set of hair strands is hand-knotted into the front convex edge one hair strand at a time to promote a natural look for said base. A second set of hair strands is hand-knotted into the non-coated monofilament first side of the base one to four hair strands at a time.

[0019] In accordance with still another aspect of the invention, the detachable hair bang comprises a base adapted to promote airflow during use. The base is cut in a substantially arcuate configuration. A first side on the base is made of non-coated monofilament material. A second side on the base is disposed opposite the first side and made of coated monofilament material to provide smooth and comfortable feel when applied to the forehead area of a user. At least one strip of double-sided tape is coupled to the second side of the base. A front convex edge is defined by the first and second sides of the base. A first set of hair strands is hand-knotted into the front convex edge one hair strand at a time to promote a natural look for said base. A second set of hair strands is hand-knotted into the non-coated monofilament first side of the base one to four hair strands at a time.

[0020] In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the detachable hair bang comprises a base adapted to promote airflow during use. The base is cut in a substantially arcuate configuration. A first side on the base is made of non-coated monofilament material. A second side on the base is disposed opposite the first side and made of coated monofilament material to provide smooth and comfortable feel when applied to the forehead area of a user. At least one clip is removably attached to the second side of the base. A front convex edge is defined by the first and second sides of the base. A first set of hair strands is hand-knotted into the front convex edge one hair strand at a time to promote a natural look for said base. A second set of hair strands is hand-knotted into the non-coated monofilament first side of the base one to four hair strands at a time.

[0021] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from a review of the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] The present invention is generally shown by way of reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0023] FIG. 1 is a bottom perspective view of a hairpiece constructed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the hairpiece of FIG. 1;

[0025] FIG. 3 shows a front portion of a hairpiece with single hair strand (under ventilation) construction in accordance with the present invention;

[0026] FIG. 4 shows single-strand hairpiece construction in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] FIG. 5 schematically shows a monofilament hairpiece base and associated airflow in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] FIGS. 6a-6c schematically show a single hair strand being tied in a single knot by hand in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] FIG. 7 schematically shows double-strand hairpiece construction in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a detachable hair bang constructed in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of the detachable hair bang of FIG. 8;

[0032] FIG. 10 is an exploded fragmentary view of the detachable hair bang of FIG. 9; and

[0033] FIG. 11 is a bottom perspective view of a detachable hair bang constructed in accordance with another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of exemplary embodiments and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the exemplary embodiments may be constructed and/or utilized. The description sets forth the functions and the sequence of steps for constructing and operating the exemplary embodiments in connection with the illustrated embodiments. However, it is to be understood that the same or equivalent functions and/or sequences may be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0035] Some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to a hairpiece and a detachable hair bang, as generally shown in FIGS. 1-11. Additional embodiments, features and/or advantages of the invention will become apparent from the ensuing description or may be learned by practicing the invention. In the figures, the drawings are not to scale with like numerals referring to like features throughout both the drawings and the description.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a bottom perspective view of a hairpiece 10 in accordance with the present invention. Hairpiece 10 includes a generally elongated monofilament base or cap 12. For purposes of describing the general principles of the present invention, the term "monofilament" generally refers to a thin gauze-like, nearly transparent material which is more comfortable to the touch than hairpiece caps made of cloth material. Monofilament material may be made from strands of untwisted synthetic fibers, such as nylon. Being nearly transparent, the monofilament fabric takes on the approximate color of a user's scalp. This chameleon-like effect results in a more natural looking hairpiece which bares the natural scalp color of the user.

[0037] Monofilament base 12 may be configured as a mesh-like lattice of transversely oriented sets of synthetic fibers 14, 16 (FIG. 5). Each respective set contains fibers that are substantially parallel to and evenly spaced from each other. The two sets of fibers 14, 16 are arranged in an overlapping manner, forming a grid-like pattern, as generally illustrated in FIG. 5. The two sets of fibers (14, 16) may be joined at points of overlap to form a plurality of four-sided open regions or cells, such as, for example, cell 18 in FIG. 5. The walls of the formed cells are somewhat resilient as synthetic fibers 14, 16 are generally flexible to a certain extent which contributes to a better fit on the scalp of a user. This type of weaving provides airflow s circulation for monofilament base 12, as generally depicted by directional arrows 20, 22 in FIG. 5. The open-cell construction of monofilament base 12 allows the user's scalp to "breathe", i.e. prevents the buildup of heat and/or moisture on the scalp portion that is disposed directly under monofilament base 12. The monofilament grid-like structure of base 12 provides the structural integrity needed to withstand multiple applications and removals of hairpiece 10.

[0038] A person skilled in the art would appreciate that an alternative construction of monofilament base 12 may utilize a double layer of overlapping transversely oriented sets of synthetic fibers, if needed. Other monofilament weaving configurations may be possible, provided such other monofilament weaving configurations reside within the intended scope and spirit of the present invention.

[0039] In accordance with the general principles of the present invention, each of hair strands 24 (FIG. 4) may be attached to monofilament base 12 (FIG. 4) via a single hand knot, one hair strand at a time. In one exemplary embodiment, a single hair strand 26 may be looped and threaded by hand under a cell wall 28 (which is common to adjoining cells 30, 32) of a monofilament base 13, as generally depicted in FIG. 6a. Particularly, looped portion 34 and terminal ends 36, 38 of hair strand 26 are disposed on each side of cell wall 28. Thereafter, terminal end 36 of hair strand 26 may be threaded through looped portion 34 (FIG. 6b) and pulled away from terminal end 38 of hair strand 26 by hand to form a single-strand knot 40 at cell wall 28 (FIG. 6c). A person skilled in the art would readily appreciate that hand knots of hair strands may also be formed by other suitable technique(s), as needed.

[0040] Moreover, more than one hair strand may be hand-knotted on a monofilament cell wall or at the junction of two monofilament cells, as generally shown, for example, in reference to FIG. 7. In FIG. 7 hair strands 42 are hand-knotted in pairs onto a monofilament base 15. Specifically, each hair strand pair is hand-knotted at the junction of two monofilament cells. For example, hair strands 44, 46 are hand-knotted together at the junction of monofilament cells 48, 50 (FIG. 7). A person skilled in the art would readily appreciate that more than two (e.g., three or four) hair strands may be hand-knotted together to a monofilament base during construction of the hairpiece of the present invention.

[0041] The single-strand and double-strand hairpiece construction of FIGS. 4, 7 permits the hand-knotted hair strands to swivel freely on the monofilament base, which in turn allows the hairpiece of the present invention to be styled easily. The effect is a hairstyle that is more manageable, whether the user is running a comb or brush through it or simply tweaking it with his/her fingers. The hand-knotted hair strands may be easily parted and brushed in any direction, as needed.

[0042] The hand-knotted hair strands of the present invention may be made of synthetic fibers suitable for use in hairpiece construction. For example, the hair strands may be made of modacrylic fibers. The term "modacrylic", as used herein, generally refers to one of several synthetic, long-chain polymer textile fibers that contain 35%-85% acrylonitrile. Alternatively, the hand-knotted hair strands may be from natural hair. Various hair source combinations may be used, if desired. The hand-knotted hair strands may be of identical or different color(s) or shade(s), as needed. The density of hand-knotted hair strands on a monofilament base constructed in accordance with the present invention may vary based on the natural hair density of the person who is going to wear the hairpiece. For example, hairpiece 10 may be configured with low, medium or high hair strand density, as needed.

[0043] In one embodiment of the present invention, monofilament base 12 (FIG. 1) has a slightly contoured front edge 52 (FIG. 3). A polyurethane strip 54 is secured on top of a front portion 55 of monofilament base 12 alongside front edge 52 to add flexibility, as generally illustrated in reference to FIGS. 1, 3. For example, polyurethane strip 54 may be adhesively applied to front portion 55 on a bottom side 51 of monofilament base 12. Other suitable fastening means for polyurethane strip 54 may be used, as needed.

[0044] Polyurethane-padded front edge 52 is shown in FIG. 3 with a plurality of hair strands 56 that are hand-knotted, one strand at a time (single knot) to monofilament base 12. This type of hairpiece construction is defined hereby as "single-strand under ventilation" in accordance with the general principles of the present invention. The term "ventilation", as generally used in the hairpiece industry, is used to describe the process of knotting individual hairs (strands) by hand into the cap (base) of a partial or full-coverage hairpiece. Hand-ventilating generally is a very time-intensive process and requires steady hands, sharp eyes, and a level of skill that may take years to master. For this reason, hand-knotted hairpieces cost substantially more than their machine-made counterparts.

[0045] Hair strands 56 are threaded through polyurethane strip 54 during hand-knotting. The single strand (under ventilation) hairpiece construction of FIG. 3 promotes a more natural look for front portion 55 of monofilament base 12, in accordance with the present invention. A toupee clip 53 (FIGS. 1, 3) is secured to bottom side 51 of monofilament base 12 in proximity to front edge 52. Toupee clip 53 may be stitched to monofilament base 12 at least in part through polyurethane strip 54. Other suitable securing means for toupee clip 53 may be employed, as needed.

[0046] Monofilament base 12 has side edges 58, 60 that are substantially parallel to each other. Each of side edges 58, 60 merges gently into a substantially arcuate rear edge 62 (FIG. 1) of monofilament base 12. A plurality of hair strands are hand knotted at or near edges 58, 60, and 62. A continuous nylon strip 64 is secured alongside edges 58, 60, 62 over the hand-knotted hair strands on bottom side 51 of monofilament base 12 for shape retention. For example, nylon strip 64 may be stitched to bottom side 51 of monofilament base 12 alongside edges 58, 60, 62, as generally illustrated in FIGS. 1, 3. Other fastening means for nylon strip 64 may be utilized, as needed. The terminal ends of nylon strip 64 are secured, respectively, over the flanks of polyurethane strip 54, as generally shown in FIG. 3.

[0047] A toupee clip 65 (FIG. 1) is secured to monofilament base 12 in proximity to rear edge 62. For example, toupee clip 65 may be stitched to monofilament base 12 at least in part through nylon strip 64 (FIG. 1). Other suitable securing means for toupee clip 65 may be employed, as needed.

[0048] Toupee clips 53, 65 help attach monofilament base 12 to a user's scalp. Other means of attaching monofilament base 12 may be utilized, provided such other attachment means do not depart from the intended purpose of the present invention. Construction of monofilament base 12 is not limited to utilization of polyurethane and/or nylon edging strips. A person skilled in the art would readily appreciate that other suitable monofilament base edging materials and/or combination of edging materials may be utilized, as needed.

[0049] The size of monofilament base 12 may vary based on user/manufacturer preference. In one exemplary embodiment, monofilament base 12 is approximately 2.4 inches wide and 6 inches long. Each of toupee clips 53, 65 is about 0.75 inches wide and 1.5 inches long, with the hand-knotted hair strands being distributed substantially equally to the left and right of a center line 70 (FIG. 1) of monofilament base 12 until about 1 inch from rear toupee clip 65 where the hair strand knots become more multi-directional similar to a half-moon spread. Other dimensions and/or hair strand knot distributions may be employed, if desired.

[0050] Hairpiece 10 is suitable for users who have experienced hair loss. Monofilament base 12 is comfortable to touch, easy to handle and maintain and generally unnoticeable on the scalp of a user. Hairpiece 10 is also suitable for adding fullness to parted hair styles. Hairpiece 10 has the structural integrity needed to withstand multiple applications and removals.

[0051] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a detachable hair bang 80 constructed in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Detachable hair bang 80 includes a relatively narrow strip or base 82 that is cut in a generally arcuate configuration.

[0052] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, base 82 is prepared from a piece of monofilament material which is liquid coated with polyurethane on one side only, baked under appropriate temperature/pressure until the polyurethane is impregnated into that side of the monofilament material, cooled, and then cut to desired dimensions and shape. The polyurethane-coated (bottom) side of base 82, as generally depicted at 84 in reference to FIGS. 9-10, is applied against the scalp of a user generally in the forehead area to provide a smoother and more comfortable feel during use. The opposite non-coated (top) side of base 82, as generally depicted at 85 in reference to FIG. 1, is used for attachment of hair strands which are intended to blend with the natural hair on the scalp of a user.

[0053] Base 82 includes a front convex edge 86 and a rear concave edge 88, as generally illustrated in FIGS. 9-10. Front convex edge 86 is populated with hair strands under a "single-strand under ventilation" configuration. As generally defined hereinabove, this type of configuration involves attaching each hair strand by hand via a single knot to the front edge of a hairpiece/hair bang base. FIG. 10 generally shows a portion of base 82 with hair strands 90 hand-knotted, one strand at a time (single knot) to polyurethane-impregnated front edge 86. Utilizing a "single-strand under ventilation" attachment promotes a more natural look for front edge 86 of hair bang base 80 in accordance with the general principles of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 10 also shows hair strands 92 emanating from top side 85 of base 82 (see also FIG. 8) and overlying rear concave edge 88. Hair strands 92 may be hand-knotted into top side 85 of base 82 one to four hair strands at a time (single knot), as needed. Other suitable hair strand attachment configurations may be utilized if needed.

[0055] A person skilled in the art would readily appreciate that the single-strand and multiple-strand hand-knotted ventilation utilized in reference to the embodiments of FIGS. 8-10 allows the attached hair strands to swivel freely on base 82, which in turn allows the hair bang of the present invention to be styled easily. The end result is a hair bang that is more manageable, whether the user is running a comb or brush through it or simply tweaking it with his/her fingers. The hand-knotted hair strands may be easily parted and brushed in any direction, as needed.

[0056] To ensure secure attachment to the forehead area of a user, polyurethane-coated (bottom) side of base 82 is provided with three symmetrically disposed metal toupee clips 94, 96 and 98 (FIG. 9) which may be attached thereto via stitching or other suitable means. Each of toupee clips 94, 96 and 98 is furnished with a rubberized grip base which is disposed under the clip teeth to enhance friction and promote hair bang stability during use. In this regard, FIG. 10 generally depicts clip teeth 99a-99i overlying rubberized grip base 100 of toupee clip 96 with the distance there between being configured to increase friction during hair bang attachment to the existing forehead hair of a user.

[0057] Toupee clips 94, 96 and 98 (FIG. 9) may be made of material(s) other than metal provided such other material(s) are not prone to twisting, bending or the like during use which may compromise holding/locking of the hair bang to existing hair in the forehead area of a user. Furthermore, other suitable material(s) may be applied to the grip base of a toupee clip to increase friction during use. The number of toupee clips used may vary depending on particular application. The user may remove hair bang 80 by pulling base 82 gently away from his/her scalp so as to allow detachment of toupee clips 94, 96 and 98 from the forehead hair. This type of hair bang attachment/detachment configuration would be well suited for users who do not have bald foreheads.

[0058] Other means of attaching base 82 to the forehead area of a user may be utilized, provided such other attachment means do not depart from the intended purpose of the present invention. For example, the toupee clips may be replaced with appropriately configured strips of double-sided tape. In this regard, FIG. 11 generally depicts a detachable hair bang 102 which includes a base 104 provided with three strips of double-sided tape 106, 108 and 110, respectively. This type of hair bang attachment/detachment configuration would be well suited for users with bald foreheads. The attachment of hair strands to base 104 of hair bang 102 as well as constructing base 104 itself may be accomplished in the same manner described hereinabove in reference to FIGS. 8-10.

[0059] The size and/or shape of base 82 or base 104 may vary based on user/manufacturer preference. In one exemplary embodiment, base 82 has the following approximate dimensions: overall length--about 5.0 inches, middle width--about 0.8 inches, and terminal width--about 0.6 inches. Moreover, the hair length on the back and side of the hair bang is in the approximate range of 7.0 inches to 9.0 inches. The front fringe length of the hair bang is in the approximate range of 4.0 inches to 4.75 inches. Additionally, each metal toupee clip used on the hair bang may have the following approximate dimensions: about 1.25 inches long by 0.7 inches wide with a rubber grip base. The overall weight of the hair bang may be as little as 0.4 ounces. Other suitable dimensions may be employed, if desired.

[0060] The hair strands used in manufacture of the detachable hair bang of the present invention may be of synthetic and/or natural origin, as needed. To lower the cost of production, it may be advantageous to use synthetic fibers of the type described hereinabove. The hair bang of the present invention may be configured by manufacturers with low, medium or high hair strand density, as needed. The detachable hair bang of the present invention may be manufactured as a compact, lightweight piece that is easy to put on and/or remove by the user. It may be used not only by people who desire bangs (eliminates the need to cut natural bangs), but also by people with thinning forehead hair. The metal clips may be easily removed and replaced with strips of double-sided tape, as needed.

[0061] The exemplary embodiments described hereinabove are merely illustrative of the general principles of the present invention. Various design modifications may be employed that would reside within the scope of the invention. Thus, by way of example, but not of limitation, alternative configurations may be utilized in accordance with the teachings herein. Accordingly, the drawings and description are illustrative and not meant to be a limitation thereof.

[0062] Moreover, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Thus, it is intended that the invention cover all embodiments and variations thereof as long as such embodiments and variations come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A detachable hair bang, comprising: a base adapted to promote airflow during use, said base being cut in a substantially arcuate configuration; a first side on said base, said first side being made of non-coated monofilament material; a second side on said base, said second side being disposed opposite said first side and made of coated monofilament material to provide smooth and comfortable feel when applied to the forehead area of a user; a front convex edge defined by said first and second sides of said base; a first set of hair strands hand-knotted into said front convex edge one hair strand at a time to promote a natural look for said base; and a second set of hair strands hand-knotted into said non-coated monofilament first side of said base one to four hair strands at a time.

2. The detachable hair bang of claim 1, further comprising a rear concave edge defined by said first and second sides of said arcuate base.

3. The detachable hair bang of claim 2, wherein said second set of hand-knotted hair strands overlies said rear concave edge.

4. The detachable hair bang of claim 1, wherein said second side of said base is made of monofilament material coated with polyurethane.

5. The detachable hair bang of claim 1, wherein said second side of said base is provided with three symmetrically disposed toupee clips.

6. The detachable hair bang of claim 5, wherein each of said toupee clips is made of metal.

7. The detachable hair bang of claim 6, wherein each of said metal toupee clips is stitched to said second side of said base.

8. The detachable hair bang of claim 6, wherein each of said metal toupee clips is provided with a rubberized grip base and a plurality of teeth disposed over said rubberized grip base.

9. The detachable hair bang of claim 8, wherein the distance between said plurality of teeth and said rubberized grip base is configured to increase friction during attachment to the forehead hair of a user.

10. A detachable hair bang, comprising: a base adapted to promote airflow during use, said base being cut in a substantially arcuate configuration; a first side on said base, said first side being made of non-coated monofilament material; a second side on said base, said second side being disposed opposite said first side and made of coated monofilament material to provide smooth and comfortable feel when applied to the forehead area of a user; at least three symmetrically disposed toupee clips removably attached to said second side of said base; a front convex edge defined by said first and second sides of said base; a first set of hair strands hand-knotted into said front convex edge one hair strand at a time to promote a natural look for said base; and a second set of hair strands hand-knotted into said non-coated monofilament first side of said base one to four hair strands at a time.

11. The detachable hair bang of claim 10, wherein each of said toupee clips is made of metal.

12. The detachable hair bang of claim 11, wherein each of said metal toupee clips is stitched to said second side of said base.

13. The detachable hair bang of claim 11, wherein each of said metal toupee clips is provided with a rubberized grip base and a plurality of teeth disposed over said rubberized grip base.

14. The detachable hair bang of claim 13, wherein the distance between said plurality of teeth and said rubberized grip base is configured to increase friction during attachment to the forehead hair of a user.

15. A detachable hair bang, comprising: a base adapted to promote airflow during use, said base being cut in a substantially arcuate configuration; a first side on said base, said first side being made of non-coated monofilament material; a second side on said base, said second side being disposed opposite said first side and made of coated monofilament material to provide smooth and comfortable feel when applied to the forehead area of a user; at least three symmetrically disposed strips of double-sided tape coupled to said second side of said base; a front convex edge defined by said first and second sides of said base; a first set of hair strands hand-knotted into said front convex edge one hair strand at a time to promote a natural look for said base; and a second set of hair strands hand-knotted into said non-coated monofilament first side of said base one to four hair strands at a time.

16. A detachable hair bang, comprising: a base adapted to promote airflow during use, said base being cut in a substantially arcuate configuration; a first side on said base, said first side being made of non-coated monofilament material; a second side on said base, said second side being disposed opposite said first side and made of coated monofilament material to provide smooth and comfortable feel when applied to the forehead area of a user; at least one strip of double-sided tape coupled to said second side of said base; a front convex edge defined by said first and second sides of said base; a first set of hair strands hand-knotted into said front convex edge one hair strand at a time to promote a natural look for said base; and a second set of hair strands hand-knotted into said non-coated monofilament first side of said base one to four hair strands at a time.

17. A detachable hair bang, comprising: a base adapted to promote airflow during use, said base being cut in a substantially arcuate configuration; a first side on said base, said first side being made of non-coated monofilament material; a second side on said base, said second side being disposed opposite said first side and made of coated monofilament material to provide smooth and comfortable feel when applied to the forehead area of a user; at least one clip removably attached to said second side of said base; a front convex edge defined by said first and second sides of said base; a first set of hair strands hand-knotted into said front convex edge one hair strand at a time to promote a natural look for said base; and a second set of hair strands hand-knotted into said non-coated monofilament first side of said base one to four hair strands at a time.

18. The detachable hair bang of claim 15, further comprising a rear concave edge defined by said first and second sides of said arcuate base.

19. The detachable hair bang of claim 18, wherein said second set of hand-knotted hair strands overlies said rear concave edge.

20. The detachable hair bang of claim 15, wherein said second side of said base is made of monofilament material coated with polyurethane.