Shoulder Strap Arrangements And Connecting Features Patents (Class 450/86)
  • Publication number: 20110269375
    Abstract: A wide chest band extends horizontally outward from each cup of a bra. The connecting end of each of the single chest bands splits into multiple connecting fingers to adjustably connect with mating multiple connecting fingers extending from the connecting end of the other single breast band. Each of the pairs of mating fingers has adjustable connectors so that each of the pairs of mating fingers is adjusted independently to allow the bra to attach firmly and comfortably around a tapered torso of a wearer taking into account the varying girth at different heights on the tapered body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventor: Kelly Fisher-Pacheco
  • Publication number: 20110269376
    Abstract: A decorative cover for concealing an exposed brassiere strap. The cover comprises a fashionable outer region and an inner region with attachment means to connect to and mask an underlying brassiere strap. Certain female garments do not cover the upper chest or shoulder region of the body, including tube tops, halter tops and single shoulder tops. Use of a conventional brassiere exposes one or a plurality of straps, which is considered unfashionable or unsophisticated. A decorative cover that snaps or otherwise connects to the exposed straps allows a user the ability to wear a traditional-style brassiere with open-shoulder clothing without revealing the underlying straps. The covers can be coordinated with the overall outfit, suiting different fashion styles or garnished with decorative accessories.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventor: Leslie Clim
  • Patent number: 8047893
    Abstract: A posture support garment comprises shoulder cap straps designed to pull the shoulders back thereby straightening the wearer's posture. The shoulder cap straps may be lined with silicone or some other appropriate material to grip or “grab” the skin at the area of the pectoral muscles or may be designed to cup the shoulders mechanically. This invention provides an effective posture enhancement while also providing a garment that is comfortable to wear all day. The posture support garment may be integrally designed and manufactured into a brassiere, T-shirt, bodice, or other top garment. The posture support garment may be worn by computer users or others concerned with detrimental genetic posture or the detrimental effects of everyday activity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventor: Mary C. Fenske
  • 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: 20110223832
    Abstract: A brassiere has a plurality of interchangeable coverings capable of adorning the brassiere so as to change the visual appearance of the brassiere. The brassiere includes a plurality of fastening means, which include hooks, snaps, Velcro, zipper, buttons and/or fabric ties. The coverings have mating fastening means and are capable of being attached to the brassiere so as to provide an outer covering. The coverings differ from each other by way of fabric, colour, pattern and/or texture. Optionally, the brassiere can have means to reveal or conceal the woman's cleavage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventors: Alishea Rose, James Frederick Carr Rose
  • Publication number: 20110217904
    Abstract: A bra to be worn during vigorous physical activity. It provides the wearer with a high level of breast tissue support without undue restriction of breathing or shoulder movement, while providing means for ventilation and moisture management. The bra is underwire-free, and designed to be worn as outerwear. The bra achieves these objectives through the innovative combination of various non-stretch and stretch fabrics. The non-stretch portions of the garment provide a high level of compression and stability to the breast tissue, while the multiple regions of stretch fabric minimize breathing and shoulder restrictions and provide ventilation. Non-stretch wicking fabric is used to form the majority of the body of the bra, and is used to pull the breast tissue in and hold it firmly to the chest. This non-stretch fabric is connected to panels of stretch wicking fabric located in the front and back of the body of the bra.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventor: Cynthia A. Smith
  • Publication number: 20110212668
    Abstract: A seamless knitted brassiere includes a body encircling portion and at least one shoulder strap knit therein. The shoulder strap has a length and a first welt along the length. The shoulder strap also has a second welt along the length and adjacent the first double welt. The shoulder strap also has a novel run guard adjacent either of the two welts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventors: John Mitchell, Heinz Altman
  • Publication number: 20110143635
    Abstract: An ornamental object and mechanism for mounting same to a back-style fabric covered clasp of a bra or bikini includes a decorative object having a front surface and opposite back surface. The front surface has mounted thereto decorative elements so as to adorn the decorative object. The back surface has a clamp mounted thereto having a base leg and a cooperating covering leg. The two legs cooperate so as to releasably clamp the back-style clasp of a bra or bikini therebetween. A plurality of fabric penetrating protrusions are formed or mounted on at least one interior surface of the legs so that the fabric penetrating protrusions penetratingly engage with the threads or nap of the fabric of the clasp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: Lesley Anne Brydon
  • Patent number: 7959489
    Abstract: Devices, methods, and kits for securing clothing, in particular, for securing a bra strap to a blouse strap. The device includes a long, thin material, having a first end, a second end, and a body extending between the first end and the second end. The long, thin material is formed into a plurality of opposing segments. A first of the plurality of opposing segments is continuous with a first end of a second of the plurality of the opposing segments at a first junction, and a first end of the third of the plurality of opposing segments is continuous with a second end of the second of the plurality of the opposing segments at a second junction. A fourth of the plurality of opposing segments is continuous with a second end of the third of the plurality of the opposing segments at a third junction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Inventor: Cyndie L. Shaffstall
  • Publication number: 20110130072
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are garments providing adjustable breast support. They can be adapted to fit the shape of the body and can provide varying support to accommodate a wide variety of activities. These garments are particularly suitable for high-impact activities or nursing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Inventor: Marla R. Lander
  • Publication number: 20110117818
    Abstract: A continuous sports bra includes a main body cut from a single piece of tubular material and wrap-around side panels coupled to the main body. The main body includes support cups and is configured to encircle the upper torso of the wearer. The sports bra includes shoulder straps that extend upward from the main body to a back panel. Coupled to the back panel are two side panels that extend forward and thus back around and beneath the support cups of the main body to provide additional support. The free ends of the side panels may clasp together directly or be coupled to the main body proximate a front, central region of the torso.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Applicant: Patagonia, Inc.
    Inventor: Karen Barnard
  • Publication number: 20110111675
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a breast covering garment apparatus comprising a breast cup comprising (i) an inner shell having a concave shape selected from a number of available cup sizes and (ii) an outer shell having a convex shape selected from a number of available breast cup sizes. The inner shell of the breast cup and the outer shell of the breast cup may be shaped from a solid piece of flexible material. The inner shell of the breast cup may be smaller than the outer shell of the breast cup.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventor: Mary C. Sobah-Wilhelm
  • Patent number: 7938712
    Abstract: A decorative bra strap design—interchangeable bra strap/jewelry accessory is proposed. A semi-stretchable design is based on a non-stretchable beading core, that, attached at one or both end to a stretchable elastic section, that's in turn terminated into a jewelry-clasp type ending, that serves to attach to any kind of bras that have option of interchangeable bra straps, or to a “strapless” bra with hook loops. Numerous other aspects are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventors: Jelica Maricevic, Dianne Caezza
  • Patent number: 7938711
    Abstract: An improved sports brassiere possessing multiple enhancements comprising adjustable wider straps for increased comfort, high quality stretch material, and two (2) adjustment points on either side thus ensuring a perfect fit, is herein disclosed. The front of the brassiere is provided with a connecting point between the brassiere cups comprising a strong snap design suitable for use during various rough sporting activities such as horseback riding and motorcycle riding. The brassiere is also provided with underwire supports and a large quantity of lace material across the upper portion of each cup for enhanced aesthetic quality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventor: Yvonne Johnston
  • Publication number: 20110104985
    Abstract: An adaptable multi-function bra to be worn by women whose breasts have been surgically augmented, for athletic support, sleeping. The brassiere is fabricated from cloth of soft cotton, spandex, a polyester blend or combinations thereof. The bra is devoid of any breast supporting structure such as elastic panels and/or underwire. Adjustable attached cloth straps on each side having a hook at a free end of the strap attaches to one of a plurality of loops provided at each side along the midriff to adjust the breast support firmness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventors: STUART LINDER, Adriana P. Diaz
  • Patent number: 7931521
    Abstract: In combination with a bra having a front anchor strap portion and a rear anchor strap portion, an adjustable bra strap includes an elongated enclosed loop of flexible fabric with one end forming an attachment section. One end of the enclosed loop is coupled to the rear anchor strap portion and the other end is coupled to the front anchor strap portion. The enclosed loop extends through a first coupler with the attached coupler being movable longitudinally along one side of the enclosed loop. An element of a fastener is affixed to the attachment section and a complemental element is affixed to a facing portion of the enclosed loop. The element is positioned to mate with and releasably connect to the complement element in a selected orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Inventor: Sheila K Griffin
  • Patent number: 7927179
    Abstract: A brassiere shoulder strap has a layer of strap material having an inner surface with an inner surface area shape and an outer non-slip surface, and a support fabric having an inner surface and overlying the inner surface of the layer of strap material. The inner surface of the support fabric corresponding to the inner surface area shape of the layer of strap material. Folded free side edges of the layer of strap material and the support fabric are all stitched together to interconnect the layer of strap material to the support fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: HBI Branded Apparel Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: Joanne Kaye
  • Publication number: 20110081827
    Abstract: The Gravity Bra is a suspension-based bra design that provides adjustable, comfortable support for large breasted women through a unique diagonal strap mechanism. The adjustable strap passes along the outside and beneath the user's breasts, sliding freely in a sleeve attached to the bra cup, continuing upward diagonally and crossing unattached in the center, attaching to the strap at a user configurable point above the opposite breast. Thus, the force generated by gravity's effect on each breast creates support for the other breast. The larger the breasts, the more support they provide to one another. The distance between the cups is user adjustable and the bra moves with the user without sacrificing support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2009
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Inventor: R. A. Williams
  • Patent number: 7887390
    Abstract: And improved bra is provided having a each cup having a first fabric on a first side and a varying fabric on a reverse side. Each strap incorporates a pair of decorative pivoting claps and an attachment band incorporates a decorative magnetic reversible latch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventor: Maxine M. Dowe
  • Publication number: 20100317257
    Abstract: A breast support garment is configured with adjustable straps, cups, and/or other components in order to facilitate modification of the appearance of the bust. Modifying the length of certain straps causes the cups to move upwards/downwards and/or inwards/outwards with respect to the center of the breast support garment. Shoulder straps or other portions of the breast support garment may pass through guide loops and/or couple to the breast cups or garment shell to permit adjustment. The location of each breast cup may be independently adjusted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Sheila K. Campbell
  • Patent number: 7850508
    Abstract: Post-surgical medical device for quadrectomy, mastectomy and/or mammary surgery, comprising a support and containing corset divided into at least two parts, respectively front part and rear part, tightened about patient thorax, said corset supporting a cups bra, and providing at least two bandage bands that are passed about the patient thorax, crossing them many times, to be finally fixed giving the proper containment function without using adhesive tapes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Di Segni Umberto
    Inventor: Carla Pitarelli
  • Publication number: 20100297915
    Abstract: A Halter Bra is disclosed which has a support frame (F) with a first side portion and a second side portion and a base portion between the side portions. The side portions extend laterally from the base portion. A first quarter cup (A) is dependent from the base portion and the first side portion and a second quarter cup is dependent from the base portion and the second side portion. The support frame (F) is preferably bound with elastic binding material (B1, B2) on each side portion and on the base portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventor: David Otto
  • Publication number: 20100298914
    Abstract: A therapeutic garment includes a brassiere having opposed first and second shoulder straps formed with opposed first and second breast-receiving cups, respectively, each having an outer surface. A reusable gel pack for heat or cold therapy is suspended from the first and second shoulder straps, extends downwardly from the first and second shoulder straps to the first and second breast-receiving cups, and overlies and extends across the outer surfaces of the first and second breast-receiving cups to provide heat or cold therapy to the first and second breast-receiving cups at the outer surface of each of the first and second breast-receiving cups.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2009
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventor: MOLLY M. ROSENBAUM
  • Patent number: 7833085
    Abstract: A strap cover that is fastened to an underlying strap arranged across a shoulder of a wearer. The strap cover may include a decorative material, a decoration, or an overlying material that is aesthetically pleasing to a viewer. The strap cover is fastened to the underlying strap via a fastening device. The strap cover may cover a portion of a bra, a dress, a lingerie, a shirt, a tank top, a halter top and a pants that runs across a shoulder from a front of the shoulder to a back of the shoulder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Myra Crouch
  • Patent number: 7819721
    Abstract: A decorative accessory for adorning a wearer's person, such as the arch area of the foot, and can also be interchangeably secured to a variety of different articles of clothing, accessories, or areas of the wearer's body. The decorative accessory includes an elongate strap, adjustment devices for adjustable expansion and contraction, and attachment devices for securing the decorative accessory to a variety of locations. The decorative accessory also has a fastening mechanism for removably attaching a variety of different decorative components such as charms, rings, and other jewelry to the decorative accessory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Inventor: Charlotte F. Messier
  • Publication number: 20100267313
    Abstract: A lightweight, substantially unpadded, comfortable, push-in, wire-free bra has, when worn by a female wearer, a front including a pair of cups. Each cup defines upper inner and outer portions, lower inner and outer portions, a top, and a bottom, and is configured and dimensioned to hold substantially one breast of a female wearer. Each cup includes a sling portion that is designed to provide lateral support to the respective breast. In this manner, the sling portions bias the cup upper outer portions inwardly to provide push-in cleavage on the wearer's breasts. Straps are secured to the front for releasably supporting it on a female wearer with the breasts of the female wearer substantially within the cups.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: WARNACO U.S. INC.
    Inventors: Donald R. ALLEN, Patricia E. MCLAURIN
  • Publication number: 20100261410
    Abstract: A convertible nursing bra, in an exemplary embodiment, having bra support cups releasable from straps to provide access and further including underlying support panels connected to the encircling strap or under wire support and remaining connected to the straps to provide continued support during nursing. Released portions of the cups are temporarily retained by auxiliary attachment devices on the encircling strap to reduce interference during nursing. The releasable cup-to-strap and/or cup-to-encircling strap connecting devices are easily managed for access, stowing and re-covering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2009
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventor: Jaclyn Hirtz
  • Patent number: 7806748
    Abstract: A bra and a system have bays and a truss for supporting breasts of a user wearing the bra. The bra has a first bay and/or a second bay for receiving the breasts of the user wearing the bra. The bra has a first cup, a second cup and/or the truss for supporting and/or for enclosing the breasts of the user. The truss connects a rear end of the first portion to a rear end of the second portion. Liners are connected to an interior surface of the first portion and/or an interior surface of the second portion. The truss reduces stress of, strain of and/or pain in shoulders, a neck and/or a back of the user from the weight of the breasts of the user. The bays, the truss and/or the cups of the bra minimize unwanted movements of the breast of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventor: Tanya Richardson
  • Publication number: 20100240280
    Abstract: Articles of clothing that incorporate fabrics or chemicals having wicking, antibacterial/antifungal and low coefficients of friction either overall or in specific areas of the apparel that will minimize the development of irritation, bacterial and fungal infections of the skin. The invention also includes methods for producing this wicking, antibacterial/antifungal and low coefficient of friction apparel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: Joyce Michel
  • Publication number: 20100233936
    Abstract: A pad for a brassiere having a foam layer; a liner layer and a shaped cover positioned between the foam layer and the liner layer is provided. The shaped cover is positioned between the foam layer and the liner layer to provide enhanced coverage to the brassiere. A brassiere having a pair of breast-receiving cups is provided. Each of the pair of breast-receiving cups has a pad having a foam layer, a liner layer, and a shaped cover positioned between the foam layer and the liner layer. The shaped cover is positioned between the foam layer and the said liner layer to provide enhanced coverage to the brassiere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventor: Leslie Gransberry
  • Patent number: 7785171
    Abstract: A clothing strap tensioning device has an elastic member having a geometry generally defined by middle, left end, and right end portions, and bounded by upper, lower, left and right edges, and includes mechanical snaps or other releasable attachment mechanisms integrated into the left end and right end portions for enabling releasable attachment of the end portions to each other to form the elastic member into a loop. The tensioning device is looped around a pair of spaced vertical straps of a brassiere, such that the straps are drawn toward each other medially to prevent the straps from slipping down the shoulders of a wearer and to impart an upward lift to the wearer's breasts. The geometry of the elastic member also prevents twisting of the straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventor: Kathy L. Baker
  • Patent number: 7780502
    Abstract: A partial undergarment for covering a female's exposed cleavage area when an outer garment is worn over a bra, the partial undergarment includes a piece of material configured to extend from a first strap of the bra to a second strap of the bra, and between cups of the bra, and a plurality of fasteners respectively connected to the piece of material so that the material is attachable to the bra. The piece of material is attachable to at least two of the first strap of the bra, the second strap of the bra, and between the cups of the bra.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Inventors: Patricia A. Calamari, Karla A. Kennedy
  • Publication number: 20100190411
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a breast supporter for properly and comfortable supporting breasts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Inventors: Paula Saraceno, Karen McLeod
  • Publication number: 20100178847
    Abstract: A brassiere garment and associated method for dressing is provided contemplating a strap that is operably trained around a user's back and sides, a cup attached at each end of the strap, and an adjustable attachment feature connecting the cups together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventor: Susan Buriak
  • Publication number: 20100173564
    Abstract: The bra strap holder is used to secure the bra straps in the back of the bra from sliding down the shoulders. It is comprised of a clear TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) strap welded to unique three prong flexible plastic ends which attach to the bra strap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2010
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventor: Jannet R. Michael
  • Publication number: 20100159801
    Abstract: An apparatus allowing a woman to pump milk from her breasts without the necessity of the woman's hands holding the breast pumps utilizes at least one band of material encircling the woman's chest, the band of material provided with two openings corresponding to the woman's breasts. A center panel would be provided to adjust the fit of the band. Additionally, in another embodiment, a back panel would be used in conjunction with the center panel to connect left and right panels together, the left and right panels including openings for a woman's breast. In all of the embodiments, semicircular pieces would cover each of the openings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Debra Abbaszadeh
  • Publication number: 20100159802
    Abstract: An apparatus allowing a woman to pump milk from her breasts without the necessity of the woman's hands holding the breast pumps utilizes at least one band of material encircling the woman's chest, the band of material provided with two openings corresponding to the woman's breasts. A center panel would be provided to adjust the fit of the band. Additionally, in another embodiment, a back panel would be used in conjunction with the center panel to connect left and right panels together, the left and right panels including openings for a woman's breast. In all of the embodiments, semicircular pieces would cover each of the openings. In yet another embodiment, a removable piece is attached to the front of the apparatus, allowing the woman to wear the apparatus all day, even in public.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Debra Abbaszadeh
  • Publication number: 20100120329
    Abstract: A brassiere having a torso encircling panel, a front closure device and two pieces of shaped memory foam is provided. The memory foam is covered in a fabric that wicks moisture away from the body. The memory foam provides a platform that supports and holds the breasts in a natural position which relieves stress on the straps and pain from the shoulders and back of the wearer. The memory foam conforms to the shape of the wearer's breast as the weight of the breasts compresses the foam. The straps of the brassiere rest on the shoulders and stay there. The torso encircling panel is made from fabric that stretches in only one direction. The closure device is formed from a suitable resilient material, such as a thermoplastic or a metal, and is durable and capable of repeated usage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventor: Susan Delaney MacDonald
  • Publication number: 20100105284
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the disclosure relate to a garment comprising: a brassiere comprising a right portion comprising a right support cup and at least one right portion fastener, and a left portion adjacent the right portion and comprising a left support cup and at least one left portion fastener, the left and right support cups being securable to the body of a wearer; and a camisole panel, the camisole panel sized to extend at least between the right support cup and the left support cup and comprising at least one right panel fastener and at least one left panel fastener, the at least one right panel fastener releasably fastenable to the at least one right portion fastener, and the at least one left panel fastener releasably fastenable to the at least one left portion fastener to releasably fasten the camisole panel to the brassiere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: PEEK-A-BOO WONDERWEAR
    Inventors: Lina POLICARO, Jennifer BERNAUDO
  • Publication number: 20100093258
    Abstract: The invention relates to methods and apparatus for making a length of woven fabric comprising an elastomeric weft yarn. The lengths of fabric obtained are particularly useful as shoulder straps for garments such as bras. Preferred embodiments relate to tapered fabric which is useful as a component of articles of clothing, especially a bra wing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventors: Robert Arthur Glenn, Krishan Weerawansa, Nalantha De Alwis
  • Publication number: 20100075575
    Abstract: A lightweight brassiere is described that provides intended support to the user while increasing comfort by its structure and/or shape, and also by reduced weight. In particular a cup is made of a spacer fabric to provide the desired support at a minimum weight. Additional features include use of Ti-alloy materials in place of traditionally steel components, a narrower fabric channel for the underwire, and elimination of stitching by using sonic seal wherever possible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventors: Maria Pardo, Eve Bastug, Deborah Hughes, Darci Thompson, Natalie Lamadrid
  • Patent number: 7677952
    Abstract: A strapless brassiere having winged support structures to maximize surface area of the bra to which an extended-wear adhesive is applied over substantially all of the undersurface of the bra.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Inventor: Susan Wooley
  • Publication number: 20100041313
    Abstract: A bra cup that supports and augments different areas of the breast. The bra cup includes different sections having different combinations of multilayer fabric and foam materials to create a round, smooth, silhouette underneath the clothing of the wearer without sacrificing the comfort of the wearer or the accuracy of the fit. The bra cup includes two or more discrete sections that are attached together and then covered on an outward facing surface with a continuous foam and fabric layer that provides a smooth outer surface. The first section includes a stabilizer material that creates a sling-like mechanism that causes the first section to cradle the breasts of a wearer, while pushing the breasts simultaneously upwards towards the neckline and inwards towards the other breast. The second section includes an area of increased thickness in a location corresponding to the superior lateral quadrant of the breast.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Applicant: Maidenform, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Castellano
  • Publication number: 20100035514
    Abstract: The present invention provides a bra that is preferably formed of seamless construction and that includes structural components that allow for accommodating changes and variations in bust size. In particular, the inventive bra can be used during times of maternity when breast volume is known to increase over a short time. The bra comprises expansible cups with interchangeable, formed support and shape elements that can be placed into pockets formed in the expansible cups. In certain embodiments, the invention also provides a bra for use when breast feeding, the bra comprising a drop-down panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventors: Lynda Wong, Wong Sin Yee
  • Publication number: 20100015886
    Abstract: A brassiere cup, and brassiere formed therewith, is provided for enhancing the shape of a wearer's breast. The brassiere cup comprises an outer fabric layer having a lower peripheral portion, and an inner liner fabric layer having a lower peripheral portion. A breast enhancement insert having upper and lower peripheral portions and inner and outer surfaces is attached along the lower peripheral portions of the outer fabric layer and the inner liner layer, the upper peripheral portion and the inner and outer surfaces of the insert being substantially unattached. The breast enhancement insert comprises a padding material encapsulated within a fabric cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventors: Sandra A. Waitz, Anthony J. Nuzzo Nuzzo
  • Publication number: 20100015888
    Abstract: A device and method used with a woman's garment including a brassiere. The device comprises a ring member having a first segment and a second segment, a front side and a back side, and wherein the ring member has a mid-way point between the first and second segment. The device further comprises a first prong extending from the first end of the ring member, with the first prong having a length terminating at a distance less than the mid-way point of the ring member, and a second prong extending from the second end of the ring member, with the second prong having a length terminating at a distance less than the mid-way point of the ring member. In the most preferred embodiment, the center portion allows for passage of the right shoulder strap and the left shoulder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: Cleavage Clip, LLC
    Inventor: Carolyn Groner
  • Patent number: 7648408
    Abstract: A user selectable interchangeable bra system enables user to customize the selection, style, construction, and usage of a bra both through component purchase and interchangeable fit. An infinite number of different size, color and fits are possible, as well as underwire interchangeableness. The center connector can be selected to provide for user selectable cup separation. Buckle type shoulder strap fittings can be provided with a tiny loop to support body jewelry, and because the shoulder straps are reversible, the body jewelry can be worn on the front or back upper chest, especially where the jewelry can appear to come from underneath the dress to give an appearance of a much more extensive jewelry extent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Hung Hon Industrial Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Cheung Sui Lung
  • Publication number: 20090325464
    Abstract: A stabilizing shoulder strap for an upper torso garment is provided, having enhanced stability in the shoulder region. The stabilizing shoulder strap has a first end, a second end, and an intermediate shoulder portion in between the first end and the second end. The intermediate shoulder portion may have a greater width than the first end and the second end of the stabilizing shoulder strap. A panel is attached to opposing longitudinal edges of the intermediate portion of the stabilizing shoulder strap, and may be more rigid than the intermediate shoulder portion to which it is attached, thereby providing improved stability to the shoulder strap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventor: Victoria Dekoster
  • Publication number: 20090280720
    Abstract: The invention described in the specification relates to a brassiere designed for the support needed for sleep. The brassiere contains a concentrated support section for the lower portion of the breast, and a light comfortable coverage for the rest of the chest. This support is provided by a tightly knit fabric and by no means uses any under wiring or molding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventor: Besne Ceylan
  • Publication number: 20090270013
    Abstract: The inventions relates to a garment that combines a foam cup, underwire bra combined with a tank top overlay made of a Lycra® 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 Lycra® 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: July 6, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Andrea T. Clair, Anastasios Koskinas