Abstract: A functional clothing article may include a body for receiving and supporting a hip region, and a waist region of a user. An abdominal support unit may be provided at a front portion of the body to support the abdominal region. The abdominal support unit may have at least a first abdominal support plate positioned between at least two second abdominal support plates. The elasticity of the at least two second abdominal support plates may be less than the at least one first abdominal support plate. A waist support may be attachable the functional clothing article. The waist support may surround a portion of the user's waist.