Patent Publication Number: US-9833023-B2

Title: Apparatus for providing tension in garments and method of use

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/292,537 which claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/832,008 filed on Jun. 6, 2013 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/888,383 filed on Oct. 8, 2013, which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The present invention relates to improvements in ladies garments, and particularly to the construction of a privacy feature in the construction of the crotch area of the garment. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Some garments worn by women may naturally fit a woman&#39;s body tightly or in such close proximity that the form of a woman&#39;s body shows through the garment. Other garments may move with respect to a woman&#39;s body such that one or more portions of the form of a woman&#39;s body shows through the garment at one or more times while the garment is worn. In some situations, the form of a woman&#39;s body shows through the garment during certain actions of the wearer, but not during other actions. 
     One problem which may be created by such garments worn on the bottom half of a woman&#39;s body is the undesirable fitting around one&#39;s crotch area. Some of such garments may form to the woman&#39;s crotch in such a way as to allow the curvature of the woman&#39;s vulva or labia to be visible through the garment. This undesirable exposure of the external portion of the female&#39;s genitalia is sometimes euphemistically referred to as cameltoe and may create an undesired “W” shape in woman&#39;s garments. In addition, this undesirable exposure may be further accentuated by a seam directly up the center of the crotch. Although a woman may wish to wear such garments for one or more aesthetic or functional reasons, the collateral problems with over exposure caused by such garments is undesirable. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present disclosure provides a variety of embodiments of a privacy feature for incorporation or use in conjunction with a variety of garments to conceal, eliminate, and/or obfuscate the undesirable exposure of a person&#39;s anatomy. Embodiments may include materials which provide tension at and/or around one or more portions of the person&#39;s anatomy which are not intended to be visible in form or otherwise through a garment. 
     Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide for women&#39;s undergarments which include one or more elastomeric layers in the front of the undergarment. The elastomeric layers may provide tension on or around the wearer&#39;s crotch in order to hold the labia against the wearer&#39;s crotch and conceal, obfuscate, and/or eliminate the form of the labia from being externally visible. 
     In some embodiments, the tension may be created using two elastomeric layers which cross proximate to the desired area for privacy. In some embodiments, the tension may be created using a single elastomeric layer. In such embodiments, the elastomeric layer may be designed to create variations in tension through the material. 
     In some embodiments, the one or more elastomeric layers may be designed from a variety of materials. Some materials may be designed to provide additional characteristics to the elastomeric features, such as breathability, moisture absorption, and/or other characteristics. 
     In some embodiments, the undergarments may include a liner material between all or a portion of the wearer&#39;s skin and the one or more elastomeric layers. Some liner material may be designed to provide breathability, moisture absorption, feminine hygiene and/or other characteristics. 
     In some embodiments, the elastomeric layers may be encased and concealed within fabric designed from one or more materials. In some embodiments, the external layer of the encasement may serve as the external layer of the garment itself. 
     Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide for other garments meant to cover a wearer&#39;s crotch, such as pants, jeans, shorts, bathing suits, skirts, and other garments. Embodiments of such garments may include one or more elastomeric layers in the front of the garment. The elastomeric layers may provide tension on or around the wearer&#39;s crotch in order to hold the external portion of the genitalia against the wearer&#39;s crotch and conceal, obfuscate, and/or eliminate the form of the external portion of the genitalia from being externally visible. 
     In some embodiments, the tension may be created using two elastomeric layers which cross proximate to the desired area for privacy. In some embodiments, the tension may be created using a single elastomeric layer. In such embodiments, the elastomeric layer may be designed to create variations in tension through the material. 
     In some embodiments, the one or more elastomeric layers may be designed from a variety of materials. Some materials may be designed to provide additional characteristics to the elastomeric features, such as breathability, moisture absorption, and/or other characteristics. 
     In some embodiments, the garments may include a liner material between all or a portion of the wearer&#39;s skin and the one or more elastomeric layers. Some liner material may be designed to provide breathability, moisture absorption, feminine hygiene and/or other characteristics. 
     In some embodiments, these elastomeric layers may be encased and concealed within fabric designed from one or more materials. In some embodiments, the three-layer panel can be sewn, adhered, and/or otherwise attached to the bottom of the garment. 
     In some embodiments, the wearer of a garment including features of the present disclosure may also wear another garment without such features underneath the garment which includes features of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the wearer of a garment including features of the present disclosure may elect not to wear another garment. 
     In some embodiments, the elastomeric layers may be permanently connected to the garment. In other embodiments, the elastomeric layers may be temporarily connected to the garment. 
    
    
     
       A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with references to the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  shows an embodiment of an undergarment depicting two elastomeric layers; 
         FIG. 2  shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of an undergarment; 
         FIG. 3  shows a flat view of the undergarment shown in  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  shows another embodiment of an undergarment depicting a single elastomeric layer; 
         FIG. 5  is another embodiment of an undergarment depicting two elastomeric layers; 
         FIG. 6  is another embodiment of an undergarment depicting two elastomeric layers; 
         FIG. 7  is an embodiment of an undergarment depicting two elastomeric layers with an adjustable connection; 
         FIG. 8  is a diagram depicting variations in tension through the material; 
         FIG. 9  is an embodiment of pants including two elastomeric layers; 
         FIG. 10  is another embodiment of pants including a single elastomeric layer; 
         FIG. 11  is an embodiment of shorts including an elastomeric layer; 
         FIG. 12  is another embodiment of pants including an open zipper and a single elastomeric layer; 
         FIG. 13  is another embodiment of pants including a closed zipper and a single elastomeric layer; 
         FIG. 14  is another embodiment of pants including a single elastomeric layer; 
         FIG. 15  is another embodiment of pants including two elastomeric layers; and 
         FIG. 16  is an embodiment of shorts including an elastomeric layer extending from the front to the back. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     While this invention may be embodied in many different forms, there will herein be described in detail illustrative embodiments with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles and is not intended to limit the broad aspects of the invention to the embodiments illustrated. It will be understood that the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or central characteristics thereof. The present embodiments, therefore, are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein. 
       FIG. 1  depicts an embodiment of a privacy control undergarment  102  as worn on a person  100 . The person  100  is illustrated to provide a contextual reference for the use of the undergarment  102 . Undergarment  102  may also be referred to as any form of underwear, such as a panty, thong, girdle, pantyhose, support wear, or any other term for underwear. One skilled in the art will recognize that the undergarment  102  may vary in design, materials and/or style and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. For example, undergarment  102  may include any style of panty design, such as thong, brief, boy short, low rise, bikini, full-bottom, and other styles. 
     In this embodiment, undergarment  102  includes a tension layer proximate to the crotch of person  100 . The tension layer of this embodiment comprises a first tension component  104  and a second tension component  106 . Each of the tension components  104  and  106  are attached along the top of the undergarment  102  at top connection  110  and attached at the base of undergarment  102  at bottom connection  108 . Top connection  110  and bottom connection  108  are depicted in this embodiment as seams. One skilled in the art will recognize that the connections  108  and  110  may comprise any one or more manners for attaching the tension components  104  and  106  to the undergarment  102 . For example, bottom connection  108  may comprise a stitched seam and top connection  110  may comprise an adhesive. In some embodiments, the top connection  110  may be a dropped connection from the top of the undergarment  102 . For example, the dropped connection may be one or several inches from the top of the undergarment  102 . 
     The tension components  104  and  106  cross each other such that an increased level of support is provided around a desired location wherein tension components  104  and  106  overlap. Overlap portion  112  shows the overlap in the front of the tension layer of undergarment  102 . In some embodiments, the undergarment  102  is a woman&#39;s underwear, and the tension layer is utilized to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate the external portion of a woman&#39;s genitalia when the undergarment  102  is worn. The tension provided by the tension components  104  and  106  decreases the projection, protrusion and/or appearance of a woman&#39;s labia folds in undergarment  102 . 
     When a woman is wearing undergarment  102 , tension component  106  extends from one side of bottom connection  108  diagonally to the opposite side of top connection  110  and is operatively engaged with the crotch of the woman to provide a pressure against the external portion of the woman&#39;s genitalia. In addition, tension component  104  extends from the other side of bottom connection  108  from tension component  106  diagonally to the opposite side of top connection  110  crossing over tension component  106  and is operatively engaged with the crotch of the woman to provide a pressure against the external portion of the woman&#39;s genitalia. The angular overlap creates a cross-directional pressure in the overlap portion  112 . The overlap portion  112  may be designed to cover the woman&#39;s labia such that a combined pressure created by each of tension components  104  and  106  is applicable to at least a portion of the woman&#39;s labia. In some embodiments, the overlap portion  112  is designed to cover the woman&#39;s labia completely. 
     In some embodiments, the pressure from tension components  104  and  106  is in an upward direction to lift the labia and conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. In some embodiments, the pressure from tension components  104  and  106  is in a direction towards the woman&#39;s back to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. The pressure may be directed in one or more directions, such as upward, inward, outward, towards the woman&#39;s back and/or combinations thereof, to create pressure against a woman&#39;s body in order to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. One skilled in the art will recognize that the direction of pressure created by the tension layer may vary while operating to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. 
     Embodiments of undergarments with tension layers may be designed to fit different sizes and shapes of the various wearers. In addition, the extent and location of pressure provided by the tension layer may vary in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the undergarment  102  in conjunction with the tension components  104  and  106  may be designed to fit differing body types through the extent, location, size and other characteristics of the tension components. In some embodiments, the undergarment  102  in conjunction with the tension components  104  and  106  may be designed to compliment another garment to wear over undergarment  102 . For example, a user may prefer a higher pressure undergarment  102  when wearing other garments that are more likely to expose the female anatomy, such as thin and/or tight fitting garments like yoga pants, workout shorts, or leggings, and a lower pressure undergarment  102  when wearing other garments that are not as likely to expose the female anatomy, such as thick and/or looser garments. One skilled in the art will recognize that the number of tension layers and/or tension components within a tension layer may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 2  shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an undergarment  102 . The cross-section is taken along the point illustrated by the arrows and numbers “2” shown in  FIG. 1 . The embodiment in  FIG. 2  is similar to the embodiment in  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 2  depicts undergarment  102  including the tension layer comprising a first tension component  104  and a second tension component  106 . In addition, this embodiment includes an internal liner  120  above the tension layer. Each of the liner  120  and the tension components  104  and  106  are attached along the top of the undergarment  102  at top connection  110  and attached at the base of undergarment  102  at bottom connection  108 . 
     In some embodiments, the undergarment  102  and liner  120  are longer than the tension layer when relaxed. When the tension layer attached to the undergarment  102  is stretched by a wearer, the tension layer expands to approximately the same length as the undergarment  102  and liner  120 . For example, when undergarment  102  is not being worn, as shown in  FIG. 2 , the material of the undergarment  102  and the liner  120  may be looser than the tension layer which is relaxed. This difference is illustrated by the sagging front section of undergarment  102  and the waves in the liner  120 . Stretching the tension components  104  and  106  beyond the material&#39;s natural or relaxed state may create the pressure against the person&#39;s body in whole or in part. In some embodiments, the undergarment  102  and liner  120  are the same length as the tension layer when relaxed. 
     In some embodiments, the material and/or design of internal liner  120  may provide additional comfort for the wearer. For example, some people may prefer soft, smooth and/or delicate materials for skin contact. In addition, the liner  120  may limit any discomfort caused by the materials utilized for tension components  104  and  106  and/or directional tension created by the tension components  104  and  106 . In some embodiments, the design and/or materials of the liner  120  may provide comfort features such as moisture control, odor absorption and other features. In some embodiments which do not include liner  120 , the tension layer may incorporate one or more comfort features. 
       FIG. 3  depicts an embodiment of the undergarment  102  with the liner  120  in a flat layout for illustrative purposes. Sides  114  and  116  are depicted in  FIGS. 1 and 2  as contextual reference points for further illustrating the flat layout depictions such as the flat layout in  FIG. 3 . In some embodiments, sides  114  and  116  may include seams to form the undergarment  102 . In  FIG. 3 , sides  114  and  116  are shown at corresponding locations on the top and bottom of the flat layout of the undergarment  102  to illustrate the locations where the sides  114  and  116  would be connected to form undergarment  102 . The flat layout provides further detail of the components of the undergarment  102 , including the layout of components in this embodiment. 
     In this embodiment, the tension layer comprising tension components  104  and  106  are shown under an internal liner  120 . Tension components  104  and  106  are each shown with different markings to better illustrate the layout of each of tension component  104  and  106 . In addition, overlap portion  112  is shown with the both sets of markings to illustrate the area in which the tension components  104  and  106  cross each other. In this embodiment, the primary area of the overlap portion  112  is designed to correspond to the wearer&#39;s crotch. For example, when worn by a woman, the overlap portion  112  would be designed to cover the labia of the woman in order to focus the pressure at the desired location to conceal, obfuscate and/or eliminate any view of the curvature of the woman&#39;s labia. In some embodiments, the overlap portion may only cover a portion of the woman&#39;s labia. One skilled in the art will recognize that one design of undergarment  102  may operate, affect or be worn differently by different women due to a variety of characteristics associated with each woman&#39;s body type. Elements of this disclosure may be varied to create a series of garments to correspond to various body types, in order to provide users with the options to select garments best suited for that user&#39;s body type. 
     In this embodiment, tension components  104  and  106  are attached along the front at top connection  110  and along the base at bottom connection  108 . First tension component  104  extends from the right side of top connection  110  to the left side of bottom connection  108 . Second tension component  106  extends from the left side of top connection  110  to the right side of bottom connection  108 . The two tension components cross each other in overlap portion  112 . In some embodiments, tension components  104  and  106  are wider along top connection  110  than they are along bottom connection  108 . In some embodiments, the tension components  104  and  106  are rectangular strips of material. One skilled in the art will recognize that that the size, shape and other characteristics of the tension components may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     In some embodiments, liner  120  covers the tension components  104  and  106 . Liner  120  is depicted attached at top connection  110  and bottom connection  108  along with the tension components  104  and  106 . In some embodiments, liner  120  and tension components  104  and  106  are attached at top connection  110  and bottom connection  108  in the same manner or the same connecting component, such as a seam or adhesive connecting undergarment  102  with tension components  104  and  106  and liner  120 . In some embodiments, the tension components  104  and  106  may be connected in one manner, such as a seam, and the liner  120  may be connected using another connecting component, such as an adhesive material. Embodiments of the present disclosure may incorporate one or more types, systems, materials, components or other connections for attaching the disclosed components. In some embodiments, the undergarment  102  including the tension components  104  and  106  and liner  120  may be created in conjunction as a single garment wherein each layer is connected as desired locations through integrated weaving of the materials. 
     In the embodiment shown, liner  120  is also attached to undergarment  102  along the side connections  122 . In some embodiments, the side connections  122  are beyond the edge of tension components  104  and  106 , whereby the tension components  104  and  106  remain free to expand and contract within the space encapsulated between undergarment  102  and liner  120 . In some embodiments, liner  120  is not connected to undergarment  102  along the sides, but is designed to remain between the tension layer and the person&#39;s skin when worn. 
     In some embodiments, liner  120  may only cover a portion of the tension layer. For example, liner  120  may extend from connection  108  only halfway to the top connection  110 . The size, shape, design, coverage and/or other features of the liner  120  may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, liner  120  may include multiple layers of differing sizes for a variety of purposes. For example, one layer of liner  120  may encase the tension components  104  and  106  with a breathable thin material for comfort while a second layer only extends a portion of the way from bottom connection  108  and is designed for moisture absorption and feminine hygiene. In some embodiments, the characteristics of the liner  120  may be varied for a variety of considerations such as aesthetic, functional, comfort and/or other considerations. 
       FIG. 3  also includes center line  124  illustrating the center of the bottom of undergarment  102 . As illustrated, bottom connection  108  is located below center line  124  in this embodiment. Accordingly, when undergarment  102  is worn, the tension components  104  and  106  extend from behind center line  124  to the waist line of the undergarment  102 . This may provide more upward pressure against the wearer&#39;s crotch for support. One skilled in the art will recognize that the location of bottom connection  108  and/or top connection  110  may vary and effect the scope, focus, location, extent and/or other characteristic associated with the pressure created by the tension layer. 
     In addition, aesthetic characteristics associated with the design of the undergarment  102  may influence the location and/or type of connection utilized. For example, a seam along bottom connection  108  may be visible through other garments worn over the undergarment  102 . In order to conceal the bottom connection  108 , the location of bottom connection  108  may be shifted closer to the center line  124  or the bottom connection  108  may be designed using a different connection, such as an adhesive, a zipper, hook and loop tape, a fitted connection and/or a friction connections. As disclosed further herein, the design and characteristics of the tension layer and/or other components may be varied to account for a variety of considerations including the aesthetic factors. 
       FIG. 4  depicts another embodiment of the undergarment  102  with the liner  120  in a flat layout for illustrative purposes. As discussed with  FIG. 3 , sides  114  and  116  are shown at corresponding locations on the top and bottom of the flat layout of the undergarment  102  to illustrate the locations where the sides  114  and  116  would be connected to form undergarment  102 . 
     In this embodiment, the tension layer comprises a tension component  130  shown under an internal liner  120 . Tension component  130  may perform the same functions as multiple tension components. One skilled in the art will recognize that one or more tension components may be utilized in embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, tension component  130  may provide a constant tension characteristic across the entirety of the tension component  130 . For example, tension component  130  may comprise a single elastomeric fabric which provides a constant tension throughout the material. 
     In some embodiments, the tension component  130  is designed to provide a variety of tension characteristics at locations through the fabric. For example, tension component  130  may be constructed to provide more tension at desired locations, such as the anticipated area proximate to the wearer&#39;s labia, and lower levels of tension at other locations, such as the edge of the tension component  130 . For another example, the tension component  130  may be constructed to focus tension in desired directions, such as crossing angular directions. When providing crossing angular tension, the area in which the tension crosses may comprise the area of focused tension associated with the wearer&#39;s crotch. The design of the materials, dimensions, tension and other characteristics of tension component  130  may be varied to conceal, obfuscate or eliminate the curvature of the wearer&#39;s body. The tension component  130  may be controlled, influenced, or modified through fabric design methods including weaving, material selection, layering, tension modification techniques and/or other means of influencing the tension characteristics. 
     When worn by a woman, the tension component  130  and/or an active or selected portion of tension component  130  would be designed to cover the labia of the woman in order to focus the pressure at the desired location to conceal, obfuscate and/or eliminate any view of the curvature of the woman&#39;s labia. One skilled in the art will recognize that one design of undergarment  102  may operate, affect or be worn differently by different women due to a variety of characteristics associated with each woman&#39;s body type. Elements of this disclosure may be varied to create a series of garments to correspond to various body types, in order to provide users with the options to select garments best suited for that user&#39;s body type. 
     In this embodiment, tension component  130  is attached along the front at top connection  110  and along the base at bottom connection  108 . In some embodiments, tension component  130  is wider along top connection  110  than it is along bottom connection  108 . In some embodiments, the tension component  130  is a rectangular strip of material. One skilled in the art will recognize that that the size, shape and other characteristics of the tension component may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     Liner  120  is depicted attached at top connection  110  and bottom connection  108  along with the tension component  130 . In some embodiments, liner  120  and tension component  130  may be attached independently at top connection  110  and/or bottom connection  108 . In some embodiments, liner  120  may be attached in conjunction with tension component  130  at top connection  110  and/or bottom connection  108 . Embodiments of the present disclosure may incorporate one or more types, systems, materials, components or other connections for attaching the disclosed components. In some embodiments, the undergarment  102  including the tension component  130  and liner  120  may be created in conjunction as a single garment wherein each layer is connected at desired locations through integrated weaving of the materials. 
     In some embodiments, liner  120  is not connected to undergarment  102  along the sides, but is designed to remain between the tension component  130  and the person&#39;s skin when worn. In some embodiments, liner  120  is designed to be wider than the tension component  130  to ensure the entire tension component  130  remains covered during operation. In some embodiments, the sides of liner  120  may be connected along some portions of undergarment  102 , but not attached along other portions of undergarment  102 . For example, in  FIG. 4  section  132  of the liner  120  may not be attached on either side while the remainder of liner  120  is attached to undergarment  102 . In some embodiments, the tension component  130  remains free to expand and contract within the space between undergarment  102  and liner  120 . In some embodiments, liner  120  is connected to undergarment  102  along the sides wherein the liner  120  does not obstruct the expansion or contraction of the tension component  130 . 
     In this embodiment, center line  124  illustrates the center of the bottom of undergarment  102 . Bottom connection  108  is located below center line  124  in this embodiment. When undergarment  102  is worn, the tension component  130  extends from behind center line  124  to the waist line of the undergarment  102 . If the tension is constant in the material of the tension component  130 , this placement of bottom connection  108  may provide more upward pressure against the wearer&#39;s crotch for support. One skilled in the art will recognize that the location of bottom connection  108  and/or top connection  110  may vary and effect the scope, focus, location, extent and/or other characteristic associated with the pressure created by the tension layer. 
     As discussed above, aesthetic characteristics associated with the design of the undergarment  102  may also influence the location and/or type of connection utilized. As disclosed further herein, the design and characteristics of the tension layer and/or other components may be varied to account for a variety of considerations including the aesthetic factors. 
       FIG. 5  depicts another embodiment of the undergarment  102  in a flat layout for illustrative purposes. As discussed with  FIG. 3 , sides  114  and  116  are shown at corresponding locations on the top and bottom of the flat layout of the undergarment  102  to illustrate the locations where the sides  114  and  116  would be connected to form undergarment  102 . 
     In this embodiment, the tension layer comprises a first tension component  140  and a second tension component  142  which are shown under an internal liner  146 . Tension components  140  and  142  are each shown with different markings to better illustrate the layout of each of tension component  140  and  142 . In addition, overlap portion  112  is shown with the both sets of markings to illustrate the area in which the tension components  140  and  142  cross each other. In this embodiment, the primary area of the overlap portion  112  is designed to correspond to the wearer&#39;s crotch. For example, when worn by a woman, the overlap portion  112  would be designed to cover the labia of the woman in order to focus the pressure at the desired location to conceal, obfuscate and/or eliminate any view of the curvature of the woman&#39;s labia. In some embodiments, the overlap portion may only cover a portion of the woman&#39;s labia. One skilled in the art will recognize that one design of undergarment  102  may operate, affect or be worn differently by different women due to a variety of characteristics associated with each woman&#39;s body type. Elements of this disclosure may be varied to create a series of garments to correspond to various body types, in order to provide users with the options to select garments best suited for that user&#39;s body type. 
     In this embodiment, tension components  140  and  142  are attached along the front at top connection  110  and along the base at bottom connection  144 . First tension component  140  extends from the right side of top connection  110  to the left side of bottom connection  144 . Second tension component  142  extends from the left side of top connection  110  to the right side of bottom connection  144 . The two tension components cross each other in overlap portion  112 . In some embodiments, tension components  140  and  142  are wider along top connection  110  than they are along bottom connection  144 . In some embodiments, the tension components  140  and  142  are rectangular strips of material. One skilled in the art will recognize that that the size, shape and other characteristics of the tension components may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     In some embodiments, liner  146  covers the tension components  140  and  142 . Liner  146  is depicted attached at top connection  110  and bottom connection  144  along with the tension components  140  and  142 . As discussed further above, embodiments may be attached and/or integrated with a variety of techniques and components and remain within the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Embodiments of the present disclosure may incorporate one or more types, systems, materials, components or other connections for attaching the disclosed components. 
     In the embodiment shown, liner  146  is also attached to undergarment  102  along the side connections  148 . In some embodiments, the side connections  148  are beyond the edge of tension components  140  and  142 , whereby the tension components  140  and  142  remain free to expand and contract within the space between undergarment  102  and liner  146 . In some embodiments, liner  146  is not connected to undergarment  102  along the sides, but is designed to remain between the tension layer and the person&#39;s skin when worn. 
       FIG. 5  also includes center line  124  illustrating the center of the bottom of undergarment  102 . As illustrated, bottom connection  144  is located above center line  124  in this embodiment. When undergarment  102  is worn, the tension components  140  and  142  extend from above center line  124  to the waist line of the undergarment  102 . In such embodiments, the design may provide more inward pressure against the wearer&#39;s crotch for support than upward pressure. One skilled in the art will recognize that the location of bottom connection  144  and/or top connection  110  may vary and effect the scope, focus, location, extent and/or other characteristic associated with the pressure created by the tension layer. In addition, aesthetic characteristics associated with the design of the undergarment  102  may influence the location and/or type of connection utilized. As disclosed further herein, the design and characteristics of the tension layer and/or other components may be varied to account for a variety of considerations including the aesthetic factors. 
       FIG. 6  depicts another embodiment of the undergarment  102  in a flat layout for illustrative purposes. As discussed with  FIG. 3 , sides  114  and  116  are shown at corresponding locations on the top and bottom of the flat layout of the undergarment  102  to illustrate the locations where the sides  114  and  116  would be connected to form undergarment  102 . 
     In this embodiment, the tension layer comprises a first tension component  150  and a second tension component  152  which are shown under an internal liner  154 . Tension components  150  and  152  are each shown with different markings to better illustrate the layout of each of tension component  150  and  152 . In addition, overlap portion  156  is shown with the both sets of markings to illustrate the area in which the tension components  150  and  152  cross each other. In some embodiments, a gap area  158  exists between tension components  150  and  152 , and does not include any tension element. In this embodiment, the primary area of the overlap portion  156  is designed to correspond to the wearer&#39;s crotch. For example, when worn by a woman, the overlap portion  156  would be designed to cover the labia of the woman in order to focus the pressure at the desired location to conceal, obfuscate and/or eliminate any view of the curvature of the woman&#39;s labia. In some embodiments, the overlap portion may only cover a portion of the woman&#39;s labia. One skilled in the art will recognize that one design of undergarment  102  may operate, affect or be worn differently by different women due to a variety of characteristics associated with each woman&#39;s body type. Elements of this disclosure may be varied to create a series of garments to correspond to various body types, in order to provide users with the options to select garments best suited for that user&#39;s body type. 
     In this embodiment, tension components  150  and  152  are attached along the front at top connection  110  and along the base at bottom connection  108 . First tension component  150  extends from the right side of top connection  110  to the left side of bottom connection  108 . Second tension component  152  extends from the left side of top connection  110  to the right side of bottom connection  108 . The two tension components cross each other in overlap portion  156 . In some embodiments, tension components  150  and  152  do not overlap along top connection  110  creating gap area  158 . One skilled in the art will recognize that that the size, shape and other characteristics of the tension components may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     In some embodiments, liner  154  covers the tension components  150  and  152 . Liner  154  is depicted attached at top connection  110  and bottom connection  108  along with the tension components  150  and  152 . As discussed further above, embodiments may be attached and/or integrated with a variety of techniques and components and remain within the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Embodiments of the present disclosure may incorporate one or more types, systems, materials, components or other connections for attaching the disclosed components. In some embodiments, the edges of liner  154  are beyond the edges of tension components  150  and  152 , whereby the tension components  150  and  152  remain free to expand and contract within the space between undergarment  102  and liner  154 . In some embodiments, liner  154  prevents or limits pinching and/or other unwanted ancillary effects of the tension components  150  and  152 . 
     In this embodiment, center line  124  illustrates the center of the bottom of undergarment  102 . Bottom connection  108  is located below center line  124  in this embodiment. When undergarment  102  is worn, the tension components  140  and  142  extend from behind center line  124  to the waist line of the undergarment  102 . In such embodiments, the design may provide more upward pressure against the wearer&#39;s crotch for support. One skilled in the art will recognize that the location of bottom connection  108  and/or top connection  110  may vary and effect the scope, focus, location, extent and/or other characteristic associated with the pressure created by the tension layer. 
     As discussed above, aesthetic characteristics associated with the design of the undergarment  102  may also influence the location and/or type of connection utilized. As disclosed further herein, the design and characteristics of the tension layer and/or other components may be varied to account for a variety of considerations including the aesthetic factors. 
       FIG. 7  depicts another embodiment of the undergarment  102  in a flat layout for illustrative purposes. As discussed with  FIG. 3 , sides  114  and  116  are shown at corresponding locations on the top and bottom of the flat layout of the undergarment  102  to illustrate the locations where the sides  114  and  116  would be connected to form undergarment  102 . 
     In this embodiment, the tension layer comprises a first tension component  160  and a second tension component  162 . Tension components  160  and  162  are each shown with different markings to better illustrate the layout of each of tension component  160  and  162 . In addition, overlap portion  172  is shown with the both sets of markings to illustrate the area in which the tension components  160  and  162  cross each other. In some embodiments, a gap area  174  exists between tension components  160  and  162 , and does not include any tension element. In this embodiment, the primary area of the overlap portion  172  is designed to correspond to the wearer&#39;s crotch. For example, when worn by a woman, the overlap portion  172  would be designed to cover the labia of the woman in order to focus the pressure at the desired location to conceal, obfuscate and/or eliminate any view of the curvature of the woman&#39;s labia. In some embodiments, the overlap portion may only cover a portion of the woman&#39;s labia. One skilled in the art will recognize that one design of undergarment  102  may operate, affect or be worn differently by different women due to a variety of characteristics associated with each woman&#39;s body type. Elements of this disclosure may be varied to create a series of garments to correspond to various body types, in order to provide users with the options to select garments best suited for that user&#39;s body type. 
     In this embodiment, first tension component  160  is attached along the front at the top with first adjustable connection  164  and second tension component  162  is attached along the front at the top with second adjustable connection  166  and both tension components  160  and  162  are attached along the base at bottom connection  108 . As discussed further above, embodiments may be attached and/or integrated with a variety of techniques and components and remain within the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Embodiments of the present disclosure may incorporate one or more types, systems, materials, components or other connections for attaching the disclosed components. For example, bottom connection  108  may comprise a seam while adjustable connections  164  and  166  may comprise friction connections. 
     In this embodiment, adjustable connections  164  and  166  can be used to provide adjustable tension on each of tension components  160  and  162 . Adjacent to the top of undergarment  102 , first tension component  160  includes a first tab  168  and second tension component  162  includes a second tab  170 . In some embodiments, tabs  168  and  170  are the same material as tension components  160  and  162 . In some embodiments, tabs  168  and  170  comprise different materials from tension components  160  and  162 , and are connected to or integrated with the tension components  160  and  162 . For example, tabs  168  and  170  may comprise a silicone, gel, rubber and/or other materials which increase the friction coefficient. In some embodiments, tabs  168  and  170  may comprise combinations of components which may affect the elasticity, friction coefficient, comfort, production cost, aesthetic appearance and/or other characteristics which may be associated with tabs  168  and  170 . For example, tabs  168  and  170  may comprise a section of tension components  160  and  162  with deposits of materials to increase friction attributes of the tension components  160  and  162 . As another example, tabs  168  and  170  may comprise a section of tension components  160  and  162  with materials to increase friction attributes interwoven with the material of tension components  160  and  162 . One skilled in the art will recognize that the design, manufacture, materials and/or other characteristics of the tabs  168  and  170  may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     In this embodiment, the adjustable connections  164  and  166  are depicted as slip-lock buckles which provide friction connections with tabs  168  and  170 . Tabs  168  and  170  are each pulled through the slip-lock buckles of adjustable connections  164  and  166  to create a friction connection between the material of the tabs  168  and  170  and slip-lock buckle. In some embodiments, elements of one or more components may create a tensioning effect to increase the friction coefficient between the tabs  168  and  170  and slip-lock buckle of adjustable connections  164  and  166 . 
     In this embodiment, the tension in tension components  160  and  162  may be adjusted using the tabs  168  and  170 . For example, a user may increase the tension in one or more of tension components  160  and  162  by pulling tab  168  or  170  through the corresponding adjustable connection  164  or  166  thereby shortening the amount of material comprising the tension component  160  or  162  between bottom connection  108  and the top of undergarment  102 . The shortened amount of material of tension component  160  or  162  causes the tension component  160  or  162  to stretch further when worn increasing the pressure on the wearer. The interaction of the tabs  168  and  170  with the adjustable connections  164  and  166  creates sufficient friction to maintain the engagement of tabs  168  and  170  with the adjustable connections  164  and  166  during use. In some embodiments, a user may also decrease the tension in tension components  160  and  162  by pulling the tab  168  or  170  in the opposite direction to lengthen the amount of material comprising the tension component  160  or  162  between bottom connection  108  and the top of undergarment  102 . 
     One skilled in the art will recognize that the tabs  168  and  170  and slip-lock buckles of the adjustable connections  164  and  166  may be varied to alter various characteristics of adjustable connections  164  and  166  and/or the tension components  160  and  162 . Characteristics of the adjustable connections  164  and  166  may include adjustment scope, thresholds, sensitivity, comfort, concealment, direction and other characteristics. In some embodiments, adjustable connections  164  and  166  may be designed from a soft gel material which creates a high friction coefficient with a corresponding gel material associated with tabs  168  and  170 . In some embodiments, the soft gel material may be incorporated along the entire waistband of the undergarment  102  to improve the aesthetic look of the undergarment  102  by minimizing the likelihood that the adjustable connections  164  and  166  are noticeable. In addition, a gel waistband may prevent or limit the likelihood that the waistband will shift during use due to movement and/or additional tension against the waistband created by the tension components  160  and  162 . In some embodiments, undergarment  102  may include a pocket or other mechanism to hold the section of tabs  168  and  170  extending above the waistband such that the tabs  168  and  170  do not visibly extend beyond the top of undergarment  102 . 
     In some embodiments, adjustable connections  164  and  166  comprise alternative features to facilitate an adjustable connection along the top of undergarment  102 . For example, tabs  168  and  170  may comprise one portion of hook-and-loop tape and adjustable connections  164  and  166  may comprise the corresponding portion of hook-and-loop tape. As another example, adjustable connections  164  and  166  may comprise one or more teeth angled toward the top edge of undergarment  102  wherein the tension components  160  and  162  cause tabs  168  and  170  to engage the teeth. In such an embodiment, the adjustable connections  164  and  166  may allow the tension to be increased, but limit the capability to reduce tension. 
     One skilled in the art will recognize that the adjustable connections  164  and  166  and corresponding components, if needed, may vary in operation, design, material and other aspects and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. In addition, some embodiments may include additional adjustment capabilities to vary aspects of the tension components and allow personalization of the design to best fit a user&#39;s purposes. For example, adjustable connections  164  and  166  may facilitate horizontal adjustments to allow the direction of tension to be altered. As another example, each tension component  160  and  162  may comprise multiple tension components which may independently be adjusted to create a preferred combination of comfort and obfuscation of the wearer&#39;s privates. One skilled in the art will recognize that adjustable connections may be implemented at alternative locations to provide capability for adjusting tension, direction and/or other characteristics associated with the components of the present disclosure. For example, one or more adjustable connections may be located at bottom connection  108  to modify the tension components  160  and  162  from the bottom of undergarment  102 . 
     In the embodiment shown, first tension component  160  extends from the first adjustable connection  164  to the left side of bottom connection  108 . Second tension component  162  extends from the second adjustable connection  166  to the right side of bottom connection  108 . The two tension components cross each other in overlap portion  172 . In some embodiments, tension components  160  and  162  do not overlap along the top of undergarment  102  creating gap area  174 . One skilled in the art will recognize that that the size, shape and other characteristics of the tension components  160  and  162  may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     In this embodiment, center line  124  illustrates the center of the bottom of undergarment  102 . Bottom connection  108  is located below center line  124  in this embodiment. When undergarment  102  is worn, the tension components  160  and  162  extend from behind center line  124  to the waist line of the undergarment  102 . In such embodiments, the design may provide more upward pressure against the wearer&#39;s crotch for support. One skilled in the art will recognize that the location of bottom connection  108  and/or adjustable connections  164  and  166  may vary and effect the scope, focus, location, extent and/or other characteristic associated with the pressure created by the tension layer. 
     As discussed above, aesthetic characteristics associated with the design of the undergarment  102  may also influence the location and/or type of connection utilized. As disclosed further herein, the design and characteristics of the tension layer and/or other components may be varied to account for a variety of considerations including the aesthetic factors. 
       FIG. 8  depicts an illustrative embodiment of a tension layer  200 . Tension layer  200  is shown with top  202  and bottom  204 . In some embodiments, the top  202  will correspond to the front waist band of a garment, and the bottom  204  will correspond approximately to the center or bottom of the crotch of the garment. In this embodiment, the tension layer  200  depicts a first tension section  206  and a second tension section  208 . Tension sections  206  and  208  each show a group of arrows extending in different diagonal directions to illustrate direction of tension in this embodiment of the tension layer  200 . In the embodiment shown, the tension sections  206  and  208  cross at approximately a 35 degree angle creating a cross-directional pressure at the area in with the tension sections  206  and  208  cross or overlap. The angle at which the tension sections  206  and  208  cross may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the tension sections  206  and  208  may not provide crossing tension attributes. For example, the tension section  206  and  208  may provide parallel tension. As another example, the tension may be applied to a non-elastic material whereby the tension elements do not cross, but the direction of tension may cross in the non-elastic material. Tension layer  200  may include multiple tension sections at a variety of strengths and directions. For example, some embodiments may include another tension section directed vertically from bottom  204  towards top  202 . 
     The tension sections  206  and  208  in  FIG. 8  further illustrate the level of tension through the depiction of the length of each arrow and the boldness of the central arrow. This embodiment accordingly depicts the tension increasing towards the middle of each of tension sections  206  and  208 . The levels of tension along different areas of the tension layer  200  may vary for a number of reasons. For example, embodiments may include lower tension areas along the outer edges to prevent the edges from cutting, pressing or otherwise creating discomfort for the wearer. As another example, embodiments may be designed to provide crossing pressure characteristics which may be preferred by a wearer for comfort, obfuscation, and/or aesthetics. 
     One skilled in the art will recognize that tension layer  200  is provided for illustrative purposes and may be varied. For example, as discussed further with respect to other figures, tension layer  200  may be comprised of one or more tension components or other elements of garments. In addition, the design, manufacture, materials, tension, comfort, function and/or other characteristics of the tension layer may vary. 
     As discussed further herein, one or more tension layers  200  may be incorporated into a garment. The styles, types, designs and/or functions of the garment may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the tension layer  200  is designed to correspond to the wearer&#39;s crotch. For example, when worn by a woman, the tension layer  200  would be designed to cover the labia of the woman in order to focus the pressure at the desired location to conceal, obfuscate and/or eliminate any view of the curvature of the woman&#39;s labia. In some embodiments, the tension layer  200  may only cover a portion of the woman&#39;s labia. One skilled in the art will recognize that one design of tension layer  200  may operate, affect or be worn differently by different women due to a variety of characteristics associated with each woman&#39;s body type. Elements of this disclosure may be varied to create a series of garments to correspond to various body types, in order to provide each user with the option to select garments best suited for that user&#39;s body type. 
     As discussed further above, embodiments of tension layer  200  may be attached and/or integrated with a garment using a variety of techniques and components and remain within the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Embodiments of the present disclosure may incorporate one or more types, systems, materials, components or other connections for attaching the disclosed components. 
     The extent and location of the pressure created by tension layer  200  may be influenced by a variety of factors including means and location of connections to a garment and characteristics of the tension layer  200 , such as dimensions, materials, designs and other characteristics. Materials may be designed to have a variety of elastomeric properties associated with various portions of the tension component whereby the pressure created may be directed to specific locations. In some embodiments, tension layer  200  may be weaved with multiple fabrics having differing elastomeric properties. For example, in order to increase the tension in a vertical direction the upper portion of tension layer  200  may include fabrics with more elasticity than the fabrics used in lower portion of tension layer  200 . In addition, fabrics may provide differing elasticity in a horizontal direction. 
     In addition to the variety of elastomeric properties, the tension layer  200 , a liner and/or garment may be designed from specific fabrics, materials and/or combinations thereof to provide additional characteristics which may be desired. For example, some materials may be incorporated to provide comfort, breathability, moisture absorption, odor absorption, feminine hygiene, and/or other characteristics. Materials used in the design of the garments, tension components and/or liners may include cottons, nylons, polyesters, DAZZLE® fabrics, silk, rubbers, elastics, neoprene, spandex, other synthetic and natural materials and combinations of materials. The various components may also include other design elements such as mesh designs, moisture control designs, breathable weaves, weaves for improving obfuscation, layering designs, other designs and combinations of design features. One skilled in the art will recognize that the various elements, features, designs and materials of tension component  200  and other components discussed in connection of one or more embodiments herein may be incorporated into various garments according to the present disclosure. The selection of materials and/or features of the various layers may be designed to prevent curling of fabrics along the edges of the components. 
       FIG. 9  depicts an embodiment of garment  300  with a privacy control feature  302 . One skilled in the art will recognize that the garment  300  and privacy control feature  302  may vary in design, materials and/or style and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. For example, garment  300  may comprise any style of pant design, such as jeans, capris, shorts, yoga pants, pajama bottoms, slacks and other styles. In addition, design elements may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. For example, seam  314  is shown vertically in approximately the center of the garment  300  in this embodiment, however, the location and/or type of the seam  314  may be altered or the seam  314  may be eliminated completely. 
     In this embodiment, privacy control feature  302  includes a tension layer proximate to the crotch of a person. The tension layer of this embodiment comprises a first tension component  304  and a second tension component  306 . In some embodiments, garment  300  may include a liner covering tension components  304  and  306  in whole or in part. Each of the tension components  304  and  306  are attached along the top of the garment  300  at top connection  310  and attached at the base of the crotch of garment  300  at bottom connection  308 . One skilled in the art will recognize that the top connection  310  and/or bottom connection  308  may vary and effect the scope, focus, location, extent and/or other characteristic associated with the pressure created by the tension layer. For example, the top connection  310  may be a dropped waistband located a portion of the way down from the top of the garment  300  based upon design features of the garment  300 . In some embodiments, the top connection  310  may be located approximately two to three inches from the top of the garment  300 . Top connection  310  and bottom connection  308  may comprise any one or more manners for attaching the tension components  304  and  306  to the garment  300 . For example, bottom connection  308  may comprise a stitched seam and top connection  310  may comprise an adhesive. In some embodiments, the privacy control feature  302  may be attached such that it is removable and replaceable. In such embodiments, a user may have a series of garments which may be operatively engageable or attachable with one or more privacy control features  302 . In some embodiments, the privacy control feature  302  may attach to the garment  300  along the outside borders (closest to the wearer&#39;s legs) of the tension components  304  and  306 , appearing to make the shape of an inverted triangle. 
     In some embodiments, privacy control feature  302  may include fabric layers encasing the tension layer. For example, a removable privacy control feature  302  may comprise the tension layer encased between two liners which are sewn, zipped, adhered or otherwise connected to each other along the edges. The tension layer may be connected to the top and bottom edges of the liners, but otherwise freely movable within the encasement created by the two liners. At the top and bottom edges of the liners, the privacy control feature may include connection components to facilitate a removable connection with a corresponding garment. The design of the encasement, connection components and/or removable privacy control feature may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     In some embodiments, tension components  304  and  306  cross each other such that an increased level of support is provided around a desired location wherein tension components  304  and  306  overlap. Overlap portion  312  shows the overlap in the front of the tension layer of privacy control feature  302 . In some embodiments, the tension layer is utilized to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate the external portion of a woman&#39;s genitalia when the garment  300  is worn. When worn, the tension components  304  and  306  help flatten the fatty tissue of a woman&#39;s front pelvic area by applying a comfortable amount of tension and compressing that tissue against the woman&#39;s body, thereby concealing, obfuscating and/or preventing the appearance of this tissue from protruding outward and the curvature being visible through garment  300 . 
     One skilled in the art will recognize that garment  300  may be worn in conjunction with other garments and undergarments. For example, a woman may wear a pair of panties under garment  300  which would provide an additional layer between the privacy control feature  302  and the woman&#39;s labia. 
     When a woman is wearing garment  300 , tension component  306  extends from one side of bottom connection  308  diagonally to the opposite side of top connection  310  and is operatively engaged with the crotch of the woman to provide a pressure against the external portion of the woman&#39;s genitalia. In addition, tension component  304  extends from the other side of bottom connection  308  diagonally to the opposite side of top connection  310  crossing over tension component  306  and is operatively engaged with the crotch of the woman to provide a pressure against the external portion of the woman&#39;s genitalia. The overlap portion  312  may be designed to cover the woman&#39;s labia such that a combined pressure created by each of tension components  304  and  306  is applicable to at least a portion of the woman&#39;s labia. In some embodiments, the overlap portion  312  is designed to cover the woman&#39;s labia completely. 
     In some embodiments, the pressure from tension components  304  and  306  is in an upward direction to lift the labia and conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. In some embodiments, the pressure from tension components  304  and  306  is in a direction towards the woman&#39;s back to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. The pressure may be directed in one or more directions, such as upward, inward, outward, towards the woman&#39;s back and/or combinations thereof, to create pressure against a woman&#39;s body in order to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. One skilled in the art will recognize that the direction of pressure created by the tension layer may vary while operating to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. 
     Embodiments of undergarments with tension layers may be designed to fit different sizes and shapes of the various wearers. In addition, the extent and location of pressure provided by the tension layer may vary in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the garment  300  in conjunction with the tension components  304  and  306  may be designed to fit differing body types through the extent, location, size and other characteristics of the tension components. In some embodiments, the garment  300  in conjunction with the tension components  304  and  306  may be designed to compliment another garment to wear over or under garment  300 . One skilled in the art will recognize that the number of tension layers and/or tension components within a tension layer may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 10  depicts an embodiment of garment  300  with a privacy control feature  302 . One skilled in the art will recognize that the garment  300  and privacy control feature  302  may vary in design, materials and/or style and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. For example, garment  300  may comprise any style of pant design, such as jeans, capris, shorts, yoga pants, pajama bottoms, slacks and other styles. In addition, design elements may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. For example, seams  322  are shown diagonally narrowing towards the bottom of the crotch in approximately the center of the garment  300  in this embodiment, however, the location and/or type of the seams  322  may be altered. 
     In this embodiment, privacy control feature  302  includes a tension layer proximate to the crotch of a person. In this embodiment, the tension layer comprises a tension component  320 . In some embodiments, garment  300  may include a liner covering tension component  320  in whole or in part. Tension component  320  may perform the same functions as multiple tension components. One skilled in the art will recognize that one or more tension components may be utilized in embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, tension component  320  may provide a constant tension characteristic across the entirety of the tension component  320 . For example, tension component  320  may comprise a single elastomeric fabric which provides a constant tension throughout the material. 
     In some embodiments, the tension component  320  is designed to provide a variety of tension characteristics at locations through the fabric. For example, tension component  320  may be constructed to provide more tension at desired locations, such as the anticipated area proximate to the wearer&#39;s labia, and lower levels of tension at other locations, such as the edge of the tension component  320 . For another example, the tension component  320  may be constructed to focus tension in desired directions, such as crossing angular directions. When providing crossing angular tension, the area in which the tension crosses may comprise the area of focused tension associated with the wearer&#39;s crotch. The design of the materials, dimensions, tension and other characteristics of tension component  320  may be varied to conceal, obfuscate or eliminate the curvature of the wearer&#39;s body. The tension component  320  may be controlled, influenced, or modified through fabric design methods including weaving, material selection, layering, tension modification techniques and/or other means of influencing the tension characteristics. 
     When worn by a woman, the tension component  320  and/or an active or selected portion of tension component  320  would be designed to cover the labia of the woman in order to focus the pressure at the desired location to conceal, obfuscate and/or eliminate any view of the curvature of the woman&#39;s labia. One skilled in the art will recognize that one design of garment  300  may operate, affect or be worn differently by different women due to a variety of characteristics associated with each woman&#39;s body type. Elements of this disclosure may be varied to create a series of garments to correspond to various body types, in order to provide users with the options to select garments best suited for that user&#39;s body type. 
     In this embodiment, tension component  320  is attached along the front at the top waist line and along the base at bottom connection  324 . Bottom connection  324  may comprise any one or more manners for attaching the tension component  320  to the garment  300 . For example, bottom connection  324  may comprise a stitched seam and an adhesive. In some embodiments, the privacy control feature  302  may be attached such that it is removable and replaceable. In such embodiments, a user may have a series of garments which may be operatively engageable or attachable with one or more privacy control features  302 . In the embodiment shown, tension component  320  is wider along the top than it is along bottom connection  324 . In some embodiments, the tension component  320  is a rectangular strip of material. One skilled in the art will recognize that that the size, shape and other characteristics of the tension component  320  may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     One skilled in the art will recognize that garment  300  may be worn in conjunction with other garments and undergarments. For example, a woman may wear a pair of panties under garment  300  which would provide an additional layer between the privacy control feature  302  and the woman&#39;s labia. Different garments  300  may be designed for either wearing or not wearing additional garments over the crotch. For example, a woman may elect to purchase yoga pants to wear without panties to avoid undesired panty lines. The privacy control feature  302  in conjunction with the material of the yoga pants may be breathable and comfortable materials designed to wick away moisture to maintain further comfort during an exercise class. For example, the material may comprise a wide mesh design for the tension component  320  of the privacy control feature  302  while the garment  300  uses a tight but breathable fabric to prevent a see-through effect which wider mesh may allow. 
     In some embodiments, the pressure from tension component  320  is in an upward direction to lift the labia and conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. In some embodiments, the pressure from tension component  320  is in a direction towards the woman&#39;s back to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. The pressure may be directed in one or more directions, such as upward, inward, outward, towards the woman&#39;s back and/or combinations thereof, to create pressure against a woman&#39;s body in order to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. One skilled in the art will recognize that the direction of pressure created by the tension layer may vary while operating to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. 
     Embodiments of garments with tension layers may be designed to fit different sizes and shapes of the various wearers. In addition, the extent and location of pressure provided by the tension layer may vary in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the garment  300  in conjunction with the tension component  320  may be designed to fit differing body types through the extent, location, size and other characteristics of the tension components. In some embodiments, the garment  300  in conjunction with the tension component  320  may be designed to compliment another garment to wear over or under garment  300 . One skilled in the art will recognize that the number of tension layers and/or tension components within a tension layer may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     In some embodiments, the garment  300  conceals, obfuscates or eliminates the curvature of the wearer&#39;s body in part or in whole through the design of the seams  322  which are shown diagonally narrowing towards the bottom of the crotch in approximately the center of the garment  300 . For example, the angular design of the seams  322  avoids a centered seam line which may accentuate the visible curvature of the female anatomy by creating pressure which may induce spreading or separating of the woman&#39;s labia. Instead, the angular design of the seams  322  may be used to create pressure across the woman&#39;s labia and prevent the undesired accentuation of the visible curvature of the female anatomy. 
     In some embodiments, the material between the seams  322  may be designed with increased tension in proximity to the anticipated location of a woman&#39;s labia to further conceal, obfuscate or eliminate the curvature of the wearer&#39;s body. For example, the tension component  320  may attach to the seams  322  to create tension across the anticipated area of the woman&#39;s labia. In some embodiments, the tension component  320  stretched between the seams  322  may only cover the area proximate to a wearer&#39;s genitalia and may not extend to the top of garment  300 . 
     Some embodiments of the garment  300  may incorporate the tension component  320  into the material of the garment  300  between the seams  322 . In such embodiments, the material incorporating the tension component  320  may operate as the exterior and interior surface of the garment  300  in the area between the seams  322 . In some embodiments, the material may be designed to provide an external surface with a look, texture and/or other characteristic consistent with the remainder of the garment  300 , and to provide an interior surface with tension and liner characteristics proximate to the crotch of the wearer. Embodiments of the material with different surface characteristics may be created through design of the weave of one or more fabrics or materials, the composition of the materials and/or other design techniques. 
     In some embodiments, the angular design of the seams  322  may provide sufficient pressure with the material of the garment  300  to conceal, obfuscate or eliminate the curvature of the wearer&#39;s body. In such embodiments of the garment  300  may not include a special or independent tension component  320 . For example, a pair of pants with the angular seams  322  may use the same material (such as cotton, nylon, polyesters, DAZZLE® fabric, silk, etc.) for the entirety of the garment  300 , including the area between the seams  322 . The tension of the material used between the seams  322  may create sufficient pressure and lift to conceal, obfuscate or eliminate the curvature of the body when worn by a woman. 
     In some embodiments, the seams  322  may extend past the bottom connection  324  shown in the current embodiment to the top of the garment in the back. In some such embodiments, the angular design of the seams  322  may continue to the connection at the top of the back of the garment  300  eliminating a central seam along the back of the garment  300 . Angular seams in the back of the garment  300  may minimize the curvature of the wearer&#39;s gluteus muscles sometimes accentuated by central seams which are vertically between the gluteus muscles. 
     In some embodiments, the seams  322  may be designed at angles which mimic a seam or edge of another garment to conceal, obfuscate or eliminate the appearance of whichever garment is worn as the undergarment. For example, garment  300  may be a pair of tights worn under a leotard for dancing. The angle of the seams  322  in the garment  300  may approximate the angle of the outer edge of the leotard to avoid any unwanted lines being visible in the center of the outfit. 
       FIG. 11  depicts an embodiment of garment  330  with a privacy control feature  302  worn by a person. In this embodiment, garment  330  comprises a pair of shorts. In some embodiments, the garment  330  may comprise other types of garments or undergarments such as, compression-wear, boy-shorts, etc. The legs  332  of the person are shown for context. One skilled in the art will recognize that the garment  330  and privacy control feature  302  may vary in design, materials and/or style and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. In addition, design elements may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. For example, seam  314  is shown vertically in approximately the center of the garment  330  in this embodiment, however, the location and/or type of the seam  314  may be altered or eliminated all together. 
     In this embodiment, privacy control feature  302  includes a tension layer proximate to the crotch of a person. In this embodiment, the tension layer comprises a tension component  320 . In some embodiments, garment  330  may include a liner covering tension component  320  in whole or in part. Tension component  320  may perform the same functions as multiple tension components. One skilled in the art will recognize that one or more tension components may be utilized in embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, tension component  320  may provide a constant tension characteristic across the entirety of the tension component  320 . For example, tension component  320  may comprise a single elastomeric fabric which provides a constant tension throughout the material. 
     In some embodiments, the tension component  320  is designed to provide a variety of tension characteristics at locations through the fabric. For example, tension component  320  may be constructed to provide more tension at desired locations, such as the anticipated area proximate to the wearer&#39;s labia, and lower levels of tension at other locations, such as the edge of the tension component  320 . For another example, the tension component  320  may be constructed to focus tension in desired directions, such as crossing angular directions. When providing crossing angular tension, the area in which the tension crosses may comprise the area of focused tension associated with the wearer&#39;s crotch. The design of the materials, dimensions, tension and other characteristics of tension component  320  may be varied to conceal, obfuscate or eliminate the curvature of the wearer&#39;s body. The tension component  320  may be controlled, influenced, or modified through fabric design methods including weaving, material selection, layering, tension modification techniques and/or other means of influencing the tension characteristics. 
     When worn by a woman, the tension component  320  and/or an active or selected portion of tension component  320  would be designed to cover the labia of the woman in order to focus the pressure at the desired location to conceal, obfuscate and/or eliminate any view of the curvature of the woman&#39;s labia. One skilled in the art will recognize that one design of garment  330  may operate, affect or be worn differently by different women due to a variety of characteristics associated with each woman&#39;s body type. Elements of this disclosure may be varied to create a series of garments to correspond to various body types, in order to provide users with the options to select garments best suited for that user&#39;s body type. 
     In this embodiment, tension component  320  is attached along the front at the top waist line and along the base at bottom connection  324 . In some embodiments, the tension component  320  may be attached along the front at a location dropped below the top waist line. For example, the tension component  320  may be attached to a seam dropped between 0.5 and 4 inches from the top waist line. Bottom connection  324  may comprise any one or more manners for attaching the tension component  320  to the garment  330 . For example, bottom connection  324  may comprise a stitched seam and an adhesive. In some embodiments, the privacy control feature  302  may be attached such that it is removable and replaceable. In such embodiments, a user may have a series of garments which may be operatively engageable or attachable with one or more privacy control features  302 . In the embodiment shown, tension component  320  is wider along the top than it is along bottom connection  324 . In some embodiments, the tension component  320  is a rectangular strip of material. One skilled in the art will recognize that that the size, shape and other characteristics of the tension component  320  may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     One skilled in the art will recognize that garment  330  may be worn in conjunction with other garments and undergarments. For example, a woman may wear a pair of panties under garment  330  which would provide an additional layer between the privacy control feature  302  and the woman&#39;s labia. Different garments  330  may be designed for either wearing or not wearing additional garments. For example, a woman may elect to purchase workout shorts to wear without panties to avoid undesired panty lines. The privacy control feature  302  in conjunction with the material of the shorts may be breathable and comfortable materials designed to wick away moisture to maintain further comfort during an exercise class. For example, the material may comprise a mesh design for the tension component  320  of the privacy control feature  302  while the garment  330  uses a tight but breathable fabric to prevent a see-through effect which the mesh may allow. 
     In some embodiments, the pressure from tension component  320  is in an upward direction to lift the labia and conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. In some embodiments, the pressure from tension component  320  is in a direction towards the woman&#39;s back to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. The pressure may be directed in one or more directions, such as upward, inward, outward, towards the woman&#39;s back and/or combinations thereof, to create pressure against a woman&#39;s body in order to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. One skilled in the art will recognize that the direction of pressure created by the tension layer may vary while operating to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. 
     Embodiments of garments with tension layers may be designed to fit different sizes and shapes of the various wearers. In addition, the extent and location of pressure provided by the tension layer may vary in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the garment  330  in conjunction with the tension component  320  may be designed to fit differing body types through the extent, location, size and other characteristics of the tension components. In some embodiments, the garment  300  in conjunction with the tension component  320  may be designed to compliment another garment to wear over or under garment  330 . One skilled in the art will recognize that the number of tension layers and/or tension components within a tension layer may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
       FIGS. 12 and 13  depict an embodiment of garment  400  having a zipper  414 . The garment  400  is shown without the rear portion in order to illustrate a privacy control feature  402 .  FIG. 12  depicts garment  400  with the zipper  414  in an open state.  FIG. 13  depicts garment  400  with the zipper  414  in a closed state. One skilled in the art will recognize that the garment  400  and privacy control feature  402  may vary in design, materials and/or style and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. For example, garment  400  may comprise any style of pant design having an opening, such as jeans, capris, shorts, yoga pants, pajama bottoms, slacks and other styles. Such opening may be closable using any temporary attachment means including a zipper, buttons, hook-and-loop tape and other forms of attachment. In the depicted embodiment, the opening may be closed through zipper  414  and engaging button  418  with button hole  416 . The location and/or type of the opening or temporary attachment may be altered. In addition, design elements may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the garment  400  includes a internal zipper cover  422  which provides a layer of material between zipper  414  and the user&#39;s body. 
     In this embodiment, privacy control feature  402  includes a tension layer proximate to the crotch of a person. The tension layer of this embodiment comprises a split tension component  404 . This split is illustrated by the interior edges  412  of the tension component  404 . In some embodiments, garment  400  may include a liner covering tension component  404  in whole or in part. The tension component  404  is attached at the base of the crotch of garment  400  at bottom connection  406 . Along the top of the garment  400  a first part of the split tension component  404  is attached at top connection  408  on a first side of the zipper  414  and a second part of the split tension component  404  is attached at top connection  410  on a second side of the zipper  414 . Bottom connection  406  and top connections  408  and  410  may comprise any one or more manners for attaching the tension component  404  to the garment  400 . For example, bottom connection  406  may comprise a stitched seam, top connection  408  may comprise an adhesive and top connection  410  may comprise a rivet connection. In some embodiments, the privacy control feature  402  may be attached such that it is removable and replaceable. In such embodiments, a user may have a series of garments which may be operatively engageable or attachable with one or more privacy control features  402 . Other garments which may be operatively engageable with the privacy control feature  402  may or may not include an opening. 
     In some embodiments, the tension component  404  is designed to provide a variety of tension characteristics at locations through the fabric. For example, tension component  404  may be constructed to provide more tension at desired locations, such as the anticipated area proximate to the wearer&#39;s labia below the location where the internal edges  412  of tension component  404  meet, and lower levels of tension at other locations, such as the outer edge  420  of the tension component  404 . For another example, the tension component  404  may be constructed to focus tension in desired directions, such as crossing angular directions. When providing crossing angular tension, the area in which the tension crosses may comprise the area of focused tension associated with the wearer&#39;s crotch. The design of the materials, dimensions, tension and other characteristics of tension component  404  may be varied to conceal, obfuscate or eliminate the curvature of the wearer&#39;s body. The tension component  404  may be controlled, influenced, or modified through fabric design methods including weaving, material selection, layering, tension modification techniques and/or other means of influencing the tension characteristics. 
       FIG. 13  depicts the garment  400  with the opening closed. When a woman is wearing garment  400 , the split of tension component  404  extends from bottom connection  406  diagonally to the first top connection  408  and diagonally to the second top connection  410 . The joined area of tension component  404  is operatively engaged with the crotch of the woman to provide a pressure against the external portion of the woman&#39;s genitalia. Closing the opening alters the pressure characteristics of the tension component  404  for a user when worn. For example, the distance between the first top connection  408  and the second top connection  410  is decreased in the closed state shown in  FIG. 13 . For another example, the garment design may provide for reduced pressure when the opening is open and increased pressure when the opening is closed. One skilled in the art will recognize that the garment  400  and privacy control feature  402  may be designed such that the preferred pressure is created when the opening is closed. 
     In some embodiments, the pressure from tension component  404  is in an upward direction to lift the labia and conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. In some embodiments, the pressure from tension component  404  is in a direction towards the woman&#39;s back to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. The pressure may be directed in one or more directions, such as upward, inward, outward, towards the woman&#39;s back and/or combinations thereof, to create pressure against a woman&#39;s body in order to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. One skilled in the art will recognize that the direction of pressure created by the tension layer may vary while operating to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. 
     Embodiments of garments with tension layers may be designed to fit different sizes and shapes of the various wearers. In addition, the extent and location of pressure provided by the tension layer may vary in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the garment  400  in conjunction with the tension component  404  may be designed to fit differing body types through the extent, location, size and other characteristics of the tension components. In some embodiments, the garment  400  in conjunction with the tension component  404  may be designed to compliment another garment to wear over or under garment  400 . For example, a woman may wear a pair of panties under garment  400  which would provide an additional layer between the privacy control feature  402  and the woman&#39;s labia. One skilled in the art will recognize that the number of tension layers and/or tension components within a tension layer may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 14  depicts an embodiment of garment  500  having a zipper  518 . The garment  500  is shown without the rear portion in order to illustrate a privacy control feature  502 . Zipper  518  is shown in an open state, but may be worn in a closed state. One skilled in the art will recognize that the garment  500  and privacy control feature  502  may vary in design, materials and/or style and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. For example, garment  500  may comprise any style of pant design having an opening, such as jeans, capris, shorts, yoga pants, pajama bottoms, slacks and other styles. Such opening may be closable using any temporary attachment means including a zipper, buttons, hook-and-loop tape and other forms of attachment. In the depicted embodiment, the opening may be closed through zipper  518  and engaging button  522  with button hole  520 . The location and/or type of the opening or temporary attachment may be altered. In addition, design elements may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     In this embodiment, privacy control feature  502  includes a tension layer proximate to the crotch of a person. The tension layer of this embodiment comprises a split tension component  504 . This split is illustrated by the interior edges  512  of the tension component  504 . In some embodiments, garment  500  may include a liner covering tension component  504  in whole or in part. The tension component  504  is attached at the base of the crotch of garment  500  at bottom connection  506 . Along the top of the garment  500  a first part of the split tension component  504  is attached at top connection  508  on a first side of the zipper  518  and a second part of the split tension component  504  is attached at top connection  510  on a second side of the zipper  518 . Bottom connection  506  and top connections  508  and  510  may comprise any one or more manners for attaching the tension component  504  to the garment  500 . For example, bottom connection  506  may comprise a stitched seam and top connections  508  and  510  may comprise adhesive connections. 
     In this embodiment, the outer sides of tension component  504  are also shown to be attached to the garment  500  by side connections  514  and  516 . In some embodiments, the side connections  514  and  516  may provide flexible connections which work in conjunction with the tension component  504  to direct the tension and modify the pressure on the wearer&#39;s genitalia to prevent, obfuscate or conceal the curvature from being visible. In some embodiments, the side connections  514  and  516  provide a loose connection to hold the tension component  504  in a general vicinity without interfering with the ability of tension component  504  to move freely during operation. For example, side connections  514  and  516  may comprise a loose stitch that allows sufficient movement of the tension component  504 . As discussed within the disclosure the connection design, materials, and operation may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the disclosure. 
     In some embodiments, the privacy control feature  502  may be attached such that it is removable and replaceable. In such embodiments, a user may have a series of garments which may be operatively engageable or attachable with one or more privacy control features  502 . Other garments which may be operatively engageable with the privacy control feature  502  may or may not include an opening. 
     In some embodiments, the tension component  504  is designed to provide a variety of tension characteristics at locations through the fabric. For example, tension component  504  may be constructed to provide more tension at desired locations, such as the anticipated area proximate to the wearer&#39;s labia below the location where the internal edges  512  of tension component  504  meet, and lower levels of tension at other locations, such as the outer edge of the tension component  504 . For another example, the tension component  504  may be constructed to focus tension in desired directions, such as crossing angular directions. When providing crossing angular tension, the area in which the tension crosses may comprise the area of focused tension associated with the wearer&#39;s crotch. The design of the materials, dimensions, tension and other characteristics of tension component  504  may be varied to conceal, obfuscate or eliminate the curvature of the wearer&#39;s body. The tension component  504  may be controlled, influenced, or modified through fabric design methods including weaving, material selection, layering, tension modification techniques and/or other means of influencing the tension characteristics. 
     When a woman is wearing garment  500 , the split of tension component  504  extends from bottom connection  506  diagonally to the first top connection  508  and diagonally to the second top connection  510 . The joined area of tension component  504  is operatively engaged with the crotch of the woman to provide a pressure against the external portion of the woman&#39;s genitalia. Closing the opening alters the pressure characteristics of the tension component  504  for a user when worn. For example, the distance between the first top connection  508  and the second top connection  510  is decreased in the closed state. For another example, the garment design may provide for reduced pressure when the opening is open and increased pressure when the opening is closed. One skilled in the art will recognize that the garment  500  and privacy control feature  502  may be designed such that the preferred pressure is created when the opening is closed. 
     In some embodiments, the pressure from tension component  504  is in an upward direction to lift the labia and conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. In some embodiments, the pressure from tension component  504  is in a direction towards the woman&#39;s back to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. The pressure may be directed in one or more directions, such as upward, inward, outward, towards the woman&#39;s back and/or combinations thereof, to create pressure against a woman&#39;s body in order to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. One skilled in the art will recognize that the direction of pressure created by the tension layer may vary while operating to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. 
     Embodiments of garments with tension layers may be designed to fit different sizes and shapes of the various wearers. In addition, the extent and location of pressure provided by the tension layer may vary in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the garment  500  in conjunction with the tension component  504  may be designed to fit differing body types through the extent, location, size and other characteristics of the tension components. In some embodiments, the garment  500  in conjunction with the tension component  504  may be designed to compliment another garment to wear over or under garment  500 . For example, a woman may wear a pair of panties under garment  500  which would provide an additional layer between the privacy control feature  502  and the woman&#39;s labia. One skilled in the art will recognize that the number of tension layers and/or tension components within a tension layer may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 15  depicts an embodiment of garment  500  having a zipper  518 . The garment  500  is shown without the rear portion in order to illustrate a privacy control feature  502 . Zipper  518  is shown in an open state, but may be worn in a closed state. One skilled in the art will recognize that the garment  500  and privacy control feature  502  may vary in design, materials and/or style and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. For example, garment  500  may comprise any style of pant design having an opening, such as jeans, capris, shorts, yoga pants, pajama bottoms, slacks and other styles. Such opening may be closable using any temporary attachment means including a zipper, buttons, hook-and-loop tape and other forms of attachment. In the depicted embodiment, the opening may be closed through zipper  518  and engaging button  522  with button hole  520 . The location and/or type of the opening or temporary attachment may be altered. In addition, design elements may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     In this embodiment, privacy control feature  502  includes a tension layer proximate to the crotch of a person. The tension layer of this embodiment comprises a first tension component  532  and a second tension component  534 . In the depicted embodiment, garment  500  includes a liner  548  covering tension components  532  and  534  in whole or in part. Each of the tension components  532  and  534  are attached at the base of the crotch of garment  500  at bottom connection  536 . First tension component  532  is attached along the top at first top connection  538  on the first side of zipper  518  and second tension component  534  is attached along the top at second top connection  540  on the second side of zipper  518 . Bottom connection  536  and top connections  538  and  540  may comprise any one or more manners for attaching the tension components  532  and  534  to the garment  500 . For example, bottom connection  536  may comprise a stitched seam and top connections  538  and  540  may comprise an adhesive. 
     In this embodiment, the liner  548  is also attached at the bottom connection  536  and top connections  538  and  540 . In some embodiments, the liner  548  and tension components  532  and  534  are attached to the garment  500  together. In some embodiments, the liner  548  and tension components  532  and  534  are separately attached to the garment  500 . In this embodiment, the interior edges of the liner  548  are also attached to garment  500  around the zipper  518  by interior connection  542 . In this embodiment, the liner  548  prevents the tension components  532  and  534  from crossing over the zipper  518 . This may prevent the tension components  532  and  534  from being caught in the zipper  518  and/or may hide the tension components  532  and  534  from view when the zipper  518  is open. In some embodiments, the outer edges  544  and  546  of liner  548  may also be attached to the garment  500 . In some embodiments, the interior edges of the liner  548  and/or the outer edges  544  and  546  of liner  548  may not be attached to the garment  500 . The liner  548  and attachment thereof may be designed not to interfere with the operation of tension components  532  and  534 . 
     In some embodiments, the privacy control feature  502  may be attached such that it is removable and replaceable. In such embodiments, a user may have a series of garments which may be operatively engageable or attachable with one or more privacy control features  502 . Other garments which may be operatively engageable with the privacy control feature  502  may or may not include an opening. 
     In some embodiments, tension components  532  and  534  cross each other such that an increased level of support is provided around a desired location wherein tension components  532  and  534  overlap. Overlap portion  550  shows the overlap in the front of the tension layer of privacy control feature  502 . In some embodiments, the tension layer is utilized to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate the external portion of a woman&#39;s genitalia when the garment  500  is worn. One skilled in the art will recognize that garment  500  may be worn in conjunction with other garments and undergarments. For example, a woman may wear a pair of panties under garment  500  which would provide an additional layer between the privacy control feature  502  and the woman&#39;s labia. 
     In some embodiments, the tension components  532  and  534  are designed to provide a variety of tension characteristics at locations through the materials. For example, tension components  532  and  534  may be constructed to provide more tension at desired locations, such as the anticipated area proximate to the wearer&#39;s labia, and lower levels of tension at other locations, such as the outer edge of the tension components  532  and  534 . For another example, the tension components  532  and  534  may be constructed to focus tension in desired directions, such as crossing angular directions. When providing crossing angular tension, the overlap portion  550  in which the tension crosses may comprise the area of focused tension associated with the wearer&#39;s crotch. The design of the materials, dimensions, tension and other characteristics of tension components  532  and  534  may be varied to conceal, obfuscate or eliminate the curvature of the wearer&#39;s body. The tension components  532  and  534  may be controlled, influenced, or modified through fabric design methods including weaving, material selection, layering, tension modification techniques and/or other means of influencing the tension characteristics. 
     When a woman is wearing garment  500 , tension component  532  extends from bottom connection  536  diagonally to the first top connection  538  and is operatively engaged with the crotch of the woman to provide a pressure against the external portion of the woman&#39;s genitalia. In addition, tension component  534  extends from bottom connection  536  diagonally to second top connection  540  crossing over tension component  532  and is operatively engaged with the crotch of the woman to provide a pressure against the external portion of the woman&#39;s genitalia. The overlap portion  550  may be designed to cover the woman&#39;s labia such that a combined pressure created by each of tension components  532  and  534  is applicable to at least a portion of the woman&#39;s labia. In some embodiments, the overlap portion  550  is designed to cover the woman&#39;s labia completely. 
     Closing the opening alters the pressure characteristics of the tension components  532  and  534  for a user when worn. For example, the distance between the first top connection  538  and the second top connection  540  is decreased in the closed state. For another example, the garment design may provide for reduced pressure when the opening is open and increased pressure when the opening is closed. One skilled in the art will recognize that the garment  500  and privacy control feature  502  may be designed such that the preferred pressure is created when the opening is closed. 
     In some embodiments, the pressure from tension components  532  and  534  is in an upward direction to lift the labia and conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. In some embodiments, the pressure from tension components  532  and  534  is in a direction towards the woman&#39;s back to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. The pressure may be directed in one or more directions, such as upward, inward, outward, towards the woman&#39;s back and/or combinations thereof, to create pressure against a woman&#39;s body in order to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. One skilled in the art will recognize that the direction of pressure created by the tension layer may vary while operating to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. 
     Embodiments of garments with tension layers may be designed to fit different sizes and shapes of the various wearers. In addition, the extent and location of pressure provided by the tension layer may vary in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the garment  500  in conjunction with the tension components  532  and  534  may be designed to fit differing body types through the extent, location, size and other characteristics of the tension components. In some embodiments, the garment  500  in conjunction with the tension components  532  and  534  may be designed to compliment another garment to wear over or under garment  500 . For example, a woman may wear a pair of panties under garment  500  which would provide an additional layer between the privacy control feature  502  and the woman&#39;s labia. One skilled in the art will recognize that the number of tension layers and/or tension components within a tension layer may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     The garments described in the present disclosure may be utilized for functional support apart from the privacy control purposes. In some embodiments, one or more tension components may be incorporated into medical garments to provide medically beneficial support to a designated area. For example, a garment with tension control features may be used following surgery, such as a labiaplasty operation, a vaginal rejuvenation procedure, or post-pregnancy to support the woman&#39;s crotch. For another example, a garment with tension control features may be used following a vasectomy to support a man&#39;s genitalia. The additional support may improve the time and/or success of the healing process. The support may further improve the comfort of a wearer following a procedure. 
       FIG. 16  depicts another exemplary embodiment of garment  330  with a privacy control feature  302  worn by a person. In this embodiment, garment  330  comprises a pair of shorts. In some embodiments, the garment  330  may comprise other types of garments or undergarments such as, compression-wear, boy-shorts, etc. The legs  332  of the person are shown for context. One skilled in the art will recognize that the garment  330  and privacy control feature  302  may vary in design, materials and/or style and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. In addition, design elements may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. For example, seam  314  is shown vertically in approximately the center of the garment  330  in this embodiment; however, the location and/or type of the seam  314  may be altered or eliminated all together. 
     In this embodiment, privacy control feature  302  includes a tension layer proximate to the crotch of a person. In this embodiment, the tension layer comprises a tension component  334 . In some embodiments, garment  330  may include a liner covering tension component  334  in whole or in part. Tension component  334  may perform the same functions as multiple tension components. One skilled in the art will recognize that one or more tension components may be utilized in embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, tension component  334  may provide a constant tension characteristic across the entirety of the tension component  334 . For example, tension component  334  may comprise a single elastomeric fabric which provides a constant tension throughout the material. 
     In some embodiments, the tension component  334  is designed to provide a variety of tension characteristics at locations through the fabric. For example, tension component  334  may be constructed to provide more tension at desired locations, such as the anticipated area proximate to the wearer&#39;s labia, and lower levels of tension at other locations, such as the edge of the tension component  334 . For another example, the tension component  334  may be constructed to focus tension in desired directions, such as crossing angular directions. When providing crossing angular tension, the area in which the tension crosses may comprise the area of focused tension associated with the wearer&#39;s crotch. The design of the materials, dimensions, tension and other characteristics of tension component  334  may be varied to conceal, obfuscate or eliminate the curvature of the wearer&#39;s body. The tension component  334  may be controlled, influenced, or modified through fabric design methods including weaving, material selection, layering, tension modification techniques and/or other means of influencing the tension characteristics. 
     When worn by a woman, the tension component  334  and/or an active or selected portion of tension component  334  would be designed to cover the labia of the woman in order to focus the pressure at the desired location to conceal, obfuscate and/or eliminate any view of the curvature of the woman&#39;s labia. One skilled in the art will recognize that one design of garment  330  may operate, affect or be worn differently by different women due to a variety of characteristics associated with each woman&#39;s body type. Elements of this disclosure may be varied to create a series of garments to correspond to various body types, in order to provide users with the options to select garments best suited for that user&#39;s body type. 
     In this embodiment, the tension component  334  extends from the top-front of the garment  330  to the top-back of the garment  330 . The tension component  334  is wider in the front and narrows through a bottom section  336  before widening near the top-back of the garment  330 . One skilled in the art will recognize that the design of the tension component  334  which extends from the top-front to the top-back of the garment  330  may be applied to other embodiments disclosed herein and other garments while remaining within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     In this embodiment, the tension component  334  is attached along the front at the top waist line and along the back at the top waist line. In some embodiments, the tension component  334  may be attached along the front and/or the back at a location dropped below the top waist line. For example, the tension component  334  may be attached to a seam dropped between 0.5 and 4 inches from the top waist line. The connections in the front and/or the back may comprise any one or more manners for attaching the tension component  334  to the garment  330 . For example, the connections may comprise a stitched seam and an adhesive. 
     In some embodiments, the tension layer may include two or more tension components which designed to overlap proximate to the wearer&#39;s crotch. For example, when worn by a woman, the overlap would be designed to cover the labia of the woman in order to focus the pressure at the desired location to conceal, obfuscate and/or eliminate any view of the curvature of the woman&#39;s labia. In some embodiments, the overlapping components may only cover a portion of the woman&#39;s labia. 
     In some embodiments, the tension layer extending from the top-front to the top-back of the garment  330  may include one or more front tension components and one or more rear tension components which attach to each other at a bottom connection proximate to the bottom section  336 . For example, multiple front tension components may attach to a single rear tension component at a bottom connection proximate to the bottom section  336 . 
     In some embodiments, the tension component  334  (or an alternative version of the tension layer comprising multiple tension components) may also be attached to the garment  330  at a bottom connection proximate to bottom section  336 . In such embodiments, the bottom connection may operate as a fixed connection between the garment  330  and the tension component  334  which limits the movement between the garment  330  and the tension component  334  at the connection point. In some embodiments, the bottom connection may be a loose connection which allows movement between the garment  330  and the tension component  334  while maintaining the relative orientation of the tension component  334  to the garment  330 . One skilled in the art will recognize that different connections may be used to provide different allowances for movement between the garment  330  and the tension component  334  and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     One skilled in the art will recognize that one design of garment  330  may operate, affect or be worn differently by different women due to a variety of characteristics associated with each woman&#39;s body type. Elements of this disclosure may be varied to create a series of garments to correspond to various body types, in order to provide users with the options to select garments best suited for that user&#39;s body type. 
     In some embodiments, the privacy control feature  302  may be attached such that it is removable and replaceable. In such embodiments, a user may have a series of garments which may be operatively engageable or attachable with one or more privacy control features  302 . In the embodiment shown, tension component  334  is wider along the top than it is along bottom section  336 . In some embodiments, the tension component  334  is a rectangular strip of material or a plurality of strips of material. One skilled in the art will recognize that that the size, shape and other characteristics of the tension component  334  may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     One skilled in the art will recognize that garment  330  may be worn in conjunction with other garments and undergarments. For example, a woman may wear a pair of panties under garment  330  which would provide an additional layer between the privacy control feature  302  and the woman&#39;s labia. Different garments  330  may be designed for either wearing or not wearing additional garments. For example, a woman may elect to purchase workout shorts to wear without panties to avoid undesired panty lines. The privacy control feature  302  in conjunction with the material of the shorts may be breathable and comfortable materials designed to wick away moisture to maintain further comfort during an exercise class. For example, the material may comprise a mesh design for the tension component  334  of the privacy control feature  302  while the garment  330  uses a tight but breathable fabric to prevent a see-through effect which the mesh may allow. 
     In some embodiments, the pressure from tension component  334  is in an upward direction to lift the labia and conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. In some embodiments, the pressure from tension component  334  is in a direction towards the woman&#39;s back to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. The pressure may be directed in one or more directions, such as upward, inward, outward, towards the woman&#39;s back and/or combinations thereof, to create pressure against a woman&#39;s body in order to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. One skilled in the art will recognize that the direction of pressure created by the tension layer may vary while operating to conceal, eliminate and/or obfuscate any visible curvature of the female anatomy. 
     Embodiments of garments with tension layers may be designed to fit different sizes and shapes of the various wearers. In addition, the extent and location of pressure provided by the tension layer may vary in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the garment  330  in conjunction with the tension component  334  may be designed to fit differing body types through the extent, location, size and other characteristics of the tension components. In some embodiments, the garment  300  in conjunction with the tension component  334  may be designed to compliment another garment to wear over or under garment  330 . One skilled in the art will recognize that the number of tension layers and/or tension components within a tension layer may vary and remain within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. 
     The invention being thus described and further described in the claims, it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the scope and spirit of the invention and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the apparatus and method described.