Abstract:
Example embodiments of the present invention provide bras, swimsuits, and similar articles of clothing that provide for better fit while not impacting the fashion sensibilities of the wearer. An example embodiment of the present invention comprises an article of clothing comprising: (a) first and second cups each configured to engage a human breast, (b) a back strap mounted with each of the first and second cups and configured to extend around the back of a wearer of the article, and (c) a separable, adjustable closure mounted with the first and second cups.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    The present invention is related to and claims priority to U.S. provisional application 61/117,630, filed Nov. 25, 2008, which is incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    A brassiere, commonly referred to as a bra, is an article of clothing that covers, supports, and elevates the breasts. Since the late  19 th century, it has replaced the corset as the most widely accepted method for supporting a woman&#39;s breasts. A brassiere usually consists of two cups for breasts, a centre panel, a band running around the torso under the bust, and shoulder straps. Some bras are strapless. Bras are typically made of a fabric such as cotton or polyester. Spandex and lace may also be used for various parts of the bra. The cups may be supported by underwires made of metal and sometimes coated in plastic. Strapless bras typically rely on support using underwires. Bras without underwires rely on support provided by the band under the bust. These bras are sometimes referred to as softcup bras. The bra is usually fastened with a hook fastener on the band, typically at the back. In some bras the fastener is in the front, between the cups. Others are pulled on over the head and have no fasteners. 
         [0003]    Some bras contain padding, designed to increase comfort and to conceal the nipples through the material. Breast pads, commonly known as “falsies,” “cookies” or “chicken fillets,”[ 10 ] are also sometimes used inside the cups to create the illusion of a larger breast size. Push-up bras are designed to enhance cleavage and use padding and the cut of the pattern to achieve this effect. 
         [0004]    Women wear bras for a variety of purposes, for support, to improve the shape of breasts, to reduce or to enlarge the perceived breast size, or to restrain breast movement during an activity such as during exercise, to enhance their cleavage, to facilitate nursing. Most bras are designed to lift the breasts off the chest wall if they sag and to restrain them from movement. Bra designers strive to produce a garment that is both practical and attractive. 
         [0005]    A correctly fitting bra should have the following features:
   When viewed from the side, the chest band should be horizontal, should not ride up the back, and should be firm but comfortable.   Each cup&#39;s underwire at the front should lie flat against the sternum (not the breast), along the infra-mammary fold, and should not dig in to the chest or the breasts, rub or poke out at the front.   The breasts should be enclosed by the cups and there should be a smooth line where the fabric at the top of the cup ends.   The apex of the breast, the nipple, must be in the center of the cup.   The breast should not bulge over the top or out the sides of the cups, even with a low-cut style such as the balconette bra.   The straps of a correctly fitted bra should not slip off the shoulder and the back of the bra should not ride up.   The breasts should be supported primarily by the band around the rib cage, rather than by the shoulder straps.   The wearer should be able to breathe and move easily without the bra slipping around.   
 
         [0014]    There is considerable variation in women&#39;s breast volume, shape, size and spacing. A woman&#39;s breast volume may be more at the bottom, sides or top, and this will affect the bra size actually needed. Bra sizes are merely a way of standardizing these factors for a “close” fit, which are not necessarily the correct fit. A correctly fitted bra is determined by accurately calculating a woman&#39;s chest size (on the bra called the band size) and her breast size (called the cup size). The band size can typically be adjusted, using the three or four alternative sets of fastening hooks that are usually provided. Most bra straps can also be adjusted. The current popular system of determining bra size is inaccurate so often as to be useless. Add to this the many different styles of bras and the lack of standardization between brands, and one can see why finding a comfortable, well-fitting bra is more a matter of educated guesswork, trial, and error than of precise measurements. The vast majority of women wear bras that are ill-fitting. For instance, rather than keeping the breasts away from the chest wall, bras that are too tight can actually compress them against the chest even further. This also pulls the upper thoracic and cervical vertebrae (spine) forward and down, interfering with back, shoulder and chest movement. 
         [0015]    Women often have a difficult time finding the correct bra size in standard sized bras. Some critics observe that measuring systems often lead to an incorrect size, most commonly resulting in too large a cup size (by a mean of three sizes) and too small a band size (by a mean of 4 sizes). The researchers concluded that among 103 women in the study seeking mammoplasty, that obesity, breast hypertrophy, fashion and bra-fitting practices combine to make those women who most need supportive bras the least likely to get accurately fitted bras. 
         [0016]    Larger-breasted women tend to wear bras that are too small, and smaller-breasted women, ones that are too large. Larger women are more likely to have an incorrect bra fit. This may be partly due to a lack of understanding of how to correctly determine bra size; it may also be due to unusual or unexpectedly rapid growth in size brought on by pregnancy, weight gain, or medical conditions including virginal breast hypertrophy. As breasts become larger, their shape and the distribution of the tissues within them changes, becoming ptotic and bulbous rather than conical. This makes measurements increasingly unreliable, especially for large breasted women. Similarly the heavier a build the woman has, the more inaccurate the underbust measurement as the tape sinks into the flesh more easily. Finally, most women&#39;s breasts are asymmetrical (10% severely), with the left breast being larger in 62%, especially when the breasts are large. 
         [0017]    The results of a number of surveys and studies in many different countries show that between 70% to 100% of women wear incorrectly fitted bras Normally a perfect fit can only be achieved by purchasing a custom-made bra, which takes into account the position of a woman&#39;s breasts on her chest and asymmetrical positioning and size of her breasts. Bra experts recommend that women, especially those whose cup sizes are D or larger, get a professional bra fitting from the lingerie department of a clothing store or a specialty lingerie store. Obtaining the correct size is further complicated by the fact that the size and shape of a woman&#39;s breasts fluctuate during her menstrual cycle, and also with weight gain or loss. One study found that the label size was consistently different from the measured size. Even breathing can substantially alter the measurements. So it is not surprising that even professional bra fitters have been shown to produce different recommendations for the same woman. 
         [0018]    The British Chiropractic Association warned that wearing the wrong bra size can lead to a number of problems, including back pain, restricted breathing, abrasions, breast pain and poor posture. Many of the health problems associated with bras are due to fitting problems. Finding a correct fit can be very difficult for many women which has affected sales. Medical studies have also attested to the difficulty of getting a correct fit. Scientific studies show that the current system of bra sizing is quite inadequate. 
         [0019]    Accordingly, there is a need for improvements in bras that provide for better fit while not impacting the fashion sensibilities of the wearer. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0020]    Example embodiments of the present invention provide bras that provide for better fit while not impacting the fashion sensibilities of the wearer. 
         [0021]    An example embodiment of the present invention comprises an article of clothing comprising: (a) first and second cups each configured to engage a human breast, (b) a back strap mounted with each of the first and second cups and configured to extend around the back of a wearer of the article, and (c) a separable, adjustable closure mounted with the first and second cups. In such an example embodiment, the back strap can be configured to extend around the back and above the arms of a wearer of the article. In such an example embodiment, the back strap can be configured to extend around the back and below the arms of a wearer of the article. In such an example embodiment, the article can further comprise either of (a) one or more comfort straps mounted with at least one cup and with the back strap.; or (b) first and second comfort straps, each mounted with a cup and with the back strap, and configured to extend over a shoulder of a wearer of the article, then cross, then to a mounting with the back strap. In some example embodiments, the length of the back strap can be adjustable. In some example embodiments, the length of one or more comfort straps can be adjustable. An example embodiment can comprise a bra, a swimsuit, or a component of a swimsuit (e.g., a swimsuit top). 
         [0022]    In some example embodiments, the article can further comprise a plurality of items configured to be inserted into one of the cups and change the interior shape, interior volume, or both, thereof. In some example embodiments, at least one of the items can be different in size or shape from another of the items. In some example embodiments, the first and second cups can be shaped with a reverse curve on an edge that will be the top edge when worn. 
         [0023]    In some example embodiments, the closure can comprise a hook mounted with the first cup, and a plurality of loops each configured to receive the hook and each mounted with the second cup. In some example embodiments, the closure can comprise a loop mounted with the first cup, and a plurality of hooks each configured to engage the loop and each mounted with the second cup. In some example embodiments, the closure can comprise a plurality of hooks, each mounted with the first cup and disposed at a first angle to an axis defined by the two cups, and a plurality of sets of loops, with the each set of loops comprising a plurality of loops disposed at the first angle to the axis. In some example embodiments, the closure can comprise a swan hook mounted with the first cup, and a plurality of loops, each configured to receive the swan hook, and each mounted with the second cup. In such an example embodiment, the plurality of loops can comprise fabric configured to form ruffles. 
         [0024]    The advantages and features of novelty that characterize the present invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a better understanding of the invention, reference should be made to the drawings which form a further part hereof, and to the accompanying descriptive matter in which there are illustrated and described embodiments of the present invention. Example embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. However, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the present invention that can be embodied in various systems. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one of skill in the art to variously practice the invention. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0025]    The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of the specification, illustrate the present invention and, together with the description, describe the invention. In the drawings, like elements are referred to by like numbers. 
           [0026]      FIG. 1  is a schematic illustration of an example embodiment of the present invention. (existing figure) 
           [0027]      FIG. 2  is a schematic illustration of a clasp suitable for use in an example embodiment of the present invention. (existing figure of two hook by three loop clasp) 
           [0028]      FIG. 3  is a schematic illustration of a clasp suitable for use in an example embodiment of the present invention. (the swan hook drawing, with ruffles) 
           [0029]      FIG. 4  is a schematic illustration of an example embodiment of the present invention. (swim suit version) 
           [0030]      FIGS. 5(   a,b,c,d,e ) are schematic illustrations of several example embodiments of the present invention. (a straight straps, b cross in back, c cross in front, d merge to one side, e halter, f strapless) 
           [0031]      FIG. 6  is a schematic illustration of an example embodiment of the present invention. (bra with two differently sized cookies for each side) 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0032]    The present invention provides various bra designs. In one example embodiment of the present invention, illustrated schematically in  FIG. 1 , a bra comprises two cups  16  which are joined by a strap  17  configured to extend around a wearer&#39;s back. Two comfort straps  18  are configured to extend from the cups over a wearer&#39;s shoulders to the back. The comfort straps can be adjustable  19  to allow one bra size to be adjusted for a comfortable fit with wearers of different sizes and shapes, and with a single wearer in different wearing environments or conditions. The back strap can be adjustable, or elastic, to facilitate comfort of the wearer. 
         [0033]    The two cups are separable from each other, and can be joined together with an adjustable fastening apparatus  15 . As an example, the fastening apparatus can comprise a hook and eye clasp similar to those in use for adjustable back closures in bras, with one, two (as in the figure) or more rows of hooks/eyes. As an example, a single row can be suitable for smaller cups, and a double row can be suitable for larger cups. A single hook (or pair of hooks, or more) can be engaged with any of a plurality of eyes (or pairs, or more, of eyes) to provide for secure fastening of the cups with the distance therebetween determined by the wearer in the choice of which eye(s) to engage with the hook(s). Other fastening features can also be used, as examples tying or knotting features, Velcro material or the like, magnetic fasteners, and frictional engagement features. The adjustability of the fastening features allows a wearer&#39;s breasts to fall in their natural position, then enhance them for a more natural and customized fit than is possible with conventional bras, and allowing for adjustment for increased cleavage when desired. 
         [0034]    The ability to completely separate the two cups allows a wearer to put on the bra like putting on a vest, and to fasten the bra in the front. Adjustable, separable closures have heretofore been available only on the backs of bras, which can make such bras difficult to put on, especially by women with dexterity or reach impairment (e.g., the elderly, those with arthritis, and especially large women). Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention can accommodate individuals with physical limitations which would prevent them from using a conventional back adjustable closure bra, e.g. the elderly, those with arthritis, especially large women, people with shoulder problems which prohibit the motion required to correctly put on a back fastening bra, or any individual who simply cannot “reach” there for any number of reasons whether permanent or temporary. The ability to adjust the spacing of the cups provides an adjustability not previously available, an adjustability that can allow the bra to be better fit to the woman, even in the context of differently sized left and right breasts, or breast variation due to menstruation, weight fluctuation, or other conditions. Between-cup adjustability can also allow the same bra to accommodate different fashion sensibilities by just employing the clasp to provide the desired between-cup spacing. 
         [0035]    As illustrated schematically in  FIG. 2 , a hook  21  and eye  22  fastener can also comprise a pocket  23  in one of the cups for a tab that can be present when the fastener is adjusted to the smaller between-cup distances. Such a pocket can provide for secure, comfortable stowage of the excess length of the fastener in such configurations, and can provide for stowage without disrupting the desired physical appearance. Other fastening features can be provided with similar stowage capability, by way of corresponding pockets or by the operation of the fastener feature itself, to avoid discomfort and disruption of visual appearance from excess fastener material hanging down or protruding in some way. The fastener feature can be decorative, such as for example with a floral design. 
         [0036]    As illustrated schematically in  FIG. 3 , a separable, adjustable clasp can also comprise a “swan hook”. As shown in the figure, a hook  11  can be formed such that actuation of the hook  11  is along the plane of the fabric to which the hook is mounted. The loops can be formed by, or covered by, fabric ruffles  12 , thus allowing the functionality of the clasp to be combined with a decorative feature. 
         [0037]      FIG. 4  is a schematic illustration of an example embodiment of the present invention. The example embodiment comprises a swimsuit  14  with a separable, adjustable clasp  15  between the cups of the swimsuit. The clasp can be configured like those described elsewhere herein, and can be made of materials that are resistant to water damage. For example, salt water can corrode certain metals, which metals can be avoided in a swimsuit embodiment. 
         [0038]      FIGS. 5(   a,b,c,d,e ) are schematic illustrations of several example embodiments of the present invention. Some embodiments of the present invention also include bras where the comfort straps are crossed in the front, the back ( FIG. 5   b ), or both. Some embodiments also include bras where the comfort straps are connected and then both routed over a single shoulder ( FIG. 5   d ). Some embodiments also include bras with no comfort straps (sometimes called “strapless” or “tube top”, as in  FIG. 5   c ), allowing wear with garments with no shoulder-covering fabric. Some embodiments include straps that do not cross as they route from the cups to the back ( FIG. 5   a ). Some embodiments include straps that route over the shoulder and then around the back of the neck, without connecting to the back strap (sometimes called a “halter”, as in  FIG. 5   e ). Some embodiments also include bras with comfort straps that are detachable from the cups, the back, or both, allowing a single bra design to be configured by the wearer as one or more of a halter, cross in front, cross in back, cross front and back, single shoulder, or tube-top configurations. 
         [0039]    Some embodiments of the present invention include cups that are lightly padded. Some embodiments of the present invention include cups that have extra padding on the lower lateral portions of each cup, providing what is sometimes known as a “push up” detail. The cups can have a reverse curve at their top edge, as shown schematically in  FIG. 1 . For larger cup sizes, the reverse curve can conform in the opposite direction to help prevent “bulging” over the top of the cup. 
         [0040]      FIG. 6  is a schematic illustration of an example embodiment of the present invention. A bra or swimsuit, such as those described elsewhere herein, is accompanied by a plurality of items  21  configured to be inserted into one of the cups. Each such item (sometimes called a “cookie”), when inserted into a cup, changes the effective shape and internal volume of the cup. Such cookies thereby allow even greater adjustability, for example allowing independent adjustment of cup sizes to accommodate asymmetric left and right breasts. The availability of a plurality of different-sized cookies in combination with a bra or swimsuit such as those described herein can allow a bra or swimsuit to be fit much more accurately to the present size, shape, and wearing environment. Such cookies can be made of soft or resilient material as desired for comfort and appearance. For use with swimsuits, such cookies can be made of material that does not degrade when immersed in water. 
         [0041]    Some embodiments of the present invention can be made with fabrics comprising bamboo, soybean, or a combination thereof, combined with an elastic fabric such as spandex. Other fabrics can also be suitable. 
         [0042]    The present invention has been described as set forth herein. It will be understood that the above description is merely illustrative of the applications of the principles of the present invention, the scope of which is to be determined by the claims viewed in light of the specification. Other variants and modifications of the invention will be apparent to those of skill in the art.