Breast Supporting Member Within Other Garment Patents (Class 450/31)
  • Patent number: 11178925
    Abstract: A garment includes an outer fabric of a first material and an inner panels of a second material. The inner panels are attached to the outer fabric in a way that allows them to be moved towards a front and a back of the garment. For example, the inner panels are movable related to each other and the outer fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2021
    Inventor: Bonnie Fischer
  • Patent number: 10555562
    Abstract: The disclosed garment is uniquely constructed to provide stretchable, comfortable, non-binding night-time breast support to large-breasted women without any horizontal bands or binding around the chest or middle of the body. It effectively addresses the 3-way support needs (up, in, and apart) providing a garment that is robustly supportive, creating a pleasing shape and silhouette, while being comfortable, breathable, and not constrictive in any way using no wires and no horizontal banding around the chest and torso.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Inventor: Karen Daehnick Poirier
  • Patent number: 9661880
    Abstract: The present invention aims to reduce form drag and provides a sports garment having a chest-covering portion (1) and an abdomen-covering portion (2) for covering the wearer's chest and abdomen respectively. The chest-covering portion includes an upper compressive zone (3) formed of a textile material having a higher modulus of elasticity than a textile material forming the abdomen-covering portion. This means that, in use, a greater compressive force is applied to the wearer's chest than the wearer's abdomen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Assignee: SPEEDO INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
    Inventors: Tom Waller, Chris Johnson, Rebecca Bennett, Melanie Neal
  • Patent number: 9215896
    Abstract: A breast support device designed to provide the wearer with a high degree of control and support of breast tissue while minimizing the pain and discomfort associated with conventional breast control garments, that can be worn on its own or integrated into garments where breast support is desirable. The breast support device achieves these objectives through the innovative combination of various non-stretch and stretch fabrics, as well as through the use on one or more darts of varying length sewn into the non-stretch fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Assignee: Lynx Enterprises LLC
    Inventor: Cynthia A. Smith
  • Publication number: 20150147939
    Abstract: 142A sleeveless garment comprises a breast covering layer configured to cover wearer's breasts, the breast covering layer comprising a cup portion and a peripheral portion, wherein the cup portion consists of two cups, and the peripheral portion is connected with the two cups to collectively constitute a seamless structure; an outer fabric layer attached to the exterior of the breast covering layer and comprising an upper part covering the breast covering layer and a lower part connected with the upper part; and an elastic band disposed below the cup portion and provided with an adjustment member for adjusting tightness/fitness. The sleeveless garment may simplify the production process and realize breast push-up and adjustment as well as body appearance enhancement effects. In addition, it has better breathability and allows adjustment of tightness/fitness and wearing comfort, and with the improved breast coverage, the breast covering layer can be prevented from loosening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventor: Kun Tang CHEN
  • Patent number: 8926398
    Abstract: The under garment consists of a front panel having an outer side and an inner side. Two shoulder areas are formed at top portions of the front panel and the back panel. A breast receiving unit is provided associated with the inner area of the front panel and is formed with first and second breast receiving pockets. A front area of each receiving pocket is formed by a respective part of the inner face of the front panel and a rear area of each said breast receiving pocket is formed by an independent rear panel. In use, the independent rear panels of each breast receiving pocket are positioned between the skin of the breast and the skin of the user's torso.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventors: Ruzaliya Mendeleev, Boris Mendeleev
  • Patent number: 8900032
    Abstract: An athletic brassiere with breast band, having the general form of a brassiere, for use when engaging in vigorous physical exercise or activities, such as running, tennis, and the like. An embodiment comprises an inner liner and outer panel, an internal breast band sleeve, and a breast band slidably retained within the sleeve. The breast band has a fastener enabling the breast band length to be adjusted; the breast band is adjustable vertically and horizontally. Embodiments hold the breasts down with the breast band slidably retained within the garment, providing support and protecting the wearer from discomfort or injury from excessive upward and downward breast movement. The breast band alleviates upward and downward movement of the breasts and does not cinch, flatten or compress the wearer's breasts against the chest wall, nor lift and bold the breasts. The garment is attractive and can be worn alone or under another garment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: Alena Punsal
  • Patent number: 8870624
    Abstract: A clothing is disclosed and includes a top configured to cover a user's upper body, the top including a breast area configured to cover a user's breasts; a pair of bra cups embedded into the top and positioned on the breast area, the bra cups configured to support the user's breasts; at least one elastic band positioned adjacent to the bra cups and on the breast area, the elastic band configured to aid the bra cups in supporting to the user's breasts; and a perspiration promoting material positioned within the top and configured to cause the user to perspire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventor: Natascha Hopkins
  • Publication number: 20140273737
    Abstract: A nursing garment configured to be worn by a wearer having a breast includes an interior layer, an intermediate layer, and an exterior layer. The interior layer is positioned immediately adjacent the wearer during use of the nursing garment and defines soft cups for supporting the breasts. Each of the soft cups defines an opening therethrough providing access to a different one of the breasts. The intermediate layer defines padded cups, is coupled to the interior layer, and is positioned immediately adjacent the interior layer. The padded cups overlie the soft cups of the interior layer covering the openings of the interior layer. The exterior layer extends over the intermediate layer opposite the interior layer substantially covering the intermediate layer. To permit nursing, the intermediate layer and the exterior layer collectively fold down away from the interior layer permitting access to the breasts via the openings in the interior layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: TARGET BRANDS, INC.
    Inventors: Daniele M. CORTESE, Emily WEICH
  • Patent number: 8758081
    Abstract: A cup-possessing garment 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided with a pair of cup sections 12 for covering respective breasts and a pair of gathering sections 20 provided so as to cover at least a part of a front face of each cup section 12 in order to gather the pair of cup sections toward the front center, and each of the pair of gathering sections 20 is composed of a first portion 22 attached to a side portion of the cup section 12, and a second portion 24 formed with higher elasticity than the first portion 22 and formed in such a manner that ends of the second portions on the front center side join together in order to connect the first portions 22 to each other on the front center side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Wacoal Corp.
    Inventors: Masaru Yuasa, Megumi Tachiiri
  • Publication number: 20140134922
    Abstract: An upper body undergarment with two wide strap or garment style shoulders connected to a full-support bra at two front points. The straps may be made from any suitable material, and is widest at the points of attachment to the bra, in this case the front of the subject embodiment where it is stitched directly to the cups, or made removable as per the description of the back ends of the straps. The straps then taper towards the apex of the shoulders to fit the width of a wearer's shoulders. The cups of the brassiere can be of any method or material generally employed in the art of support bra construction. The side panels of the brassiere connect from the outer sides of the cups around to the back of the wearer, and also serve as the means for connecting the wide strap or garment style shoulders. Restickable or repositionable adhesive is used to create adjustment, fastening, or closure, or removable or other attachment in the undergarment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Inventor: Carol A. Hearty
  • Publication number: 20140099864
    Abstract: An article of apparel includes an integrated support system. In an embodiment, the article of apparel is a tank top including a body and shoulder straps. The support structure, moreover, is a bra suspended from the interior of the body. The bra includes textile segments possessing predetermined degrees of resiliency. In an embodiment, the bra includes first and second cups, each including a pocket operable to receive an insert. The cups may be laterally spaced from each other by a non-stretch textile. The rear of the bra may be formed of a resilient textile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: Under Armour, Inc.
    Inventors: Shannon Moulden, Jami Dunbar, Angela Farina
  • Patent number: 8650662
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for supplying a variety of stylish sleeves for wear with sleeveless outfits. A bust band circles the rib cage and the back with either front or back closure. A pair of shoulder straps are attached to the bust band. Stylish lace, sheer or other sleeves are sewed or otherwise attached to the shoulder straps and/or bust band. The band generally runs around the front chest just under the bra and around the back at the approximate vertical location of the rear part of the bra. The sleeves are typically sewed onto the shoulder straps and/or bust band; however, it is within the scope of the present invention to use removable sleeves with various fastening techniques. In the preferred embodiment, small silicone strips are attached to the interior of the shoulder straps that allow the sleeves to adhere to the shoulder and not slip down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Kelley Decker
  • Publication number: 20140017977
    Abstract: In each cup portion 101 of the garment having cup portions, a support member 110 is provided so as to extend along the periphery of the swell of a wearer's breast. The support member 110 includes a lower support member 110A and an upper support member 110B. The lower support member 110A is stretchable in a direction connecting the front center side and the lateral side of the cup portion 101. The upper support member 110B is non-stretchable or slightly stretchable in a direction orthogonal to the above-described direction. At least part of a front center side-portion and at least part of a lateral side-portion of the upper support member 110B are fixed to the garment. At least part of a lateral side-portion of the lower support member 110A is fixed to the garment so that the lower support member 110A is displaceable relative to the cup portion 101.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: WACOAL CORP.
    Inventors: Katsuko Horii, Masumi Fujii, Youji Katsuhara
  • Patent number: 8585458
    Abstract: A breast support garment is provided. The breast support garment is comprised of an outer garment structure in combination with an internal breast support structure comprising an outer garment layer. A breast support housing including adjacent first and second upper contoured support panels and first and second lower contoured support panels, the panels having exterior and interior support panels. A support attachment connecting both first and second exterior upper and lower support panels and connecting a first and second interior upper and lower support panels. A connection support attachment, the connection support attachment connects the front portion outer garment layer and the first and second exterior and interior first and second lower contoured support panels of the breast support housing. An internal support layer, the internal support layer interior to the outer garment layer and breast support housing. An internal support band connected to the internal support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: Susan Hauser Armanino
  • Patent number: 8574027
    Abstract: A clothing article with an integrated body support for molding and shaping the wearer's torso, includes a tubular outer garment having a free bottom end, wherein the tubular outer garment comprises an upper section adapted for supporting the bust of the wearer, and a lower section extending from the upper section for covering at least the lower torso of the wearer. The clothing article further includes a tubular inner body support extending substantially concealed in a concentric relationship with and peripherally attached to the interior portion of the outer garment, wherein the inner body support is composed of a resilient form-fitting fabric for imparting compressive support to mold and shape the lower torso and abdominal areas of the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Tres Chicas, LLC
    Inventor: Deanna H. Kipnes
  • Publication number: 20130225043
    Abstract: An article of clothing, such as a lingerie product, can be worn with an existing bra without requiring modification of the existing bra. The article can come in various sizes that will accommodate most women. A large breasted woman can wear a bra that fits her and attach the article around the bra band, creating a seamless look of a one-piece garment. Conversely, a woman with smaller breasts and large hips can wear her own bra with a larger size garment, creating lingerie that fits her various proportions. Currently, there is no product that allows any bra, without modification, to become the foundation for properly fitting lingerie. The present invention can provide lingerie that properly fits women's various body types.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Inventor: Carla Annette Musarra-Leonard
  • Publication number: 20130225044
    Abstract: A surgical garment includes an undergarment and an outer garment configured to be worn over the undergarment. The undergarment includes a brassiere including a front panel, a back panel, a shoulder strap extending from a top portion of a first side of the front panel to a top portion of a first side of the back panel, a width of elastic material extending along a bottom of the front and back panels, and a releasable fastening system releasably coupling a side portion of the first side of the front panel with a side portion of the first side of the back panel. The outer garment includes a torso portion and removable shoulder portions extending from the torso portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: Rockford Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Services, LLC
    Inventor: Rockford Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Services, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130217302
    Abstract: A garment to be worn by a patient receiving radiation therapy or for other uses that includes an inner comfort layer and an outer support layer. The inner comfort layer covers the breast region of a wearer and provides a soft, comfortable material directly against a wearer's skin. The outer support layer, external to the inner comfort layer, is configured to provide support for breast tissue or prosthesis. The garment may include a de facto or sleeved pocket. The inner comfort layer and outer support layer may be configured as a camisole, dress, leotard, bathing suit, tank top, T-shirt, halter top or other style of garment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventor: Katelyn Raj
  • Patent number: 8506347
    Abstract: The inventions relate to a garment that combines a foam cup, underwire bra combined with a tank top overlay made of a spandex blend or lace fabric for the tank top. The bra function is provided by underwires and specially formed foam cups for support and shaping of the breasts. The tank top portion of the garment is attached to one of the shoulder straps which are diagonally fixed to the tank top portion of the garment. The tank top portion of the invention is attached from each side as well as the bottom of the garment, in a unique “turn-under” sewing technique. A lace or combination spandex mix fabric attaches from the outside of the cups to the lace band at the back of the garment. This garment is used under low cut dresses and blouses, to cover cleavage and décolletage, which is an employment standard for many companies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventors: Andrea T. Clair, Anastasios Koskinas
  • Patent number: 8469770
    Abstract: A brassiere includes a multifunction brassiere cup that includes multiple layers partially overlapping one another. A first layer, second layer, and third layer each have unattached edges. The unattached edges of the first and second layers cross to define a nook, which nook is covered by the overlapping third layer. The multifunction brassiere cup is configured to selectively receive a funnel of a breast pump behind the third layer of the cup and within the nook such that the funnel is supported against a nipple by the unattached edges of the first, second, and third layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: Dawn Michele Alva
  • Publication number: 20130130591
    Abstract: A clothing is disclosed and includes a top configured to cover a user's upper body, the top including a breast area configured to cover a user's breasts; a pair of bra cups embedded into the top and positioned on the breast area, the bra cups configured to support the user's breasts; at least one elastic band positioned adjacent to the bra cups and on the breast area, the elastic band configured to aid the bra cups in supporting to the user's breasts; and a perspiration promoting material positioned within the top and configured to cause the user to perspire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Natascha Hopkins
  • Patent number: 8414352
    Abstract: A surgical garment includes an undergarment and an outer garment configured to be worn over the undergarment. The undergarment includes a brassiere including a front panel, a back panel, a shoulder strap extending from a top portion of a first side of the front panel to a top portion of a first side of the back panel, a width of elastic material extending along a bottom of the front and back panels, and a releasable fastening system releasably coupling a side portion of the first side of the front panel with a side portion of the first side of the back panel. The outer garment includes a torso portion and removable shoulder portions extending from the torso portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Rockford Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Services, LLC
    Inventor: Scott Trenhaile
  • Patent number: 8403724
    Abstract: A garment provides a shirt having sleeve portions and a body portion. The body portion defines a body cavity. A bra is disposed within the body cavity of the shirt and is loosely coupled to the body portion of the shirt via at least one attachment point. The garment is wearable by a woman in a manner in which the bra provides breast support for the woman and the shirt covers the bra, and the attachment points are configured to allow the shirt to remain loose while being worn by the woman. The garment provides light soft cup breast support while sleeping and can be worn when awake before going to bed, or after waking up during daytime activities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: Claire Chapin
  • Publication number: 20130059498
    Abstract: Convertible swimwear comprising a top piece and extendable bottom piece. The bottom piece having an intermediate portion with an upper edge that can be positioned adjacent to a lower edge of top piece and held in position by an elastic strap. The upper edge of the intermediate section includes an elastic strap to maintain the upper edge in position to form a one piece bathing suit. The top piece may further include a cover flap to conceal the edge of the intermediate section for a seamless appearance. The upper edge of the intermediate section can be rolled, folded or scrunched toward the bottom piece to effectively convert the one piece style bathing suit to a two piece style bathing suit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventor: Stephanie Hersh
  • Publication number: 20130045661
    Abstract: A natural support garment is provided. The natural support garment is comprised of an outer garment layer, a support housing, a support attachment, a connection support attachment, an internal support layer, and an internal support band.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: Susan Hauser Armanino
  • Publication number: 20120282844
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel construction for a modesty camisole comprising a tubular body portion having an opaque or semi-opaque material and a more transparent back portion, both portions having an elastomeric quality to them. This allows the user to be fitted more comfortably than previous camisoles. The addition of the lace upper portion and strap covers allow for its use for creating a modest look with today's less modest clothing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Jandy H. Salguero
  • Publication number: 20120276811
    Abstract: A garment 1 with cup parts has a pair of cup parts 12 for covering a bust, and a gathering part 20 for gathering the bust toward a front center. In this garment 1 with cup parts, fabric power of a lower edge part 201c of the gathering part 20 is stronger than fabric power of an upper edge part 20u of the gathering part 20.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Inventors: Chiharu Nakajima, Atsushi Ueke, Masaru Yuasa, Megumi Tachiiri
  • Publication number: 20120266347
    Abstract: A swimsuit comprising an inner compression layer attached to an outer layer in a free floating manner is provided. The inner compression layer shapes, contours and slims the wearer's body, whereas the outer layer provides an aesthetically pleasing design. The inner and outer layers are positioned substantially independent from each other on the wearer's body for their respective purposes. It is further contemplated that the outer layer provides an additional shaping, contouring and slimming function in addition to the inner compression layer. Left and right leg openings of the inner and outer layers may be spot attached to each other at one or more locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph DiLorenzo
  • Publication number: 20120197187
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides for a hands-free battery operated breast pump system having a battery operated breast pump, tubing, connector pieces, flask-type storage containers, funnels, a stretch bra and a vest with pockets. The vest provides covers the mother and baby sufficiently to provide privacy during a breastmilk expressing process such that the breast is not outwardly exposed, while also allowing the mother to perform other tasks unhindered while expressing breastmilk for storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: Julie LaFave
  • Publication number: 20120190271
    Abstract: A clothing article such as a leotard has a built-in bra that is connected with the article only along an upper edge. The bra is thus free-floating and provides improved fit, comfort, support and appearance to the wearer, particularly during dance movements. The leotard has an open and low rear neckline and may include one or more decorative strap treatments. The bra includes front and rear wall portions which are connected with the leotard. An adjustable fastener is arranged between the front and rear wall portions of the bra which are free of the leotard so that the wearer can adjust the bra for proper fit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: Ballet Makers, Inc.
    Inventor: Elizabeth L. Livingstone
  • Publication number: 20120171928
    Abstract: The inventions relate to a garment that combines a foam cup, underwire bra combined with a tank top overlay made of a spandex blend or lace fabric for the tank top. The bra function is provided by underwires and specially formed foam cups for support and shaping of the breasts. The tank top portion of the garment is attached to one of the shoulder straps which are diagonally fixed to the tank top portion of the garment. The tank top portion of the invention is attached from each side as well as the bottom of the garment, in a unique “turn-under” sewing technique. A lace or combination spandex mix fabric attaches from the outside of the cups to the lace band at the back of the garment. This garment is used under low cut dresses and blouses, to cover cleavage and décolletage, which is an employment standard for many companies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Inventors: Andrea T. Clair, Anastasios Koskinas
  • Publication number: 20120142252
    Abstract: A variety of unique aerobic garment structures for use in warm weather or high temperature conditions is provided. The garment structure comprises a shirt portion having a body portion with an integral sports bra. The garment structure may take the form of a fitted sauna suit with a base skirt having a zipper or other closure for securement. Preferably, the sports bra comprises a second layer of fitted polymeric material such as lycra for increased support of the breasts and is cut upward to create a moderate lift and extra security for the wearer. A water resistant material with elastic properties such neoprene flap may be used for the garment structure, or portions thereof to promote water weight loss through perspiration and to provide for a comfortable fit for the wearer. Optionally, a moisture-absorbent material lining on the sports bra portion or other areas of the garment may be included to absorb excess moisture and for increased comfort.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventor: Natascha Hopkins
  • Publication number: 20120129426
    Abstract: A breast support arrangement comprises a first breast cup which is connected with a first wing portion, and a second breast cup which is connected with a second wing portion. A connecting member passes from the first breast cup to the second breast cup via the second wing portion then the first wing portion; is moveable relative to each of the first and second wing portions; and is or includes an elastic member to draw the first breast cup towards the second wing portion, the second breast cup towards the first wing portion, and the first and second wing portions towards one another. Each wing portion includes a wing guide to couple the connecting member to the wing portion and guide movement of the connecting member relative to the wing portion. Each wing guide includes a guide body which defines a rigid guide portion to receive the connecting member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: Laser Optical Engineering Limited
    Inventor: John Tyrer
  • Publication number: 20110281497
    Abstract: The invention relates to a garment for wearing breast prosthesis comprising a torso front panel forming a front side of the garment; a torso back panel forming a back side of the garment; and at least a first pocket for receiving the prosthesis; the front panel and the back panel being connected at several locations forming: a right arm opening at a first side having a right arm rim around the right arm opening; a left arm opening at a first side having a left arm rim around the left arm opening; a neck opening at the top having a neck rim around the neck opening; the first pocket being located at a first half of the front panel being connected to the front panel at or near at least a substantial part of an arm rim and to at least or near a substantial part of the neck rim.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: SENSIFORM V.O.F.
    Inventors: Margreet Van Dorp, Petra Van Eijsden
  • Publication number: 20110244757
    Abstract: A brassiere includes a take-up member having an inner and an outer take-up segment. The take-up segments follow the outer curvature of the upper portion of the brassier cup. The lower ends of the take-up segments are attached at or near the ends of the lower edge of the cup, which extends side to side, below the breast. The lower edge of the cup can comprise an uplifting wire, a support strip, a bent support strip or a simple seam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: Rick MAYS
  • Publication number: 20110214216
    Abstract: Articles of apparel for providing improved supportive features and slimming effects to the body are provided, the articles of apparel including supportive reinforced fabric placed in specific regions of the apparel. The supportive reinforced fabric may be ‘hidden’ (e.g., by being included in an inner liner of the apparel), or may be included directly in an outer “exterior” layer of the apparel itself. The supportive reinforced fabric includes a reinforced mesh-like fabric which is stretchable and breathable, yet has highly resilient and supportive properties. Exemplary materials from which such reinforced lining may be made include spandex, Lycra and any fiber composites incorporating elasticized and/or resilient properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventor: FRANK ZARABI
  • Patent number: 7946904
    Abstract: A bra having a cover panel in the appearance of a camisole uses a bra construction with bra cups, with relatively wide shoulder straps that meet in a generally U-shaped joinder. A pair of torso straps extend laterally from either side of the U-shaped joinder and connect to a respective one of the bra cups, one of the two straps being in two sections with the ends of the two sections each having one portion of a typical closure, such that the closure is located under an armpit of a wearer when the bra is donned. The cover panel attaches to a lower edge of the bra and has support straps that attach to the shoulder straps substantially along the length of the shoulder straps so that the cover panel, in addition to being decorative, provides additional confinement and lift to the breasts of the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventor: Sarah Ciullo
  • Publication number: 20110092133
    Abstract: A clothing article such as a leotard has a built-in bra that is connected with the article only along an upper edge. The bra is thus free-floating and provides improved fit, comfort, support and appearance to the wearer, particularly during dance movements. The bra includes front and side wall portions which are connected with the leotard. The back wall portions of the bra contain an adjustable fastener and are free of the leotard so that the wearer can adjust the bra for proper fit of the bra and the leotard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Applicant: BALLET MAKERS, INC.
    Inventor: Elizabeth L. Livingstone
  • Publication number: 20110041231
    Abstract: The present invention describes a garment for use by post-operative patients. In one aspect of the garment, the invention provides a mechanism for securing post-operative drainage systems used to collect fluids generated in the body as a result of surgery. Another embodiment of the invention comprises a garment used for breast cancer patients who have undergone a single or double mastectomy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Applicant: LBC Post-op Top
    Inventors: LESA BEHRENS, CRISTI ROBERTS
  • Publication number: 20110021113
    Abstract: A mastectomy swim shirt is provided that is suitable to be worn by a mastectomy patient. In one embodiment, the mastectomy swim shirt includes a shirt body having a material. The material includes an ultraviolet protection factor rating. The mastectomy swim shirt further includes a fastening means disposed on a side of the shirt body. The mastectomy swim shirt also includes a breast prosthetic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Tracey Hilfman
  • Patent number: 7814569
    Abstract: A swimsuit comprising an inner compression layer attached to an outer layer in a free floating manner is provided. The inner compression layer shapes, contours and slims the wearer's body, whereas the outer layer provides an aesthetically pleasing design. The inner and outer layers are positioned substantially independent from each other on the wearer's body for their respective purposes. It is further contemplated that the outer layer provides an additional shaping, contouring and slimming function in addition to the inner compression layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Joseph Di Lorenzo
  • Publication number: 20100184355
    Abstract: The invention discloses a circularly knit torso trim bra-slip comprising an upper torso region and a lower torso region. The bra-cups comprising a ribbed border to provide bust support. Self-adjusting stretch shoulder straps are uniquely shaped to eliminate unsightly breast spillage in the front and back bulge. A center ruching separates the two breasts. A side ruching on each of the bra-cup shapes the bust. A panel of maximum control extends from under the breast to the hip bone to flatten the tummy. A panel of medium control knit extends from the hip bone to mid-thigh to eliminate flattening of the fanny. A panel of light control knit from mid-thigh to lower thigh or knee and ending in a jersey band to prevent the slip from rolling or riding up. A preferred embodiment has sleeves having an inner arm compression portion of medium control to minimize the swelling caused by lymphedema.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventor: Amanda Kennedy
  • Publication number: 20100105283
    Abstract: A surgical garment includes an undergarment and an outer garment configured to be worn over the undergarment. The undergarment includes a brassiere including a front panel, a back panel, a shoulder strap extending from a top portion of a first side of the front panel to a top portion of a first side of the back panel, a width of elastic material extending along a bottom of the front and back panels, and a releasable fastening system releasably coupling a side portion of the first side of the front panel with a side portion of the first side of the back panel. The outer garment includes a torso portion and removable shoulder portions extending from the torso portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: Rockford Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Services, LLC
    Inventor: Scott Trenhaile
  • Publication number: 20100068971
    Abstract: A nursing garment and method manufacture thereof includes, detachable portions of nursing clips to connect a built-in bra to shoulder straps, wherein the built-in bra is detachable from either one of the shoulder straps in preparation for nursing and is without openings for nursing. In further embodiments: the shoulder straps include sling supports behind the built-in bra; a garment bottom portion either unlined or lined with a stretchable lining; a knitted bottom portion joined at a junction with a knitted outer bodice and its knitted inner panel; and another embodiment includes, first clasps and second clasps of hermaphroditic mating construction, wherein the second clasps on the shoulder straps connect with either of the first clasps on the outer bodice, or alternatively, connect with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Lisa A. Hendrickson
  • Publication number: 20090324665
    Abstract: A breast support system, bra and related apparel are disclosed that comprise a support member having an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the support member comprises at least one antibacterial material, at least one anti-absorbent material, at least one antimicrobial material or a combination thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventor: Mehran Taghdiri
  • Patent number: 7628675
    Abstract: An article of women's apparel that includes an outer garment and a bra. The bra is primarily internal to the outer garment. However, there is a reveal region that shows a portion of the bra. In one arrangement, the reveal region is formed by a pair of slits in a front shoulder region of the outer garment and portion of the bra which is revealed is a shoulder strap portion. This region is formed by routing the shoulder strap of the bra through the successive slits. In one arrangement, the outer garment is sleeveless and the reveal region is asymmetrical. A benefit of this arrangement is that a purchaser can determine the presence and type of support without having to approach and perform a detailed inspection of the garment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventor: AnDrea Staub
  • Publication number: 20090265830
    Abstract: A nursing garment has an outer bodice adapted for pulling down to expose an inner bodice, wherein the inner bodice has respective breast-feeding openings. The outer bodice provides breast cups. The outer bodice provides a bra-like support. The inner bodice is stretchable to provide a bra-like support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Lisa A. Hendrickson
  • Patent number: 7591706
    Abstract: A support garment or support bra includes a first front section having overlapping panels that are visible when the support garment is in a first position. A second front section is provided that is visible when the support garment is turned inside out. The second front section includes a single panel that covers the two overlapping panels. The first front section forms a first silhouette and the second front section forms a second silhouette, such that the first silhouette is visually different than the second silhouette.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Under Armour, Inc.
    Inventors: Dawn Barbour, Colleen McCann
  • Patent number: RE41654
    Abstract: A women's garment with built-in breast support and no underwire, comprises an exterior fabric layer for covering the torso. A exterior fabric layer has an upper part for at least partly covering the breasts. An interior fabric layer is connected to the upper part of the exterior fabric layer and is sized to extend only over the upper part of the exterior fabric layer on the inner surface thereof cover at least part of the breasts of a woman. A pair of side support panels are connected to the interior fabric layer, each at over one lateral area of the torso, the lateral areas being adjacent respective lateral sides of the breasts and are made of non-stretch material for supporting the breasts. A pair of tapes or other fixing mechanisms are connected to the interior fabric layer and extend along respecting medial edges of the side support panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: A & F Trademark, Inc.
    Inventors: Lisa Powers Struble, Jami Leigh Anderson Rudolph, Tiffany Nicole Harris, Christine Marie Kennedy, Joshua Andrew Baumer