U.S. patent application number 14/281669 was filed with the patent office on 2014-09-11 for free-floating dual layer swimsuit.
The applicant listed for this patent is Joseph DiLorenzo. Invention is credited to Joseph DiLorenzo.
Application Number | 20140250561 14/281669 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48141226 |
Filed Date | 2014-09-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140250561 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
DiLorenzo; Joseph |
September 11, 2014 |
FREE-FLOATING DUAL LAYER SWIMSUIT
Abstract
A swimsuit comprising an inner compression layer attached to an
outer layer in a free floating manner is provided. The inner
compression layer shapes, contours and slims the wearer's body,
whereas the outer layer provides an aesthetically pleasing design.
The inner and outer layers are positioned substantially independent
from each other on the wearer's body for their respective purposes.
It is further contemplated that the outer layer provides an
additional shaping, contouring and slimming function in addition to
the inner compression layer. Left and right leg openings of the
inner and outer layers may be spot attached to each other at one or
more locations.
Inventors: |
DiLorenzo; Joseph;
(Farmingdale, NY) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
DiLorenzo; Joseph |
Farmingdale |
NY |
US |
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|
Family ID: |
48141226 |
Appl. No.: |
14/281669 |
Filed: |
May 19, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13276556 |
Oct 19, 2011 |
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14281669 |
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12886442 |
Sep 20, 2010 |
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13276556 |
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11825047 |
Jul 3, 2007 |
7814569 |
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12886442 |
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11787636 |
Apr 17, 2007 |
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11825047 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
2/67 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 7/00 20130101; A41D
7/005 20130101; A41D 2400/38 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/67 |
International
Class: |
A41D 7/00 20060101
A41D007/00 |
Claims
1. A swim suit comprising: a one piece inner compression layer
covering genitalia, breasts, and a portion of a wearer's body
therebetween, the inner compression layer being sized and
configured to snugly fit against the wearer's body for shaping the
wearer's body, the inner compression layer defining an upper
periphery; and a one piece outer layer covering the inner
compression layer and having a matching configuration with respect
to the inner compression layer, the outer layer defining an upper
periphery, the outer layer being attached to the inner compression
layer at their respective upper peripheries such that the inner
compression layer floats freely with respect to the outer layer for
optimally orienting the inner layer on the wearer's body for
shaping and optimally orienting the outer layer on the wearer's
body for aesthetic appeal.
2. The swim suit of claim 1 wherein the outer layer compresses the
wearer's body for further shaping the wearer's body.
3. The swim suit of claim 1 wherein the inner layer floats freely
with respect to the outer layer such that the inner compression
layer may be oriented on the wearer's body substantially
independent from the orientation of the outer layer.
4. The swim suit of claim 1 wherein a majority of the upper
peripheries of the inner compression layer and the outer layer are
substantially attached to each other.
5. The swim suit of claim 1 wherein less than half of the upper
peripheries of the inner compression layer and the outer layer are
minimally attached to each other.
6. The swim suit of claim 1 wherein the inner compression layer is
attached to an inside surface of the outer layer.
7. The swim suit of claim 1 wherein the inner compression layer is
attached to the outer layer solely at their respective upper
peripheries.
8. The swim suit of claim 1 further comprising a strap attached to
the upper periphery of the outer layer to hold the swim suit up
when worn by the wearer, the strap further comprising an adjustable
strap system for adjusting a length of the strap such that the swim
suit may be customized to fit the wearer.
9. The swim suit of claim 1 wherein the outer layer comprises: a
front panel defining an upper edge; a back panel defining an upper
edge; an elastic strap attached to the upper edges of the front and
back panels to hold the swim suit up when worn by the wearer and
for fitting various sized wearers.
10. The swim suit of claim 1 wherein the front and back panels each
define left and right strap attachment portions, and a left elastic
strap is attached to the left strap attachment portions of the
front and back panels, and a right elastic strap is attached to the
right strap attachment portions of the front and back panels.
11. The swim suit of claim 1 wherein the inner and outer layers are
disposed under a crotch area of the wearer to prevent the inner and
outer layers from rising upward.
12. The swim suit of claim 1 wherein the outer layer covers the
entire inner compression layer.
13. The swim suit of claim 1 wherein at least a portion of the
inner compression layer is seamless.
14. The swim suit of claim 1 wherein the inner compression layer is
cut and sewn.
15. A swim suit for a wearer, the swim suit comprising: an upper
portion for covering a torso and breasts of a wearer, the upper
portion comprising: an inner compression layer covering breasts of
a wearer, the inner compression layer being sized and configured to
snugly fit against the wearer's body for shaping the wearer's body,
the inner compression layer defining an upper periphery; and an
outer layer covering the inner compression layer and having a
matching configuration with respect to the inner compression layer,
the outer layer defining an upper periphery, the outer layer being
attached to the inner compression layer at their respective upper
peripheries such that the inner compression layer floats freely
with respect to the outer layer for optimally orienting the inner
layer on the wearer's body for shaping and optimally orienting the
outer layer on the wearer's body for aesthetic appeal.
16. A swim suit for a wearer, the swim suit comprising: a lower
portion for covering a pelvis area of a wearer, the lower portion
comprising: an inner compression layer covering genetalia of a
wearer, the inner compression layer being sized and configured to
snugly fit against the wearer's body for shaping the wearer's body,
the inner compression layer defining an upper periphery; and an
outer layer covering the inner compression layer and having a
matching configuration with respect to the inner compression layer,
the outer layer defining an upper periphery, the outer layer being
attached to the inner compression layer at their respective upper
peripheries such that the inner compression layer floats freely
with respect to the outer layer for optimally orienting the inner
layer on the wearer's body for shaping and optimally orienting the
outer layer on the wearer's body for aesthetic appeal.
17. A swim suit wearable by a wearer, the swim suit comprising: a
one piece inner compression layer covering genitalia, breasts, and
a portion of a wearer's body therebetween, the inner compression
layer being sized and configured to snugly fit against the wearer's
body for shaping the wearer's body, the inner compression layer
defining an upper periphery; and a one piece outer layer covering
the inner compression layer, the outer layer defining an upper
periphery, the outer layer being attached to the inner compression
layer only at the entire or majority of the upper peripheries of
the inner and outer compression layers.
18. The swimsuit of claim 17 further comprising one or more of a
flatter tummy panel, side panels, back panel and butt lifters
attached to the inner layer.
19. A swim suit wearable by a wearer, the swim suit comprising: an
upper portion for covering a torso and breasts of a wearer, the
upper portion comprising: an inner compression layer covering
breasts of a wearer, the inner compression layer being sized and
configured to snugly fit against the wearer's body for shaping the
wearer's body, the inner compression layer defining an upper
periphery; and an outer layer covering the inner compression layer,
the outer layer defining an upper periphery, the outer layer being
attached to the inner compression layer only at the entire or
majority of the upper peripheries of the inner compression layer
and outer layer.
20. The swimsuit of claim 19 further comprising one or more of a
flatter tummy panel, side panels, and back panel attached to the
inner layer.
21. A swim suit wearable by a wearer, the swim suit comprising: a
lower portion for covering a pelvis area of the wearer, the lower
portion comprising: an inner compression layer covering genetalia
of wearer, the inner compression layer being sized and configured
to snugly fit against the wearer's body for shaping the wearer's
body, the inner compression layer defining an upper periphery; and
an outer layer covering the inner compression layer, the outer
layer defining an upper periphery, the outer compression layer
being attached to the inner compression layer only at the entire or
majority of the upper peripheries of the inner and outer
compression layers.
22. The swimsuit of claim 21 further comprising butt lifters
attached to the inner layer.
23. A garment wearable by a wearer, the swim suit comprising: an
inner contouring layer covering breasts of a wearer's body, the
inner layer being sized and configured to snugly fit against the
wearer's body for shaping the wearer's body, the inner contouring
layer defining an upper periphery, the inner layer having an upper
periphery defined by a front neckline, left and right arm holes and
a back neckline; and an outer layer covering the inner layer, the
outer layer having an upper periphery defined by a front neckline,
left and right arm holes and a back neckline, the outer layer being
attached only at an entire or majority of the lengths of the left
and right arm holes of the outer layer and the left and right arm
holes of the inner contouring layer.
24. The garment of claim 23 wherein the inner and outer layers form
a swimsuit.
25. The garment of claim 23 wherein the inner contouring layer
comprises a bra.
26. The garment of claim 25 wherein the bra is an underwire bra or
a molded bra.
27. The garment of claim 26 wherein the inner layer covers an
abdomen of the wearer.
28. The garment of claim 27 wherein the inner layer further
comprises a tummy flatter panel.
29. The garment of claim 23 wherein the inner and outer layers each
further has left and right leg openings.
30. The garment of claim 29 wherein the left and right leg openings
of the inner layer are free floating from the left and right leg
openings of the outer layer.
31. The garment of claim 29 wherein inner peripheries of the left
and right leg openings of the inner layer are attached to the inner
peripheries of the left and right leg openings of the outer
layer.
32. The garment of claim 31 wherein the inner peripheries of the
left and right leg openings of the inner layer are stitched to the
inner peripheries of the left and right leg openings of the outer
layer.
33. The garment of claim 23wherein the inner and outer layers are
sewn together where attached.
34. A garment comprising: an inner compression layer covering
genitalia of a wearer, the inner compression layer being sized and
configured to snugly fit against the wearer's body for shaping the
wearer's body, the inner compression layer defining an upper
periphery and left and right leg openings which define left and
right inner peripheries; an outer aesthetic layer covering the
inner compression layer and having a matching configuration with
respect to the inner compression layer, the outer layer defining an
upper periphery and left and right leg openings which define left
and right inner peripheries, the outer layer being attached to the
inner compression layer at their respective upper peripheries such
that the inner compression layer floats freely with respect to the
outer layer for optimally orienting the inner layer on the wearer's
body for shaping and optimally orienting the outer layer on the
wearer's body for aesthetic appeal; wherein the inner periphery of
the left leg opening of the inner compression layer is spot
attached to the inner periphery of the left leg opening of the
outer layer and the inner periphery of the right leg opening of the
inner compression layer is spot attached to the inner periphery of
the right leg opening of the outer layer.
35. The garment of claim 34 wherein the inner and outer layers form
a swimsuit.
36. The garment of claim 34 wherein the inner and outer layers are
fabricated from a quick drying material.
37. The garment of claim 34 wherein a width of the inner layer at a
crotch area is smaller than a width of the outer layer at the
corresponding crotch area.
38. The garment of claim 34 wherein the spot attachment is one of
stitching, adhesive, welding, snaps, hooks and loops, micro hooks
and loops and combinations thereof.
39. The garment of claim 34 wherein the spot attachment is a 1/4
inch long threaded stitching.
40. The garment of claim 39 wherein the spot attachment is located
only at the peripheries of the left and right leg openings of the
inner and outer layers.
41. The garment of claim 34 wherein the inner and outer layers form
a one piece swimsuit.
42. The garment of claim 34 wherein the inner and outer layers form
a lower portion of a two piece swimsuit.
43. The garment of claim 34 wherein the attachment spot is located
at a lower side of the peripheries of the left and right leg
openings of the inner and outer layers.
44. The garment of claim 43 wherein the attachment spot is located
at an upper side of the peripheries of the left and right leg
openings of the inner and outer layers.
45. The garment of claim 34 wherein the attachment spot is located
at an upper side of the peripheries of the left and right leg
openings of the inner and outer layers.
46. The garment of claim 44 wherein the spot attachment is located
at seams where front and back panels of the inner and outer layers
meet.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a continuation in part application of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/886,442, filed Sep. 20, 2010, which is a
continuation in part application of U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 11/825,047, filed Jul. 3, 2007 which is a continuation-in-part
application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/787,636, filed
Apr. 17, 2007, the entire contents of which are expressly
incorporated herein by reference.
STATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable
BACKGROUND
[0003] The present invention relates to a multi-layered swimsuit
for contouring a wearer's body and providing an aesthetically
pleasing exterior layer.
[0004] Multi-layered swimsuits are old in the art. In particular,
the multi-layered swimsuit may have an inner garment and an outer
garment. The outer garment provides a visually pleasing appearance,
whereas the inner garment may aid in hiding various private
portions of the wearer's body and may also be used to shape the
wearer's body.
[0005] Unfortunately, the prior art swimsuits having multiple
layers are manufactured in a way that optimal placement of the
inner garment on the wearer's body may shift placement of the outer
garment on the wearer's body so as to be sub-optimal, and vice
versa. As such, the wearer must choose either to optimally place
the inner garment on the wearer's body or optimally place the outer
garment on the wearer's body. Either the exterior layer is not
optimally placed or the inner layer is not optimally placed.
[0006] Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an improved
multi layered swimsuit.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0007] The swimsuit described herein addresses the problems
identified above, identified below and those that are known in the
art.
[0008] The swimsuit may comprise an inner compression layer which
is attached to an outer layer in a free floating manner. By way of
example and not limitation, an upper periphery of the inner
compression layer may be permanently or temporarily attached (e.g.,
stitched, button, snaps, etc.) to an upper periphery of the outer
layer. Alternatively, a portion of the upper periphery of the inner
compression layer may be permanently or temporarily attached to a
portion of the upper periphery of the outer layer. In either case,
the inner compression layer may be optimally placed on the wearer's
body substantially independent from the placement of the outer
layer on the wearer's body, and vice versa. As such, the inner
compression layer may be optimally placed on the wearer's body to
contour the wearer's body as well as the outer layer may be
optimally placed on the wearer's body for a visually appealing
effect and hiding seams of the inner layer, if any.
[0009] In an aspect of the swimsuit, the outer layer may be
strapped over the shoulders of the wearer to hold the outer layer
up on the wearer's body. As discussed herein, the outer layer and
the inner layer are attached to each other at their respective
upper peripheries or portions thereof. The attachment between the
outer and inner layers causes the straps of the outer layer to also
hold the inner layer up on the wearer's body. Fortunately, the
inner and outer layers are disposed under the crotch area of the
wearer such that the inner and outer layers do not creep upward.
Hence, the straps attached to the outer layer prevent the outer
layer from falling down on the wearer's body. Also, the attachment
between the outer and inner layers prevents the inner layer from
falling down on the wearer's body. Conversely, the inner and outer
layers are separately disposed under the crotch area so as to
prevent the inner and outer layers from creeping upward on the
wearer's body. In this manner, the inner layer and outer layer are
securely held on the wearer's body.
[0010] In an aspect of the swimsuit, the inner layer and the upper
layer are attached to each other at their respective upper
peripheries. Also, the outer layer may completely cover the inner
layer such that the inner layer is not externally visible when the
swimsuit is worn. One of the benefits of attaching the outer and
inner layers at their respective upper peripheries is that shifting
of the inner and outer layers with respect to each other does not
externally expose the inner layer.
[0011] The swimsuit may be a one piece swimsuit which extends from
the crotch area to the shoulders of the wearer's body. The inner
and outer layers may have substantially identical configurations.
Alternatively, the swimsuit may be a two piece swimsuit.
[0012] Optionally, the straps of the swimsuit may incorporate an
adjustable strap system.
[0013] More particularly, a swim suit is disclosed which comprises
a one piece inner compression layer and a one piece outer layer.
The one piece inner compression layer covers the genitalia,
breasts, and a portion of a wearer's body therebetween. The inner
compression layer may be sized and configured to snugly fit against
the wearer's body for shaping the wearer's body. The inner
compression layer may define an upper periphery.
[0014] The one piece outer layer covers the inner compression layer
and may have a matching configuration with respect to the inner
compression layer. The outer layer may define an upper periphery.
The outer layer may be attached to the inner compression layer at
their respective upper peripheries such that the inner compression
layer floats freely with respect to the outer layer for optimally
orienting the inner layer on the wearer's body for shaping and
optimally orienting the outer layer on the wearer's body for
aesthetic appeal.
[0015] The outer layer may compress the wearer's body for further
shaping the wearer's body. The inner layer may float freely with
respect to the outer layer such that the inner compression layer
may be oriented on the wearer's body substantially independent from
the orientation of the outer layer.
[0016] A majority of the upper peripheries of the inner compression
layer and the outer layer may be substantially attached to each
other. Alternatively, less than half of the upper peripheries of
the inner compression layer and the outer layer are minimally
attached to each other. The inner compression layer may be attached
to an inside surface of the outer layer. The inner compression
layer may be attached to the outer layer solely at their respective
upper peripheries.
[0017] A strap may be attached to the upper periphery of the outer
layer to hold the swim suit up when worn by the wearer. The strap
may include an adjustable strap system for adjusting a length of
the strap such that the swim suit may be customized to fit the
wearer.
[0018] The outer layer may comprise a front panel defining an upper
edge, a back panel defining an upper edge, and an elastic strap
attached to the upper edges of the front and back panels to hold
the swim suit up when worn by the wearer and for fitting various
sized wearers.
[0019] The front and back panels may each define left and right
strap attachment portions. A left elastic strap may be attached to
the left strap attachment portions of the front and back panels. A
right elastic strap may be attached to the right strap attachment
portions of the front and back panels.
[0020] The inner and outer layers are disposed under a crotch area
of the wearer to prevent the inner and outer layers from rising
upward.
[0021] The outer layer may cover the entire inner compression
layer.
[0022] A portion of or the entire inner compression layer may be
seamless.
[0023] The inner compression layer may be cut and sewn.
[0024] In another embodiment, a swim suit for a wearer is
disclosed. The swim suit may comprise an upper portion for covering
a torso and breasts of a wearer. The upper portion may comprise an
inner compression layer and an outer layer. The inner compression
layer may cover breasts of a wearer. The inner compression layer
may be sized and configured to snugly fit against the wearer's body
for shaping the wearer's body. The inner compression layer may
define an upper periphery. The outer layer may cover the inner
compression layer and have a matching configuration with respect to
the inner compression layer. The outer layer may define an upper
periphery. The outer layer may be attached to the inner compression
layer at their respective upper peripheries such that the inner
compression layer floats freely with respect to the outer layer for
optimally orienting the inner layer on the wearer's body for
shaping and optimally orienting the outer layer on the wearer's
body for aesthetic appeal.
[0025] The swimsuit may also have a lower portion for covering a
pelvis area of a wearer. The lower portion may comprise an inner
compression layer and an outer layer. The inner compression layer
may cover genetalia of a wearer. The inner compression layer may be
sized and configured to snugly fit against the wearer's body for
shaping the wearer's body. The inner compression layer may define
an upper periphery. The outer layer may cover the inner compression
layer and have a matching configuration with respect to the inner
compression layer. The outer layer may define an upper periphery.
The outer layer may be attached to the inner compression layer at
their respective upper peripheries such that the inner compression
layer floats freely with respect to the outer layer for optimally
orienting the inner layer on the wearer's body for shaping and
optimally orienting the outer layer on the wearer's body for
aesthetic appeal.
[0026] In another embodiment, a swim suit wearable by a wearer is
disclosed. The swim suit may comprise a one piece inner compression
layer and a one piece outer layer. The one piece inner compression
layer may cover genitalia, breasts, and a portion of a wearer's
body therebetween. The inner compression layer may be sized and
configured to snugly fit against the wearer's body for shaping the
wearer's body. The inner compression layer may define an upper
periphery. The one piece outer layer may cover the inner
compression layer. The outer layer may define an upper periphery.
The outer layer may be attached to the inner compression layer only
at the entire or majority of the upper peripheries of the inner and
outer compression layers.
[0027] The swimsuit may also incorporate one or more of a flatter
tummy panel, side panels, back panel and butt lifters attached to
the inner layer.
[0028] In another embodiment, a swim suit wearable by a wearer is
disclosed. The swim suit may comprise an upper portion for covering
a torso and breasts of a wearer. The upper portion may comprise an
inner compression layer and an outer layer. The inner compression
layer may cover breasts of a wearer. The inner compression layer
may be sized and configured to snugly fit against the wearer's body
for shaping the wearer's body. The inner compression layer may
define an upper periphery. The outer layer may cover the inner
compression layer. The outer layer may define an upper periphery.
The outer layer may be attached to the inner compression layer only
at the entire or majority of the upper peripheries of the inner
compression layer and outer layer. The swimsuit may also
incorporate one or more of a flatter tummy panel, side panels, and
back panel attached to the inner layer.
[0029] In another embodiment, a swim suit wearable by a wearer is
disclosed. The swim suit may comprise a lower portion for covering
a pelvis area of the wearer. The lower portion may comprise an
inner compression layer and an outer layer. The inner compression
layer may cover genetalia of wearer. The inner compression layer
may be sized and configured to snugly fit against the wearer's body
for shaping the wearer's body. The inner compression layer may
define an upper periphery. The outer layer may cover the inner
compression layer. The outer layer may define an upper periphery.
The outer compression layer may be attached to the inner
compression layer only at the entire or majority of the upper
peripheries of the inner and outer compression layers. The swimsuit
may also incorporate butt lifters attached to the inner layer.
[0030] In another embodiment, a garment wearable by a wearer is
disclosed. The swim suit may comprise an inner contouring layer and
an outer layer. The inner contouring layer may cover breasts of a
wearer's body. The inner layer may be sized and configured to
snugly fit against the wearer's body for shaping the wearer's body.
The inner contouring layer may define an upper periphery. The inner
layer may have an upper periphery defined by a front neckline, left
and right arm holes and a back neckline. The outer layer may cover
the inner layer. The outer layer may have an upper periphery
defined by a front neckline, left and right arm holes and a back
neckline. The outer layer may be attached only at an entire or
majority of the lengths of the left and right arm holes of the
outer layer and the left and right arm holes of the inner
contouring layer. The inner and outer layers may be sewn together
where attached.
[0031] The inner and outer layers may form a swimsuit.
[0032] The inner contouring layer may be a bra. The bra may be an
underwire bra or a molded bra.
[0033] The inner layer may cover an abdomen of the wearer. The
inner layer may incorporate a tummy flatter panel.
[0034] The inner and outer layers may define left and right leg
openings. The left and right leg openings of the inner layer may be
free floating from the left and right leg openings of the outer
layer. Inner peripheries of the left and right leg openings of the
inner layer may be attached to the inner peripheries of the left
and right leg openings of the outer layer. The inner peripheries of
the left and right leg openings of the inner layer may be stitched
to the inner peripheries of the left and right leg openings of the
outer layer.
[0035] In another embodiment, a garment is disclosed. The garment
may include an inner compression layer and an outer aesthetic
layer. The inner compression layer may cover genitalia of a wearer.
The inner compression layer may be sized and configured to snugly
fit against the wearer's body for shaping the wearer's body. The
inner compression layer may define an upper periphery and left and
right leg openings which define left and right inner peripheries.
The outer aesthetic layer may cover the inner compression layer and
have a matching configuration with respect to the inner compression
layer. The outer layer may define an upper periphery and left and
right leg openings which define left and right inner peripheries.
The outer layer may be attached to the inner compression layer at
their respective upper peripheries such that the inner compression
layer floats freely with respect to the outer layer for optimally
orienting the inner layer on the wearer's body for shaping and
optimally orienting the outer layer on the wearer's body for
aesthetic appeal. The inner periphery of the left leg opening of
the inner compression layer may be spot attached to the inner
periphery of the left leg opening of the outer layer. Also, the
inner periphery of the right leg opening of the inner compression
layer may be spot attached to the inner periphery of the right leg
opening of the outer layer.
[0036] The inner and outer layers may form a swimsuit or a one
piece swimsuit. The inner and outer layers may form a lower portion
of a two piece swimsuit.
[0037] The inner and outer layers may be fabricated from a quick
drying material.
[0038] In the garment, a width of the inner layer at a crotch area
may be smaller than a width of the outer layer at the corresponding
crotch area.
[0039] The spot attachment may be one of stitching, adhesive,
welding, snaps, hooks and loops, micro hooks and loops and
combinations thereof. The spot attachment may be a 1/4 inch long
threaded stitching. The spot attachment may be located only at the
peripheries of the left and right leg openings of the inner and
outer layers.
[0040] The attachment spot may be located at a lower side of the
peripheries of the left and right leg openings of the inner and
outer layers. In addition thereto or in the alternatively, the
attachment spot may be located at an upper side of the peripheries
of the left and right leg openings of the inner and outer
layers.
[0041] The spot attachment may be located at seams where front and
back panels of the inner and outer layers meet.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0042] These and other features and advantages of the various
embodiments disclosed herein will be better understood with respect
to the following description and drawings, in which like numbers
refer to like parts throughout, and in which:
[0043] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a swimsuit;
[0044] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the swimsuit shown in FIG. 1;
[0045] FIG. 3 is a front view of an inner layer of the
swimsuit;
[0046] FIG. 4 is a rear exploded perspective view of the swimsuit
shown in FIG. 1 illustrating the inner layer for contouring a
wearer's body and an outer layer for providing an aesthetically
pleasing appearance;
[0047] FIG. 5 is a front exploded perspective view of a second
embodiment of the swimsuit;
[0048] FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of the inner compression
layer shown in FIG. 5;
[0049] FIG. 7 is an enlarged side view of an adjustable strap
system for adjusting a strap of the outer layer shown in FIG.
5;
[0050] FIG. 8 illustrates a third embodiment of the swimsuit
wherein a top portion comprises an inner compression layer free
floating with respect to an outer layer and a bottom portion
comprises an inner compression layer free floating with respect to
an outer layer;
[0051] FIG. 9 is an exploded front perspective view of the bottom
portion shown in FIG. 8;
[0052] FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of the inner compression
layer shown in FIG. 9;
[0053] FIG. 11A is a front view of a fourth embodiment of the
swimsuit;
[0054] FIG. 11B is a rear view of the swimsuit shown in FIG.
11A;
[0055] FIG. 12A is a front view of an inner compression layer
attached to an outer compression layer as shown in FIG. 11A;
[0056] FIG. 12B is a rear view of the inner compression layer shown
in FIG. 12A;
[0057] FIG. 13A is a front view of a fifth embodiment of the
swimsuit;
[0058] FIG. 13B is a rear view of the swimsuit shown in FIG.
13A;
[0059] FIG. 14A is a front view of an inner compression layer
attached to an outer compression layer as shown in FIG. 13A;
[0060] FIG. 14B is a rear view of the inner compression layer shown
in FIG. 14A;
[0061] FIG. 15A is a front view of a sixth embodiment of the
swimsuit;
[0062] FIG. 15B is a rear view of the swimsuit shown in FIG.
15A;
[0063] FIG. 16A is a front view of an inner compression layer
attached to an outer compression layer as shown in FIG. 15A;
[0064] FIG. 16B is a rear view of the inner compression layer shown
in FIG. 16A;
[0065] FIG. 17A is a front view of a seventh embodiment of a
garment;
[0066] FIG. 17B is a rear view of the garment shown in FIG.
17A;
[0067] FIG. 18A is a front view of a bra attached to the outer
garment as shown in FIG. 17A;
[0068] FIG. 18B is a rear view of the bra shown in FIG. 18A
[0069] FIG. 19A is a front view of an eighth embodiment of the
swimsuit;
[0070] FIG. 19B is a rear view of the swimsuit shown in FIG.
19A;
[0071] FIG. 20A is a front view of an inner compression layer
attached to an outer layer as shown in FIG. 19A;
[0072] FIG. 20B is a rear view of the inner layer shown in FIG.
20A;
[0073] FIG. 21A is a front view of a ninth embodiment of the
swimsuit;
[0074] FIG. 21B is a rear view of the swimsuit shown in FIG.
21A;
[0075] FIG. 22A is a front view of an inner compression layer
attached to an outer layer as shown in FIG. 21A;
[0076] FIG. 22B is a rear view of the inner compression layer shown
in FIG. 22A;
[0077] FIG. 23A is a front view of a tenth embodiment of the
swimsuit;
[0078] FIG. 23B is a rear view of the swimsuit shown in FIG.
23A;
[0079] FIG. 24A is a front view of an inner compression layer
attached to an outer layer as shown in FIG. 23A;
[0080] FIG. 24B is a rear view of the inner compression layer shown
in FIG. 24A;
[0081] FIG. 25A is a front view of an eleventh embodiment of the
swimsuit;
[0082] FIG. 25B is a rear view of the swimsuit shown in FIG.
25A;
[0083] FIG. 26A is a front view of an inner compression layer
attached to an outer layer as shown in FIG. 25A;
[0084] FIG. 26B is a rear view of the inner compression layer shown
in FIG. 26A
[0085] FIG. 27A is a front view of a twelfth embodiment of the
swimsuit;
[0086] FIG. 27B is a rear view of the swimsuit shown in FIG.
27A;
[0087] FIG. 28A is a front view of an inner compression layer
attached to an outer layer as shown in FIG. 27A;
[0088] FIG. 28B is a rear view of the inner compression layer shown
in FIG. 28A;
[0089] FIG. 29A is a front view of a thirteenth embodiment of the
swimsuit;
[0090] FIG. 29B is a rear view of the swimsuit shown in FIG.
29A;
[0091] FIG. 30A is a front view of an inner compression layer
attached to an outer layer as shown in FIG. 29A;
[0092] FIG. 30B is a rear view of the inner compression shown in
FIG. 30A;
[0093] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a lower portion of a
swimsuit;
[0094] FIG. 32 is a front view of the lower portion of the swimsuit
shown in FIG. 31;
[0095] FIG. 33 is an exploded perspective view of the lower portion
of the swimsuit shown in FIG. 31;
[0096] FIG. 34 is a left side view of the lower portion of the
swimsuit shown in FIG. 31 with seams that attach the front and back
panels of the inner and outer layers;
[0097] FIG. 35 is a right side view of the lower portion of the
swimsuit shown in FIG. 31 with seams that attach the front and back
panels of the inner and outer layers;
[0098] FIG. 36 is a right perspective view of the lower portion of
the swimsuit shown in FIG. 31 with seams that attach the front and
back panels of the inner and outer layers; and
[0099] FIG. 37 is a left perspective view of the lower portion of
the swimsuit shown in FIG. 31 with seams that attach the front and
back panels of the inner and outer layers.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0100] Referring now to the drawings, a swimsuit 10 is shown. The
swimsuit 10 comprises an inner compression layer 12 and an outer
layer 14 attached to each other in a free floating manner. The
inner compression layer 12 shapes, contours and slims one or more
areas of a wearer's body including but not limited to buttocks,
stomachs, breasts, and hips. It is contemplated that the inner
compression layer 12 may shape other areas of the wearer's body
such as the thighs, arms, etc. The outer layer 14 may cover the
entire inner compression layer 12 (see FIG. 1) such that the inner
compression layer 12 is not externally visible and may additionally
provide an aesthetically pleasing visible appearance.
[0101] Referring now to FIGS. 1-4, the inner compression layer 12
may be attached to the outer layer 14 in a free floating manner. In
particular, the inner compression layer 12 may define an upper
periphery 16, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Also, the outer layer 14
may also define an upper periphery 18, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
The inner compression layer 12 and the outer layer 14 may be
attached to each other at the upper peripheries 16, 18 of the inner
compression layer 12 and the outer layer 14. By attaching the inner
compression layer 12 and the outer layer 14 at the upper
peripheries 16, 18 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) of the inner compression
layer 12 and the outer layer 14, the inner compression layer 12 may
be positioned on the wearer's body to optimally shape, contour or
slim the wearer's body. Additionally, the outer layer 14 may be
optimally positioned on the wearer's body to provide an optimal
visible and aesthetically pleasing appearance. The outer layer 14
does not substantially shift the position of the inner layer 12,
and vice versa such that the inner compression layer 12 may be
optimally placed on the wearer's body for contouring and the outer
layer 14 may be optimally placed on the wearer's body for aesthetic
purposes and to hide the seam lines of the inner layer 12. In this
regard, the inner compression layer 12 may be characterized as free
floating with respect to the outer layer 14.
[0102] Referring now to FIG. 4, the upper periphery 18 of the outer
layer 14 defined by upper edges 30, 34 and underarm edges 29, 31
may be attached to the upper periphery 16 of the inner compression
layer 12 defined by the upper edges 28, 32 and underarm edges 33,
35. By way of example and not limitation, the upper edges 30, 34
and underarm edges 29, 31 may be attached to respective upper edges
28, 32 and underarm edges 33, 35. Alternatively, a portion of one
or more of the upper edges 30, 34 and/or underarm edges 29, 31 may
be attached to a respective portion of one or more of the upper
edges 28, 32 and/or underarm edges 33, 35.
[0103] More particularly, the inner compression layer 12 may
comprise a forward panel 20 (see FIG. 3) as well as rearward panel
22 (see FIG. 4). Also, the outer layer 14 may comprise a front
panel 24 (see FIG. 1) and a back panel 26 (see FIG. 4). The upper
edge 28 (see FIGS. 3 and 4) of the forward panel 20, the upper edge
32 (see FIG. 4) of the rearward panel 22, the left underarm edge
33, and/or the right underarm edge 35 of the inner compression
layer 12 may be attached to the upper edge 30 (see FIG. 4) of the
front panel 24, the upper edge 34 (see FIG. 4) of the back panel
26, the left underarm edge 29, and/or the right underarm edge 31 of
the outer layer 14 such that the wearer may step into the swimsuit
10 without getting tangled in the inner and outer layers 12, 14. It
is also contemplated that the upper peripheries 16, 18 of the inner
and outer layers 12, 14 may be characterized as being attached to
each other in a free floating manner when one or more of the
corresponding edges are at least partially or entirely attached to
each other.
[0104] The swimsuit 10 may have left and right straps 36, 38
attached to the front and back panels 24, 26 of the outer layer 14
to hold the swimsuit 10 up on the wearer's body. In particular, the
front panel 24 of the outer layer 14 may define left and right
terminating portions 40, 42 (see FIG. 1). Similarly, the back panel
26 may also define left and right terminating portions 44, 46 (see
FIGS. 2 and 4). The left strap 36 may be attached to the left
terminating portion 40 of the front panel 24 and the left
terminating portion 44 of the back panel 26. Also, the right strap
38 may be attached to the right terminating portion 42 of the front
panel 24 and the right terminating portion 46 of the back panel 26.
The left and right straps 36, 38 may be fabricated from an elastic
material to accommodate various body lengths of wearers. When the
swimsuit 10 is worn, the straps 36, 38 are stretched over the
shoulders of the wearer. The straps 36, 38 being fabricated from an
elastic material pulls the outer layer 14 upward. Since the outer
layer 14 is also attached to the inner layer 12, the inner layer 12
is also urged upward. However, as discussed herein, the inner and
outer layers 12, 14 are separately disposed under the crotch area
of the wearer to prevent the inner and outer layers 12, 14 from
rising upward on the wearer's body. In this manner, the inner and
outer layers 12, 13 are held snugly against the wearer's body.
[0105] More particularly, the outer layer 14 has left and right
elastic straps 36, 38 that are strapped over the shoulders of the
wearer. These straps 36, 38 help to hold the swimsuit 10 up on the
wearer's body such that the swimsuit 10 does not slip down.
However, the inner compression layer 12 may not have straps that
are disposed over the wearer's shoulders. Rather, the inner
compression layer 12 may be formed without straps. The inner
compression layer 12 may be attached solely to the upper periphery
of the outer layer 14. In this regard, the outer layer 14 pulls the
upper periphery of the outer layer upward, and thus the upper
periphery of the inner compression layer 12 being attached to the
upper of the outer layer may also be pulled upward. To prevent the
inner layer 12 from rising upward, the inner compression layer 12
may be sewn together at the crotch area forming left and right leg
openings 78, 80, as shown in FIG. 3. More particularly, the forward
and rearward panels 20, 22 may be attached to each other at the
lower edges 82, 84 (see FIG. 3) thereof similar to the outer layer
14. The attachment of the lower edges 82, 84 of the inner layer's
forward and rearward panels 20, 22 holds the inner layer 12 down.
The straps 36, 38 of the outer layer 14 pull the inner layer 12 up
through the attachment between the inner and outer layers 12, 14 at
the upper peripheries 16, 18 thereof. Also, the disposition of the
inner layer 12 under the crotch area holds the inner layer 12
downward. These opposing forces maintain the inner compression
layer tight against the wearer's body.
[0106] The left and right straps 36, 38 may additionally
incorporate an adjustable strap system 78 which is more fully
described below in relation to FIG. 5. The adjustable strap system
78 permits the wearer to adjust the length of the straps 36, 38 to
match the size of the wearer's body. In the event that the
adjustable strap system 77 is incorporated into the left and right
straps 36, 38, the left and right straps may be fabricated from a
non-elastic material or an elastic material.
[0107] The outer layer 14 may have various structures and/or
designs to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance. For
example, the outer layer 14 may be fabricated from a black colored
material. Additionally, the left edge 48 of the front panel 24 may
be attached to the left edge 50 of the back panel 26 to form a
pleated configuration, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Similarly, the
right edge 52 of the front panel 24 may be attached to the right
edge 54 of the back panel 26 to form a pleated configuration, as
shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 1, a lower edge 56 of the front
panel 24 may be attached to a lower edge 58 of the back panel 26
adjacent the crotch area of the wearer (see FIG. 1) such that the
front and back panels 24, 26 may define left and right leg openings
60, 62. The attachment of the lower edges 56, 58 prevent the outer
layer 14 from rising upward on the wearer's body.
[0108] The left and right leg openings 60, 62 may be formed with a
trim. In particular, the fabric itself may be folded inward and
sewn to hem the left and right leg openings 60, 62. Similarly, the
upper peripheries 16, 18 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) may be formed with a
trim by folding the fabric inward and stitching or sewing the
folded fabric together. Additionally, when the upper peripheries
16, 18 of the inner and outer layers 12, 14 are formed with a trim,
the inner compression layer 12 may be attached to the outer layer
14.
[0109] The inner compression layer 12 may be manufactured to shape,
contour and slim the wearer's body. In particular, as shown in FIG.
3, the forward panel 20 of the inner compression layer 12 may
comprise a breast panel 64 and a stomach panel 66. The breast panel
64 may be sized and configured to substantially cover the wearer's
breast. The stomach panel 66 may be sized and configured to
substantially cover the wearer's stomach as well as at least a
portion of the wearer's crotch area. A lower edge 68 of the breast
panel 64 may be attached to an upper edge 70 of the stomach panel
66. The lower edge 68 and the upper edge 70 may be attached to a
midriff band 81. The midriff band 81 may be elastic to compress the
wearer's body below the wearer's breast. Left and right guide wires
72, 74 (see FIG. 2), each having a U-shaped configuration may be
attached to a left portion and a right portion of the breast panel
64, as shown in FIG. 2 to shape the breast of the wearer. It is
contemplated that various elastic strips may be attached to the
forward and rearward panels 20, 22 of the inner compression layer
12 to achieve various shaping, contouring and slimming objectives.
It is also contemplated that the inner compression layer 12 may
provide general and/or specific compression to the wearer's body to
smoothen any folded fat of the wearer. The inner compression panel
12 may be fabricated to be tight on the wearer's body to compress,
shape and form the wearer's body into a desired shapely form.
[0110] In an aspect of the swimsuit 10 shown in FIGS. 1-4, the
inner compression layer 12 may be cut and sewn to provide better
fit and/or compression. Alternatively, the inner compression layer
12 may be seamless.
[0111] Referring now to FIG. 5, a second embodiment of the swimsuit
10 is shown. The swimsuit 10 may incorporate one or more of the
various features discussed above in relation to the swimsuit shown
in FIGS. 1-4. Moreover, the lower portion 75 of the inner
compression layer 12 may be seamless. In particular, the lower
portion 75 may be fabricated similar to a tube. Unlike the inner
compression layer 12 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the inner compression
layer 12 shown in FIG. 6 does not have separate forward and
rearward panels 20, 22 which are sewn together at their lateral
peripheries. Rather, the lower portion 75 of the inner compression
layer 12 may be fabricated as a tube so as to be seamless about its
outer periphery. Alternatively, the lower portion 75 of the inner
compression layer may be cut and sewn to provide better fit and/or
compression.
[0112] The lower portion 75 of the inner compression layer 12, as
shown in FIG. 6 may have a seam 83 (see FIG. 5) at the crotch area
and a seam 85 (see FIG. 6) which may join seam 83 at the rear
medial section thereof. Nonetheless, the lower portion 82 of the
inner compression layer 12 may still be characterized as being
seamless as long as a portion of an outer periphery of the lower
portion 82 is seamless.
[0113] In an aspect of the swimsuit shown in FIG. 5, the adjustable
strap system 77 (see FIG. 7) may be incorporated into the left and
right straps 36, 38. The adjustable strap system 77 discussed
herein may also be incorporated into the swimsuit shown in FIG. 1
as well as the swimsuit 10 shown in FIG. 8. In particular, the
adjustable strap system 78 may comprise a sliding adjuster 73, a
ring element 86 and a fabric connector 88. The adjustable strap
system 77 is operative to lengthen or shorten the length of the
straps 36, 38 to accommodate various sized swimmers. The adjustable
strap system 77 operates in the following manner. In particular,
the strap 36, 38 is looped through the sliding adjuster 73 over a
middle bar 90 and under opposed bars 92. Opposed bars 92 hold the
strap 36, 38 down. The strap is then looped through the ring
element 86 and attached to the middle bar 90 of the sliding
adjuster 73. The ring element 86 is attached to the fabric
connector 88 which is also attached to a rear upper periphery of
the outer layer 14. To lengthen the strap 36, 38, the strap 36, 38
is fed through the sliding adjuster 73 in the direction of arrow 94
shown in FIG. 7. Once the appropriate length of the strap 36, 38 is
reached, the straps 36, 38 are placed in tension when the swimsuit
10 is worn by the swimmer. When the straps 36, 38 are placed in
tension, the opposed bars 92 of the sliding adjuster 73 presses
down on the straps 36, 38 while the middle bar 90 simultaneously
pushes upward on the straps 36, 38. Friction is created on the
straps 36, 38 over the middle bar 90. This friction locks the
position of the sliding adjuster 73 such that when the swimsuit 10
is worn by the swimmer, the straps 36, 38 are not loosened and
enlarged. Conversely, to shorten the strap 36, 38 the strap 36, 38
is fed through the sliding adjuster 73 in the direction of arrow
96.
[0114] The inner compression layer 12 may be attached to the outer
layer 14 in the manner discussed in relation to the swimsuit 10
discussed in relation to FIGS. 1-4. In particular, at least a
portion of the upper periphery 16 of the inner compression layer 12
may be attached to the upper periphery 18 of the outer layer 14.
This permits the inner compression layer to be optimally placed on
the wearer's body substantially independent from the placement of
the outer layer 14 on the wearer's body.
[0115] Referring now to FIGS. 8-10, a third embodiment of the
swimsuit 10 is shown. The swimsuit 10 comprises an upper portion 98
separate from a lower portion 100. The upper portion 98 may have an
identical configuration as compared to the swimsuits 10 described
and shown in FIGS. 1 and 5. By way of example and not limitation,
in an aspect, the inner compression layer may be configured to
tightly fit against the wearer's body to shape and contour the
wearer's body. Also, at least a portion of an upper periphery of
the inner layer 12a may be attached to at least a portion of an
upper periphery of the outer layer. In this manner, the upper
portion 98 may have an inner compression layer 12a and an outer
layer 14a which are free floating with respect to each other.
Moreover, the lower portion of the inner compression layer 12a may
be seamless. Alternatively, the lower portion of the inner
compression layer 12a may be cut and sewn to provide better fit
and/or compression.
[0116] The lower portion 100 may also comprise an inner compression
layer 12b and an outer layer 14b. The inner and outer layers 12, 14
may be attached to each other at upper peripheries 102, 104 of the
inner and outer layers 12, 14. Also, the leg openings of the inner
and outer layers may be detached from each other so that the inner
layer 12 is free floating with respect to the outer layer 14.
Similar to the swimsuit 10 shown in FIG. 5, the inner compression
layer 12b of the swimsuit 10 shown in FIG. 8 of the lower portion
100 may be seamless. The inner compression layer 12b may be
characterized as seamless as long as a portion of an outer
periphery of the inner compression layer 12b of the lower portion
100 is seamless. For example, the inner compression layer 12b of
the lower portion 100 may have a seam 106 about the crotch area of
the inner compression layer 12b. Also, the inner compression layer
12b of the lower portion 100 may have a seam 108 which may join the
seam 106 at the rear of the inner compression layer 12b.
Alternatively, the inner compression layer 12b may be cut and sewn
to provide a better fit and/or compression.
[0117] Optionally, in relation to all embodiments of the swimsuit
10, it is contemplated that the outer layer 14 may also provide
additional shaping, contouring and slimming forces in addition to
the inner compression layer 12. In this regard, various elastic
strips (not shown) may be attached to the outer layer 14 to achieve
the shaping, contouring and slimming objectives of the swimsuit 10.
Moreover, the elasticity of the elastic strips attached to the
outer layer 14 may be different compared to the elasticity of the
elastic strips attached to the inner compression layer 12.
Moreover, instead of elastic strips, the inner compression layer 12
and the outer layer 14 may optionally be fabricated from various
materials to achieve the various shaping, contouring and slimming
objectives of the swimsuit 10. By way of example and not
limitation, the stomach panel 66 of the inner layer 12 may be
fabricated from a highly elastic material to tightly compress the
stomach area of the wearer. In contrast, the stomach portion of the
front panel 24 of the outer layer 14 may be fabricated from a less
elastic material to loosely fit over the stomach area of the
wearer. Such combination provides a loose fit look of the swimsuit
on the wearer. The outer layer 14 as discussed above may comprise a
front panel 24 and a back panel 26. It is also contemplated that
the front and back panels 24, 26 may be formed of a plurality of
different shaped and sized panels such that the outer layer 14 may
fit the wearer's body better and be more comfortable to wear.
Likewise, the forward and rearward panels 20, 22 of the inner
compression layer 12 may be fabricated from a plurality of
different sized and shaped panels such that the inner compression
layer 12 may fit the wearer's body better and be more comfortable
to wear.
[0118] In an aspect of all of the embodiments of the swimsuit 10,
the inner compression layer 12 may be permanently attached to the
outer layer 14 at the upper peripheries of the inner and outer
layers 12, 14. As discussed above, the inner and outer layers 12,
14 may be permanently attached via stitching, sewing. However, any
method known in the art for permanently attaching the inner and
outer layers together are contemplated. It is also contemplated
that the inner compression layer 12 be removeably attachable to the
outer layer 14 via any method known in the art (e.g., Velcro,
buttons, snaps, etc.).
[0119] In an aspect of the embodiments of the swimsuit 10, the
inner compression layer 12 may have the same general configuration
as the outer layer 14. By way of example and not limitation, the
outer layer 14 may be a one piece swimsuit 10 that covers the
genitalia, breasts and at least a portion of the front of the
wearer's body therebetween, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
Correspondingly, the inner layer 12 may have a one piece
configuration that covers the genitalia, breasts and at least a
portion of the front of the wearer's body therebetween. In another
example, the outer layer 14 may be a one piece swimsuit 10 that
covers the genitalia, breast and at least a portion of the front of
the wearer's body therebetween and that additionally has tubular
members (not shown) attached to the outer layer 14 that tightly or
loosely fit over the thighs of the wearer. In this instance, the
inner layer 12 may correspondingly have a one piece configuration
that covers the genitalia, breasts and at least a portion of the
front of the wearer's body therebetween, and also tubular members
attached to the inner layer 12 that tightly or loosely fit over the
thighs of the wearer. The inner layer 12 may be characterized as
having the same configuration as the outer layer 14. However, it is
further contemplated that the inner layer 12 may still be
characterized as having the same configuration as the outer layer
14 even if the inner layer 12 is not formed with the tubular
members disposable over the wearer's thighs. In the swimsuit shown
in the drawings, although the inner layer 12 discussed above does
not have straps that are disposed over the shoulders of the wearer
and the outer layer 14 does have straps disposed over the shoulders
of the wearer, the inner layer 12 may still be characterized as
having the same configuration as the outer layer 14. In a further
alternative, the two piece swimsuit 10 shown in FIG. 8 may be
characterized as having inner and outer layers 12a, b and 14a, b
which have the same configuration.
[0120] In an aspect of the embodiments of the swimsuit 10, the
terms upper peripheries 16, 18 of the inner and outer layers 12, 14
include the upper peripheral ends of the inner and outer layers 12,
14 as well as upper peripheral portions of the inner and outer
layers 12, 14. As such, an upper portion of the upper periphery 18
of the outer layer 14 attached to an upper portion of the upper
periphery 16 of the inner layer 12 may still be characterized as
the upper periphery 18 of the outer layer as being attached to the
upper periphery 16 of the inner layer 12.
[0121] Referring now to FIGS. 11A-30B, fourth through thirteenth
embodiments of an improved swimsuit 150 are shown. FIG. 11A is a
front view of the fourth embodiment of the swimsuit 150. The
improved swimsuit 150 includes an aesthetically pleasing outer
layer 14. The front 152 of the outer layer 14 is shown in FIG. 11A
and the back 154 is shown in FIG. 11B. The swimsuit 150 may include
left and right straps 36, 38 including an adjustable strap system
77 described above and shown in FIG. 11B. The outer layer 14
defines an upper periphery 156 which is collectively defined by a
front neckline 158 which extends between the left and right straps
36, 38 shown in FIG. 11A, arm holes 160, 162 shown in FIG. 11B and
back neckline 164 also shown in FIG. 11B. The outer layer 14 may
have left and right sides 166, 168 that may either have seams that
are stitched or bonded or may be fabricated so as to be seamless.
The other embodiments shown in FIGS. 13A-30B may also have left and
right sides 166, 168 that may either have seams that are stitched
or bonded or may be fabricated so as to be seamless.
[0122] FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate the front and back sides of the
inner layer 12, respectively. The inner layer 12 also defines an
upper periphery 170. The upper periphery 170 of the inner layer 12
is defined by a front neckline 172 which also extends between the
left and right straps 36, 38 when the inner layer 12 is attached to
the outer layer 14, arm holes 174, 176 and a back neckline 178.
[0123] The upper periphery 170 of the inner layer 12 may be
attached to the upper periphery 156 of the outer layer 14. More
particularly, the left and right arm holes 174, 176 of the upper
periphery 170 of the inner layer 12 may be attached (e.g., sewn,
stitched, hooks and loops, buttoned, etc.) to the arm holes 160,
162 of the upper periphery 156 of the outer layer 14. Preferably,
they 170,156 are sewn. Preferably, at least the entire or a
majority of the length of the upper periphery 170 at the arm holes
174, 176 may be attached to the entire or majority of the length of
the upper periphery 156 at the left and right arm holes 160, 162.
The continuous connection therebetween provides for easier handling
of the inner and outer garments 12, 14 such that the swimsuit 150
is easier to put on. The inner layer 12 does not become tangled
with the outer layer 14. Also, the inner layer 12 is more easily
aligned to the outer layer 14 so that the user's legs do not become
entangled between the inner and outer layers 12, 14. Optionally,
the upper periphery 170 of the inner layer 12 at the back neckline
178 may be attached to the upper periphery 156 of the outer layer
14 at the back neckline 164. The entire length or majority of the
back neckline 164 of the outer layer 14 may be attached to the
entire length or majority of the back neckline 178 of the inner
layer 12. When the inner layer 12 includes a bra 180, the back
neckline 178 of the inner layer 12 may further comprise removeably
attachable hooks 182. In this instance, the back neckline 178 of
the inner layer 12 may be attached to the back neckline 164 of the
outer layer 14 except for the hook area 182. The front necklines
156, 172 are not attached to each other. Also, the front neckline
158 of the outer layer is not attached to front neckone 172 of the
inner layer 12.
[0124] In the example above as well as one or more of the other
embodiments shown in FIGS. 13A-30B, the inner layer 12 including
the bra 180 is free floating from the outer layer 14 so that the
inner layer 12 and bra 180 may be positioned independently from the
outer layer 14. The inner layer 12 may be positioned for the
purposes of providing body contour, whereas, the outer layer 14 is
positioned for the purpose of exterior aesthetics.
[0125] The inner layer 12 may be tightly fitted over the wearer's
body and may also include control panels (e.g., tummy flatter
panel, front and/or rear body control panel(s), side control
panel(s), butt lifter(s)) for providing body contour.
[0126] The inner layer 12 may have a lower periphery 184 which is
disposed slightly above the lower periphery 186 of the outer layer
14 as shown in FIG. 11A.
[0127] Referring now to FIGS. 13A-14B, the fifth embodiment of the
swimsuit 150 is shown. The swimsuit 150 also may include inner and
outer layers 12, 14. The upper peripheries 156, 170 of the outer
and inner layers 14, 12 may be attached to each other. The entire
or majority of the upper periphery 156 including the front neckline
158, left and right arm holes 160, 162 and the back neckline 164
may be attached to the entire or majority of the upper periphery
170 of the inner layer 12 respectively including the front neckline
172, left and right arm holes 174, 176 and the back neckline 178.
The inner layer 12 is disposed inside of the outer layer 14 in this
as well as in the other embodiments.
[0128] Also, the leg openings 188, 190 of the outer layer 14 may be
attached to the leg openings 192, 194 of the inner layer 12. The
left and right inner peripheries 196, 198 may be attached to the
left and right inner peripheries 200, 202 of the leg openings 192,
194. It is contemplated that the entire or majority of the
peripheries 196, 198 may be attached to the entire or majority of
the peripheries 200, 202.
[0129] The inner layer 12 may have a flatter tummy panel 204 for
providing a more aesthetic appeal to the wearer's body contour.
Additionally, the inner layer 12 may comprise an underwire bra
206.
[0130] Since the inner layer 12 is attached to the outer layer 14,
wearing the swimsuit 150 is easier. The user's legs do not get
entangled between the inner and outer layers 12, 14. Additionally,
the leg openings 188, 190 are always aligned to the left openings
192, 194. The system above provides for a more convenient wearable
item. The inner layer 12 is free floating from the outer layer 14
for optimal placement of the inner layer 12 for body contouring and
allows the outer layer 14 to be placed at a different location
independent from the inner layer 12 for the purposes of exterior
aesthetic appeal.
[0131] Referring now to FIGS. 15A-16B, the swimsuit 150 may be
fabricated in the same manner as that discussed in relation to
FIGS. 13A-14B except that the inner peripheries 196, 198 of the leg
openings 188, 190 are not attached to the inner peripheries 200,
202 of the leg openings 192, 194. The upper peripheries 156, 170 of
the outer and inner layers 14, 12 may be attached to each other to
(1) make handling the garment 150 easier, (2) to provide an ease of
wearing the garment 150 in that the user's legs do not get tangled
between the inner and outer layers 12, 14 and (3) also independent
positioning of the inner layer 12 and the outer layer 14 on the
user's body.
[0132] Referring now to FIGS. 17A-18B, the swimsuit 150 may be
fabricated in the same manner as that described in relation to the
swimsuit shown in FIGS. 11A-12B. The difference is that the inner
layer 12 comprises only the bra 180. The upper periphery 156 at the
arm holes 160, 162 may be attached to the arm holes 174, 176.
Additionally, the back neckline 164 may be attached to the back
neckline 178 of the inner layer 12. In FIG. 18B, the inner layer 12
has hooks 182 for removably securing the inner layer 12 to the
wearer's body. The hooks 182 are not in line with the back neckline
164 of the outer layer 14. In this instance, the back neckline 178
of the inner layer 12 comprises left and right portions 208, 210.
These portions 208, 210 of the back neckline 178 of the inner layer
12 may be attached to the back neckline 164 of the outer layer
14.
[0133] Referring now to FIGS. 19A-20B, the swimsuit 150 may be
fabricated in the same manner as discussed in relation to FIGS.
11A-12B. The swimsuit 150 shown in FIGS. 19A-20B may further have
leg openings 188, 190, 192 and 194 which may be free floating with
respect to each other as described in relation to FIGS. 15A-16B. In
other words, the leg openings 188-194 are not sewn or attached to
each other. The inner compression layer 12 may also have a molded
bra 180, a front body control panel 212, side control panel 214 and
butt lifter 216. The front control panel 212 may be located on the
front side of the inner compression layer. The front control panels
212 may be elongated for contouring to the tummy section of the
wearer. As can be seen by a comparison between the front control
panels 212, 204 shown in FIGS. 20A and 14A, the front control
panels 212, 204 may have different configurations, shapes and
sizes. The side control panels 214 may be vertically oriented as
shown in FIG. 20B. The side control panels 214 may extend on the
rear side of the wearer's body and provide contouring to the
wearer's body for a more aesthetically pleasing exterior
appearance. Additionally, the inner compression layer may have one
or more butt lifters 216 that extend diagonally across the buttocks
of the wearer.
[0134] Referring now to FIGS. 21A-22B, the swimsuit 150 may be
fabricated in the same manner as the swimsuit 150 described in
relation to FIG. 19A-20B except that the inner layer 12 shown in
relation to FIGS. 22A-22B has an underwire bra 206 instead of a
molded bra 180 (see FIG. 20a).
[0135] Referring now to FIGS. 23A-24B, the swimsuit 150 may be
fabricated in the same manner as discussed in relation to swimsuit
150 shown in FIGS. 11A-12B. In addition to the molded bra 180, the
swimsuit 150 shown in FIGS. 23A-24B may additionally have front
body control panel 212 and back body control panel 218 attached to
the inner layer 12. The back control panel 218 may contour the back
side of the wearer to provide for a more aesthetically appealing
contour of the wearer's body. FIGS. 25A-26B may be fabricated in
the same manner as the swimsuit shown in FIGS. 23A-24B except that
the back control panel 218 is replaced with side control panels 214
which provide contouring to the sides of the wearer.
[0136] Referring now to FIGS. 27A-28B, the lower portion 100
fabricated in the same manner as discussed in relation to lower
portion 100 shown in FIG. 9 except that the inner compression layer
12 additionally has butt lifters 216. The lower portion 100 shown
in FIGS. 29A-30B may have the same configuration as that shown in
relation to lower portion 100 in FIGS. 27A-28B except that an inner
waist 220 the inner and outer layers 12, 14 extend higher up on the
waist of the wearer such as to the level of the wearer's belly
button or higher.
[0137] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 11A-26B, it is
contemplated that only the arm holes 160, 162 are attached to arm
holes 174, 176. The entire length or majority of the length of the
arm holes 160, 162 may be attached to the entire length or majority
of the length of the arm holes 174, 176.
[0138] The preferred method of attaching the inner and outer layers
12, 14 is by way of sewing. In particular, the inner layer 12 may
be caught and sewn into the outer layer 14. The stitching extends
along the edges for majority or the entire length of the particular
sections such as the arm hole sections 160, 162, 174, 176, the back
neckline section 164, 178, when indicated along the front neckline
168, 172 and the inner peripheries 188, 190, 192, 194.
[0139] In the embodiments disclosed herein, certain swimsuits had
lower portions that covered the crotch area of the wearer. These
swimsuits are illustrated in FIGS. 1-9, 13A-16B, 19A-22B and
27A-30B. The lower portion of these swimsuits are shown in FIGS.
31-37 wherein the inner and outer layers 12, 14 are spot attached
222 at or around the leg openings 188, 190, 192, 194 of the inner
and outer layers 12, 14. Various aspects discussed in relation to
FIGS. 31-37 may be employed in these swimsuits. More particularly,
the inner layer 12 may be spot attached 222 to the outer layer 14
to aid in maintaining alignment of the leg openings 188, 192 and
190, 194 to facilitate insertion of the wearer's legs through the
corresponding openings 188, 192 and 190, 194 and/or to maintain
orientation and arrangement during machine washing. The inner layer
12 remains on the inside of the outer layer 14 even though the
swimsuit is washed, packed, stored, etc. Despite the spot
attachment 222, the inner layer 12 is still free floating with
respect to the outer layer 14. One of the reasons for the free
floating feature between inner layer 12 and the outer layer 14 is
for optimal placement of the inner layer 12 for body contouring and
allows the outer layer 14 to be placed at a different location
independent from the inner layer 12 for the purposes of exterior
aesthetic appeal. Other reasons for the free floating feature
between the inner layer 12 and the outer layer 14 may include but
is not limited to the purpose of allowing the free floating inner
layer 12 to smooth the fat of the wearer to resemble skin. By way
of example and not limitation, the lowest portion of the periphery
200 of the inner layer 12 may be spot attached 222 to the lowest
portion of the periphery 196 of the outer layer 14. Likewise, the
lowest portion of the periphery 202 may be spot attached 222 to the
lowest portion of the periphery 198. For purposes of explanation
and not limitation, the spot attachment 222 may be stitched with
threads, adhesive, welding, snaps, hooks and loops, micro hooks and
loops and other attachment methods currently known in the art or
developed in the future. The spot attachment 222, 222a shown in
FIGS. 31-37 is the stitching embodiment. Preferably, the stitches
are about 1/4 inch long and are disposed only along the periphery
as shown in FIGS. 32 and 36. Referring now to FIG. 33, an exploded
perspective view of the inner and outer layers 12, 14 is shown. A
width 224 of the inner layer 12 at the crotch area may be slightly
less (e.g., 1/4 inch) than a width 226 of the outer layer at the
crotch area. The peripheries 200, 202 may be sewn to the
peripheries 196, 198 as a spot attachment 222 so that the
peripheries 200, 202 is slightly offset inward from the peripheries
196, 198 so that the inner layer 12 is not visible when the
swimsuit is worn.
[0140] The spot attachment 222 may be a permanent attachment such
as stitching with threads. However, it is also contemplated that
the spot attachment 222 may be removably attachable methods such as
snaps and hooks and looks. In this event, the peripheries 200, 202
of the inner layer 12 may be adjustable to the peripheries 196,
198. By way of example and not limitation, the peripheries 200, 202
of the inner layer 12 may have two or more snaps along the
peripheries 200, 202. The peripheries 196, 198 of the outer layer
14 may have one or more corresponding mating snaps along the
peripheries 196, 198. The user may attach any one of the snaps on
the peripheries 200, 202 to the corresponding snaps on the
peripheries 196, 198 as desired by the user.
[0141] In FIGS. 31-33, two spot attachments 222 are located only at
the lower side of the inner peripheries 196, 200 and the 202, 198.
However, it is also contemplated that multiple spot attachments 222
may be formed on the peripheries 196, 200 and the 202, 198.
Moreover, it is also contemplated that the spot attachment 222 may
be made at the center of the inner and outer layers 12, 14 medially
and away from the peripheries 196, 200 and the 202, 198. It is also
contemplated that the spot attachments 222 may be located at other
locations about the peripheries such as the top portions, front
portions, or rear portions of the peripheries 196, 198, 200,
202.
[0142] Additional spot attachments 222a may be formed at other
locations on the inner peripheries 196, 200 and 202, 198. These
additional spot attachments 222a may be formed anywhere about the
inner peripheries 200, 196 and 202, 198. By way of example and not
limitation, referring now to FIGS. 34-37, the additional spot
attachments 222a may be located at the seams 224a, b, 226a, b at
the inner peripheries 200, 196 and 202, 198 where the front and
back panels 24, 26 and 20, 22 of the inner and outer layers 24, 26
and 20, 22 are sewn together. These additional spot attachments
222a are generally located at the upper portion of the inner
peripheries 200, 196 and 202, 198. These additional spot
attachments 222a may be in addition to or in lieu of the spot
attachments 222. The additional spot attachments 222a shown in
FIGS. 34-37 are shown as being a permanent attachment method as
through stitching with threads. However, the additional spot
attachments 222a may be removably attachable means such as hooks
and loops, micro hooks and loops, adhesive, welding, snaps and
other attachment means known in the art or developed in the
future.
[0143] Referring now to FIGS. 34 and 35, the left and right side
views of the lower portion of the swimsuit shown in FIG. 31 is
illustrated. As previously discussed, the spot attachments 222 may
be formed on the lower portion of the inner peripheries 196, 200,
198, 202. The additional spot attachments 222a may be formed on the
inner peripheries 196, 200, 198, 202 at the seams 224a, b, 226a, b
where the front and back panels 24, 26 and 20, 22 of the outer and
inner layers 14, 12 meet. The spot attachments 222, 222a still
permit the inner and outer layers 12, 14 to freely float with
respect to each other.
[0144] Referring now to FIG. 36, a right perspective side view of
the inner and outer layers 12, 14 is shown. As shown, the
additional spot attachments 222a may be formed on the inner
periphery 200 of the inner layer 12 at the seam 224a and attached
to the inner periphery 196 of the outer layer 14 at the seam 226a.
Similarly, referring now to FIG. 37, a left perspective side view
of the inner and outer layers 12, 14 is shown. The additional spot
attachments 222a may be formed on the inner periphery 202 of the
inner layer 12 at the seam 224b and attached to the inner periphery
198 of the outer layer 14 at the seam 226b.
[0145] The above description is given by way of example, and not
limitation. Given the above disclosure, one skilled in the art
could devise variations that are within the scope and spirit of the
invention disclosed herein. Further, the various features of the
embodiments disclosed herein can be used alone, or in varying
combinations with each other and are not intended to be limited to
the specific combination described herein. Thus, the scope of the
claims is not to be limited by the illustrated embodiments.
* * * * *