Patent Publication Number: US-11641889-B2

Title: Adjustable multi-layer bra

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/903,239 filed Sep. 20, 2019 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/969,801 filed Feb. 4, 2020, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     Compression undergarments such as sports bras are used for a number of reasons to securely position a wearer&#39;s breasts and compress the wearer&#39;s breasts. Under certain circumstances, for example, in post-operation recovery, during strenuous physical activity, or to shape the bust for a desired physical appearance, compression and restriction of movement of the wearer&#39;s breasts is advantageous. 
     Typical known sports bras may adequately compress and limit movement of a wearer&#39;s breasts. However, known sports bras unnecessarily compress or restrict other parts of the wearer&#39;s body, such as the torso or the underarms, and impede physical activity, limit the wearer&#39;s ability to breathe, or otherwise cause discomfort to the wearer. Often times, the weight of the wearer&#39;s breasts is supported by the wearer&#39;s shoulders or neck, resulting in fatigue and, at times, chronic pain. Additionally, many known sports bras that are adjustable for purposes of positioning and compressing the breasts require the wearer to adjust clasps, hook and eye closures, or sliders positioned behind the wearer&#39;s back or shoulders that are difficult to access by the wearer after the bra has been put on. Such adjustment components are especially inaccessible during use to a wearer that is performing a physical activity or a wearer that is physically incapacitated due to disability or injury. 
     Accordingly, there is a need for a compression or sports bra that can be adjusted to position and compress the breasts for physical activity without compressing or restricting the wearer&#39;s torso, shoulders, or underarms. Additionally, there is a need for an adjustable bra that provides support from non-influenced points on the wearer&#39;s back or chest to reduce or alleviate neck and shoulder pain resulting from supporting the weight of the breasts on shoulders/neck. There is also a need for a sports bra that can be easily adjusted during use, for example, by providing means to adjust the bra at locations on the bra that are accessible to the wearer during use. 
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION 
     According to an aspect, the exemplary embodiments include an adjustable multi-layer bra including an inner bra layer having a first bra cup including a top edge, a bottom edge, an inner edge, and an outer edge, a second bra cup including a top edge, a bottom edge, an inner edge, and an outer edge, an inner bra bridge connecting the first bra cup inner edge to the second bra cup inner edge, a string path defined along at least one of the first bra cup outer edge, the first bra cup bottom edge, the second bra cup bottom edge, and the second bra cup outer edge, and an adjustment string moveably disposed along the string path. The bra further includes an outer bra layer positioned at least partially over the inner bra layer, where the outer bra layer includes a first shoulder strap and a second shoulder strap. The adjustment string of the inner bra is affixed to the first shoulder strap and the second shoulder strap of the outer bra layer. 
     According to an aspect, the exemplary embodiments include a multi-layer bra with an inner bra layer including a first bra cup and a second bra cup and a chest band including a first chest band section positioned over the first bra cup and a second chest band section positioned over the second bra cup. The bra includes an outer bra layer having a cross-chest strap extending from a first shoulder strap to a second shoulder strap of the outer bra layer, a first circumferential harness segment extending from the cross-chest strap to a bottom edge of the first chest band section; and a second circumferential harness segment extending from the cross-chest strap to a bottom edge of the second chest band section. 
     In a further aspect, the exemplary embodiments include a method of using an adjustable multi-layer bra including an inner bra layer, an outer bra layer, and a middle bra layer. The method includes lifting a first bra cup of the inner bra layer by upwardly pulling a first end of an adjustment string extending around an outer edge and bottom edge of the first bra cup and securing the first adjustment string end to a first shoulder strap of the outer layer, and lifting a second bra cup of the inner bra layer by upwardly pulling a second end of the adjustment string extending around an outer edge and a bottom edge of the second bra cup to lift the second bra cup and securing the second adjustment string end to a second shoulder strap of the outer layer. The method further includes compressing the outer bra layer by downwardly pulling an adjustable fastener extending from a cross-chest strap of the outer layer, securing the adjustable fastener to the inner bra layer, and compressing the middle bra layer by tightening a cinching section positioned medially on the middle layer. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       A more particular description will be rendered by reference to exemplary embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying figures. Understanding that these drawings depict exemplary embodiments and do not limit the scope of this disclosure, the exemplary embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG.  1 A  is a front view of an adjustable multi-layer bra according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  1 B  is a front view of an inner bra layer of the adjustable multi-layer bra according to the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1 A ; 
         FIG.  1 C  is a front view of the outer bra layer of the adjustable multi-layer bra according to the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1 A ; 
         FIG.  2 A  is a rear view of an adjustable multi-layer bra according to the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1 A ; 
         FIG.  2 B  is a rear view of the inner bra layer of the adjustable multi-layer bra according to the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1 A ; 
         FIG.  2 C  is a rear view of the outer bra layer of the adjustable multi-layer bra according to the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1 A ; 
         FIG.  3 A  is a right side view of an adjustable multi-layer bra according to the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1 A ; 
         FIG.  3 B  is a right side view of an inner bra layer of the adjustable multi-layer bra according to the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1 A ; 
         FIG.  3 C  is a right side view of an outer bra layer of the adjustable multi-layer bra according to the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1 A ; 
         FIG.  4 A  is a left side view of an adjustable multi-layer bra according to the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1 A ; 
         FIG.  4 B  is a left side view of an inner bra layer of the adjustable multi-layer bra according to the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1 A ; 
         FIG.  4 C  is a left side view of an outer bra layer of the adjustable multi-layer bra according to the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1 A ; 
         FIGS.  5  and  6    are front views of the adjustable multi-layer bra in a partially assembled configuration according to an embodiment, illustrating inner bra cups, an adjustment string, and an outer bra of the adjustable multi-layer bra according to aspects of the embodiment; 
         FIG.  7    is a front view of an adjustable multi-layer bra according to an embodiment, illustrating an adjustment string according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  8    is a partial front view of an adjustable multi-layer bra according to an embodiment, illustrating an outer bra layer central chest band of the adjustable multi-layer bra according to an aspect of the embodiment; 
         FIG.  9    is a side view of an adjustable multi-layer bra according to an embodiment, illustrating points at which the inner layer bra and the outer layer bra of the adjustable multi-layer bra are connected according to an aspect of the embodiment; 
         FIG.  10    is a rear view of an adjustable multi-layer bra according to an embodiment, illustrating a clip of the adjustable multi-layer bra positioned at an upper point on a wearer&#39;s back according to an aspect of the embodiment; 
         FIG.  11 A  is a front view of an adjustable multi-layer bra according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  11 B  is a rear view of an adjustable multi-layer bra according to the embodiment shown in  FIG.  11 A ; and 
         FIG.  11 C  is a front view of a middle layer of an adjustable multi-layer bra according to the embodiment shown in  FIG.  11 A . 
     
    
    
     Various features, aspects, and advantages of the exemplary embodiments will become more apparent from the following detailed description, along with the accompanying drawings in which like numerals represent like components throughout the figures and detailed description. The various described features are not necessarily drawn to scale in the drawings but are drawn to emphasize specific features relevant to some embodiments. 
     The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to limit the scope of the disclosure or the claims. To facilitate understanding, reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments. Each example is provided by way of explanation and is not meant as a limitation and does not constitute a definition of all possible embodiments. 
     For purposes of this disclosure, “anchored” means securely positioned at a location at which the described component is non-moving or is non-influenced by forces acting on adjacent components. Where the disclosure makes clear that “connected” refers to a purely physical connection or joining, “connected”, for purposes of this disclosure, means integrally formed, or securely, separably, or removably joined by known techniques consistent with the disclosure. 
     Embodiments described herein relate generally to devices and methods of use for an adjustable multi-layer bra. For purposes of this disclosure, the phrases “devices,” “systems,” and “methods” may be used either individually or in any combination referring without limitation to disclosed components, grouping, arrangements, steps, functions, or processes. 
     For purposes of illustrating features of the embodiments, an exemplary embodiment will now be introduced and referenced throughout the disclosure. This example is illustrative and not limiting and is provided for illustrating the exemplary features of an adjustable multi-layer bra as described throughout this disclosure. 
     Turning now to  FIG.  1 A , a complete multi-layer adjustable bra  100  is shown. The multi-layer adjustable bra  100  includes an inner bra/inner bra layer  101  (shown in  FIG.  1 B ) and an outer bra/outer bra layer  104  (shown in  FIG.  1 C ). The inner bra layer  101  is independently adjustable in relation to the outer bra layer  104  to secure the wearer&#39;s breasts at a desired elevation or vertical distance relative to a wearer&#39;s shoulders. The inner bra layer  101  includes a first bra cup  102  having a top edge  102   a , a bottom edge  102   b , an inner edge  102   c , and an outer edge  102   d , and a second bra cup  103  having a top edge  103   a , a bottom edge  103   b , an inner edge  103   c , and an outer edge  103   d . In the illustrated embodiment, the first bra cup  102  partially encloses and supports a wearer&#39;s right breast, and the second bra cup  103  partially encloses and supports the wearer&#39;s left breast. The first bra cup  102  and the second bra cup  103  may enclose about three-quarters of the wearer&#39;s right and left breast, respectively. According to an aspect, the bra cups  102 ,  103  of the inner bra layer  101  may be sized and shaped in a manner consistent with standard undergarment measurements (i.e., A, B, C, etc. cup size) for ease of correctly selecting the appropriate bra size by wearers that are familiar with standard undergarment measurements. 
     In an embodiment and as shown in  FIG.  1 A- 1 B , the inner bra layer  101  includes an adjustment string  112  for independently elevating and securing each breast (i.e., by vertical adjustment of the first bra cup  102  and the second bra cup  103 ) to a desired position. More particularly, the adjustment string includes a first end  113  and a second end  114  that are configured to be secured to the outer bra layer  104 , as will be described further below, adjacent the wearer&#39;s right shoulder and left shoulder, respectively. The adjustment string  112  may be moveably disposed in a string path or channel  139  provided along at least a portion of the perimeter of the first bra cup  102  and the second bra cup  103 , including at least the bottom edges  102   b ,  103   b , across the wearer&#39;s chest. In an aspect, the string path  139  may be a series of loops or a channel structure through which the adjustment string  112  is threaded. According to an aspect, the adjustment string  112  may be a single, continuous string. In an aspect, the adjustment string  112  may include a first adjustment string moveably disposed along at least a portion of the perimeter of the first bra cup  102 , and a second adjustment string moveably disposed along at least a portion of the perimeter of the second bra cup  103 . When one or both of the adjustment string first end  113  and the adjustment string second end  114  is pulled upwardly toward the wearer&#39;s respective right or left shoulder, the adjustment string  112  lifts the respective first bra cup  102  or second bra cup  103  from the respective bottom edge  102   c ,  103   c  to adjust the vertical position of the wearer&#39;s breasts relative to the wearer&#39;s shoulders. According to an aspect, the adjustment string  112  functions as part of a pulley system integrated into an inelastic frame defined by the multi-layer bra  100  (described below) to lift and lower the inner bra cups  102 ,  103 . The adjustment string ends  113 ,  114  may then be fastened to the outer layer  104 , as will be described below. 
     In an embodiment, the adjustment string  112  is moveably disposed in a string path or channel  139  along each of the first bra cup outer edge  102   d , the first bra cup bottom edge  102   b , the second bra cup bottom edge  103   b , and the second bra cup outer edge  103   d . According to an aspect, the adjustment string  112  is threaded through the channel  139  formed in the inner bra  201  that is provided adjacent at least one of the right bra cup outer edge  102   d , the right bra cup bottom edge  102   b , the left bra cup bottom edge  103   b , and the left bra cup outer edge  103   d . In an aspect, the adjustment string  112  may be moveably disposed in the inner bra  102  as described above in any manner consistent with this disclosure. The first bra cup  102  and the second bra cup  103  of the inner bra layer  101  are connected by an inner bra bridge  126  that joins the first bra cup inner edge  102   c  and the second bra cup inner edge  103   c.    
     According to an embodiment, the adjustment string  112  may include a first adjustment string appendage  112   a  that extends from the adjustment string  112  to the first bra cup top edge  102   a  and a second adjustment string appendage  112   b  that extends from the adjustment string  112  to the second bra cup top edge  103   a . The first adjustment string appendage  112   a  and the second adjustment string appendage  112   b  secure the respective top edges  102   a ,  103   a  of the first bra cup  102  and second bra cup  103  in the desired position on the wearer&#39;s chest. In an aspect, the first adjustment string appendage  112   a  extends from the adjustment string  112  at a point near the adjustment string first end  117   a , and the second adjustment string appendage  112   b  extends from the adjustment string  112  at a point near the adjustment string second end  117   b . According to an aspect, the first adjustment string appendage  112   a  and the second adjustment string appendage  112   b  may be made from an elastic material and may measure approximately 2 inches in length. 
     With reference to  FIG.  1 C , the outer bra layer  104  includes a first shoulder strap  108  with a terminal portion  109  that extends over the wearer&#39;s right shoulder and a second shoulder  110  strap with a terminal end  111  that extends over the wearer&#39;s left shoulder. In an aspect, the outer bra layer  104  includes a receiver  116   a  positioned on the first shoulder strap  108  and a receiver  116   b  positioned on the second shoulder strap  110 . In an assembled configuration as shown in  FIG.  1 A , the adjustment string first end  113  may be coupled to the to the first shoulder strap  108  and the adjustment string second end  114  may be coupled to the second shoulder strap  110  of the outer bra layer  104 . According to an aspect, a first fastener  117   a  provided on the adjustment string first end  113  is coupled to the receiver  116   a , and a second fastener  117   b  provided on the adjustment string second end  114  is coupled to the receiver  116   b . According to an aspect, the positioning of the first fastener  117   a  of the adjustment string first end  113  may be adjustable independently of the second fastener  117   b  of the adjustment string second end  114  such that the first bra cup  102  may be secured in a first vertical position and the second bra cup  103  may be secured in a second vertical position depending on the wearer&#39;s preference. It is contemplated that in an embodiment, the receivers  116   a ,  116   b  may be positioned on the adjustment string ends  113 ,  114  and the fasteners  117   a ,  117   b  may be positioned on the shoulder straps  108 ,  110 . In the exemplary embodiment, the receiver  116  and fastener  117  component is a pin and tuck closure in which the receiver  116  is a flat, flexible soft silicone band having a series of holes formed therein for receiving a pin element provided on the fastener  117  that is sized and shaped to be secured in one of the series of holes. While the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein include the pin and tuck closure for securing the adjustment string  112  to the outer bra layer  104 , any structure or component consistent with this disclosure may be used for the same purposes. In an aspect, the receiver  116  and fastener  117  component may be provided as any low-profile and/or flexible structure or component consistent with this disclosure to the extent that the fastener and receiver component does not impede comfort of the wearer or usability of the adjustable multi-layer bra  100 . For example and not limitation, the receiver  116  and fastener  117  component may be a buckle, a clip, a button, a snap fastener, ties, ratchet straps, or a hook and loop fastener. 
     In an embodiment as shown in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 C , the first shoulder strap  108  includes a first opening  118  (e.g. a hole, cut, or slit in or extending through the first shoulder strap  108 ) and the second shoulder strap  110  includes a second opening  119  (e.g. a hole, cut, or slit in or extending through the second shoulder strap  110 ). The first opening  118  may be positioned adjacent the first receiver  116   a  so that the fastener  117   a  of the adjustment string first end  113  may pass through the first opening  118  to join to the first receiver  116   a . The second opening  119  may be positioned adjacent the second receiver  116   b  so that the fastener  117   b  of the adjustment string second end  114  may pass through the second opening  119  to join to the second receiver  116   b.    
     A chest band  128  extends across the wearer&#39;s chest and includes a first chest band section  129  positioned over the first bra cup  102  and a second chest band section  130  positioned over the second bra cup  103 . In an aspect, the chest band  128  may be joined to the outer bra layer  104  via tacking along the outer edges of the chest band  128 . The chest band  128  may be positioned under the outer bra layer  104 , and may overlay the bra cups  102 ,  103  of the inner bra layer  101 . With reference to  FIGS.  1 C,  3 C, and  4 C , a first chest band section bottom edge  129   b  is positioned over the first bra cup bottom edge  102   b  and a first chest band section outer edge  129   d  is positioned over the first bra cup outer edge  102   d . A second chest band section bottom edge  130   b  is positioned over the second bra cup bottom edge  103   b  and a second chest band section outer edge  130   d  is positioned over the second bra cup outer edge  103   d . In the exemplary embodiment, the bottom edges  102   b ,  103   b ,  129   b ,  130   b  of the bra cups and the chest band are curved to provide a contoured profile. In an aspect, additional fabric may be added to the bottom edges to provide a straight profile extending downward from bottom edges of the bra cups  102 ,  103  to provide additional coverage for the wearer. In an aspect, an additional layer of fabric (not shown) may be provided over the multi-layer bra  100  to encase and conceal the multiple layers of the bra. The additional layer may be provided, for example and not limitation, as a bandeau, camisole, undershirt, or tank top. The additional layer may be made from a flexible, stretchable fabric or material, and the portion of material overlaying the wearer&#39;s breasts may have enhanced stretching functionality to fit the wearer&#39;s chest profile when the multi-layer bra  100  is loosened or tightened to varying degrees. 
     A central chest band section  131  joins the first chest band second  129  and the second chest band section  130  at a medial position on the wearer&#39;s chest (e.g., between the wearer&#39;s breasts) for tightening and loosening of the chest band  128  and/or the outer bra layer  104 . In an embodiment, the central chest band  131  may include a first chest band section inner portion  129   c , a second chest band section inner portion  130   c , and a fastening/cinching mechanism for cinching together the first chest band section  129  and the second chest band section  130  to adjust the tension of the chest band  128  and tighten the outer bra layer  104 . According to an aspect, the cinching mechanism may include a string  133  threaded between one or more eyelets/grommets  132  positioned in each of the first chest band section inner portion  129   c  and the second chest band section inner portion  130   c . In other embodiments, the first chest band section  129  and the second chest band section  130  may be constricted or cinched together using any cinching mechanism known or used in the art that is consistent with this disclosure. Alternatively, the central chest band section  131  may comprise a mechanism for adjustably securing the first chest band section inner portion  129   c  to the second chest band section inner portion  130   c , for example, a buckle, a clip, a button, a snap fastener, ties, ratchet straps, or a hook and loop fastener. 
     The outer bra layer  104  includes a chest harness  120  that may partially overlap and join with portions of the chest band  128 . The chest harness  120  includes a cross-chest strap  121  extending from the first shoulder strap  108  to the second shoulder strap  110  above the wearer&#39;s breasts and below the wearer&#39;s clavicle. In an embodiment, the cross-chest strap  121  at least partially covers a portion of a top edge  129   a  of the first chest band section  129  and a portion of a top edge  130   a  of the second chest band section  130 . According to an aspect, the cross-chest strap  121  may be joined, for example by tacking, to at least a portion of the top edges  129   a ,  130   a  of the first chest band section  129  and the second chest band section  130 . In the exemplary embodiment, the cross-chest strap  121  has a V-shaped profile, however, it is contemplated that the cross-chest strap  121  may be provided in any known neckline, including for example, a scoop neckline or square neckline. As seen in  FIG.  2 A , an outer bra fastener  125  extends from a midpoint M (see  FIG.  7   ) of the cross-chest strap  121  towards the inner bra bridge  126  for engagement with an inner bra receiver  127  provided on the inner bra bridge  126 . According to an aspect, the outer bra fastener  125  and inner bra receiver  127  may be a pin and tuck closure (e.g., such that inner bra receiver  127  is a hole and outer bra fastener  125  includes pins, or vice versa) or any structure or component consistent with this disclosure may be used for the same purposes. 
     According to an aspect, engagement of the outer bra fastener  125  with the inner bra bridge  126 /inner bra receiver  127  connects the inner bra layer  101  to the outer bra layer  104  near the center of the wearer&#39;s chest and provides a downward compressive force on the chest harness  120 , namely the cross-chest strap  121 , that can be increased or decreased by tightening or loosening the engagement of the outer bra fastener  125  to the inner bra receiver  127  as needed by the wearer. The engagement of the outer bra fastener  125  with the inner bra bridge  126  also upwardly urges the bottom edges  102   b ,  103   b  of the inner bra layer  101 , thereby supporting the weight of the breasts from the midpoint M of the cross-chest strap  121  rather than the shoulders and/or neck of the wearer, which can alleviate or reduce pain or tension that may result from supporting the weight of the breasts from the shoulders and/or neck. 
     According to an aspect, the chest harness  120  also includes a first circumferential harness segment  122  (best seen in  FIGS.  3 A and  3 C ) extending from the cross-chest strap  121  to the first chest band section bottom edge  129   b  and a second circumferential harness segment  123  (best seen in  FIGS.  4 A and  4 C ) extending from the cross-chest strap  121  to the second chest band section bottom edge  130   b . According to an aspect, the chest harness  120  may be formed of a unitary piece of material and may be non-adjustable. In an embodiment, the first circumferential harness segment  122  may at least partially overlay the first chest band section outer edge  129   d , and the second circumferential harness segment  123  may at least partially overlay the second chest band section outer edge  130   d . According to an aspect, each of the first circumferential harness segment  122  and the second circumferential harness segment  123  may be joined, for example by tacking, to the first chest band section outer edge  129   d  and the second chest band section outer edge  130   d , respectively. The chest harness  120  may be formed from a relatively inflexible fabric or material, so that when the chest band  128  is tightened, the chest harness  120  (including the cross-chest strap  121 , the first circumferential harness segment  122 , and the second circumferential harness segment  123 ) is anchored in position on the wearer&#39;s body to prevent unwanted movement of the cups  102 ,  103  and/or the shoulder straps  108 ,  110 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  2 A,  3 A, and  4 A , a horizontal back band  124  extends across the wearer&#39;s mid-back from the first circumferential harness segment  122  to the second circumferential harness segment  123 . According to an aspect and as illustrated in  FIGS.  3 C and  4 C , the horizontal back band  124  extends from an outer portion  122   a  of the first circumferential harness segment  122  to an outer portion  123   a  of the second circumferential harness segment  123 . In an embodiment, the horizontal back band  124  is a relatively inflexible piece of material or fabric that anchors the first circumferential harness segment  122  and the second circumferential harness segment  123  in a desired position. In turn, the circumferential harness segments  122 ,  123  anchor the chest band  128  and the first and second bra cups  102 ,  103  such that the bottom edges  102   d ,  103   d ,  129   d ,  130   d  of the first bra cup, second bra cup, first chest band section, and second chest band section are secured under the wearer&#39;s breasts. 
     With reference to  FIG.  2   ,  FIGS.  3 A- 3 C , and  FIGS.  4 A- 4 C , the inner bra layer  101  includes a first underarm band  134  extending from the outer edge  102   d  of the first bra cup  102  and a second underarm band  136  extending from the outer edge  103   d  of the second bra cup  103 . The first underarm band  134  and the second underarm band  136  each extend around a flank/side of the wearer and converge at a point on the wearer&#39;s upper back below the nape of the neck. According to an aspect, a clip  138  (e.g., a ring or otherwise) positioned at an upper point on the wearer&#39;s upper back/neck base joins a terminal end  135  of the first underarm band  134  and a terminal end  137  of the second underarm band  136 . In the exemplary embodiment, the clip  138  also joins the terminal end  109  of the first shoulder strap  108  and the terminal end  111  of the second shoulder strap  110  to provide a single junction point of the inner bra layer  101  and the outer bra layer  104  along the wearer&#39;s back. 
     According to an aspect, components of the adjustable multi-layer bra  100  form an inelastic frame upon which compressive forces acting on the layers of the adjustable multi-layer bra  100  are stabilized. Namely, the right underarm band  134 , the left underarm band  134 , the right shoulder strap  108 , the left shoulder strap  110 , the chest harness  120 , and the horizontal back band  124  comprise an inelastic frame for adjusting a vertical position and a compressibility of the user&#39;s chest. The combination of anchoring by the chest harness  120  with compression by the chest band  128  and by the outer bra fastener  125  prevents unwanted upward movement of the multi-layer bra  100  toward the wearer&#39;s shoulders during use. When the wearer adjusts the bra cups  102 ,  103  of the inner bra layer  101 , for example by repositioning the adjustment string  112 , the clip  138  defines a pivot point/fulcrum point of the adjustable multi-layer bra  100  from which the inner bra cups  102 ,  103  are stabilized and from which the positioning of the wearer&#39;s breasts can be raised and lowered. This configuration alleviates pressure around the wearer&#39;s torso/diaphragm that may otherwise restrict breathing and/or movement during exercise. According to an aspect, the horizontal back band  124  and the chest harness  120  are formed of a material that is relatively inelastic in comparison to the material forming the chest band  128 . For example and not limitation, the horizontal back band  124  and the chest harness  120  may be formed from neoprene, and the chest band  128  may be formed of a neoprene-spandex blend of relatively greater elasticity. In an embodiment, during compression of the wearer&#39;s chest by adjustment of one or both of the outer bra fastener  125  and the chest band  128 , as discussed above, the outer edges  129   d ,  130   d  of the first chest band section  129  and the second chest band section  130  are anchored to the inelastic chest harness  120  and/or the inelastic horizontal back band  124  such that only the cross-chest strap  121  or the chest band  128 , and not the horizontal back band  124  or the chest harness  120 , is influenced by the increase or decrease of compressive force. This configuration reduces unnecessary compression of the wearer&#39;s torso by the horizontal back band  124  or the chest harness  120  during exercise. Conversely, the degree of chest compression can be reduced without loosening the horizontal back band  124 . According to an aspect, the horizontal back band  124  is sized to extend snugly around the wearer&#39;s back for securing the bottom edges  102   b ,  103   b ,  129   b ,  130   b  of the adjustable multi-layer bra  100  in the desired position under the wearer&#39;s breasts. 
     According to an aspect, with reference to  FIGS.  5 - 10   , an exemplary method for using a multi-layer bra  200  having an inner bra layer/inner layer  201 , an outer bra layer/outer layer  204 , and a middle bra layer/middle layer  218  includes, without limitation, lifting a first bra cup  202  of the inner layer  201  by upwardly pulling a first end  213  of an adjustment string  212  extending around a lateral/outer edge  202   d  and bottom edge  202   b  of the right bra cup  202  and lifting a second bra cup  203  of the inner layer  201  by upwardly pulling a second end  214  of the adjustment string  212  extending around a lateral/outer edge  203   d  and a bottom edge  203   b  of the left bra cup  203  to lift the second bra cup  203 . In an embodiment, using the multi-layer bra  200  may include threading the first end  213  of the adjustment string  212  through a first opening  205  on the first shoulder strap  208  and threading the second end  214  of the adjustment string  212  through a second side opening  206  on the second shoulder strap  210 , prior to lifting the bra cups  202 ,  203  or securing the bra cups  202 ,  203  in the desired position. In an exemplary embodiment and with reference to  FIGS.  5 - 7   , the first bra cup  202  includes a top edge  202   a , a bottom edge  202   b , a medial/inner edge  202   c , and a lateral/outer edge  202   d , and the left bra cup  203  includes a top edge  203   a , a bottom edge  203   b , a medial edge  203   c , and a lateral edge  203   d . According to an aspect, the respective medial/inner edges  202   c ,  203   c , of the first bra cup and the second bra cup are joined together and positioned near an anterior midpoint of a wearer&#39;s chest. The wearer may use the adjustment string  212 , including a first adjustment string end  213  and a second adjustment string end  214 , joined to the inner bra layer  201  to independently adjust the inner bra layer  201 . According to an aspect, the adjustment string  212  may be retained within the inner bra layer  201 , for example and not limitation, the adjustment string  212  may be moveably disposed in a string path or channel  239  along the first bra cup outer edge  202   d , the first bra cup bottom edge  202   b , the second bra cup bottom edge  203   b , and the second bra cup outer edge  203   d . Alternatively, according to an aspect, the adjustment string  212  may be provided in a fixed position extending from a location on the first outer bra cup  202  and the second outer bra cup  203 , for example from a point on the first bra cup top edge  202   a  or outer edge  202   d , and the second bra cup top edge  203   a  or outer edge  203   d.    
     When the first bra cup  202  and the second bra cup  203  are at a desired position, the first end  213  is secured to a first shoulder strap  208  of the outer layer  204  and the second end  214  is secured to a second shoulder strap  210  of the outer layer  204 . According to an aspect, securing the first end  213  of the adjustment string  212  to the first shoulder strap  208  is accomplished by attaching a first fastener  217   a  on the first end  213  of the adjustment string  212  to a first receiver  216   a  on the first shoulder strap  208  and securing the second end  214  of the adjustment string  212  is accomplished by attaching a second fastener  217   b  on the second end  214  of the adjustment string  212  to a second side receiver  216   b  on the second shoulder strap  210 . 
     In an aspect of the exemplary embodiment, the outer layer  204  may be adjusted after securing the inner layer  201 . The outer bra layer  204  includes a first shoulder strap  208  including a terminal portion  209  extending over a wearer&#39;s right shoulder, a first lateral portion  222  including a first lateral portion upper section  222   a  extending from the first shoulder strap  208 , a first lateral portion circumferential section  222   b  extending at least partially around the lateral edge of the wearer&#39;s first breast, and a first lateral portion bottom edge  222   c , a second shoulder strap  210  including a terminal portion  211  extending over a wearer&#39;s second shoulder, a second lateral portion  223  including a second lateral portion upper section  223   a  extending from the second shoulder strap  210 , a second lateral portion circumferential section  223   b  extending partially around the lateral edge of the wearer&#39;s second breast, and a second lateral portion bottom edge  223   c , and a cross-chest strap  221  extending from the first shoulder strap  208  to the second shoulder strap  210 . 
     Further adjusting the multi-layer bra  200  includes compressing the outer layer  204  by downwardly pulling an adjustable fastener  224  extending from a cross-chest strap  221  of the outer layer  204  and securing the adjustable fastener  224  to the inner layer  201 . According to an aspect, compressing the outer layer  204  is accomplished by attaching the adjustable fastener  224  to a receiver  226  positioned on a bridge  225  of the inner layer  201  extending from the first bra cup medial edge  202   c  to the second bra cup medial edge  203   c . The compression of the outer layer  204  may be further adjusted by tightening or loosening the adjustable fastener  224 . To adjust the outer bra layer  204 , the cross-chest strap  221  is secured downward toward the inner bra layer bottom edges  202   a ,  202   b  by an adjustable fastener  224  extending from a midpoint M of the cross-chest strap  221  along a midpoint of the wearer&#39;s chest. An inner layer receiver  226  is formed on a bridge  225  of the inner bra layer  201  that joins the right bra cup medial edge  202   c  and the left bra cup medial edge  203   c . The inner layer receiver  226  adjustably secures the adjustable fastener  224  to the bridge  225  of the inner bra layer  201 . In an embodiment, the adjustable fastener  224  and inner layer receiver  226  components are a pin and tuck closure, or the like, as discussed above with reference to the exemplary embodiment of  FIG.  1 A- 1 B . 
     The adjustable multi-layer bra  200  may also include a middle bra layer/middle layer  218  that is independently adjustable by the wearer, shown in  FIGS.  7 - 8   . In an aspect of the exemplary embodiment, the middle layer  218  may be adjusted after compressing the outer layer  204 . The middle layer  218  may be compressed by tightening a cinching section  231  provided medially on the middle layer  218 . In the exemplary embodiment, compressing the middle layer  218  includes threading a string  233  through at least one grommet  232   a  on a first side/first section  229  of the middle layer  218 , threading the string  233  through at least one grommet  232   b  on a second side/second section  230  of the middle layer  218 , drawing together the first section  229  and the second section  230  by pulling the string  233 , and tying the string  233 . 
     In an aspect, the middle layer  218  extends from a first side of the wearer&#39;s chest to a second side of the wearer&#39;s chest and is positioned over the inner bra layer  201  and between the inner bra layer  201  and the outer bra layer  204 . According to an aspect, the middle layer may be provided between the inner bra layer  201  and the outer bra layer  204 . The middle layer  218  includes a cinching section  231  positioned medially near the wearer&#39;s midpoint that is used by the wearer to independently adjust the middle layer  218  of the adjustable multi-layer bra  200 . In an embodiment, the cinching section  231  joins the first section  229  and the second section  230  that are each attached to the outer bra layer  204 . According to an aspect, the first section  229  is joined to a portion of the first circumferential section  222   b  by a lateral end  229   a  of the first section  229 , and the second section  230  is joined to a portion of the second circumferential section  223   b  by a lateral end  230   a  of the second section  230 . 
     According to an aspect of the exemplary embodiment, the adjustment components (i.e., the adjustable string  212 , the cinching section  231 , and the adjustable fastener  224 ) of the adjustable multi-layer bra  200  are accessible to the wearer on the front of the wearer&#39;s body. In other words, the adjustment components are positioned on the adjustable multi-layer bra  200  on the anterior part/front of the bra when in use for ease of access during use. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  9 - 10   , the side and rear of the adjustable multi-layer bra  200  are shown in which portions of the inner layer bra  201  and the outer layer bra  204  extend laterally around the wearer&#39;s sides for anchoring the adjustable multi-layer bra  200  on the wearer&#39;s body. From the outer bra layer  204 , a first wing  234  extending posteriorly from the first circumferential section  222   b , and a second wing  235  extending posteriorly from the second circumferential section  223   b  join to form a posterior horizontal band  236  across the wearer&#39;s back. Portions of the inner layer  201 , including a first underarm band  227  extending posteriorly from the first bra cup lateral edge  202   d , and a second underarm band  228  extending posteriorly from the second bra cup lateral edge  203   d , join at a point along the wearer&#39;s back. In an embodiment, the first shoulder strap  208  and the second shoulder strap  210  of the outer layer bra  204  join with the first underarm band  227  and the second underarm band  228  at the point along the wearer&#39;s back. In an embodiment, a clip  237  may be positioned on the wearer&#39;s back for joining the first shoulder strap  208 , the second shoulder strap  210 , the first underarm band  227 , and the second underarm band  228 . According to an aspect, the clip may be positioned along the nape area of the wearer&#39;s back so that the adjustable multi-layer bra  200  is anchored from a non-influenced point on the wearer&#39;s body. In an embodiment, and as shown in  FIG.  9   , the inner layer  201  and the outer layer  204  may be joined together, for example, by lateral side tacking  238  that join the underarm band  227  of the inner layer  201  to the upper section and/or the circumferential section  222   a / 222   b  of the outer layer  204 . 
     According to an embodiment of this disclosure shown in  FIGS.  11 A- 11 C , a multi-layer bra  300  may include an outer layer  304  that provides coverage of the internal layers for a smooth and solid front profile consisting of a unitary layer of fabric. In an aspect, the outer layer  304  includes a chest band  328  consisting of a first chest band section  329  and a second chest band section  330 . A central chest band section  331  is provided between and joins the first chest band section  329  and the second chest band section  330 . According to an aspect, the central chest band section  331  is formed from a relatively more elastic material than the material forming the first chest band section  329  and the second chest band section  330  to enable the chest band  328  to fit the wearer&#39;s chest profile when the multi-layer bra  300  is loosened or tightened to varying degrees. The chest band  328  may at least partially overlay at least a portion of one or more of a first harness segment  322  (including upper portion  322   a  and circumferential portion  322   b ), a second harness segment  323  (including upper portion  323   a  and circumferential portion  323   b ), and/or the cross-chest strap  321  ( FIG.  11 C ). 
     With reference to  FIG.  11 C , the multi-layer bra  300  may include an inner bra comprising a first bra cup  302  and a second bra cup  303  joined by an inner bra bridge  325  provided medially between the first bra cup  302  and second bra cup  303 . Similar to the embodiments described above with reference to  FIGS.  5 - 10   , an adjustment string may be moveably disposed along one or more edges of the first bra cup  302  and the second bra cup  303  for adjustment of the inner bra cups. According to an aspect, a first opening  305  is formed between the first harness upper portion  322   a  and a first shoulder strap  326 , and a second opening  306  is formed between the second harness upper portion  323   a  and a second shoulder strap  327 . The outer chest band  328  ( FIG.  11 A ) may at least partially overlay the shoulder straps  326 ,  327 , or alternatively, extend toward the shoulder straps  326 ,  327  and include respective openings  307 ,  308  in the outer bra layer  304  (e.g., opening  307  formed in the first chest band section  329  and opening  308  formed in the second chest band section  330 ) and positioned over the circumferential harness segment openings  305 ,  306  for passage of the adjustment string ends  334 ,  335  respectively through the sets of openings  305 / 307 ,  306 / 308 . The ends of the adjustment string  334 ,  335  are fastened to the shoulder straps as discussed above with respect to the embodiment shown in  FIGS.  1 - 3   . 
     In the exemplary embodiment shown in  FIGS.  11 B and  11 C , the first bra cup  302  may be affixed to the circumferential portion  322   b  of the first harness segment  322  at an outer edge  302   a  of the first bra cup, and the second bra cup  303  may be affixed to the circumferential portion  323   b  of the second harness segment  323  at an outer edge  303   a  of the second bra cup  303 . A first internal chest band section  332  may extend from the circumferential portion  322   b  to the inner bra bridge  325  and a second internal chest band section  333  may extend from the circumferential portion  323   b  to the inner bra bridge  325 . According to an aspect, the first internal chest band section  332  and the second internal chest band section  333  may be affixed to the circumferential portions  322   b ,  323   b  at the same location as the inner bra cups  302 ,  303 , and may be affixed to the inner bra bridge at the same location as the inner bra cups  302 ,  303 . In an aspect, the first internal chest band section  332  and the second internal chest band section  333  may be affixed to an outer surface of the circumferential portions  322   b ,  323   b , such that the internal chest band sections  332 ,  333  at least partially overlay circumferential portions  322   b ,  323   b . Alternatively, the internal chest band sections  332 ,  333  may be affixed to an interior surface of the circumferential portions  322   b ,  323   b , such that the circumferential portions  322   b ,  323   b  at least partially overlay the internal chest band section  332 ,  333 . The internal chest band section  332 ,  333  at least partially overlay a portion of the bra cups  302 ,  303 , respectively. 
     A cinching mechanism  324  provided adjacent the inner bra bridge  325  may be moveably coupled to each of the first bra cup  302 , the second bra cup  303 , the first internal chest band section  332 , and the second internal chest band section  333  for adjustment thereof by tightening or loosening the cinching mechanism  324 . In an aspect, the cinching mechanism  324  is a cord connected to each of the internal edges of the first bra cup  302 , the second bra cup  303 , the first internal chest band section  332 , and the second internal chest band section  333 , and can be pulled tight and fastened to control the degree of compression of the bra cups  302 ,  303  and/or the internal chest band section  332 ,  333 . In an aspect, the internal chest band section  332 ,  333  comprise a material that is more elastic relative to the material forming the cross-chest strap  321 , the first harness segment  322 , and the second harness segment  323 , such that when the cinching mechanism  324  is tightened, the cross-chest strap  321 , the first harness segment  322 , and the second harness segment  323  do not compress, and provide an anchoring point from which compression of the bra cups  302 ,  303  and/or the internal chest band section  332 ,  333  occurs. In an aspect, the internal chest band sections  332 ,  333  may together comprise a unitary piece of material extending across the first bra cup  302 , the second bra cup  303 , and the inner bra bridge  325 . In such an embodiment, the material comprising the internal chest band sections  332 / 333  is affixed to the first circumferential harness portion  322  on a first end and to the second circumferential harness portion  323  on a second end. The cinching mechanisms  324  is connected to a central point of the internal chest band material to tighten or loosen the internal chest band as described hereinabove. The outer bra layer  304  may overlay each of the internal layers (e.g., bra cups  302 ,  303 , internal chest band sections  332 ,  333 , and harness sections  322 ,  323 ) as described above with reference to  FIG.  11 A  to conceal the cinching mechanism  324  and internal layers of material. 
     With reference to  FIG.  11 B , a horizontal back band  336  of the multi-layer bra  300  extends around the back of the wearer&#39;s back as discussed above with reference to  FIGS.  5 - 10   . A first underarm band  338  and second underarm band  339  may extend from the back band  336  to connect to a clip  337  at a junction point between the first underarm band  338 , the second underarm band  339 , the first shoulder strap  326 , and the second shoulder strap  327 , as described above with reference to  FIG.  10   . In an embodiment, the horizontal back band  336  may be affixed to each of the first circumferential harness portion  322  and the second circumferential harness portion  323  for extension around the wearer&#39;s back. 
     This disclosure, in various embodiments, configurations and aspects, includes components, methods, processes, systems, and/or apparatuses as depicted and described herein, including various embodiments, sub-combinations, and subsets thereof. This disclosure contemplates, in various embodiments, configurations and aspects, the actual or optional use or inclusion of, e.g., components or processes as may be well-known or understood in the art and consistent with this disclosure though not depicted and/or described herein. 
     The phrases “at least one”, “one or more”, and “and/or” are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B and C”, “at least one of A, B, or C”, “one or more of A, B, and C”, “one or more of A, B, or C” and “A, B, and/or C” means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B and C together. 
     In this specification and the claims that follow, reference will be made to a number of terms that have the following meanings. The terms “a” (or “an”) and “the” refer to one or more of that entity, thereby including plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As such, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment”, “some embodiments”, “an embodiment” and the like are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term such as “about” is not to be limited to the precise value specified. In some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Terms such as “first,” “second,” “upper,” “lower” etc. are used to identify one element from another, and unless otherwise specified are not meant to refer to a particular order or number of elements. 
     As used herein, the terms “may” and “may be” indicate a possibility of an occurrence within a set of circumstances; a possession of a specified property, characteristic or function; and/or qualify another verb by expressing one or more of an ability, capability, or possibility associated with the qualified verb. Accordingly, usage of “may” and “may be” indicates that a modified term is apparently appropriate, capable, or suitable for an indicated capacity, function, or usage, while taking into account that in some circumstances the modified term may sometimes not be appropriate, capable, or suitable. For example, in some circumstances an event or capacity can be expected, while in other circumstances the event or capacity cannot occur—this distinction is captured by the terms “may” and “may be.” 
     As used in the claims, the word “comprises” and its grammatical variants logically also subtend and include phrases of varying and differing extent such as for example, but not limited thereto, “consisting essentially of” and “consisting of.” Where necessary, ranges have been supplied, and those ranges are inclusive of all sub-ranges therebetween. It is to be expected that the appended claims should cover variations in the ranges except where this disclosure makes clear the use of a particular range in certain embodiments. 
     The terms “determine”, “calculate” and “compute,” and variations thereof, as used herein, are used interchangeably and include any type of methodology, process, mathematical operation or technique. 
     This disclosure is presented for purposes of illustration and description. This disclosure is not limited to the form or forms disclosed herein. In the Detailed Description of this disclosure, for example, various features of some exemplary embodiments are grouped together to representatively describe those and other contemplated embodiments, configurations, and aspects, to the extent that including in this disclosure a description of every potential embodiment, variant, and combination of features is not feasible. Thus, the features of the disclosed embodiments, configurations, and aspects may be combined in alternate embodiments, configurations, and aspects not expressly discussed above. For example, the features recited in the following claims lie in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment, configuration, or aspect. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this disclosure. 
     Advances in science and technology may provide variations that are not necessarily express in the terminology of this disclosure although the claims would not necessarily exclude these variations.