U.S. patent application number 12/053973 was filed with the patent office on 2008-09-25 for tapered shirt with incorporated support system and method.
Invention is credited to Brandy Fons, Lori Humphrey.
Application Number | 20080229474 12/053973 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39773210 |
Filed Date | 2008-09-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080229474 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fons; Brandy ; et
al. |
September 25, 2008 |
TAPERED SHIRT WITH INCORPORATED SUPPORT SYSTEM AND METHOD
Abstract
A woman's shirt includes integrated outerwear and support
undergarment. The support undergarment has cups, sized for
accommodating the woman's breasts and particular bust size. The
outerwear of the shirt includes a front portion and a back portion.
The front portion is connected to the back portion, to form neck,
arm and bottom openings. The support undergarment includes
semi-rigid cups, such as foam or padded cups. The support
undergarment includes a front panel and a back panel. The cups are
included in the front panel. The front panel is connected to the
front portion at extents of the front portion forming the neck and
arm openings. The back panel is connected to the back portion at
extents of the back portion forming the arm openings. The shirt is
sized by characteristics of measures of breast cup size and of
length from just under the woman's breasts to a preferred ride
location on the woman's torso for the bottom of the shirt when worn
by the woman. Measurement tools assist to size the shirt per these
measures.
Inventors: |
Fons; Brandy; (Austin,
TX) ; Humphrey; Lori; (Austin, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
H. Dale Langley, Jr.;The Law Office of H. Dale Langley, Jr.
610 West Lynn
Austin
TX
78703
US
|
Family ID: |
39773210 |
Appl. No.: |
12/053973 |
Filed: |
March 24, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60896622 |
Mar 23, 2007 |
|
|
|
60896641 |
Mar 23, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/113 ; 33/17R;
450/31; 450/57 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41H 1/02 20130101; A41C
3/08 20130101; A41B 9/08 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/113 ; 450/31;
450/57; 33/17.R |
International
Class: |
A41B 9/06 20060101
A41B009/06; A41C 3/10 20060101 A41C003/10; A41H 3/00 20060101
A41H003/00 |
Claims
1. A shirt, comprising: an outerwear; and a support undergarment
having cups, connected to the outerwear.
2. The shirt of claim 1, wherein the cups are a semi-rigid
material.
3. The shirt of claim 2, wherein the outerwear includes a front
portion and a back portion, each formed with a neckline; wherein
the support undergarment includes a front panel connected to the
cups and a back panel connected to the front panel; and wherein the
support undergarment is connected to the outerwear only at the
neckline of the front portion and the back portion.
4. The shirt of claim 3, wherein the cups are foam padding; and
wherein the outerwear is slim-fitting in wear.
5. The shirt of claim 4, wherein the front portion of the outerwear
is formed to terminate in a lower extent in wear of the shirt, the
lower extent dictated according to (i) a bust cup size value and
(ii) a length value, measured from below the cups to preferred
lower extent for the shirt in wear.
6. A method of sizing a shirt of a woman, comprising the steps of:
measuring a first value of a distance from the breasts of the woman
to a preferred bottom ride location of the woman; measuring a
second value of cup size of the breasts; forming a front portion of
an outerwear of the shirt in accord with the steps of measuring the
first value and measuring the second value; forming a back portion
of the outerwear of the shirt to conform to the front portion and
provide neck and arm holes and a bottom of the shirt; forming cups
of the size of the second value; forming a support undergarment
having cups from the step of forming cups of the second value; and
connecting the support undergarment to the front portion and the
back portion at the neck and arm holes.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein the cups from the step of forming
cups are semi-rigid.
8. The method of claim 6, further comprising: wherein the cups from
the step of forming cups are foam.
9. The method of claim 7, wherein the step of forming the support
undergarment comprises the steps of: forming a front panel
connected to the cups; forming a back panel connected to the front
panel; connecting the front panel to the neck and arm holes of the
front portion; and connecting the back panel to the arm holes of
the front portion.
10. A method of sizing a shirt for a woman, comprising the steps
of: measuring a bust cup size of the woman; and measuring a length
of the woman extending from beneath breasts of the woman to a
preferred ride point of the shirt; and correlating dimensions for
the shirt based on the step of measuring the bust cup size and
measuring the length.
11. A system for sizing a shirt of a woman, comprising: a ruler;
and a bust cup range correlated to the ruler.
12. The product shirt of the method of claim 6.
13. The product shirt of the method of claim 7.
14. The product shirt of the method of claim 8.
15. The product shirt of the method of claim 9.
16. The product shirt of the method of claim 10.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO PRIORITY U.S. PROVISIONAL PATENT APPLICATION
[0001] The present application is a conversion of, and is related
to and incorporates by reference herein, U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/896,622, titled "Tapered Shirt with Incorporated
Support System and Method", filed Mar. 23, 2007, and U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 60/896,641, titled "Integrated
Shirt Outerwear and Underwear", filed Mar. 23, 2007, each of the
same inventors hereof.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to shirt clothing,
and more particularly relates to women's outerwear providing
integrated support cups with elegant, seamless appearance and
customizable fitting and sizing thereof.
[0003] Women typically wear support bras, i.e., brassieres, under
outerwear shirt tops. Conventionally, these bras are separate
underwear garments, worn as under-apparel lingerie. Bras have been
variously sized to accommodate fit requirements of the specific
wearer. Sizing and variation for desirable fit can include rib cage
and torso measurement, cup size, band and strap, style features,
and variable adjustments, widths, and materials. Additionally, bra
designs, materials and parts vary for comfort, feel, appearance,
and bust support.
[0004] Slim fitting outerwear shirt tops are often favored for wear
on occasion. Conventionally, slim fitting women's shirts, including
those with slim straps, lower necklines, and sleeveless features,
are most desirable in certain fabrics, such as stretchable cotton
and other materials, that somewhat conform to the wearer's body
torso. Conventional bras are often undesirably exposed at straps,
bands, and through sheer and silhouette lines of the bra,
particularly when worn with slim fitting outer shirts but also in
other instances. With certain types of available bras, such as
those which do not have formed cups or that do not provide
cushioned support cups (e.g., such as foam cups), a so-called
"uni-boob" effect occurs when wearing slim-fit tops. This effect
obscures aspects of cleavage between the breasts, appearing to the
third-party observer as a laterally traversing single protruding
contour across the torso. The "uni-boob" effect is undesired for at
least certain fashion styles.
[0005] Certain conventional bra types include foam cups to support
the wearer's breasts. Foam cups are often preferred when wearing
slim fitting, as well as other types of, shirts and tops. These
foam cups can provide greater bust support and better conceal body
lines and contours than with other undergarments. Alternatives and
variations to foam cups, such as soft or "natural" cups,
underwires, fiber fill cups, demi-mode cups, sport-type spandex
materials, and others, are often more sheer, thin, less-molded, and
loose in wear as compared to foam cups.
[0006] When wearing elegant outer wear, and also many casual and
everyday styles, the wearer often wants the shirt to generally
conceal underwear, such as the bra and its various parts. Because
of movement of the wearer or loose fit of the shirt, the bra, or
portions of it, can be exposed rather than concealed under the
outer shirt. Also, typical bras may slip in fit to the wearer's
body at straps and other features, thereby exposing the bra. This
can be undesirable and distracting to the wearer.
[0007] Thus, in general, the wearer desires that the bra remain
unexposed under the outer garment, and that the bra provide
support, have appropriate fit, and be comfortable in wear.
Conventional bra underwear worn with outerwear shirts does not, and
cannot, fulfill the wearer's wishes in these and other respects.
Moreover, in wear of at least certain types of bras and cup
designs, the wearer typically will experience unwanted exposure of
bra portions, creases, lines, and certain bodily contours, such as
breast features. Foam cups are often particularly desirable for
comfort, support and external appearance; however, these cups and
sizing of the cups in conventional bra wear is selected according
to bra undergarment sizing and options. Shirts and other outerwear
are not similarly sized or selected.
[0008] Because of wide variation in wearer body styles, contours,
breast size, and desired fashionable "look", shirts worn with
certain bras can externally appear quite different from the look
with other bras. Bust size, for example, can impact the extent to
which shirt fronts may/may not be of desired length. Also, in many
slim and body-conforming shirts, the waist size, breast size and
the body torso, in general, may cause unwanted stretch, crease,
sheer appearance and the like during wear of the shirt.
[0009] Conventional shirt sizing has not allowed adequate selection
for the varied bodies of wearers. For example, even though the same
conventional size may generally most closely provide appropriate
fit for multiple different wearers as to upper torso, the lower
belly portion of the torsos of the various wearers can be shorter
or longer. Likewise, wearers differ in size of the upper bust
portion of the torso. In effect, a shirt that fits in a particular
size may extend long or short in front, may be tight or loose in
width, and otherwise can significantly vary depending on the
wearer's unique size and shape.
[0010] Other attempts have, at times, sought to include various
breast support designs as part of shirts and other clothing, these
have nevertheless been only loosely fitting and lacking of any
significant bust support. In particular, some shirts include
secondary inner binding layers or other "soft" features around the
bust portions. These attempts have not provided support such as
desired by many women. Further, these attempts have not addressed
the problem presented because of differing body sizes and styles,
such as bust measurements and belly torso lengths.
[0011] It would, therefore, be a significant improvement in the art
and technology to provide clothing, such as women's shirts and
tops, having incorporated undergarment features for support, and
that provides desired appearance and fit in view of body sizing and
style variation to accommodate such support and wear. It would also
be significant in the art and technology to provide such clothing
that allows a desirable external appearance and comfortable feel to
the wearer, including by better concealing the undergarment inside
the outerwear and without compromising sleek and line-less look in
relatively slim fitting tops and others.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] An embodiment of the invention is a shirt. The shirt
includes an outerwear and a support undergarment having cups,
connected to the outerwear.
[0013] In certain embodiments, the cups are a semi-rigid
material.
[0014] In further embodiments, the outerwear includes a front
portion and a back portion, each formed with a neckline, the
support undergarment includes a front panel connected to the cups
and a back panel connected to the front panel, and the support
undergarment is connected to the outerwear only at the neckline of
the front portion and the back portion.
[0015] In other embodiments, the front portion of the outerwear is
formed to terminate in a lower extent in wear of the shirt, the
lower extent dictated according to (i) a bust cup size value and
(ii) a length value, measured from below the cups to preferred
lower extent for the shirt in wear.
[0016] Another embodiment of the invention is a method of sizing a
shirt of a woman. The method includes measuring a first value of a
distance from the breasts of the woman to a preferred bottom ride
location of the woman, measuring a second value of cup size of the
breasts, forming a front portion of an outerwear of the shirt in
accord with the steps of measuring the first value and measuring
the second value, forming a back portion of the outerwear of the
shirt to conform to the front portion and provide neck and arm
holes and a bottom of the shirt, forming cups of the size of the
second value, forming a support undergarment having cups from the
step of forming cups of the second value, and connecting the
support undergarment to the front portion and the back portion at
the neck and arm holes.
[0017] In other embodiments, the cups from the step of forming cups
are semi-rigid.
[0018] In yet other embodiments, forming the support undergarment
includes forming a front panel connected to the cups, forming a
back panel connected to the front panel, connecting the front panel
to the neck and arm holes of the front portion, and connecting the
back panel to the arm holes of the front portion.
[0019] Yet another embodiment of the invention is a method of
sizing a shirt for a woman. The method includes measuring a bust
cup size of the woman, measuring a length of the woman extending
from beneath breasts of the woman to a preferred ride point of the
shirt, and correlating dimensions for the shirt based on the step
of measuring the bust cup size and measuring the length.
[0020] Another embodiment of the invention is a system for sizing a
shirt of a woman. The system includes a ruler and a bust cup range
correlated to the ruler.
[0021] Other embodiments of the invention include the product shirt
of the respective methods.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] The present invention is illustrated by way of example and
not limitation in the accompanying figures, in which like
references indicate similar elements, and in which:
[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a shirt incorporated with
a support undergarment, according to certain embodiments of the
invention;
[0024] FIG. 2 illustrates a back view of the shirt of FIG. 1,
according to certain embodiments of the invention;
[0025] FIG. 3 illustrates a front-right side perspective view of
the shirt of FIGS. 1 and 2 (including a wearer's upper body torso,
in phantom), as worn, according to certain embodiments of the
invention;
[0026] FIG. 4 illustrates a front-right side perspective view of
the support undergarment of FIG. 3, and the outerwear of the shirt
in phantom, as worn, according to certain embodiments of the
invention;
[0027] FIG. 5 illustrates a front perspective view of the shirt of
FIG. 3, as worn, according to certain embodiments of the
invention;
[0028] FIG. 6 illustrates a back perspective view of the shirt of
FIG. 3, as worn, according to certain embodiments of the
invention;
[0029] FIG. 7 illustrates a side perspective view of the shirt of
FIG. 3, as worn, according to certain embodiments of the
invention;
[0030] FIG. 8 illustrates a front-right side perspective view of
the shirt of FIG. 3, with the outerwear of the shirt in part
lifted, according to certain embodiments of the invention;
[0031] FIG. 9 illustrates a sizing device for fitting the shirt
incorporated with the support garment of FIGS. 1-8, according to
certain embodiments of the invention;
[0032] FIG. 10 illustrates a front-right side perspective view of
an alternative embodiment of a shirt having a support undergarment,
according to certain embodiments of the invention;
[0033] FIG. 11 illustrates a front-right side perspective view of
the alternative embodiment of the shirt having support undergarment
of FIG. 10 (including a wearer's upper body torso, in phantom), as
worn according to certain embodiments of the invention;
[0034] FIG. 12 illustrates a front-right side perspective view of
the shirt of FIGS. 10 and 11, with the outerwear of the shirt in
part lifted, as worn, according to certain embodiments of the
invention; and
[0035] FIG. 13 illustrates a front-right side perspective exploded
view of the shirt of FIGS. 10-12, having the support undergarment,
a thin layer covering the support undergarment to hide lines of
cups of the support undergarment, and the outerwear of the shirt,
according to certain embodiments of the invention;
[0036] FIG. 14 illustrates a rear perspective view of an embodiment
of the shirt, in wear;
[0037] FIG. 15 illustrates a front perspective view of an
alternative embodiment of the shirt, in wear;
[0038] FIG. 16 illustrates a front perspective view of an
alternative embodiment of the shirt, in wear;
[0039] FIG. 17 illustrates a front perspective view of an
alternative embodiment of the shirt, in wear; and
[0040] FIG. 18 illustrates a front perspective view of an
alternative embodiment of the shirt, in wear.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0041] Referring to FIG. 1, a shirt 100 includes an outerwear 102
and a support undergarment 104 (shown in phantom in FIG. 1). The
shirt 100 includes a front portion 102a and a back portion 102b. At
upward extents 102c of the front portion 102a (towards the top of
the page in FIG. 1), the shirt 100 is formed with front straps 106
on each side of a front neckline 108 and with back straps 112
(located behind the front straps 106 of the front portion 102a in
FIG. 1) on each side of a back neckline 116. A lower extent 102d
(towards the bottom of the page in FIG. 1) of the shirt 100 is
formed with a tail edge, as is common. For reference purposes
herein, the upper part of the front portion 102a and the back
portion 102b are indicated by reference numeral 120, and the lower
part of the front portion 102a and the back portion 102b are
indicated by reference number 130. It is to be understood, however,
that each of the upper part and lower part are connected
substantially as shown in FIG. 1, whether by joining seams of
separate pieces/materials or as formed of a single unitary
piece/material for each of the front portion 102a and the back
portion 102b, respectively.
[0042] The front portion 102a is connected to the back portion 102b
in manner to form arm holes 110a, 110b, neck hole 118, and open
tail 102d. For example, the front portion 102a and the back portion
102b are sewed, stitched or otherwise joined together along the
respective corresponding periphery of the portions 102a, 102b at
the upward extents 102c of the straps 106,112 and along the lower
part 130 to the arm holes 110a, 110b. Seamed edges are formed in
the front portion 102a and the back portion 102b where these
portions 102a, 102b are not connected, such as to prevent material
fray.
[0043] The support undergarment 104 (in phantom in FIG. 1) is
disposed between the front portion 102a and the back portion 102b
as so connected. The support undergarment 104 is connected to the
front portion 102a at the front neckline 108 and the arm holes
110a, 110b, and is connected to the back portion 102b at the arm
holes 110a, 110b. The support undergarment 104 is otherwise not
attached to or connected with the outerwear 102 formed by the front
portion 102a and the back portion 102b.
[0044] The support undergarment 104 includes attached cups 122 to
provide breast support in wear of the shirt 100. The support
undergarment 104, including the cups 122, is formed of fabrics and
materials suitable and as desired for bust support, wear and
comfort. Further details are later described in regards to sizing
of the support undergarment 104, particularly the cups 122 thereof,
and the lower part 130 of the shirt 100, and overall fit and size
measurements and design with respect to these elements.
[0045] The outerwear 102 of the shirt 100 is formed of flexible
clothing material, such as fabric or other. This material can
include any of a wide variety of conventional or new fabrics or
alternatives. Selection of materials will vary according to desired
fashion styles, fit, comfort, wear and other characteristics as
will be understood, such as for wear for everyday, casual, elegant
or other. For example, the fabric or other material is any natural,
man-made or combination of tweeds, weaves, and the like, all as
will be understood, for example, cotton, wool, silk, polyester,
spandex, and any others. Mechanisms of connection, joining and
attachment of pieces of materials to form the shirt 100 include any
of a wide variety of possibilities now or in the future known, for
example, stitched, sewed, glued, snapped, or other. In particular,
the support undergarment 104 and the cups 122 can be selected from
among desirable options that will be understood, including those
that are and were mentioned in other sections herein. The support
undergarment 104 and the cups 122 thereof are, in any event, as
required and available to provide desired bust support in wear,
together with concealment, sleekness, and fit. Conventional, as
well as hereafter developed or instituted, manufacturing techniques
are employable.
[0046] Referring to FIG. 2, the shirt 100 of FIG. 1 (in back side
orientation 200 in FIG. 2) includes the outerwear 102 and the
support undergarment 104 (in phantom in FIG. 2). The upward extents
102c (towards the top of the page in FIG. 2) of the back portion
102b are formed with the back straps 112 on each side of the back
neckline 116. The lower extent 102d (towards the bottom of the page
in FIG. 2) of the back portion 102b of the shirt 100 is formed with
the tail edge. The support undergarment 104 (in phantom in FIG. 2)
is disposed in the outerwear 102, between the back portion 102b and
the front portion 102a.
[0047] The back portion 102b is connected to the front portion 102a
as previously described with respect to FIG. 1, except that the
back neckline 116 is not connected to the support undergarment 104.
In effect, the back portion 102b and the support undergarment 104
are not attached other than at the arm holes 110a, 110b formed of
the back portion 102b. As previously discussed, the back portion
102b is connected at peripheral edges to the front portion 102a
other than at the back neckline 116, the arm holes 110a, 110b and
the lower extent 102d.
[0048] Referring to FIG. 3, in conjunction with FIGS. 1 and 2, the
shirt 100 is in wear 300 by a person 302 (shown in phantom in FIG.
3). The shirt 100 includes the outerwear 102 and the support
undergarment 104 (shown in phantom in FIG. 3). The support
undergarment 104 includes the cups 122 (shown in phantom in FIG.
3).
[0049] The front portion 102a and the back portion 102b of the
outerwear 102 are shown as connected, for example, by stitching, at
peripheral edges except at the front neckline 108, the arm holes
110a, 110b and the lower extent 102d. At edges of the outerwear 102
that are not so peripherally connected, the outwear 102 includes
hemmed or otherwise finished edges (although certain fashion styles
could include rough or unfinished edges, and these and all other
styles and finishes are included). As shown by the shirt 100 in
wear 300 by the person 302, the front neckline 108 is swooping
towards the person's bust and the arm holes 110a, 110b are
sleeveless. These features in FIG. 3 are substantially stylized
choices and so subject to wide variation and option; however, the
various elements and components providing those features, as herein
described, are highly desirable in such styles (although not
limited to these styles) in order to achieve the objectives and
advantages here.
[0050] Referring to FIG. 4, in conjunction with FIGS. 1-3, the
support undergarment 104 of the shirt 100 is in wear 400 by the
person 302 (shown in phantom in FIG. 4). The outerwear 102 (shown
in phantom in FIG. 4) covers and conceals the support undergarment
104 during wear 400. The support undergarment 104 includes the
attached cups 122 in location for supporting and containing breasts
of the person 302.
[0051] The support undergarment 104 includes a front panel 404a
thereof connected to the cups 122. The front panel 404a includes
straps 404 on each side of a neckline 408. The neckline 408 at the
front panel 404a conforms to the edges of the front neckline 108
(not shown because congruent with the neckline 408) and connected
thereto, such as by sewed stitching or the like as discussed. The
front panel 404a is formed with arm holes 410a, 410b to accommodate
arms of the person 302. The arm holes 410a, 410b are congruent with
and attached to the edges of the arm holes 110a, 110b of the
outerwear 102 as previously described. The front panel 404a extends
to just below the cups 122 (i.e., to fit at the torso under the
breasts of the person 302), and is formed with a bottom edge 406.
The bottom edge 406, as well as other portions of the support
undergarment 104 not fixed at the neckline 108 or the arm holes
410a, 410b to the outerwear 102, are not connected to the outerwear
102 and can move freely, but as retained, therewithin, in wear by
the person. Side seams 408 (i.e., at both sides, left and right of
the torso, of the person 302) and shoulder seams 402 connect the
front panel 404a to a back panel 404b of the support undergarment
104.
[0052] As mentioned, the cups 122 are connected to or formed in the
front panel 404a. The cups 122 are foam cups of padded foam or
fabric, as many women prefer as discussed in the background herein.
The cups 122 are connected along the respective edges thereof to
the front panel 404a, in locations of breasts of the person 302,
for example, at cutout portions of the front panel 404a formed to
accommodate the cups 122 at such locations. The cups 122 are sized
according to bust size and desired fit of the person 302.
Alternatives to foam or padded cups are also included; however,
foam or padded cups, and the applicable support provided thereby,
are particularly desirable in the support undergarment 104 for the
reasons previously mentioned herein and in other respects. For
example, added support, relatively seamless lines, concealment and
the like are all provided with these types of cups, and the
designs, styles and elements obtaining the objects and advantages
hereof.
[0053] Although not in detail in FIG. 4, but shown in FIGS. 2 and 6
(and certain other figures) in greater detail, the back panel 404b
of the support undergarment 104 extends across the torso back of
the person 302 in wear, such that back straps thereof connect to or
join the straps 402 and the side seams 408 for the front panel
404a. The back panel 404b is concealed within the outerwear 102 at
the back neckline 116 (shown in FIG. 2) thereof. The support
undergarment 104 can be connected to, such as via seam, the back
neckline 116 or, alternately, it can be unconnected to the
outerwear 102, according to design preference and choice.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 5, in conjunction with FIGS. 1-4, the
front portion 102a of the outerwear 102 during wear by the person
302 includes the upper part 120 and the lower part 130. As
mentioned, the upper part 120 and the lower part 130 of the
outerwear 102 can be unitary or, as applicable, formed of two or
more joined pieces. The upper part 120 and the lower part 130 of
the outerwear 102 are each sized in order to accommodate respective
portions of the body torso of the person, i.e., the upper part 120
is sized for the bust and upper body and the lower part 130 is
sized for the stomach extending to desired length from underside of
the breasts of the person 302. The support undergarment 104 (shown
in phantom in FIG. 5) is connected to the outerwear 102 at the
front neckline 108 and the arm holes 110a, 110b, and retains and
supports the breasts of the person 302 as so concealed within the
outerwear 102. Further details of sizing of the outerwear 102 and
the support undergarment 104 are hereafter provided.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 6, in conjunction with FIGS. 1-5, the back
portion 102b of the outerwear 102 during wear by the person
includes the upper part 120 and the lower part 130. As with the
front portion 102a, the upper part 120 and the lower part 130 of
the back portion 102b of the outerwear 102 can be unitary or formed
of pieced and connected segments. The upper part 120 and the lower
part 130 of the back portion 102b conform to appropriate size in
order to appear as desired in connection to the front portion 102a,
and as is applicable for the less contoured back of the person 302.
In particular, the bust measurement is not particularly significant
to size of the back portion 102b as to where on the person 302 the
lower extent 102d of the back portion 102b will ride during wear,
but the lower torso stomach of the person 302 is taken into account
in conforming the back portion 102b to the respective front portion
102a of the outerwear 102 per sizing of the shirt 100 (as such
sizing is hereafter further detailed).
[0056] The back portion 404b (shown in phantom in FIG. 6) of the
support undergarment 104 (shown in phantom in FIG. 6) extends from
connection to the back neckline 116 of the outerwear 102 (although,
in certain alternatives, the support undergarment 104 is not so
connected, as previously mentioned and shown). The back portion
404b is connected to the arm holes 110a, 110b of the outerwear 102.
The bottom edge 406 of the support undergarment 104 is fitted to
accommodate, in a comfortable and suitably supporting manner with
respect to the cups and bust, the upper back of the person 302. The
bottom edge 406 generally (vertically with the torso in wear)
conforms to the bottom edge 406 of the support undergarment 104 at
the front panel 104 (e.g., in similar lateral location at the back
of the person 302 to the location at the front of the person
302).
[0057] Referring to FIG. 7, in conjunction with FIGS. 1-6, a right
side 700 of the person 302 (shown in phantom in FIG. 7) during wear
of the shirt 100 includes the upper part 120 and the lower part
130. The front portion 102a of the outerwear 102 is fitted to wear
by riding on the person 302 at the desired lower extent 102d. The
particular ride of the lower extent 102d in wear by the person 302
is dependent on the applicable measures of the upper part 120
(i.e., to account for the bust) and the lower part 130 (i.e., to
account for the torso stomach). The particular ride, and the
applicable measures of the upper part 120 and the lower part 120,
are also dependent on preferences of the person 302 (e.g., as to
the desired fit, style, type of shirt, and others). In measurements
to size the front portion 102a, the bust and the torso stomach area
are determinative and dictate the particular front portion 102a in
each shirt.
[0058] The back portion 102b of the outerwear 102 is fitted to wear
by riding on the person 302 also at the desired lower extent 102d.
The particular ride of the lower extent 102d during wear of the
shirt by the person 302 is dependent on the applicable measure for
the front part 102a and take into account measures of the upper
part 120 (i.e., to discount the bust) and the lower part 130 (i.e.,
to account for the torso stomach). As with the preferences in the
case of the front portion 102a, the ride of the back portion 102b
includes consideration of personal preference. However, in general,
the back portion 102b is fitted to conform generally in ride during
wear to the ride of the front portion 102a during wear.
[0059] The support undergarment 104 (shown in phantom in FIG. 7) is
contained within the outerwear 102 in wear by the person 302. The
support undergarment 104 is worn adjacent the person 302, and the
outerwear 102 covers the support undergarment 104. The support
undergarment 104 is connected to the outerwear 102 at the front
neckline 108 and back neckline 116 (not shown in detail in FIG. 7)
and at the arm holes 110a and 110b (left side arm hole 110b not
shown in FIG. 7). The bottom edge 406 of the support undergarment
104 rides under the breasts of the person 302. The cups 122,
incorporated in or connected to the front panel 404a, contain the
breasts and provide desirable support.
[0060] Referring to FIG. 8, in conjunction with FIGS. 1-7, the
support undergarment 104 in wear by the person 302 is revealed by
upwardly lifting movement of the outerwear 102 on the body of the
person 302. The support undergarment 104 includes the front panel
404a, the back panel 404b, and the cups 122 of the front panel
404a. The bottom edge 406 rides under the bust of the person 302.
The front neckline 108 of the outerwear 102 is connected to the
neckline 408 of the support undergarment 104 (necklines 108, 408
shown in phantom in FIG. 8). The arm holes 110a (shown in phantom)
and 110b (not shown in FIG. 8) of the outerwear 102 are also
connected to corresponding arm holes 410a (shown in phantom) and
410b (not shown) of the support undergarment 104.
Sizing and Fit:
[0061] Referring to FIG. 9, in conjunction with FIGS. 1-8, a shirt
sizer 900 (i.e., the T-Size.TM. fitting device for the shirt 100)
includes a ruler 902 and a size indicator 904. The shirt 100 is
fitted by measurement of both the wearer's bust (i.e., cup) size
and the wearer's desired ride length for the lower extent 102d of
the shirt 100 on the wearer's torso. The particular relative
positioning of an applicable one of the cup size indicator 904 and
length measure on the ruler 902 yields sizing specifics for the
shirt 100.
[0062] In particular, the shirt 100 is formed and manufactured
according to measurements for each of the cup size and the front
wear length for the shirt 100 for the particular wearer. The front
portion 102a of the outerwear 102 of the shirt 100 is configured by
the wearer by a first measurement of distance from just below the
wearer's breasts on the torso, downward (i.e., towards the feet) to
a desired bottom ride extent on the torso for the lower extent 102d
of the shirt 102 to ride. Once the first measurement is made, then
the applicable measure value is located on the ruler 902. The
location of the first measurement value on the ruler 902 gives a
size indicator 904 from within the indicated ranges for "LONG",
"REGULAR", and "SHORT" on the shirt sizer 900.
[0063] A second measurement (or, as is typical, a known measure) is
made of the wearer's cup size. Cups conforming to the particular
second measurement are included in the fitting the shirt 100 to the
wearer. For example, if the wearer has determined a first range of
"REGULAR" based on the first measured value, and a "C" cup size
based on the second measured value, then the shirt 100 that fits
the wearer according to the measurements and sizing of the shirt
100 is a "C REGULAR" size model. Conventional bust measures, and
measurement techniques, are contemplated for the second
measurement.
[0064] In manufacture, the shirt 100 is incorporated in the front
panel 404a of the support undergarment 104, with cups 122
conforming to the second measurement of the cups size of the
particular wearer. The shirt 100 is also made, in front portion
102a dimension, to have length extending to the lower extent 102d
of the shirt 102 at about the location of the measured first
measurement for the applicable wearer. The back portion 102b
dimensions are made to conform to the front portion 102a
dimensions, such that the lower extent 102d of the back portion
102b is consistent and generally conforms with the lower extent
102d of the front portion 102a when the shirt 100 is worn.
[0065] Referring to FIG. 10, a shirt 1000 includes the support
undergarment 104 with cups 122. The support undergarment 104 and
cups 104 are covered by an outer layer 1002. The outer layer 1002
covers the entirety of the support undergarment 104 and cups 104.
The outer layer 1002 connects to the support undergarment along the
bottom edge 406, along the neckline 408, and along the shoulder
seams 402 at the respective arm holes 410a, 410b. A shirt outerwear
102 covers the outer layer 1002, and is connected to the outer
layer 1002 and the support undergarment 104 along the neckline 408
and the shoulder seams 402.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 11, the shirt 1000 of FIG. 10 is in wear
by a person 1102 (shown in phantom). In wear, lines of the cups 122
existing in the support undergarment 104 are concealed by the outer
layer 1002. Thus, the shirt outerwear 102 appears substantially
seamless along the cups 122 and remaining portions of the support
undergarment 104.
[0067] Referring to FIG. 12, the shirt 1000 of FIGS. 10 and 11 is
raised, in part, to reveal the support undergarment 104 as covered
by the outer layer 1002.
[0068] Referring to FIG. 13, the shirt 1000 of FIGS. 10-12 is shown
in exploded view. The support undergarment 104 connects the cups
104 integral thereto. The support undergarment 104 is covered by
the outer layer 1002, and the outer layer 1002 and the support
undergarment are connected at the neckline 408, the bottom edge
406, and along seams at edge of the arm holes 410a,b. The outer
layer 1002 is covered by the shirt outerwear 102. The shirt
outerwear 102 is connected to the outer layer 1002 and the support
undergarment 104 at seams along the arm holes 410a,b and the
neckline 408.
[0069] Referring to FIGS. 14-18, alternative outerwear shirt
designs are shown as implemented in use in the foregoing
embodiments.
[0070] Other alternatives are possible in keeping with the
foregoing and all such alternatives are included herein. A wide
variety of materials, parts, styles, and configurations are
possible. Attachment and connection of the shirt and its pieces, as
well as mechanisms therefor, include all possibilities, as well as
more traditional sewing, stitching, hemming and the like. Desirable
fabrics and other materials are employed to form the shirt,
including both the outerwear and the support undergarment aspects.
For example, knits, weaves, tweeds and the like are variable. The
outerwear and the support undergarment can be the same or different
materials and manufacture and, in fact, each may themselves include
variations and pluralities of materials and manufacture. The cups
of the support undergarment are particularly desirable as so-called
foam (or padded) cups, because of the distinct sizing that is
possible and also because of the resultant look, feel, support and
comfort of the wearer. In effect, the shirt provides desirable
support such as would be provided by separate support bra or the
like, yet is sized to accommodate length, comfort and third-party
outward appearance preferences of the wearer. Moreover, the shirt
aids in concealment of the undergarment and body contours and the
like, because of the particular sizing variability, structure,
configuration and otherwise.
[0071] In the foregoing specification, the invention has been
described with reference to specific embodiments. However, one of
ordinary skill in the art appreciates that various modifications
and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the
present invention as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly,
the specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative
rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are
intended to be included within the scope of the present
invention.
[0072] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have
been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However,
the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems and any element(s)
that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or
become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical,
required, or essential feature or element of any or all the claims.
As used herein, the terms "comprises, "comprising," or any other
variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion,
such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a
list of elements does not include only those elements but may
include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such
process, method, article, or apparatus.
* * * * *