Zippers are commonly used to fasten opposing fabric portions. One typical use for zippers is to close two separate fabric portions which form a pocket in a garment or accessory. An advantage of using a zipper to close a pocket is that when the zipper is closed, items stored in the pocket are less likely to be inadvertently removed from the pocket.
One disadvantage of using a zipper to close a pocket is that the zipper adds bulk to the garment or accessory. Each zipper includes two sets of interlocking teeth attached to a trim or flashing material. The flashing material is sewn to the garment or accessory, adding another layer of material to the garment or accessory. Added bulk may be undesirable in garments which the user wishes to conform closely to the body for improved aerodynamics and aesthetics. Additionally, added bulk may be undesirable in garments because it may increase the risk of chafing where the added bulk rubs against the body of the user during wear. Added bulk may also be undesirable in accessories for the same reasons.
Another disadvantage of using a zipper to close a pocket is that the zipper adds material and labor costs to the production of the garment or accessory. Each added zipper must be sewn precisely into the garment or accessory to function properly, which complicates construction of the garment or accessory. Accordingly, each added zipper proportionately increases material and labor costs to the garment or accessory.
In view of the foregoing, it would be advantageous to provide a zipper arrangement which provides the advantages of closing a pocket and also minimizes the bulk added to the garment or accessory and minimizes the additional labor and material costs of the garment or accessory.