Patent Publication Number: US-2012028541-A1

Title: Multi-faceted brassiere assembly

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to brassieres which cover, support and elevate the breasts, while simultaneously preventing the formation of wrinkles and other aging effects brought upon by both vertical breast movement and lateral breast movement. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Anatomically, the breasts are non-rigid areas of glandular tissue, with few support structures, such as connective tissue. Breasts are composed of the mammary glands, which remain relatively constant throughout life, as well as the adipose tissue or fat tissue that surrounds the mammary glands. Generally, it is the amount and distribution of adipose tissue that leads to variations in breast size. 
     In addition, the breasts contain internal ligaments, although their exact function as related to breast support is unknown. These ligaments, and the overlying skin (referred to as the dermal brassiere) help determine the resulting breast shape. As the breasts mature, they fold over the lower attachment to the chest wall (infra-mammary fold), and their lower (inferior) surface lies against the chest wall when vertical. In popular culture, this maturation is referred to as “sagging” or “drooping”, although plastic surgeons refer to it as ptosis, and recommend mastopexy (breast lift) for correction. 
     A brassiere, commonly referred to as a bra, is an article of clothing that covers, supports, and elevates the breasts. Bras are typically worn to support one&#39;s breasts or to restrain breast movement. However, bras may also be worn to reduce or to enlarge the perceived size of one&#39;s breasts, to enhance one&#39;s cleavage, or to facilitate nursing. 
     Most bras are designed to lift the breasts off the chest. Bras are typically designed to lift the breasts from their normal position, for a more youthful look or for enhancing cleavage. These roles are sometimes conflicting. Designers usually aim at producing a garment that fulfills a practical role as well as making it look attractive. However, certain bras, which are engineered to counter these effects mentioned above, have been designed to reduce or prevent the “sagging” effect and thereby reducing the production of wrinkles in a woman&#39;s upper chest by preventing vertical breast movement. In addition to vertical breast movement, wrinkles on breasts may form as a result of lateral breast movement, such as when the breasts sag medially, sometimes contacting one another. The bra is considered a foundation garment, as well as an undergarment, because of its role in shaping the wearer&#39;s figure. 
     The present invention relates to brassieres and in particular to a bra that is structured to reduce the formation of wrinkles in the upper chest of women by, inter alia, providing an internal insert pouch into which a brassiere insert is inserted and held in between two breasts, functioning to separate the two breasts, and thus prevent lateral breast movement, while simultaneously preventing vertical breast movement. Therefore, the brassiere of the present invention provides adequate coverage and support to prevent vertical breast movement, while simultaneously separating the two breasts, to prevent lateral breast movement, and hence the formation of wrinkles on breasts. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,769,955 to Fisher describes a soft fabric bra with a center breast support pad that is designed to keep an upper breast suspended while a woman sleeps on her side, to prevent lateral breast movement and thereby prevent the formation of wrinkles on the breasts. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 7,144,295 to Fisher describes a breast support pad for supporting the upper breast when the wearer of a brassiere is lying on one side. A breast support pad is set inside and against the central portion of the brassiere between the two curved portions and away from the other portions of the brassiere. The breast support pad is comprised of a body having a front face with a thick vertical section and a back face adapted to conform with the chest of the wearer between the breasts. The back face is comprised of a concave cavity on each side of a centrally located vertical surface, each concave cavity adapted to conform to and support either breast when the wearer lies on one side. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,897,422 to McGee describes a brassiere that has a pair of shoulder supports, which extend to a back support. The brassiere also has a back support that extends from the back toward the front of the wearer, a portion encircling the wearer and a pair of cup-shaped breast supports. Each breast support has a crescent-shaped portion that curves around the outside and top of the wearer&#39;s breast. The crescent-shaped portion has an upper end adjoining the shoulder supports and a lower end adjoining the back supports portion that encircles the wearer at a position between and below the center of the woman&#39;s breasts when worn. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,083,555 to Lewis describes an apparatus suitable aimed to reduce and prevent skin deformation near the breasts, which includes a support member that has both a first and second end. A removable outer casing encompasses the support member. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,961,986 to Killen describes an apparatus that employs a substrate with an adhesive for securing the apparatus to the user&#39;s skin for the reduction or prevention of skin folding, and, thus, the appearance of wrinkles on the user&#39;s skin. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,102,772 to Fernandez describes a brassiere that alleges to prevent inter-mammary wrinkles. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,807,160 to Wehmeye describes a cleavage-wrinkle protector that is constructed of satin or similar lingerie-type fabric and stuffed with polyester fiberfill. The apparatus is engineered to be worn between the woman&#39;s breasts to protect the cleavage skin from folding. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,746,007 to Hand describes a woman&#39;s sleeping garment that has the elements of a supportive brassiere. The garment simply molds and positions the breast even when the wearer is in an unusual sleeping position. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 1,891,871 to Donnet describes a brassiere with a resilient, stiff and bent strip with rounded edges that is centrally located, which serves as a separating member between the breasts of a woman. 
     Heretofore unknown is a brassiere which provides adequate coverage and support to prevent vertical breast movement, while simultaneously separating the two breasts using a brassiere insert which is held in place by an internal insert pouch, to prevent lateral breast movement, and hence the formation of wrinkles on breasts. 
     It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus that provides adequate coverage and support to prevent vertical breast movement, while simultaneously separating the two breasts using a brassiere insert which is held in place by an internal insert pouch, to prevent lateral breast movement, and hence the formation of wrinkles on breasts. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is an adaptation of an earlier filed patent application by Donnelly, one of the inventors herein, for a “Suspension-Styled Brassiere Primarily for Minimization of Intra-Breast Wrinkling, currently pending under U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/893,645, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     An object of the present invention is to provide a bra which supports the breasts to prevent lateral breast movement and thereby prevent wrinkles on the breasts and in the center of the upper chest. 
     Another object of the present invention is to provide a bra suspends the breast in a natural position as well as a number of dynamic positions. 
     One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra that equally counters and resists lateral breast movement regardless of dynamic position. 
     One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra that augments the frontal support of a human female&#39;s breasts. 
     One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra that utilizes a brassiere insert housed within an internal insert pouch to prevent lateral breast movement. 
     One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra that is comfortable and is not excessively snug. 
     One more object of the present invention is to provide a bra that is cheap, economical and easy to manufacture. 
     In order to achieve the aforementioned objectives, the present invention provides a brassiere comprising a front portion, side portions, and a back portion, generally conformed to the shape of a female upper torso. However, it is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the brassiere of the present invention may conform to any shape or size such that lateral breast movement and vertical breast movement are simultaneously prevented. 
     The front portion includes a left mesh panel and a right mesh panel each having a top portion, a bottom portion, a middle portion, a medial side, and a distal side, wherein the left mesh panel is configured to cover a left breast of a user and the right mesh panel is configured to cover a right breast of a user. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention the left mesh panel and the right mesh do not completely cover the left and right breast of a user. Instead, the left and right breasts are covered in part by the left mesh panel and the right mesh panel, and the remaining exposed portions of the user&#39;s left and right breasts are covered by remaining components of the brassiere of the present invention. As such, the left mesh panel may cover from 25-100% of the left breast; where as the right mesh panel may cover from 25-100% of the right breast. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, left mesh panel forms a cup which conforms to the size and shape of the left breast; whereas the right mesh panel forms a cup which conforms to the size and shape of the right breast. 
     The front portion further includes an internal insert pouch having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the internal insert pouch connects the medial side of the left mesh panel at the middle portion thereof and the medial side of the right mesh panel at the middle portion thereof such that the internal insert pouch will be positioned in the middle of the chest of a user, near the diaphragm. It is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the internal insert pouch may be positioned in any area sufficient to separate the two breasts of a user, so as to prevent lateral breast movement, when a brassiere insert is inserted into the internal insert pouch. It is envisioned that the internal insert pouch may be substantially flat until the brassiere insert is inserted into the internal insert pouch. As such, the internal insert pouch itself may not be sufficient to separate the two breasts of a user, so as to prevent lateral breast movement. In other embodiments of the present invention, the internal insert pouch is sufficiently rigid to itself separate the two breasts of a user, so as to prevent lateral breast movement. 
     The front portion further includes a brassiere insert having a top portion, bottom portion, front portion, back portion, left portion, and right portion generally conformed to fit within the internal insert pouch. In particular, the brassiere insert fits within the internal insert pouch to separate the breasts of a user, thus preventing lateral breast movement. It is envisioned that brassiere insert may be of any size and shape sufficient to separate the two breasts of a user, so as to prevent lateral breast movement. In one embodiment of the present invention, the brassiere insert pushes the two breasts of a user apart, thus preventing lateral breast movement. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the brassiere insert is springable, so as to exert force from the medial portion of the brassiere insert, thus pushing the two breasts of a user apart, thus preventing lateral breast movement. 
     The front portion further includes a lateral adjustment strap extending from the distal side of the left mesh panel through the medial side of the left mesh panel and the distal side of the right mesh panel through the medial side of the right panel, and connecting the middle portions of the left mesh panel and the right mesh panel on the medial side of each mesh panel. It is envisioned that the lateral adjustment strap will function to bring the two breasts of a user together, thus preventing lateral breast movement. As such, one end of the lateral adjustment strap is affixed to the left mesh cup and the other end of the lateral adjustment strap is affixed to the right mesh cup, such that the user&#39;s breasts are brought together. In one embodiment of the present invention, the lateral adjustment strap is first laid across the breasts of a user to keep the user&#39;s breasts in a desired position. Following the positioning of the user&#39;s breasts using the lateral adjustment strap, the remaining portions of the brassiere of the present invention the remaining portions of the brassiere of the present invention are put on to initially prevent both vertical and lateral breast movement, to further prevent both vertical and lateral breast movement. As such, the lateral adjustment strap is the first or initial layer of the brassiere of the present invention, upon which additional layers or components are applied thereon, so as to form a multi-layer brassiere. 
     The front portion further includes a first lower panel having a top portion, bottom portion, and side portions, wherein the top portion of the first lower panel extends from the bottom portion of the internal inset pouch, and the side portion of the first lower panel extends from the bottom portions of the left and right mesh panels, on the medial side thereof. The first lower panel fills the portion of the brassiere of the present invention below and between the left and right mesh panels. As such, the first lower panel functions to prevent both vertical and lateral breast movement. 
     The front portion further includes a left second lower panel having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the top portion of the left second lower panel extends from the bottom portion of the left mesh panel, on the distal side thereof. The second left second lower panel fills the portion of the brassiere of the present invention to outside of the distal sides of the left and right mesh panels. As such, the left second lower panel functions to prevent vertical breast movement. 
     The front portion further includes a right second lower panel having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the top portion of the right second lower panel extends from the bottom portion of the right mesh panel, on the distal side thereof. The right second lower panel fills the portion of the brassiere of the present invention to outside of the distal sides of the left and right mesh panels. As such, the right second lower panel functions to prevent vertical breast movement. 
     The front portion further includes a chest band attached below the first lower panel and second lower panel terminating at the bottom portions of the left and right panels, on the distal side thereof. In one embodiment of the present invention, the chest band forms the bottom portion of the brassiere. In another embodiment of the present invention, the chest band is manufactured of an elastomeric material. Accordingly, the chest band is configured to conform to the circumference of a user&#39;s upper torso, so as to maintain the brassiere of the present invention in a desired position. In another embodiment of the present invention, the chest band is manufactured of a water-resistant material. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the chest band is manufactured of a padded material, to facilitate comfort. 
     The front portion further includes a left upper panel having a top portion and a bottom portion wherein the bottom portion of the left upper panel extends from the top portion of the left mesh panel, toward the shoulder of a user. As such, the left upper panel forms the transition from the left mesh panel to the left shoulder strap of the brassiere of the present invention. It is recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art that the left upper panel will function to limit vertical breast movement by aiding in lifting the left breast of user from the user&#39;s chest. 
     The front portion further includes a right upper panel having a top portion and a bottom portion wherein the bottom portion of right upper panel extends from the top portion of the right mesh panel, toward the shoulder of a user. As such, the right upper panel forms the transition from the right mesh panel to the right shoulder strap of the brassiere of the present invention. It is recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art that the right upper panel will function to limit vertical breast movement by aiding in lifting the right breast of user from the user&#39;s chest. 
     The front portion further includes a left adjustable strap having a bottom portion and a top portion wherein the bottom portion of the left adjustable strap extends from the top portion the left upper panel. The left adjustable strap functions to create tension between the left mesh panel and the left upper panel so as to lift the left breast of a user from the user&#39;s chest. 
     The front portion further includes a right adjustable strap having a bottom portion and a top portion wherein the bottom portion of the right adjustable strap extends from the top portion the right upper panel. The right adjustable strap functions to create tension between the right mesh panel and the right upper panel so as to lift the right breast of a user from the user&#39;s chest. 
     The side portions of the brassiere of the present invention include a left side mesh panel having a top portion, a bottom portion, a proximal side, and a distal side, wherein the bottom portion of the left side mesh panel contacts the lateral adjustment strap where the lateral adjustment strap extends from the distal side of the left mesh panel, on the proximal side of the left side mesh panel; and a right side mesh panel having a top portion, a bottom portion, a proximal side, and a distal side, wherein the bottom portion of the right side mesh panel contacts the lateral adjustment strap where the lateral adjustment strap extends from the distal side of the right mesh panel, on the proximal side of the right side mesh panel. 
     In one embodiment of the present invention, left side mesh panel and right side mesh panel do not open. As such, the brassiere functions as a traditional sports bra, wherein the brassiere is worn by pulling the brassiere over the head of a user and is positioned about the upper torso of the user, around the user&#39;s breasts, to maintain the user&#39;s breasts in a desired position. 
     In another embodiment, left side mesh panel opens, while the right side mesh panel does not. Accordingly, the brassiere may be worn by opening the left side mesh panel and then positioning the brassiere about the upper torso of the user. Once the brassiere is in position, the left side mesh panel is closed, thereby maintaining the brassiere in position about the upper torso of the user. As such, a user may put the brassiere on by laying the brassiere on a flat surface, and then laying on the brassiere. The user positions the front portion of the brassiere over the user&#39;s chest, positioning the user&#39;s breasts within the brassiere to prevent both vertical and horizontal breast movement. To maintain the brassiere in position, the user closes the left side mesh panel thus merging the front and back portions of the brassiere to form one unitary brassiere. 
     In an alternative embodiment, both left side mesh panel and right side mesh panel open, such that the brassiere of the present invention assumes two distinct portions, a front portion and a back portion. Accordingly, the brassiere may be worn by opening both the left side mesh panel and the right mesh panel. The back portion of the brassiere is then laid flat. The user puts on the brassiere by laying on the back portion of the brassiere. The front portion of the brassiere is then positioned over the chest of a user. Once the front portion of the brassiere is positioned correctly over the chest of a user to adequately prevent both vertical and lateral breast movement, the left side mesh panel and the right side mesh panel are then closed, thus merging the front portion of the brassiere and the back portion of the brassiere, to create one unitary brassiere. In order to remove the brassiere, the left side mesh panel and the right side mesh panel are opened. 
     The back portion of the brassiere of the present invention includes a dorsal panel configured to cover the upper back of a user having an octagonal union in the center thereof such that the octagonal union will be positioned in the middle of the back of a user. It is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the dorsal panel may cover all or part of the upper back of a user, without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the dorsal panel is manufactured from a breathable material. 
     The back portion further includes a back band extending horizontally from the bottom portion of the left side mesh panel on the proximal side thereof to the bottom portion of the right side mesh panel on the proximal side thereof. In one embodiment of the present invention, the chest back forms the bottom portion of the back portion of the brassiere. In another embodiment of the present invention, the back band is manufactured of an elastomeric material. Accordingly, the back band is configured to conform to the circumference of a user&#39;s upper torso, so as to maintain the brassiere of the present invention in a desired position. In another embodiment of the present invention, the back band is manufactured of a water-resistant material. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the back band is manufactured of a padded material, to facilitate comfort. 
     The back portion further includes a left upper dorsal strap extending from the top portion of the left adjustable strap to the upper left corner of the octagonal union. 
     The back portion further includes a right upper dorsal strap extending from the top portion of the right adjustable strap to the upper right corner of the octagonal union. The left upper dorsal strap and the right upper dorsal strap function to maintain the brassiere of the present invention in position on the upper torso of the user. In particular, the left upper dorsal strap and the right upper dorsal strap support the brassiere in position on the upper torso. 
     The back portion further includes a left lower dorsal strap extending from an area of the back band proximate to where the back band meets the left side mesh panel to the lower left corner of the octagonal union. 
     The back portion further includes a right lower dorsal strap extending from an area of the back band proximate to where the back band meets the right side mesh panel to the lower right corner of the octagonal union. 
     The left lower dorsal strap and the right lower dorsal strap function to maintain the brassiere of the present invention in position on the upper torso of the user. In particular, the left lower dorsal strap and the right lower dorsal strap support the brassiere in position on the upper torso. 
     The present invention also involves a brassiere insert having a top portion, bottom portion, front portion, back portion, left portion, and right portion generally conformed to the shape between the breasts of a female. In one embodiment, the top portion and the bottom portion are both roughly circular. In another embodiment, the brassiere insert tapers from the top portion to the bottom portion, such that the bottom portion is approximately 60 to 75% smaller than the top portion. In alternative embodiment, the left portion and the right portion of the brassiere insert are both concave, and the front portion and back portion are both convex. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       These and other details of the present invention will be described in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are finished only by way of illustration and not in limitation of the invention, and in which drawings: 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin. 
         FIG. 2  is a side perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin. 
         FIG. 3  is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin. 
         FIG. 4  is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin demonstrating the insertion of brassiere insert into the internal insert pouch. 
         FIG. 5  is a front perspective view of the upper torso of a female mannequin demonstrating the location of the brassiere insert when the brassiere insert is inserted into the internal insert pouch (not shown) of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a side perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere insert of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere insert of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin. 
         FIG. 9  is a side perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin. 
         FIG. 10  is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     In  FIGS. 1-3  one embodiment of the brassiere  2  of the present invention is shown on the upper torso of a female mannequin  1 . It is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that brassiere  2  can be altered to fit various forms, including, for example, the upper torsos of individuals of different sizes and shapes, without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Likewise it is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that brassiere  2  can be made of any material know in the art, without departing from the spirit of the present invention. 
     Brassiere  2  includes a left mesh panel  4  having a top portion  4   a , a bottom portion  4   b , a middle portion  4   c , a medial side  4   d , and a distal side  4   e , wherein left mesh panel  4  is configured to cover a left breast of a user. Brassiere  2  also includes a right mesh panel  6  having a top portion  6   a , a bottom portion  6   b , a middle portion  6   c , a medial side  6   d , and a distal side  6   e , wherein right mesh panel  6  is configured to cover a right breast of a user. 
     Brassiere  2  further includes an internal insert pouch  8  having a top portion  8   a  and a bottom portion  8   b , wherein internal insert pouch  8  connects medial side  4   d  of left mesh panel  4  at middle portion  4   c  thereof and medial side  6   d  of right mesh panel  6  at middle portion  6   c  thereof such that internal insert pouch  8  will be positioned in the middle of the chest of a user, near the diaphragm. In one embodiment of the present invention, internal insert pouch  8  is on the inside of brassiere  2 , such that internal insert pouch  8  is not visible from the outside of brassiere  2 . In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, internal insert pouch  8  is on the outside of brassiere  2 , such that internal insert pouch  8  is visible from the outside of brassiere  2 . 
     A brassiere insert  9  having a top portion  9   a , a bottom portion  9   b , a front portion  9   c , a back portion  9   d , a left portion  9   e , and a right portion  9   f  is provided which is generally conformed to fit within internal insert pouch  8 . In particular, brassiere insert  9  fits within internal insert pouch  8  to separate the breasts of a user, thus preventing lateral breast movement. 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 , brassiere insert  9  is inserted into internal insert pouch  8  by inserting brassiere insert  9  into the opening in top portion  8   a  of internal insert pouch  8  and pushing brassiere insert  9  down until bottom portion  9   b  reaches bottom portion  8   b  of internal insert pouch  8 , whether internal insert pouch  8  is on the inside or the outside of brassiere  2 . Accordingly, brassiere insert  9  is removable, thus allowing the user to insert brassiere inserts of various shapes, sizes, and materials, depending on the user&#39;s preference. In addition, allowing brassiere insert  9  to be removed from the remaining components of brassiere  2 , allows for removal before washing brassiere  2 . 
     In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert  9  is sewn into or otherwise encapsulated in internal insert pouch  8 , such that brassiere insert  9  is not removable. In one embodiment of the present invention, internal insert pouch  8  is located between the breasts of a user, as shown in  FIG. 5 . 
     In one embodiment of the present invention, shown in  FIGS. 6-7 , top portion  9   a  of brassiere insert  9  and bottom portion  9   b  of brassiere insert  9  are both roughly circular. It is envisioned that brassiere insert  9  may take any shape that would allow brassiere insert  9  to fit between the breasts of a user so as to separate the breasts of the user. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert  9  is moldable to conform to the shape in between the breasts of any user, so as to separate the breasts of the user. For example, brassiere insert  9  may be manufactured of a gel-like material, a more rigid clay-like material, or a firm plastic-like material. It is envisioned that brassiere insert  9  may be hollow or monolithic, depending on, among other things, the desired material of manufacture. In one particular embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert  9  is pouch filled with a liquid, gel-like or solid material, or a combination thereof. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert  9  is a pouch filled with water or another liquid capable of freezing at relatively low temperatures, such that brassiere insert  9  may be inserted into internal insert pouch  8  while frozen, thus providing a cooling effect. 
     In another embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert  9  tapers from top portion  9   a  to bottom portion  9   b , such that bottom portion  9   b  is approximately 60 to 75% smaller than top portion  9   a . In one particular embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert  9  tapers from top portion  9   a  to bottom portion  9   b , such that bottom portion  9   b  is approximately 30 to 59% smaller than top portion  9   a . In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, brassiere insert  9  tapers from top portion  9   a  to bottom portion  9   b , such that bottom portion  9   b  is approximately 1 to 29% smaller than top portion  9   a.    
     In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, left portion  9   e  of brassiere insert  9  and right portion  9   f  of brassiere insert  9  are both concave. In another preferred embodiment, front portion  9   c  and back portion  9   d  of brassiere insert  9  are both convex. 
     Brassiere  2  includes a lateral adjustment strap  10  extending from distal side  4   e  of left mesh panel  4  through medial side  4   d  of left mesh panel  4  and distal side  6   e  of right mesh panel  6  through medial side  6   d  of right panel  6 , and connecting middle portions  4   c  and  6   c  of left mesh panel  4  and right mesh panel  6  on medial sides  4   d  and  6   d  of each mesh panel. 
     A first lower panel  12  is provided having a top portion  12   a , a bottom portion  12   b , and side portions  12   c , wherein top portion  12   a  of first lower panel  12  extends from bottom portion  8   b  of internal inset pouch  8 , and side portion  12   c  of first lower panel  12  extends from bottom portions  4   b  and  6   b  of left mesh panel  4  and right mesh panel  6 , on medial sides  4   d  and  6   d  thereof. 
     A left second lower panel  14  is also included having a top portion  14   a  and a bottom portion  14   b , wherein top portion  14   a  of left second lower panel  14  extends from bottom portion  4   b  of left mesh panel  4 , on distal side  4   e  thereof. 
     A right second lower panel  16  is included having a top portion  16   a  and a bottom portion  16   b , wherein top portion  16   a  of right second lower panel  16  extends from bottom portion  6   b  of right mesh panel  6 , on distal side  6   e  thereof. 
     A chest band  18  is attached below first lower panel  12  and second lower panels  14  and  16 , terminating at bottom portion  4   b  of left mesh panel  4  and bottom portion  6   b  of left mesh panel  6 , on the distal sides  4   e  and  6   e  thereof. 
     A left upper panel  20  is provided having a top portion  20   a  and a bottom portion  20   b  wherein bottom portion  20   b  of left upper panel  20  extends from top portion  4   a  of left mesh panel  4 , toward the shoulder of a user. 
     A right upper panel  22  is provided having a top portion  22   a  and a bottom portion  22   b  wherein bottom portion  22   b  of right upper panel  22  extends from top portion  6   a  of right mesh panel  6 , toward the shoulder of a user. 
     A left adjustable strap  24  is provided having a bottom portion  24   a  and a top portion  24   b  wherein bottom portion  24   a  of left adjustable strap  24  extends from top portion  20   a  of left upper panel  20 . 
     A right adjustable strap  26  is provided having a bottom portion  26   a  and a top portion  26   b  wherein bottom portion  26   a  of right adjustable strap  26  extends from top portion  22   a  of right upper panel  22 . 
     A left side mesh panel  30  is provided having a top portion  30   a , a bottom portion  30   b , a proximal side  30   c , and a distal side  30   d , wherein bottom portion  30   b  of left side mesh panel  30  contacts lateral adjustment strap  10  where lateral adjustment strap  10  extends from distal side  4   e  of left mesh panel  4 , on proximal side  30   c  of left side mesh panel  30 . Also provided is a right side mesh panel  28  having a top portion  28   a , a bottom portion  28   b , a proximal side  28   c , and a distal side  28   d , wherein bottom portion  6   b  of right side mesh panel  6  contacts lateral adjustment strap  10  where lateral adjustment strap  10  extends from distal side  6   e  of right mesh panel  6 , on proximal side  28   c  of right side mesh panel  28 . 
     A dorsal panel  32  is provided which is configured to cover the upper back of a user having an octagonal union  34  in the center thereof such that octagonal union  34  will be positioned in the middle of the back of a user. 
     A back band  36  is provided extending horizontally from bottom portion  30   b  of left side mesh panel  30  on proximal side  30   c  thereof to bottom portion  28   b  of right side mesh panel  28  on proximal side  28   c  thereof. 
     A left upper dorsal strap  38  is provided extending from top portion  24   b  of left adjustable strap  24  to the upper left corner of octagonal union  34 . 
     A right upper dorsal strap  40  is provided extending from top portion  26   b  of right adjustable strap  26  to the upper right corner of octagonal union  34 . 
     A left lower dorsal strap  42  is provided extending from an area of back band  36  proximate to where back band  36  meets left side mesh panel  30  to the lower left corner of octagonal union  34 . 
     A right lower dorsal strap  44  is provided extending from an area of back band  36  proximate to where back band  36  meets right side mesh panel  28  to the lower right corner of octagonal union  34 . 
     It is envisioned that internal insert pouch  8  may be constructed of any material suitable to create a pouch capable of encasing a brassiere insert such as brassiere insert  9 . In one embodiment of the present invention, internal insert pouch  8  is a multi-layer mesh pocket. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, internal insert pouch  8  is configured to receive a brassiere insert such as brassiere insert  9  such that brassiere insert  9  would affix to internal insert pouch  8  by means of a snappable, form-fit configuration, an adhesive, and the like. 
     In one particular embodiment of the present invention, left side mesh panel  30  is an adjustable closure having a top portion  30   a , a bottom portion  30   b , a proximal side  30   c , and a distal side  30   d , wherein bottom portion  30   b  of left side mesh panel  30  contacts lateral adjustment strap  10  where lateral adjustment strap  10  extends from distal side  4   e  of left mesh panel  4 , on proximal side  30   c  of left side mesh panel  30 . In this embodiment, brassiere  2  may be opened or adjusted using the adjustable closure of left side mesh panel  30 . The opposite side is not an adjustable closure, thus allowing brassiere  2  to facilitate nursing. 
     In another embodiment of the present invention, brassiere  2  includes a left side mesh panel  30  and a right side mesh panel  28  which are both adjustable closures. In this embodiment, left side mesh panel includes a top portion  30   a , a bottom portion  30   b , a proximal side  30   c , and a distal side  30   d , wherein bottom portion  30   b  of left side mesh panel  30  contacts lateral adjustment strap  10  where lateral adjustment strap  10  extends from distal side  4   e  of left mesh panel  4 , on proximal side  30   c  of left side mesh panel  30 . Right side mesh panel  28  includes a top portion  28   a , a bottom portion  28   b , a proximal side  28   c , and a distal side  28   d , wherein bottom portion  28   b  of right side mesh panel  28  contacts lateral adjustment strap  10  where lateral adjustment strap  10  extends from distal side  4   e  of left mesh panel  4 , on proximal side  28   c  of right side mesh panel  28 . In this embodiment, brassiere  2  may be opened or adjusted using the adjustable closure of left side mesh panel  30  and/or the adjustable closure of right side mesh panel  28 . Both sides are adjustable, thus allowing brassiere  2  to be easily worn and removed, even when movement is limited, such as after surgery. 
     In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, lateral adjustment strap  10  includes a lateral closure  48  at a midpoint of lateral adjustment strap  10  such that lateral closure  48  will be positioned in the middle of the chest of a user, above internal insert pouch  8 . Lateral closure  48  facilitates opening and closing of the lateral adjustment strap, which can be opened to remove tension across the chest caused by lateral adjustment strap  10  when lateral adjustment strap  10  is taut. It is envisioned that lateral closure  48  will allow a user to adjust lateral adjustment strap  10  to maximize comfort as well as fit. In that tightening lateral adjustment strap  10  functions to bring a user&#39;s breasts closer together, loosening lateral adjustment strap  10  will have the opposite effect—allowing the user&#39;s breasts to move further apart. Accordingly, lateral closure  48  may be used to tighten or loosen lateral adjustment strap  10  as desired, depending on the preference. 
     In one particular embodiment of the present invention, left mesh panel  4  and right mesh panel  6  each have an upper panel ( 4   f  and  6   f , respectively) and a lower panel ( 4   g  and  6   g , respectively), wherein each lower panel ( 4   g  and  6   g ) is configured to cover the portion of a user&#39;s breast below the nipple of the breast and each upper panel  4   f  and  6   f  is configured to cover the portion of a user&#39;s breast above the nipple of the breast. By providing left mesh panel  4  and right mesh panel  6  with both upper and lower panels, it is therefore possible to vary the amount of stretch in the upper and lower panels. For example, if a more stretchable material is desired above the nipple of the breast than below, this can be achieved, and vice versa. 
     In another embodiment, the brassiere of the present invention comprises a left lower lateral adjustment strap  50  extending along bottom portion  4   b  of left mesh panel  4  and a right lower lateral adjustment strap  52  extending along bottom portion  6   b  of right mesh panel  6 . As discussed above, tightening lateral adjustment strap  10  functions to bring a user&#39;s breasts closer together, while loosening lateral adjustment strap  10  will have the opposite effect—allowing the user&#39;s breasts to move further apart. However, lateral adjustment strap  10  is somewhat limited to bringing the upper portion of a user&#39;s breasts closer together, or allowing the upper portion of a user&#39;s breasts to move further apart. Accordingly, left lower lateral adjustment strap  50  and right lower lateral adjustment strap  52  function to bring the lower portion of a user&#39;s breasts closer together, or to allow the lower portion of a user&#39;s breasts to move further apart. As such, the combination of lateral adjustment strap  10 , left lower lateral adjustment strap  50  and right lower lateral adjustment strap  52  allow a user to control the separation of the upper and lower portions of the user&#39;s breasts. 
     In one embodiment of the present invention, back band  36  includes a back closure  54  having a left side  54   a  and a right side  54   b  such that back band  36  extends horizontally from bottom portion of the left adjustable side closure  30  on proximal side  30   c  thereof to left side  54   a  of back closure  54 ; back band  36  then continues from right side  54   b  of back closure  54  to bottom portion  28   b  of right adjustable side closure  28  on proximal side  28   c  thereof. 
     In one particular embodiment of the present invention, at least some portion of dorsal panel  32  between left lower dorsal strap  42 , right lower dorsal strap  44 , and back band  36  contains an aperture  56  (is free of fabric), as shown in  FIG. 10 . It is envisioned that the area of aperture  56  may vary depending on the type of material used, the desired amount of ventilation, and the like. It is further envisioned that dorsal panel  32  may contain additional apertures at different locations to provide additional ventilation, as desired, without departing from the spirit of the present invention. 
     In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, a left bidirectional mesh panel  58  is provided on dorsal panel  32  where left upper dorsal strap  38  and left lower dorsal strap  42  meet the left side of octagonal union  34 . A right bidirectional mesh panel  60  is provided on dorsal panel  32  where right upper dorsal strap  40  and right lower dorsal strap  44  meet the right side of octagonal union  34 . 
     In another embodiment of the present invention, first lower panel  12  is bisected longitudinally to form two symmetrical panels. 
     In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, upper panel  4   f  of left mesh panel  4  and upper panel  6   f  of right mesh panel  6  have stretch values of about 1-3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Lower panel  4   g  of left mesh panel  4  and lower panel  6   g  of right mesh panel  6  have stretch values of about 3-5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Internal insert pouch  8  has a stretch value of about 1-2 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Lateral adjustment strap  10  has a stretch value of about 3-5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). First lower panel  12  has a stretch value of about 3-5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left second lower panel  14  and right second lower panel  16  each have a stretch value of about 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left upper panel  20  and right upper panel  22  each have a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Dorsal panel  32  has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength. Left upper dorsal strap  38  has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Right upper dorsal strap  40  has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left lower dorsal strap  42  has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Right lower dorsal strap  44  has a stretch value of about 2-4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Octagonal union  34  has a stretch value of about 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left lower lateral adjustment strap  50  and right lower lateral adjustment strap  52  each have a stretch value of about 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). 
     In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, upper panel  4   f  of left mesh panel  4  and upper panel  6   f  of right mesh panel  6  have stretch values of 2 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Lower panel  4   g  of left mesh panel  4  and lower panel  6   g  of right mesh panel  6  have stretch values of 4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Internal insert pouch  8  has a stretch value of about 1 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Lateral adjustment strap  10  has a stretch value of 4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). First lower panel  12  has a stretch value of 4 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left second lower panel  14  and right second lower panel  16  each have a stretch value of 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left upper panel  20  and right upper panel  22  each have a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Dorsal panel  32  has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength. Left upper dorsal strap  38  has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Right upper dorsal strap  40  has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left lower dorsal strap  42  has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Right lower dorsal strap  44  has a stretch value of 3 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Octagonal union  34  has a stretch value of 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). Left lower lateral adjustment strap  50  and right lower lateral adjustment strap  52  each have a stretch value of 5 based upon a fabric stretch index from 1 (more stretch) to 5 (least strength). 
     However, it is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the stretch value of the various components of the brassiere of the present invention may be varied depending upon, for example, the user&#39;s preference, the desired amount of mobility, and the like. For example, should a user prefer a particular shape over mobility, a material with a high stretch value should be employed, whereas a material with a low stretch value should be employed when a user prefers mobility over a particular shape. 
     It is understood that the preceding description is given merely by way of illustration and not in limitation of the invention and that various modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention as claimed. The description has not attempted to exhaustively enumerate all possible variations. That alternate embodiments may not have presented for a specific portion of the invention or that further undescribed alternate embodiments may be available for a portion is not to be considered a disclaimer of those alternate embodiments.