Patent Publication Number: US-2022232918-A1

Title: Waistband construction and methods for producing same

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/355,538, entitled “Waistband Construction and Methods for Producing Same,” filed Mar. 15, 2019, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/648,838, entitled “Waistband Construction and Methods for Producing Same,” filed Mar. 27, 2018, each of which is incorporated herein in its entirety for all purposes. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The present invention generally relates to waistbands for use in articles of clothing and methods for producing waistbands. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Many existing waistbands are not comfortable to wear. They are usually bulky and not supportive. When worn, the tops of existing waistbands are often folded over. 
     Given the current state of the art, there remains a need for waistbands that address the abovementioned issues. 
     The information disclosed in this Background section is provided for an understanding of the general background of the invention and is not an acknowledgement or suggestion that this information forms part of the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present invention provides a waistband of an article of clothing that is comfortable to wear, non-bulky and supportive. 
     In an aspect, the present invention provides a waistband of an article of clothing. The waistband includes an inner fabric layer and an outer fabric layer. The outer fabric layer is integrally formed or coupled with the inner fabric layer. Moreover, the waistband includes a mesh layer disposed between the inner and outer fabric layers. Furthermore, the waistband includes a first adhesive layer and a second adhesive layer disposed longitudinally between the mesh layer and the inner fabric layer. The first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer are collectively configured to couple the mesh layer with the inner fabric layer. Furthermore, an upper region of the waistband includes the inner fabric layer, the first adhesive layer, the second adhesive layer, the mesh layer and the outer fabric layer, thereby overlaying a first portion of the first adhesive layer and a second portion of the second adhesive layer. A middle region of the waistband includes the inner fabric layer, the second adhesive layer, the mesh layer and the outer fabric layer. Additionally, a lower region of the waistband comprises the inner fabric layer, the mesh layer and the outer fabric layer. The inner fabric layer includes a first fabric and a first portion of a second fabric. The outer fabric layer includes a second portion of the second fabric. The first fabric includes a first portion having a first edge. Furthermore, the first portion of the second fabric includes a second edge. The first edge of the first portion of the first fabric and the second edge of the first portion of the second fabric are joined with each other and form a stitch-free seam. 
     In some embodiments, the first adhesive layer is disposed between the inner fabric layer and the second adhesive layer. 
     In some embodiments, the first adhesive layer is disposed between the second adhesive layer and the mesh layer. 
     In some embodiments, when worn, the inner fabric layer faces toward a wearer&#39;s body and the outer fabric layer faces away from the wearer&#39;s body. 
     In some embodiments, the outer fabric layer extends to a portion or an entire length of the waistband. 
     In some embodiments, the waistband further includes one or more first adhesive strips disposed between the first fabric and the mesh layer. The one or more first adhesive strips is configured to couple the mesh layer with the first fabric and to define a border of a first pocket. Furthermore, the first fabric further includes a first flap. The first flap is adjacent the first edge of the first portion of the first fabric, the first flap is extended from the first portion of the first fabric, and the first flap is folded onto the first portion of the first fabric. Additionally, the second fabric further includes a second flap. The second flap is adjacent the second edge of the first portion of the second fabric, and the second flap is extended from the first portion of the second fabric. Moreover, the first flap of the first fabric and the second flap of the second fabric collectively define an opening of the first pocket. 
     In some embodiments, the first flap of the first fabric is adhered to the first portion of the first fabric by a third adhesive layer. 
     In some embodiments, the opening of the first pocket is substantially aligned with the stitch-free seam. 
     In some embodiments, the first and second bar tacks are disposed respectively at first and second ends of a folding line of the first flap of the first fabric and configured to reinforce the first flap of the first fabric. Further, each of the first and second bar tacks extends at least through the first fabric to the mesh layer. 
     In some embodiments, the one or more adhesive strips includes a straight adhesive strip, a slant adhesive strip, a curved adhesive strip, or a combination thereof. 
     In some embodiments, the opening of the first pocket is bordered by a reinforcing material. 
     In some embodiments, the second adhesive layer is wider than the first adhesive layer. 
     In some embodiments, the first fabric further includes one or more openings. Each opening in the one or more openings of the first fabric defines an opening of a second pocket in one or more second pockets. Moreover, the waistband further includes, for each respective second pocket in the one or more second pockets, one or more second adhesive strips disposed between the first fabric and the mesh layer. The one or more second adhesive strips is configured to couple the mesh layer with the first fabric and to define a border of the respective second pocket in the one or more second pockets. 
     In some embodiments, the second adhesive layer includes a third adhesive strip disposed at the upper region of the waistband and a fourth adhesive strip disposed at the middle region of the waistband. Furthermore, the fourth adhesive strip of the second adhesive layer is spaced apart from the third adhesive strip of the second adhesive layer, or spaced apart from the first adhesive layer and the third adhesive strip of the second adhesive layer, to form a tunnel for receiving a drawstring. 
     In some embodiments, the waistband further includes a drawstring disposed in the tunnel. 
     In some embodiments, the first fabric further includes a pair of holes. A portion of the drawstring is exposed to an exterior of the tunnel through the pair of holes. 
     Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to providing a waistband. The waistband includes an inner fabric layer and an outer fabric layer that is integrally formed or coupled with the inner fabric layer. The waistband further includes a mesh layer disposed between the inner and outer fabric layers. Additionally, the waistband includes a first adhesive strip and a second adhesive disposed between the mesh layer and the inner fabric layer. The first adhesive strip and the second adhesive strip are collectively configured to couple the mesh layer with the inner fabric layer. Moreover, the first adhesive strip and the second adhesive strip are spaced apart with a distance in between to form a tunnel for receiving a drawstring. 
     In some embodiments, the first adhesive strip is disposed at an upper region of the waistband, and the second adhesive strip is disposed at a middle region of the waistband. Furthermore, the first adhesive strip has an elastic modulus greater than that of the second adhesive strip. 
     In some embodiments, the inner fabric layer includes a first fabric and a first portion of a second fabric. Moreover, the outer fabric layer includes a second portion of the second fabric. The first fabric a first edge. Further, the first portion of the second fabric is folded with respect to the second portion of the second fabric. Moreover, the first portion of the second fabric includes a second edge. The first edge of the first fabric and the second edge of the first portion of the second fabric are joined with each other and form a stitch-free seam. 
     In some embodiments, the first adhesive strip is overlaid over the stitch-free seam to reinforce the stitch-free seam. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description 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 can be embodied in different forms and thus should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. 
         FIGS. 1A-1I  are schematic views illustrating exemplary steps for constructing an exemplary waistband in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional view of a waistband constructed according to the steps provided in  FIGS. 1A-1I  taken along a plane designated by line  2 - 2  in  FIG. 1I . 
         FIGS. 3A-3K  are schematic views illustrating exemplary steps for constructing an exemplary waistband having an exemplary pocket in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional view of a waistband constructed according to the steps provided in  FIGS. 3A-3K  taken along a plane designated by line  4 - 4  in  FIG. 3K . 
         FIGS. 5A-5I  are schematic views illustrating exemplary steps for constructing an exemplary waistband having an exemplary drawstring tunnel in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view of a waistband constructed according to the steps provided in  FIGS. 5A-5I  taken along a plane designated by line  6 - 6  in  FIG. 5I . 
         FIGS. 7A-7H  are schematic views illustrating exemplary steps for constructing an exemplary waistband having an exemplary drawstring tunnel and one or more exemplary pockets in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8A  is a cross-sectional view of a waistband constructed according to the steps provided in  FIGS. 7A-7H  taken along a plane designated by line  8 A- 8 A in  FIG. 7H . 
         FIG. 8B  is a cross-sectional view of a waistband constructed according to the steps provided in  FIGS. 7A-7H  taken along a plane designated by line  8 B- 8 B in  FIG. 7H . 
         FIG. 9  is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a waistband in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to implementations of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The same reference indicators will be used throughout the drawings and the following detailed description to refer to the same or like parts. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the following detailed description is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other embodiments of the present invention will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having benefit of this disclosure. 
     In the interest of clarity, not all of the routine features of the implementations described herein are shown and described. It will, of course, be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made in order to achieve the developer&#39;s specific goals, such as compliance with application- and business-related constraints, and that these specific goals will vary from one implementation to another and from one developer to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of engineering for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in the context of waistbands. In general, a waistband of the present disclosure is of a multiple layer structure with enhanced elastic strength at the top or an upper region of the waistband. Such a multiple layer structure provides a comfortable, non-bulky yet supportive waistband. It also prevents the top or the upper region of the waistband from folding over. In various embodiments, a waistband of the present disclosure is constructed such that the upper region of the waistband is elastically stronger than the middle region of the waistband, and the middle region of the waistband is elastically stronger than the lower region of the waistband. In some embodiments, a waistband of the present disclosure includes a mesh layer and one or more adhesive layers to enhance the elasticity of these regions. 
     The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting of the claims. As used herein, the term “upper region” refers to a portion of the waistband at or adjacent the top of the waistband. The term “middle region” refers to a portion of the waistband relative to the upper region and below the upper region of the waistband. The term “lower region” refers to a portion of the waistband relative to the middle region, and below the middle region of the waistband. It should be understood that the terms “upper”, “middle”, or “lower”, and etc. are used to describe features of the exemplary embodiments with reference to the positions of such features as displayed in the figures. The middle region of a waistband can be but not necessarily have to be a central portion of the waistband. Similarly, the lower region of a waistband can be but not necessarily have to be at or adjacent the bottom of the waistband. 
     As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. 
     As used herein, the terms—“waistband” and “waistband construction”—are used interchangeably. As used herein, the terms—an “inner fabric layer” of a waistband and an “inside portion” of a waistband—are used interchangeably. As used herein, the terms—an “outer fabric layer” of a waistband and an “outside portion” of a waistband—are used interchangeably. As used herein, the terms—“mesh” and “mesh layer”—are used interchangeably. 
     In some embodiments, the present invention provides a waistband construction for use in articles of clothing. The articles of clothing may be configured to be worn from the waist or hips of a person and cover at least a portion of the person&#39;s lower body, for example, trousers, pants, tights, leggings, shorts, skirts, skorts, breeches, underpants, and the like. Waistband constructions according to embodiments of the present invention may be suitable for use in athletic or performance apparel, for example, yoga pants, running shorts, cycling shorts, aquatic shorts, etc. 
     In some embodiments, a waistband construction according to the present disclosure includes a plurality of layers. In some embodiments, a waistband construction includes at least one fabric layer which forms an exterior portion of the waistband, and an internal mesh layer. In some embodiments, the fabric layer is folded, at least partially, around the internal mesh layer such that, for example, the internal mesh is sandwiched between two portions of the fabric layer. In some embodiments, the plurality of layers includes or consists of a first fabric, a second fabric, and a mesh disposed between the first fabric and the second fabric. The first fabric, for example, may form an inner portion of the waistband and the second fabric may form an outer portion of the waistband, with the mesh being sandwiched between the first fabric and the second fabric. The first fabric and the second fabric may include a stretch fabric, for example, having a two-way stretch (stretches in one direction) or four-way stretch (stretches in two directions). The first fabric and the second fabric, in some embodiments, may be made from synthetic (artificial) fibers, for example, polyester, spandex, rayon, nylon, acrylic, etc. The first fabric, in some embodiments, may be of the same or different material than the second fabric. For example, in some embodiments, the first fabric may have a same or different texture, weave, hand (feel), elasticity, and/or breathability than the second fabric. In some embodiments, the first fabric may have a different dimension (e.g., length and/or height) than the second fabric. For example, the first fabric which forms an inner portion of the waistband may have a shorter length than the second fabric which forms an outer portion of the waistband. 
     In some embodiments, the mesh includes a mesh fabric having a continuous pattern of fine holes. In some embodiments, the mesh is a sheer fabric that is more transparent/translucent than either the first or second fabric. The mesh, in some embodiments, includes a synthetic material (e.g., polyester, spandex, rayon, nylon, acrylic, etc.) and may have a weave that is looser or more open than either the first or second fabric. In some embodiments, the mesh is more breathable than either the first or second fabric. In some embodiments, including the mesh in the waistband may improve the fit of the waistband construction around a person&#39;s body. In some embodiments, including an internal mesh in the waistband construction causes the waistband to maintain a closer fit of the waistband against the person&#39;s waist or hip (e.g., to reduce the occurrence of a gap between the waistband and the person&#39;s body, at a back portion). In some embodiments, the internal mesh may also be configured to increase the modulus (e.g., elastic modulus) of the resulting waistband. In further embodiments, the internal mesh is used to define, at least partially, one or more storage pockets that are formed between the layers that make up the waistband. In yet additional embodiments, the mesh is used to define, at least partially, a tunnel for a drawstring that extends along a length of the waistband. 
     In some embodiments, some or all of the layers of the waistband construction are joined together with seams that do not require stitching or sewing (e.g., without loops of threads which pass through the different layers). Such stitch-free seams, in some embodiments, allow the waistband to have a smoother profile, a closer fit against the body, and avoid or reduce chafing. For example, in some such embodiments, the first fabric and the second fabric are, at least partially, joined together with an ultrasonic line bonded seam. In some embodiments, the mesh may be attached to the first fabric and/or the second fabric using one or more adhesive layers. Examples of the one or more adhesive layers comprise but are not limited to seam reinforcement type and polyurethane. 
     In various embodiments, a waistband of the present invention comprises inner and outer fabric layers, a mesh layer disposed between the inner and outer fabric layers, and one or more adhesive layers configured to couple the mesh layer with the inner fabric layer. For instance, by way of example,  FIG. 9  illustrates an exemplary waistband comprising an inner fabric layer  902 , an outer fabric layer  904 , a mesh layer  906 , a first adhesive layer  908  and a second adhesive layer  910 . 
     The inner and outer fabric layers can be formed integrally with each other, for instance, being made of one piece of fabric. The inner and outer fabric layers can also be formed by coupling two or more pieces of fabric joined by one or more seams. For instance, in an embodiment, the inner and outer fabric layers are formed of two pieces of fabric joined by a stitch-free seam. When worn in a typical way, the inner fabric layer generally faces toward a wearer&#39;s body and the outer fabric layer faces away from the wearer&#39;s body. 
     In some embodiments, the inner and outer fabric layers have substantially the same width, e.g., the bottoms of the inner and outer layers are substantially aligned with each other. In some embodiments, the inner and outer fabric layers have different widths. For instance, in some embodiments, the outer fabric layer extends to a portion or an entire length of an article of clothing (e.g., extending all the way down a pant). In such embodiments, the waistband is invisible from the outside. 
     The mesh layer is disposed between the inner and outer fabric layers and is coupled to the inner layer by the first and second adhesive layers. In some cases, the mesh layer and the one or more adhesive layers are configured to enhance the elastic strength of the waistband. In many embodiments, the first adhesive layer is disposed at (constrained to) an upper region  914  of the waistband, and the second adhesive layer is disposed at (constrained to) the upper region  914  and a middle region  916  of the waistband. In such embodiments, the upper region of the waistband comprises the inner fabric layer, the first adhesive layer, the second adhesive layer, the mesh layer and the outer fabric layer. The middle region of the waistband comprises the inner fabric layer, the second adhesive layer, the mesh layer and the outer fabric layer. A lower region  916  of the waistband comprises the inner fabric layer, the mesh layer and the outer fabric layer. As such, the upper region of the waistband has an elastic modulus greater than that of the middle region of the waistband, and the middle region of the waistband has an elastic modulus greater than that of the lower region of the waistband. This provides a comfortable, supportive and elastic waistband. In some embodiments where the outer fabric layer extends to at least a portion of the article of clothing, the waistband is also invisible from the outside. 
     It should be noted that the first adhesive layer can be disposed between the inner fabric layer and the second adhesive layer, or between the second adhesive layer and the mesh layer. By way of example,  FIG. 9  illustrates the first adhesive layer is disposed between the inner fabric layer and the second adhesive layer. Also, it should be noted that the first or second adhesive layer can fill the entire upper region or a portion of the upper region, and the second adhesive layer can fill the entire middle region or a portion of the middle region. By way of example,  FIG. 9  illustrates the first and second adhesive layers fill a portion of the upper region, and the second adhesive layer fills the entire middle region of the waistband. Further, it should be noted that an adhesive layer (e.g., the first, the second, or any other adhesive layer) disclosed herein can be continuous or non-continuous. For instance, the second layer can be formed of two spatially separated adhesive strips, one disposed at the upper region and the other disposed at the middle region of the waistband. By way of example,  FIG. 9  illustrates continuous first and second adhesive layers. Still, it should be noted that a layer (e.g., an adhesive layer, a mesh layer, or a fabric layer) can be one single layer or a layer with multiple sub-layers of the same material or of different materials. Still further, it should be noted that the first layer and the portion of the second layer disposed at the upper region can be one single thicker layer or one single layer of a different material having an elastic strength greater than the portion of the second layer disposed at the lower region of the waistband. 
     A waistband of the present disclosure can comprise additional, optional and alternative features. In many embodiments, the inner fabric layer, the first or second adhesive layer, the mesh layer, the outer fabric layer, or any combination thereof are configured to form some additional, optional and alternative features of the waistband. For instance, a waistband of the present invention can be configured to have one or more seams, one or more drawstrings, one or more pockets, or any combination thereof. 
     As an example,  FIG. 2  illustrates an exemplary waistband with a seam  106  at the inner fabric layer. In some embodiments, the inner fabric layer comprises a first fabric  102  and a first portion of a second fabric  104 , and the outer fabric layer comprises a second portion of the second fabric. The first portion of the second fabric is folded with respect to the second portion of the second fabric. The first fabric and the first portion of the second fabric are joined with each other and form a seam  106 . The first and second fabrics can be made of a same material or of different materials. In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second fabrics comprises a synthetic fabric, including but not limited to polyester, spandex, rayon, nylon, and acrylic. 
     In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second adhesive layers is overlaid over the seam, and configured to reinforce the seam. In some embodiments, the seam is a stitch-free seam as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the seam is an ultrasonic bonded line seam disclosed herein. 
     As another example,  FIG. 4  illustrates an exemplary waistband with a pocket having an opening  224  and an interior space  226 . The pocket can be configured with any suitable shape and any suitable size, and can be positioned at any suitable location and with any suitable orientation. In some embodiments, a waistband of the present invention comprises one or more adhesive strips, such as adhesive strips  216  and  218  in  FIG. 3F , disposed between the first fabric and the mesh layer to couple the mesh layer with the first fabric. The one or more adhesive strips generally define the border of the pocket, which can have any suitable shape, size or orientation. By way of example,  FIG. 3F  illustrates adhesive strips  216  and  218  being substantially straight and parallel to each other. It should be noted that the one or more adhesive strips can be but not necessarily have to be parallel or perpendicular to each other. Also, it should be noted that the one or more adhesive strips can be straight, slant, or curved. 
     In some embodiments, the first fabric further comprises a first flap such as a flap  202   a  adjacent a first edge  202   b  of a first portion of the first fabric, as illustrated in  FIG. 3A . The flap  202   a  is extended from the first portion of the first fabric beyond the first edge  202   b  of the first portion of the first fabric. The second fabric further comprises a second flap such as a flap  204   a , adjacent a second edge  204   b  of the first portion of the second fabric. The flap  204   a  is extended from the first portion of the second fabric beyond the second edge  204   b  of the first portion of the second fabric. 
     In some embodiments, the first flap of the first fabric is folded over to the first portion of the first fabric, and the folded first flap of the first fabric and the second flap of the second fabric collectively define an opening  224  of the pocket. In an embodiment, the folded first flap of the first fabric is adhered to the first portion of the first fabric by an adhesive layer such as an adhesive layer  206  illustrated in  FIG. 4 . 
     In some embodiments, the first edge  202   b  of the first portion of the first fabric and the second edge  204   b  of the first portion of the second fabric are joined together and collectively form a seam. In an embodiment, the opening of the pocket is substantially aligned with the seam. 
     In some embodiments, a waistband of the present invention further comprises bar tacks, such as bar tacks  222  illustrated  FIG. 3K , disposed respectively at the ends of a folding line of the folded first flap of the first fabric (e.g., the opening of the pocket). The bar tacks are configured to reinforce the folded first flap of the first fabric. In an embodiment, each of the bar tacks extends at least through the first fabric to the mesh layer. 
     As a further example,  FIGS. 7D-7E  illustrates an exemplary waistband with one or more pockets constructed differently than that illustrated in  FIG. 4 . In  FIGS. 7D-7E , the first fabric is formed with one or more openings, such as openings  406   a  and  406   b , each defining an opening of a pocket. In some embodiments, for each pocket, the waistband further comprises one or more adhesive strips, such as adhesive strips  424 ,  426 ,  430 ,  432 , disposed between the first fabric and the mesh layer to couple the mesh layer with the first fabric and to define a border of each pocket. Like the embodiment in  FIG. 3F , the one or more adhesive strips can be but not necessarily have to be parallel or perpendicular to each other. Also, the one or more adhesive strips can be straight, slant, or curved. 
     As a still further example,  FIGS. 8A and 8B  illustrate an exemplary waistband with a non-continuous second adhesive layer. In the illustrated embodiment, the second adhesive layer comprises an adhesive strip  418  disposed at the upper region of the waistband and an adhesive strip  420  disposed at the middle region of the waistband. The adhesive strip  420  is spaced apart from the adhesive strip  418  of the second adhesive layer, and in some case is also spaced apart from the first adhesive layer  414 , to form a tunnel for receiving a drawstring  412 . In some embodiments, the first fabric is formed with a pair of holes such as holes such as drawstring holes  408   a ,  408   b  illustrated in  FIG. 7H . In such embodiments, a portion of the drawstring can be exposed to an exterior of the tunnel through the pair of holes to allow adjustment of the tightness of the waistband. 
     In an alternative embodiment such as that illustrated in  FIG. 6 , an exemplary waistband of the present invention comprises one adhesive layer, e.g., adhesive strips  312 ,  314 , disposed between the mesh layer and the inner fabric layer. The adhesive strips  312 ,  314  are configured to couple the mesh layer with the inner fabric layer and to enhance the elastic strength of the waistband. In some embodiments, the adhesive strip and the second adhesive strip are spaced apart with a distance in between to form a tunnel for receiving a drawstring. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer  312  is disposed at the upper region of the waistband and the adhesive layer  314  is disposed at the middle region of the waistband, where the adhesive layer  312  has an elastic modulus greater than that of the adhesive layer  314 . In some embodiment, the inner and outer fabric layers are made of the first and second fabrics joined by a seam. In an embodiment, the first adhesive strip  312  is overlaid over the seam to reinforce the seam. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1A-8 , there are shown exemplary methods for constructing exemplary waistbands in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. It should be appreciated that, for simplicity and clarity, the illustrations depict only a portion of the total waistband, and that one skilled in the art would understand that the methods and steps described herein may be applied to construct waistbands of any desired length. Also, unless specified otherwise, the illustrations are not necessarily shown to scale. Further, the specific methods and the specific sequences of each method described herein are for illustrative purposes and by way of example only. It should be appreciated that these specific methods and the specific sequences of each method are not limiting, and various modifications, including modifications on the specific methods and the orders of the specific sequences, can be contemplated. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1A-1I , there is shown an exemplary method for constructing an exemplary waistband according to certain exemplary embodiments of the present invention.  FIG. 1A  illustrates a first fabric  102  and a second fabric  104  being provided to construct a waistband. In some embodiments, first fabric  102  will form an inside portion or a part of the inside portion of the waistband intended to face towards a person&#39;s body when worn, and second fabric  104  will form an outside portion of the waistband intended to face away from the person&#39;s body when worn. First fabric  102  and second fabric  104  may be the same material or different materials. For instance, in an embodiment, the first and second fabrics are made of the same material. In another embodiment, the first and second fabrics are made of different materials. In some embodiments, one or each of first fabric  102  and second fabric  104  is a synthetic fabric as described herein (e.g., polyester, spandex, rayon, nylon, acrylic, etc.). 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 1B , first fabric  102  is joined to second fabric  104  in some embodiments. In some embodiments first fabric  102  is joined to second fabric  104  by a seam  106 . Seam  106 , in some embodiments, may be formed between and extend along an edge of first fabric  102  and an edge of second fabric  104 . In some embodiments, seam  106  extends an entire length of first fabric  102  and/or second fabric  104 . In certain embodiments, seam  106  is a stitch-free seam which does not include or require any stitching or sewing. In some such embodiments, seam  106  is formed by bonding or welding first fabric  102  with second fabric  104  using, for example, heat, adhesives, and/or ultrasonic energy. In some embodiments, seam  106  is an ultrasonic line bonded (USLB) seam. 
     In some embodiments, an exemplary method of constructing an exemplary waistband includes: (i) stacking the first and second fabrics together, where an edge of the first fabric and an edge of the second fabric are substantially aligned with each other, (ii) placing the fabric stack in a machine (e.g., an anvil or fixture of an ultrasonic bonding machine, a horn of which presses together the fabric edges and delivers ultrasonic vibrations that heat the fabric edges) to join the edges of the first and second fabrics and form a seam, (iii) unfolding the fabric stack, and (iv) applying an adhesive layer (e.g., seam reinforcement tape) to the seam. In some embodiments, the method includes one or more optional or additional steps. For instance, in an embodiment, the method includes cutting off excess fabric at the seam after the seam is formed. 
     In some embodiments, a first adhesive layer  108  may be applied, as illustrated in  FIG. 1C  The first adhesive layer  108  may include, for example, an approximately 6 mm wide strip of adhesive material and, in some embodiments, is applied onto second fabric  104  on or adjacent to seam  106 . In some embodiments, first adhesive layer  108  may be applied along the entire length of seam  106 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1D , a layer of mesh  110  is provided according to some embodiments. Mesh  110  may be selected, for example, from any of the mesh materials described herein. In some embodiments, one side of mesh  110  is provided with a second adhesive layer  112 . Second adhesive layer  112 , in some embodiments, includes a strip of adhesive material that is wider than first adhesive layer  108 . Second adhesive layer  112  may include, for example, an approximately 1.5 centimeter (cm) wide strip of adhesive material which is positioned along a lengthwise edge of mesh  110 . The adhesive material used for second adhesive layer  112  may be the same adhesive material used for first adhesive layer  108 . 
     In some embodiments, mesh  110  may be coupled to the joined first fabric  102  and second fabric  104 , as generally shown in  FIGS. 1E and 1F . In some such embodiments, mesh  110  is positioned such that second adhesive layer  112  on mesh  110  faces and overlays first adhesive layer  108  and seam  106 . Second adhesive layer  112  on mesh  110  may also overlay a portion of first fabric  102  in some embodiments (e.g., a portion which is adjacent to seam  106 ). Moreover, in some embodiments, a remainder of mesh  110  may be positioned to overlay first fabric  102 . Accordingly, in some embodiments, first adhesive layer  108  and second adhesive layer  112  are brought in contact with each other and are configured to adhere mesh  110  to first and second fabric  102 ,  104 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1G , a portion of second fabric  104  may be folded over mesh  110 , resulting in a configuration such as that depicted in  FIG. 111 , where fold  114  in fabric  104  forms a top edge of the waistband. A bottom portion  116  of the waistband, which is opposite of fold  114 , in some embodiments, may be attached to additional materials that will be used to form the remainder of the article of clothing, e.g., by sewing, stitching, or other known methods. In particular,  FIG. 111  shows a first side of the resulting waistband construction according to certain embodiments, which is formed mostly or entirely from second fabric  104 . In some embodiments, the first side shown in  FIG. 111  represents an exterior side of the waistband that is intended to face away from the wearer&#39;s body. An opposite, second side of the resulting waistband construction is shown in  FIG. 1I , which may represent an interior side of the waistband that is intended to face toward the wearer&#39;s body. In particular, the second side of the waistband construction, in some embodiments, includes first fabric  102 , seam  106 , and a portion of second fabric  104 . In some such embodiments, seam  106  can therefore be hidden from view, which may be desirable for aesthetic reasons. 
       FIG. 2  shows a cross-sectional view of the waistband construction taken along the plane depicted by line  2 - 2  in  FIG. 1I . As shown, mesh  110  is sandwiched between first fabric  102  and folded second fabric  104  and is secured thereto by first and/or second adhesive layers  108 ,  112 . In some embodiments, fold  114 , where second fabric  104  is folded over mesh  110 , forms a top edge of the waistband construction. The opposite bottom portion  116  of the waistband may be connected to the remainder of the article of clothing (e.g., pant legs, skirt, etc.), for example, by sewing, stitching, or other known methods. In some embodiments, first fabric  102 , second fabric  104 , and/or mesh  110  may be sewn, stitched, or otherwise attached together at bottom portion  116 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 3A-3K , there is shown a method for constructing a waistband according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. According to some embodiments, the method shown in  FIG. 3A-3K  may be used to construct a waistband having a pocket.  FIG. 3A  illustrates a first fabric  202  and a second fabric  204  being provided which may be used to construct the waistband. In some embodiments, first fabric  202  will form an inside portion of the waistband intended to face towards a person&#39;s body when worn, and second fabric  204  will form an outside portion of the waistband intended to face away from the person&#39;s body when worn. In some embodiments, first fabric  202  and second fabric  204  may be the same material or different materials. In some embodiments, each of first fabric  202  and second fabric  204  is a synthetic fabric as described herein (e.g., polyester, spandex, rayon, nylon, acrylic, etc.). In some embodiments, first fabric  202  includes a first flap  202   a  and second fabric  204  includes a second flap  204   a  which extend beyond a lengthwise edge of first and second fabrics  202 ,  204 . In some such embodiments, as will be described further herein, first flap  202   a  and second flap  204   a  will be used to form an opening of a pocket formed in the waistband construction. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 3B and 3C , in certain embodiments a first adhesive layer  206  may be applied to first flap  202   a , which is folded over and adhered to another portion of first fabric  202 . First adhesive layer  206  may include, for example, an approximately 1.0 cm wide strip of adhesive material applied along substantially the entire length of first flap  202   a . Second fabric  204 , in some embodiments, may be positioned such that at least a portion of second flap  204   a  overlays at least a portion of folded first flap  202   a , as shown in  FIG. 3D . Moreover, in some embodiments, lengthwise edges of second fabric  204  that are adjacent to second flap  204   a  are aligned with and joined to lengthwise edges of first fabric  202  that are adjacent to first flap  202   a  by seams  208 . In certain embodiments, seams  208  are stitch-free seams which does not include or require any stitching or sewing. In some such embodiments, seams  208  are formed by bonding or welding first fabric  202  with second fabric  204  using, for example, heat, adhesives, and/or ultrasonic energy. In some embodiments, seams  208  are an ultrasonic line bonded (USLB) seams. Second flap  204   a  remains unbonded to first flap  202   a  to create a gap between seams  208  and provide an opening to the pocket. 
     As shown in  FIG. 3E , a second adhesive layer  210  may be applied according to some embodiments. Second adhesive layer  210  may include, for example, an approximately 6 mm wide strip of adhesive material and, in some embodiments, is applied onto second fabric  204  on or adjacent to seams  208 . In some embodiments, second adhesive layer  210  may also be applied over a portion of second flap  204   a.    
     As shown in  FIG. 3F , a layer of mesh  212  is provided according to some embodiments. Mesh  212  may be selected, for example, from any of the mesh materials described herein. In some embodiments, one side of mesh  212  is provided with a third adhesive layer  214 . Third adhesive layer  214 , in some embodiments, includes a strip of adhesive material that is wider than second adhesive layer  210 . Third adhesive layer  214  may include, for example, an approximately 1.5 cm wide strip of adhesive material which is positioned along a lengthwise edge of mesh  212 . The adhesive material used for third adhesive layer  112  may be the same adhesive material used for first adhesive layer  206  and/or second adhesive layer  210 . In further embodiments, mesh  212  is further provided with additional adhesive strips  216  and  218  which are spaced apart from each other and, in some embodiments, extend generally perpendicular to third adhesive layer  214 . In some embodiments, adhesive strips  216  and  218  are each narrower than third adhesive layer  214 , for example, being approximately 1.0 cm wide according to some such embodiments. In some embodiments, adhesive strips  216  and  218  further border and define a pocket region  220  on mesh  212 , which will form an inner wall of the pocket of the waistband. 
     In some embodiments, mesh  212  may be coupled to the joined first fabric  202  and second fabric  204 , as generally shown in  FIGS. 3G and 311 . In some such embodiments, mesh  212  is positioned such that third adhesive layer  214  on mesh  212  faces and overlays second adhesive layer  210  and seam  208 . Third adhesive layer  214  on mesh  212  may also overlay a portion of first fabric  202  in some embodiments (e.g., a portion which is adjacent to seam  208 ) and second flap  204   a . In some embodiments, third adhesive layer  214  is sized and positioned such that it does not contact or adhere to first flap  202   a . Moreover, in some embodiments, a remainder of mesh  212 , including adhesive strips  216 ,  218 , may be positioned to overlay first fabric  202 . Accordingly, in some embodiments, second adhesive layer  210  and third adhesive layer  214  are brought in contact with each other and are configured to adhere mesh  212  to first and second fabric  202 ,  204 . Furthermore, mesh  212  is adhered to first fabric  202  by adhesive strips  216 ,  218 , which define the sides of the pocket formed between first fabric  202  and pocket region  220  of mesh  212 . In further embodiments, the interior space of the pocket between first fabric  202  and pocket region  220  communicates with a pocket opening formed between first flap  202   a  and second flap  204   a . In some embodiments bar tacks  222  may be provided at either or both ends of the opening as reinforcement, as depicted in  FIG. 31 . Bar tacks  222  may be positioned and configured to extend at least through mesh  212 , seam  208 , first fabric  202 , according to some embodiments. In other embodiments, bar tacks may be added on the sides of first and second flaps  202   a ,  204   a  prior to providing mesh  212 , such that the bar tacks do not extend through mesh  212 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 31 , a portion of second fabric  204  may be folded over mesh  212 , resulting in a configuration such as that depicted in  FIG. 3J , where fold  228  in fabric  204  forms a top edge of the waistband. A bottom portion  230  of the waistband, which is opposite of fold  228 , in some embodiments, may be attached to additional materials that will be used to form the remainder of the article of clothing, e.g., by sewing, stitching, or other known methods. In particular,  FIG. 3J  shows a first side of the resulting waistband construction according to certain embodiments, which is formed mostly or entirely from second fabric  204 . In some embodiments, the first side as shown in  FIG. 3J  represents an exterior side of the waistband that is intended to face away from the wearer&#39;s body. An opposite, second side of the resulting waistband construction is shown in  FIG. 3K , which may represent an interior side of the waistband that is intended to face toward the wearer&#39;s body. In particular, the second side of the waistband construction, in some embodiments, includes first fabric  202 , seam  208 , and a portion of second fabric  204 . Furthermore, pocket opening  224 , formed between first flap  202   a  and second flap  204   a  is accessible through the second side of the waistband, as shown. In some such embodiments, seam  208  and pocket opening  224  can therefore be hidden from view, which may be desirable for aesthetic reasons. Furthermore, hiding pocket opening  224  on the interior side of the waistband may provide added security to the contents held in the pocket. 
       FIG. 4  shows a cross-sectional view of the waistband construction taken along the plane depicted by line  4 - 4  in  FIG. 3K . As shown, mesh  212  is positioned between first fabric  202  and folded second fabric  204  and is secured to second fabric  204  by second and/or third adhesive layers  210 ,  214 . In some embodiments, fold  228 , where second fabric  204  is folded over mesh  110 , forms a top edge of the waistband construction. As further depicted, first flap  202   a  of first fabric  202  is folded over and adhered using first adhesive layer  206 . The space between first flap  202   a  and second flap  204   a  forms a pocket opening  224  which connects to interior space  226  of the pocket formed between first fabric  202  and pocket region  220  of mesh  212 . Pocket opening  224  and interior space  226  may be sized, for example, to receive and hold coins, credit cards, keys, medicines, mobile telephones, or other small personal items. The bottom portion  230  of the waistband, opposite of fold  228 , may be connected to the remainder of the article of clothing (e.g., pant legs, skirt, etc.), for example, by sewing, stitching, or other known methods. In some embodiments, first fabric  202 , second fabric  204 , and/or mesh  212  may be sewn, stitched, or otherwise attached together at bottom portion  230 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 5A-5I , there is shown a method for constructing a waistband according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention. According to some embodiments, the method shown in  FIG. 5A-5I  may be used to construct a waistband having a tunnel for a drawstring.  FIG. 5A  illustrates a first fabric  302  and a second fabric  304  being provided which may be used to construct the waistband. In some embodiments, first fabric  302  will form an inside portion of the waistband intended to face towards a person&#39;s body when worn, and second fabric  304  will form an outside portion of the waistband intended to face away from the person&#39;s body when worn. In some embodiments, first fabric  302  and second fabric  304  may be the same material or different materials. In some embodiments, each of first fabric  302  and second fabric  304  is a synthetic fabric as described herein (e.g., polyester, spandex, rayon, nylon, acrylic, etc.). 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 5B , first fabric  302  is joined to second fabric  304  in some embodiments. In some embodiments first fabric  302  is joined to second fabric  304  by a seam  306 . Seam  306 , in some embodiments, may be formed between and extend along an edge of first fabric  302  and an edge of second fabric  304 . In some embodiments, seam  306  extends an entire length of first fabric  302  and/or second fabric  304 . In certain embodiments, seam  306  is a stitch-free seam which does not include or require any stitching or sewing. In some such embodiments, seam  306  is formed by bonding or welding first fabric  302  with second fabric  304  using, for example, heat, adhesives, and/or ultrasonic energy. In some embodiments, seam  306  is an ultrasonic line bonded (USLB) seam. 
       FIG. 5C  illustrates a drawstring  308  that is provided and positioned over first fabric  302  and generally parallel to seam  306 . Drawstring  308 , for example, may be any type of string, cord, lace, rope, etc. which is suitable for drawing a waistband into a tighter fit. In some embodiments, drawstring  308  may include two or more separate strings which are arranged generally in parallel. In some embodiments, drawstring  308  is spaced slightly away from seam  306 , as shown. For example, in some embodiments, drawstring  308  is spaced about 0.3 cm away from seam  306 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 5D , a layer of mesh  310  is provided according to some embodiments. Mesh  310  may be selected, for example, from any of the mesh materials described herein. In some embodiments, one side of mesh  310  is provided with a first adhesive strip  312  and a second adhesive strip  314 . First and second adhesive strips  312 ,  314 , in some embodiments, are spaced apart and may be positioned generally parallel to each other on mesh  310 . In some embodiments, first adhesive strip  312  includes a strip of adhesive material that is wider than second adhesive strip  314 . First adhesive strip  312  may include, for example, an approximately 1.0 cm wide strip of adhesive material which is positioned along a lengthwise edge of mesh  310 . Second adhesive strip  314  may include, for example, an approximately 0.6 cm wide strip of adhesive material which is parallel to and spaced apart from first adhesive strip  312  by a distance large enough to accommodate, for example, the diameter of drawstring  308 . The adhesive material used for second adhesive strip  314  may be the same adhesive material used for first adhesive strip  312 . 
     In some embodiments, mesh  310  may be coupled to the joined first fabric  302  and second fabric  304 , as generally shown in  FIGS. 5E and 5F . In some such embodiments, mesh  310  is positioned such that first adhesive strip  312  on mesh  310  faces and overlays seam  306  and a portion of second fabric  304  that is adjacent to seam  306 . For example, in some embodiments, first adhesive strip  312  is sized and positioned to overlay an approximately 0.6 cm wide portion of second fabric  304  adjacent to seam  306 . Meanwhile, in some embodiments, second adhesive strip  314  on mesh  310  is positioned to overlay a portion of first fabric  302  below drawstring  308 , such that drawstring  308  is positioned between first fabric  302  and a portion of mesh  310  between first and second adhesive strips  312 ,  314 . Accordingly, in some embodiments, first adhesive layer  312  and second adhesive layer  314  adhere mesh  310  to first and second fabrics  302 ,  304  while also defining a tunnel for drawstring  308 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 5G , a portion of second fabric  304  may be folded over mesh  310 , resulting in a configuration such as that depicted in  FIG. 511 , where fold  316  in fabric  304  forms a top edge of the waistband. A bottom portion  318  of the waistband, which is opposite of fold  316 , in some embodiments may be attached to additional materials that will be used to form the remainder of the article of clothing, e.g., by sewing, stitching, or other known methods. In particular,  FIG. 511  shows a first side of the resulting waistband construction according to certain embodiments, which is formed mostly or entirely from second fabric  304 . In some embodiments, the first side shown in  FIG. 511  represents an exterior side of the waistband that is intended to face away from the wearer&#39;s body. An opposite, second side of the resulting waistband construction is shown in  FIG. 5I , which may represent an interior side of the waistband that is intended to face toward the wearer&#39;s body. In particular, the second side of the waistband construction, in some embodiments, includes first fabric  302 , seam  306 , and a portion of second fabric  304 . In some such embodiments, seam  306  can therefore be hidden from view, which may be desirable for aesthetic reasons. 
       FIG. 6  shows a cross-sectional view of the waistband construction taken along the plane depicted by line  6 - 6  in  FIG. 5I . As shown, mesh  310  is sandwiched between first fabric  302  and folded second fabric  304  and is secured thereto by first and/or second adhesive strips  312 ,  314 . Drawstring  308 , as shown, is positioned between first fabric  302  and a portion of mesh  310  situated between first and second adhesive strips  312 ,  314 . Thus, in some embodiments, a drawstring tunnel is created in the interior of the waistband between first fabric  302  and mesh  310 . It should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, at least a portion of drawstring  308  may move relative to (e.g. slide within) the drawstring tunnel in order to tighten/loosen the waistband during use. In some embodiments, fold  316 , where second fabric  304  is folded over mesh  310 , forms a top edge of the waistband construction. The opposite bottom portion  318  of the waistband may be connected to the remainder of the article of clothing (e.g., pant legs, skirt, etc.), for example, by sewing, stitching, or other known methods. In some embodiments, first fabric  302  and second fabric  304 , may be sewn, stitched, or otherwise attached together at bottom portion  318 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 7A-7H , there is shown a method for constructing a waistband according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention. According to some embodiments, the method shown in  FIG. 7A-7H  may be used to construct a waistband having a tunnel for a drawstring as well as one or more pockets.  FIG. 7A  illustrates a first fabric  402  and a second fabric  404  being provided which may be used to construct the waistband. In some embodiments, first fabric  402  will form an inside portion of the waistband intended to face towards a person&#39;s body when worn, and second fabric  404  will form an outside portion of the waistband intended to face away from the person&#39;s body when worn. In some embodiments, first fabric  402  and second fabric  404  may be the same material or different materials. In some embodiments, each of first fabric  402  and second fabric  404  is a synthetic fabric as described herein (e.g., polyester, spandex, rayon, nylon, acrylic, etc.). 
     In some embodiments, first fabric  402  may include one or more cutouts or openings. For example, in the illustrated embodiment first fabric includes at least a first opening  406   a  and, in some embodiments, further includes at least a second opening  406   b . First and second openings  406   a ,  406   b  may each be in the form of an elongated slot according to some embodiments, and are configured to be the openings of separate pockets formed in the waistband. In some embodiments, for example, first opening  406   a  and/or second opening  406   b  may have a length of about 8.5 cm to about 10.0 cm and a width of about 0.2 cm to about 0.6 cm. In some embodiments, first opening  406   a  and second opening  406   b  may be spaced apart from each other and, in certain embodiments, may be differently shaped, sized, or angled. In some embodiments, each of first opening  406   a  and second opening  406   b  may be spaced away from an edge of first fabric  402  (e.g., a top lengthwise edge) by about 3.0 cm to about 5.0 cm. In certain embodiments, first fabric  402  also includes drawstring holes  408   a ,  408   b , which are sized and configured to receive a drawstring and provide openings to a drawstring tunnel in the waistband. Each drawstring hole  408   a ,  408   b , for example, may include an opening having dimensions of about 0.2 cm×about 0.6 cm. In some embodiments, drawstring holes  408   a ,  408   b  may be spaced apart by about 2.5 cm to about 4.0 cm. 
     First and second openings  406   a ,  406   b  and drawstring holes  408   a ,  408   b , may be formed by any suitable method. In some particular embodiments, first and second openings  406   a ,  406   b  and/or drawstring holes  408   a ,  408   b , are cut into first fabric  402  by a laser. In further embodiments, each or some of first and second openings  406   a ,  406   b  and drawstring holes  408   a ,  408   b  may be bordered by a reinforcement to prevent fraying of the adjacent fabric material The reinforcement may provide, for example, a border around each opening/hole that is about 2.1 mm to about 2.4 mm wide. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 7B , first fabric  402  is joined to second fabric  404  in some embodiments. In some embodiments first fabric  402  is joined to second fabric  404  by a seam  410 . Seam  410 , in some embodiments, may be formed between and extend along an edge of first fabric  402  (e.g., a bottom lengthwise edge) and an edge of second fabric  404  (e.g., a top lengthwise edge). In some embodiments, seam  410  extends an entire length of first fabric  402  and/or second fabric  404 . In certain embodiments, seam  410  is a stitch-free seam which does not include or require any stitching or sewing. In some such embodiments, seam  410  is formed by bonding or welding first fabric  402  with second fabric  404  using, for example, heat, adhesives, and/or ultrasonic energy. In some embodiments, seam  410  is an ultrasonic line bonded (USLB) seam. 
     In some embodiments, a first adhesive layer  414  may be applied, as illustrated in  FIG. 7C . The first adhesive layer  414  may include, for example, an approximately 1.0 cm wide strip of adhesive material and, in some embodiments, is applied onto over seam  410 . In some embodiments, first adhesive layer  414  may be applied along the entire length of seam  410 . As further shown in  FIG. 7C , in some embodiments, a drawstring  412  may be threaded through drawstring holes  408   a ,  408   b . Drawstring  412  may be configured similarly to drawstring  308  described previously. In some embodiments, drawstring  412  is arranged generally parallel to seam  410 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 7D , a layer of mesh  416  is provided according to some embodiments. Mesh  416  may be selected, for example, from any of the mesh materials described herein. In some embodiments, one side of mesh  416  is provided with a first adhesive strip  418  and a second adhesive strip  420 . First and second adhesive strips  418 ,  420  in some embodiments, are spaced apart and may be positioned generally parallel to each other on mesh  416 . In some embodiments, first adhesive strip  418  includes a strip of adhesive material that is wider than second adhesive strip  420 . In other embodiments, first adhesive strip  418  includes a strip of adhesive material that has the same width as second adhesive strip  420 . First adhesive strip  418  may include, for example, an approximately 0.6 cm wide strip of adhesive material which is positioned along a lengthwise edge of mesh  416 . Second adhesive strip  420  may include, for example, an approximately 0.6 cm wide strip of adhesive material which is parallel to and spaced apart from first adhesive strip  418  by a distance large enough to accommodate, for example, the diameter of drawstring  412 . The adhesive material used for second adhesive strip  420  may be the same adhesive material used for first adhesive strip  418 . 
     In some embodiments, mesh  416  may further include one or at least two pocket regions  422 ,  428 , which are configured to form inner walls of the pockets of the waistband. Pocket regions  422 ,  428 , in some embodiments, have dimensions such that the resulting pockets are large enough to hold coins, credit cards, keys, medicines, mobile telephones, or other small personal items. For example, in some embodiments, pocket regions  422 ,  428  may have a dimension (e.g., length, width, or height) that is about or at least 10 cm. In some embodiments, pocket region  422  may be spaced apart from pocket region  428 . In some embodiments, pocket region  422  may be spaced apart from pocket region  428  by an opening or gap in the mesh material between pocket region  422  and pocket region  428 . In some embodiments, each pocket region  422 ,  428  are bordered by additional adhesive strips. For example, as illustrated, pocket region  422  is at least partially bordered by adhesive strips  424  and  426 . Pocket region  428  is at least partially bordered by adhesive strips  430  and  432 . In further embodiments, each of pocket region  422  and  428  is also bordered by second adhesive strip  420 . In some embodiments, adhesive strips  424 ,  426 ,  430 ,  432  each may extend generally perpendicular to second adhesive strip  420 . In further embodiments, adhesive strips  424 ,  426 ,  430 ,  432  each may be, for example, approximately 1.0 cm wide. 
     In some embodiments, mesh  416  may be coupled to the joined first fabric  402  and second fabric  404 , as generally shown in  FIGS. 7E and 7F . In some such embodiments, mesh  416  is positioned such that first adhesive strip  418  on mesh  416  faces and overlays first adhesive layer  414  Meanwhile, in some embodiments, second adhesive strip  420  on mesh  416  is positioned to overlay a portion of first fabric  402  below drawstring  412 , such that drawstring  412  is positioned between first fabric  402  and a portion of mesh  416  between first and second adhesive strips  418 ,  420 . Accordingly, in some embodiments, first adhesive strip  418  and second adhesive strip  420  are configured to adhere mesh  416  to first and second fabrics  402 ,  404  while also defining a tunnel for drawstring  412 . 
     Moreover, in some embodiments, a remainder of mesh  416 , including pocket regions  422 ,  428  and adhesive strips  424 ,  426 ,  430 ,  432 , may be positioned to overlay portions of first fabric  402 . In particular, in some embodiments, pocket region  428  is positioned to overlay a portion of first fabric  402  that includes first opening  406   a , and pocket region  422  is positioned to overlay a portion of first fabric  402  that includes second opening  406   b . First and second openings  406   a ,  406   b  are therefore positioned to communicate with the interior spaces of the pockets formed between first fabric  402  and pocket regions  428  and  422 , respectively. Additionally, in some embodiments, mesh  416  is adhered to first fabric  402  by adhesive strips  424 ,  426 ,  430 ,  432 , which define the sides of the pockets formed between first fabric  402  and pocket regions  422  and  428  of mesh  416 . 
     As further shown in  FIG. 7F , a portion of second fabric  404  may be folded over mesh  416 , resulting in a configuration such as that depicted in  FIG. 7G , where fold  434  in fabric  404  forms a top edge of the waistband. A bottom portion  436  of the waistband, which is opposite of fold  434 , in some embodiments may be attached to additional materials that will be used to form the remainder of the article of clothing, e.g., by sewing, stitching, or other known methods. In particular,  FIG. 7G  shows a first side of the resulting waistband construction according to certain embodiments, which is formed mostly or entirely from second fabric  404 . In some embodiments, the first side shown in  FIG. 7G  represents an exterior side of the waistband that is intended to face away from the wearer&#39;s body. An opposite, second side of the resulting waistband construction is shown in  FIG. 7H , which may represent an interior side of the waistband that is intended to face toward the wearer&#39;s body. In particular, the second side of the waistband construction, in some embodiments, includes first fabric  402 , seam  410 , and a portion of second fabric  404 . Furthermore, first and second openings  406   a ,  406   b , which provide access to the interior pockets of the waistband, are positioned on and accessible through the second side of the waistband, as shown. In some such embodiments, seam  410  and first and second openings  406   a ,  406   b  can therefore be hidden from view, which may be desirable for aesthetic reasons. Furthermore, hiding first and second openings  406   a ,  406   b  on the interior side of the waistband may provide added security to the contents held in the pockets. As further shown in  FIG. 7H , a portion of drawstring  412  may extend from drawstring holes  408   a ,  408   b  and be accessible from the second side of the waistband which, for example, allows the wearer to pull or loosen drawstring  412  to adjust the fit of the waistband. 
       FIG. 8A  shows a cross-sectional view of the waistband construction taken along the plane depicted by line  8 A- 8 A in  FIG. 7H , and  FIG. 8B  shows a cross-sectional view of the waistband construction taken along the plane depicted by line  8 B- 8 B in  FIG. 7H . As shown, mesh  416  is sandwiched between first fabric  402  and folded second fabric  404  and is secured thereto by first adhesive layer  414  and first and/or second adhesive strips  418 ,  420 . Drawstring  412 , as shown, is positioned between first fabric  402  and a portion of mesh  416  situated between first and second adhesive strips  418 ,  420 . Thus, in some embodiments, a drawstring tunnel is created in the interior of the waistband between first fabric  402  and mesh  416 . It should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, at least a portion of drawstring  412  may move relative to (e.g. slide within) the drawstring tunnel in order to tighten/loosen the waistband during use. In some embodiments, fold  434 , where second fabric  404  is folded over mesh  416 , forms a top edge of the waistband construction. The opposite bottom portion  436  of the waistband may be connected to the remainder of the article of clothing (e.g., pant legs, skirt, etc.), for example, by sewing, stitching, or other known methods. In some embodiments, first fabric  402  and second fabric  404 , may be sewn, stitched, or otherwise attached together at bottom portion  436 . As further shown in  FIG. 8B , opening  406   b , located on a portion of first fabric  402 , connects to and provides access to interior space  438  of the pocket formed between first fabric  402  and pocket region  422  of mesh  416 . Opening  406   b  and interior space  438  may be sized, for example, to receive and hold coins, credit cards, keys, medicines, mobile telephones, or other small personal items. Furthermore, as described previously, opening  406   b  may be bordered by a reinforcing material  440  which is configured to prevent fraying of the fabric material surrounding opening  406   b.    
     It should be noted that the specific sequences described herein are not necessarily in order. For instance, the first adhesive layer can be but not necessarily have to be applied before the second adhesive layer. Instead, the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer can be applied in any suitable order, sequentially or concurrently. As an example, in an embodiment, the second adhesive layer can be applied before the first adhesive layer is applied. In another embodiment, the first and second adhesive layers are applied together to adhere the mesh layer with the inner fabric layer. In a further embodiment, both of the first and second adhesive layers are applied to the mesh layer (in any order) and then the mesh layer with the adhesive layers are applied to the inner layer. 
     Further, it should be noted that, although the terms “first,” “second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first adhesive layer could be termed a second adhesive layer, and, similarly, a second adhesive layer could be termed a first adhesive layer, without changing the meaning of the description, so long as all occurrences of the “first adhesive layer” are renamed consistently and all occurrences of the “second adhesive layer” are renamed consistently. 
     REFERENCES CITED AND ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS 
     All references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and for all purposes to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
     Many modifications and variations of this invention can be made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The specific embodiments described herein are offered by way of example only. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. The invention is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.