BODY SHAPING GARMENTS

Abstract

A dress includes an outer garment including a front fabric panel coupled to a back fabric panel at first and second seams and an under garment coupled to an inner layer of the outer garment such that the outer garment is configured to cover the under garment. The under garment includes a back fabric layer coupled to a front fabric layer of the under garment at a closure of a crotch section and at third and fourth seams such that the respective inner surfaces of the front fabric layer and the back fabric layer face each other. The back fabric layer includes a right compressive panel formed from a compression layer material, a left compressive panel formed from a compression layer material, and lining material extending between the right compressive panel and the left compressive panel. The compression layer material has a higher elastic modulus than the lining material.

Description

BACKGROUND

Users that wear garments, such as swimsuits or dresses, may want to have body portions be compressed to have an “hourglass” shape. Specifically, wearers desire a curvy look where the bust is lifted, the front and back waist is reduced, and the stomach is flattened but the hips and buttocks are not compressed. There are swimsuits that feature a compression lining, but the lining may lack flexibility and makes the swimsuit tight. These versions of slimming swimsuits have used a sewn or bonded lining that is tighter and/or less stretchy than the outer fabric portion to smooth the body. This also makes it more difficult for users to put on the swimsuit and to take off the swimsuit. Also, the swimsuit with this compression lining produces undesirable bulging at the leg opening. Further, the lining and/or bonding only smooths the stomach, it does not offer targeted compression to the entire waistline.

Garments such as swimsuits, lingerie, tops, and dresses may benefit from improvements.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

In one aspect, embodiments disclosed herein relate to a dress that includes an outer garment including a front fabric panel coupled to a back fabric panel at first and second seams such that the respective inner surfaces of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel face each other. The front fabric panel and the back fabric panel are coupled such that a bottom section of each of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel forms a dress opening.

The dress also includes an under garment coupled to an inner layer of the outer garment such that the outer garment is configured to cover the under garment. The under garment includes a back fabric layer coupled to a front fabric layer of the under garment at a closure of a crotch section and at third and fourth seams such that the respective inner surfaces of the front fabric layer of the under garment and the back fabric layer of the under garment face each other. The front fabric layer of the under garment of the under garment includes a lining material and a compression layer material. The closure of the crotch section is configured to open and close the crotch section of the under garment without removal of the outer garment. The back fabric layer of the under garment includes a right compressive panel formed from a compression layer material extending from a third seam towards a centerline and along a torso section of the back fabric layer to a bottom portion of the torso section, a left compressive panel formed from a compression layer material extending from a fourth seam towards the centerline and along a torso section of the back fabric layer to a bottom section of the torso section, and lining material extending between the right compressive panel and the left compressive panel.

The compression layer material has a higher elastic modulus than the lining material.

In another aspect, embodiments herein relate to a dress that includes an outer garment including a front fabric panel coupled to a back fabric panel at first and second seams such that the respective inner surfaces of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel face each other and an under garment coupled to the inner layers of the outer garment such that the outer garment is configured to cover the under garment. The front fabric panel and the back fabric panel of the outer garment are coupled such that a bottom section of each of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel forms a dress opening.

The under garment includes a back fabric layer coupled to a front fabric layer at a closure of a crotch section and at third and fourth seams such that the respective inner surfaces of the front fabric layer and the back fabric layer of the under garment face each other. The front fabric layer of the under garment includes a lining material and a compression layer material. The compression layer material has a higher elastic modulus than the lining material. The closure of the crotch section is configured to open and close the crotch section of the under garment without removal of the outer garment.

In another aspect, embodiments herein relate to a method for adjusting a waist size of a dress that includes providing the dress. The dress includes an outer garment including a front fabric panel coupled to a back fabric panel at first and second seams such that the respective inner surfaces of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel face each other, an under garment coupled to an inner layer of the outer garment such that the outer garment is configured to cover the under garment, and a lacing extending across a centerline of the back fabric panel of the outer garment, the back fabric layer of the under garment, or both. The method also includes adjusting the lacing to decrease a circumference of a waist, thereby adjusting the waist size of the dress.

The front fabric panel and the back fabric panel of the outer garment are coupled such that a bottom section of each of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel forms a dress opening. The under garment includes a back fabric coupled to a front fabric at a closure of a crotch section and at third and fourth seams such that the respective inner surfaces of the front fabric layer and the back fabric layer face each other of the under garment. The front fabric layer of the under garment includes a lining material and a compression layer material. The back fabric layer of the under garment includes a right compressive panel formed from a compression layer material extending from a third seam towards a centerline and along a torso section of the back fabric layer to a bottom portion of the torso section, a left compressive panel formed from a compression layer material extending from a fourth seam towards the centerline and along a torso section of the back fabric layer to a bottom section of the torso section, and lining material extending between the right compressive panel and the left compressive panel. The compression layer material has a higher elastic modulus than the lining material. The closure of the crotch section of the under garment is configured to open and close the crotch section of the under garment without removal of the outer garment.

Other aspects and advantages of the claimed subject matter will be apparent from the following description and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a front view of the outer fabric portion of a one-piece swimsuit according to a first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 1B is a rear view of the outer fabric portion of the one-piece swimsuit of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1C is an inner view of the front of the one-piece swimsuit in either FIG. 1A or 2A.

FIG. 1D is an inner view of the front of the one-piece swimsuit in either FIG. 1B or 2B.

FIG. 2A is a front view of the outer fabric portion of a one-piece swimsuit according to a second embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2B is a rear view of the outer fabric portion of the one-piece swimsuit of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3A is a front view of the outer fabric portion of a one-piece swimsuit according to a third embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3B is a rear view of the outer fabric portion of the one-piece swimsuit of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C is an inner view of the front of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3D is an inner view of the rear of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 3B.

FIG. 4A is a front view of the outer fabric portion of a one-piece swimsuit according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4B is a rear view of the outer fabric portion of the one-piece swimsuit of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4C is an inner view of the front of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4D is an inner view of the rear of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 4B.

FIG. 5A is a front view of the outer fabric portion of a one-piece swimsuit according to a fifth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5B is a rear view of the outer fabric portion of the one-piece swimsuit of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C is an inner view of the front of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5D is an inner view of the rear of the one-piece swimsuit in FIG. 5B.

FIG. 6A is a front view of the outer fabric portion of a two-piece swimsuit according to a sixth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6B is a rear view of the outer fabric portion of the two-piece swimsuit of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6C is an inner view of the front of the two-piece swimsuit in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6D is an inner view of the rear of the two-piece swimsuit in FIG. 6B.

FIG. 7A is a front view of the outer fabric portion of a two-piece swimsuit according to a seventh embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7B is a rear view of the outer fabric portion of the two-piece swimsuit of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C is an inner view of the front of the two-piece swimsuit in FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7D is an inner view of the rear of the two-piece swimsuit in FIG. 7B.

FIG. 8 is a schematic partial exploded view of a portion of the outer fabric layer positioned on the self-lining layer according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a schematic partial exploded view of a portion of the outer fabric layer positioned on the doubled layer power mesh fabric.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary garment, i.e., a bathing suit, in accordance with one embodiment the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a side view of the garment of FIG. 10.

FIGS. 12-1 and 12-2 are views of an outer facing surface and an inner facing surface, respectively, of a front panel component of the garment of FIG. 10.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view along line A-A of the front panel shown in FIG. 12-1.

FIGS. 14-1 and 14-2 are views of an outer facing surface and an inner facing surface, respectively, of a back panel component of the garment of FIG. 10.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a garment, i.e., a dress, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 16-1 and 16-2 are views of an outer facing surface and an inner facing surface, respectively, of a front panel component of the garment of FIG. 15.

FIGS. 17-1 and 17-2 are views of an outer facing surface and an inner facing surface, respectively, of a back panel component of the garment of FIG. 15.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a garment, i.e., a top, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 19-1 and 19-2 are views of an outer facing surface and an inner facing surface, respectively, of a front panel component of the garment of FIG. 18.

FIGS. 20-1 and 20-2 are views of an outer facing surface and an inner facing surface, respectively, of a back panel component of the garment of FIG. 18.

FIGS. 21-1 and 21-2 are views of an outer facing surface and an inner facing surface, respectively, of a front panel component of the garment of FIG. 21.

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view along line A-A of the front panel shown in FIGS. 21-1 and 21-2.

FIGS. 23-1 and 23-2 are schematic partial exploded views of a portion of the outer fabric layer of the front panel component positioned on a portion of a lining or self-lining layer and a portion outer fabric layer positioned on a portion of a doubled layer power mesh fabric, respectively.

FIGS. 24-1 and 24-2 are views of an outer facing surface and an inner facing surface, respectively, of a back panel component of the garment of FIG. 21.

FIGS. 25-1 and 25-2 are schematic partial exploded views of a portion of the outer fabric layer of the back panel component positioned on a portion of a lining or self-lining layer and a portion outer fabric layer positioned on a portion of a doubled layer power mesh fabric, respectively.

FIG. 26A shows a front fabric layer of an undergarment in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 26B shows a side view of the undergarment of FIG. 26A in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 26C shows a back fabric layer of an undergarment in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 27A and 27B are front views of dress having an outer garment (showing the inner surface) and an undergarment (showing the outer surface) in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 27C shows a side view of the dress of FIGS. 27A and 27B in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 27D shows a back view of the dress of FIGS. 27A-27C in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 28A-28D show different views of an outer garment of a dress in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 29A-29D show different views of an outer garment of a dress in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 30A-30C show different views of an outer garment of a dress in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 31A-31C show different views of an outer garment of a dress in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 32A and 32B show different views of a shortened outer garment of FIGS. 31A-31C in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 33A shows an outer surface of an outer garment in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 33B shows a view of dress having an outer garment (showing the inner surface) and an undergarment (showing the outer surface) in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 34A shows a front view of an outer garment in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 34B shows a rear view of an outer garment in accordance with one or more embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It will be readily understood that the components of the embodiments as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, may be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations in addition to the described example embodiments. Thus, the following more detailed description of the example embodiments, as represented in the figures, is not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments, as claimed, but is merely representative of example embodiments.

Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to give a thorough understanding of embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the various embodiments can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obfuscation. The following description is intended only by way of example, and simply illustrates certain example embodiments.

Throughout the present description, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “top”, “bottom”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “forward”, “rear”, and “rearward” shall define directions or orientations with respect to the swimsuit as illustrated in FIG. 1A. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms “upper”, “lower”, “top”, “bottom”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “forward”, “inner”, “outer”, “rear”, and “rearward” are intended to encompass different orientations of the swimsuit in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the swimsuit in the figures is turned over, elements described as “upper” elements or features would then be “lower” elements or features. Further, any reference to swimsuits applies also to dresses and the terms may be used interchangeably throughout the disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 1A to 1D, a one-piece style swimsuit 10 is shown. It should be noted that other types of garments such as lingerie and dresses may incorporate the features of the present invention. The swimsuit includes an inner fabric portion 12 (FIGS. 1C and 1D) and an outer fabric portion 14 (FIGS. 1A and 1B).

As seen in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the outer fabric portion 14 of the suit comprises an outer fabric layer 16a that has an hourglass shaped lower portion 18 with upper shoulder portions 20 that define the arm openings 22. The leg openings 24 of the swimsuit are defined by end portions 26 of the outer fabric portion 14. Each end portion 26 comprises a single layer of self-starting mesh. The self-start mesh layer uses the natural edge of the fabric created during knitting and does not require a hem, binding or finishing at the free edge that may contribute to bulging and may unravel over time. The end portions 26 are attached by stitching, bonding or other suitable way to outer side ends 28 of the outer fabric layer 16a and self-lining layer 16b.

As seen in FIGS. 1C and 1D, the inner fabric portion 12 comprises a central compression fabric portion 30 and self-lining layer 16b. The central compression fabric portion 30 comprises outer and inner compression layers 30a, 30b (FIG. 9) that form a double layer of power mesh fabric. The outer and inner compression layers 30a, 30b of the power mesh fabric are attached to each other and to the outer fabric layer 16a with the outer fabric layer 16a positioned over the outer compression layer 30a as illustrated in FIG. 9. The outer fabric layer 16a is also attached to the self-lining layer 16b and covers the self-lining layer 16b. The central compression fabric portion 30 is substantially an hourglass shape and fits around the waist, belly, and lower back areas of a wearer but does not cover the bust, upper back, and buttock areas. The central compression fabric portion 30 extends from a bust covering portion 33 of the swimsuit at just below the wearer's bust to just above the respective bottom edges of the self-lining layer 16b. The central compression fabric portion 30 also extends laterally between the side ends 28 of the self-lining layer 16b near the leg openings 24.

The central compression fabric portion 30 comprises a waist covering portion 37 that is located inside the garment waist and reduces waist girth and stomach protrusion when the swimsuit is worn. The power mesh fabric of the central compression fabric portion 30 may be made of 100 percent nylon. The power mesh fabric acts as a heavy weight compression layer and is much less elastic than swimwear fabrics primarily composed of lycra or spandex or other elastic fiber type material. The central compression fabric portion 30 has a higher elastic modulus than that of the outer fabric portion 14, the self-lining layer 16b and the end portions 26. The power mesh fabric of the central compression fabric portion 30 provides superior hold and sculpting benefits due to its lack of stretch. It is also lightweight and does not add bulk to garments.

The swimsuit 10 further comprises an elastic support band 34 that is stitched, bonded, or otherwise attached to the upper end of the central compression fabric portion 30. The elastic support band 34 is located downwardly adjacent the bust covering portion 33 and fits under the bust area of the wearer to provide support to the bust area. A decorative mesh insert 36 (FIG. 1A) may be attached to the inner edges of the shoulder portions 20 of the outer fabric layer 16a. A central zipper placket 38 is stitched, bonded, or otherwise attached to the swimsuit 10 and extends from the center of the upper end of the mesh insert 36 down along the central compression fabric portion 30 and terminating at a hip portion 35 of the swimsuit 10 that is at a height that is approximately that of the hips of the wearer of the swimsuit when the swimsuit 10 is worn on the wearer.

The hip portion 35 is shaped to resemble the hips of the wearer of the swimsuit 10. The length of the zipper placket 38 may be two-thirds of the distance from the center of the upper end of the mesh insert 36 to the lower end of a crotch panel 44. The zipper placket 38 includes a zipper 40 (FIG. 1A) that removably binds opposing edges of an opening defined by the zipper placket 38 to open and close the opening. The zipper placket 38 enables or helps the wearer to easily put on and take off the swimsuit 10, since without the zipper placket 38 or other suitable alternative fastener for the opening, the inelastic power mesh fabric would make putting on and off the swimsuit 10 more difficult. Adjustable shoulder straps 42 are attached to the shoulder portions and extend over the shoulder when the swimsuit 10 is worn by the wearer. The shoulder straps 42 crisscross at the rear side (FIG. 1B) of the swimsuit 10. Removable pads may be inserted through openings 43 (FIG. 1C) of inner pockets 45 formed by the self-lining layer 16 at the shoulder portions 20.

At the leg opening 24 there is only the single mesh layer that defines the leg opening 24. This single layer of fabric at the leg opening 24 does not apply as much compression to the leg areas as the double layers thereby reducing bulges of the skin. The swimsuit 10 further includes the crotch panel 44 that is reinforced with a double layer of self-fabric to minimize the appearance of the vaginal lips when the swimsuit 10 is worn by the female wearer. The swimsuit 10 may expand by unzipping it to enable putting the swimsuit 10 on and off the wearer. The zipper placket 38 may be in the front or back and may be visible or invisible. The single mesh layer 26 at the leg opening maybe be sheer or opaque.

The swimsuit 10 is put on by using the zipper 40 to unzip the opening defined by the zipper placket 38, extending the legs through the leg openings 24, pulling the swimsuit 10 over the buttocks and thighs, extending the arms through the arm openings 22, placing the shoulder straps 42 over the shoulders, and then using the zipper 40 to zip up the opening defined by the zipper placket 38. The shoulder straps 42 can then be adjusted by strap adjusters 46 to be tighter or looser around the shoulder as desired. The swimsuit 10 can be worn for swimming, sunbathing, or as a bodysuit.

Because of the lack of elasticity resulting in poor stretching at the front and back waist due to the double layer power mesh construction, the shape of the waist area of the swimsuit mirrors the shape of the wearer. A wearer with a high waist to hip ratio (meaning waist is small compared to the hip, known as a “curvy” body type) will require a swimsuit with a similar, but smaller, ratio. A wearer with a low waist to hip ratio (known as a “straight” or “square” body type) will require a swimsuit with a less severe waist shape so the wearer does not experience unnatural and uncomfortable denting or buckling at the waist. A swimsuit with lacing (as disclosed in the following third, fourth, fifth, and sixth embodiments) will allow for the wearer to adjust the size of the waist. But a non-adjustable suit will require multiple fits (i.e., standard, curvy, straight, round (also known as an “apple” body type).

FIGS. 2A and 2B show a second embodiment of the present invention. This second embodiment comprises a swimsuit 100 that includes an outer fabric portion 114 that is similar to the outer fabric portion 14 of the embodiment of FIGS. 1A and 1B, except for the following. The outer fabric portion 114 of the swimsuit 100 comprises an outer fabric layer 116a that has an hourglass shaped lower portion 118 that is smaller in width than the lower portion 18 of the swimsuit 10 of the first embodiment. The lower portion 118 is positioned between single layered self-start mesh fabric panels 150 of the outer fabric portion 114 that are located on the right and left sides of the swimsuit 100.

Each self-start mesh panel 150 is convexly curved at its upper section and then slightly concavely curved at its lower section and is stitched at its side ends to the corresponding side ends of the hourglass shaped lower portion 118. The central compression fabric portion 30 has a higher elastic modulus than that of the outer fabric portion 114, the self-lining layer 16b, the end portions 26, and the mesh fabric panels 150. Also, in this second embodiment, the shoulder straps 142 are not crisscrossed at the rear side of the swimsuit 100. The inner fabric portion 12 as well as all other elements of this second embodiment are similar in structure and function to that of the first embodiment.

FIGS. 3A to 3D show a third embodiment of the present invention. This third embodiment comprises a swimsuit 300. The outer fabric portion 314 is similar to the outer fabric portion 14 of the embodiment of FIGS. 1A and 1B, except for the following. In this third embodiment, lacing 352 is provided instead of the zipper placket. A u-shaped opening 356 extends from the center of the upper end of the swimsuit 300 down along the central compression fabric portion 30 and terminates at a hip portion 35 of the swimsuit 300 that is at a height that is approximately that of the hips of the wearer of the swimsuit when the swimsuit 300 is worn on the wearer. The hip portion 35 is shaped to resemble the hips of the wearer of the swimsuit 300. The length of the opening 356 may be two-thirds of the distance from the center of the upper end of the swimsuit 300 to the lower end of crotch panel 44.

The lacing 352 extends across the u-shaped opening 356. The lacing 352 extends through eyelets 354 that are located along the opposing inner ends that define the opening 356 at the back of the swimsuit 300. The lacing 352 enables or helps the wearer to easily put on and take off the swimsuit 300, since without the lacing 352 or other suitable alternative fastener for the opening 356, the inelastic power mesh fabric would make putting on and off the swimsuit 300 more difficult. The straps 342 are not crisscrossed. The ends of the lacing 352 are tied together to help keep the straps 342 around the shoulders of a wearer of the swimsuit 300. Also, the decorative mesh is removed. The inner fabric portion 312 is similar to the inner fabric portion 12 of the first embodiment, except that the u-shaped opening in the center of the back of the swimsuit extends further down so that the lacing 352 extending across the opening 356 to better adjust the width of the opening to in turn adjust the waist size of the swimsuit 300.

In this third embodiment, the swimsuit 300 may expand by untying and loosening the lacing 352 to enable putting the swimsuit 300 on and off the wearer. The lacing 352 may be in the front or back of the swimsuit 300. The swimsuit 300 is put on by untying the lacing 352, extending the legs through the leg openings 24, pulling the swimsuit 300 over buttocks and thighs, extending the arms through the arm openings 22, placing the shoulder straps 342 over the shoulders, and then pulling and tying the ends of the lacing 352 together as desired to adjust the width of the opening 356. The shoulder straps 342 can then be adjusted to be tighter or looser around the shoulder as desired. The swimsuit 300 can be worn for swimming, sunbathing, or as a bodysuit. The other elements of this third embodiment are similar in structure and function to that of the first embodiment.

FIGS. 4A to 4D show a fourth embodiment of the present invention. This fourth embodiment comprises a swimsuit 400. The swimsuit 400 of this fourth embodiment is similar to the swimsuit 300 of the third embodiment except that the shoulder straps 442 are crisscrossed. All other elements of this fourth embodiment are similar in structure and function to that of the third embodiment.

FIGS. 5A to 5D show a fifth embodiment of the present invention. This fifth embodiment comprises a swimsuit 500. The swimsuit 500 of this fifth embodiment is similar to the swimsuit 300 of the third embodiment except that neck straps 542 are provided instead of the shoulder straps 342. The neck straps 542 extend behind the neck of a wearer from upper shoulder portions 520 of the self-lining layer with the ends of the neck straps 542 tied together. All other elements of this fifth embodiment are similar in structure and function to that of the third embodiment.

FIGS. 6A to 6D show a sixth embodiment of the present invention. This sixth embodiment comprises a two-piece swimsuit 600. The swimsuit 600 includes a top portion 602 and a bottom portion 603. The top portion 602 has a pair of cup portions 604. The cup portions 604 are attached to each other and cover the bust of the wearer. The cup portions 604 are made of an outer fabric layer 606a and a self-lining fabric layer 606b. Removable pads may be inserted through inner openings 643 (FIG. 6C) of inner pockets 645 formed by the outer fabric layer 606a and the self-lining layer 606b at the cup portions 604. Neck straps 642 are attached to the cup portions 604 and extend behind the neck of a wearer with the ends of the neck straps 642 tied together. Back straps 647 are attached to the cup portions 604 and extend behind the back of the wearer of the swimsuit 600 with the ends of the back straps 647 tied together.

As seen in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the bottom portion 603 comprises an outer fabric portion 614 that has an outer fabric layer 616a. Like the third embodiment, the swimsuit 600 includes leg openings 24 of the swimsuit that are defined by end portions 26. Each end portion 26 comprises a single layer of self-start mesh. The self-start mesh layer uses the natural edge of the fabric created during knitting and does not require a hem, binding or finishing at the edge that may contribute to bulging and may unravel over time. The end portions 26 are attached by stitching, bonding or other suitable way to outer side ends 28 of the self-lining layer 616.

As seen in FIGS. 6C and 6D, the bottom portion 603 has an inner fabric portion 612 that comprises the central compression fabric portion 30 and a self-lining layer 616b. The central compression fabric portion 30 comprises outer and inner compression layers 30a, 30b (FIG. 9) that form a double layer of power mesh fabric. The outer and inner second compression layers 30a, 30b of the power mesh fabric are attached to each other and to the outer fabric layer 616a with the outer fabric layer 616a positioned over the outer layer 30a as illustrated in FIG. 9. The outer fabric layer 616a is also attached to the self-lining layer 616b and covers the self-lining layer 616b as illustrated in FIG. 8. The central compression fabric portion 30 is substantially an hourglass shape and fits around the waist, belly, and lower back areas of a wearer but does not cover the bust, upper back, and buttock areas. The central compression fabric portion 30 extends from just below the wearer's chest or bust to just above the respective bottom edges of the self-lining layer 616b. The central compression fabric portion 30 also extends laterally between the side ends 28 of the self-lining layer 616b near the leg openings 24.

The central compression fabric portion 30 comprises a waist covering portion 37 that is located inside the garment waist and reduces waist girth and stomach protrusion when the swimsuit is worn. The power mesh fabric of the central compression fabric portion 30 may be made of 100 percent nylon. The power mesh fabric acts as a heavy weight compression layer and is much less elastic than swimwear fabrics primarily composed of lycra or spandex or other elastic fiber type material. The central compression fabric portion 30 has a higher elastic modulus than that of the outer fabric portion 614, the self-lining layer 616b, and the end portions 26. The power mesh fabric of the central compression fabric portion 30 provides superior hold and sculpting benefits due to its lack of stretch. It is also lightweight and does not add bulk to garments.

A u-shaped opening 656 (FIG. 6B) extends from the center of the upper end of the bottom portion 603 down along the central compression fabric portion 30 and terminating at a hip portion 35 of the swimsuit 600 that is at a height that is approximately that of the hips of the wearer of the swimsuit when the swimsuit 600 is worn on the wearer. The hip portion 35 is shaped to resemble the hips of the wearer of the swimsuit 600. The length of the opening 656 may be one-half of the distance from the center of the upper end of the bottom portion 603 to the lower end of crotch panel 44. The lacing 652 extends across the u-shaped opening 656. The lacing 652 extends through eyelets 654 that are located along the opposing inner ends that define the opening 656 at the back of the swimsuit 600. The ends of the lacing 652 are tied together. The lacing 652 enables or helps the wearer to easily put on and take off the bottom portion 603, since without the lacing 652 or other suitable alternative fastener for the opening, the inelastic power mesh fabric would make putting on and off the swimsuit 600 more difficult.

In this sixth embodiment, the bottom portion 603 of the swimsuit 603 may expand by untying and loosening the lacing 652 to enable putting the swimsuit 600 on and off the wearer. The lacing 652 may be in the front or back of the swimsuit 600. The swimsuit 600 is put on by untying the lacing 652, extending the legs through the leg openings 24, pulling the bottom portion 603 to just below the bust, and then pulling and tying the ends of the lacing 652 together as desired to adjust the width of the opening 656. The top portion 602 is then put on with the cup portions 604 covering the bust. The neck straps 642 are extended behind the neck of a wearer with the ends of the neck straps 642 tied together. The back straps 647 are also extended behind the back of the wearer of the swimsuit 600 with the ends of the back straps 647 tied together. All other elements of this sixth embodiment are similar in structure and function to that of the third embodiment.

FIGS. 7A to 7D show a seventh embodiment of the present invention. This seventh embodiment comprises a two-piece swimsuit 700. The swimsuit 700 includes a top portion 702 and a bottom portion 703. The top portion 702 has a bust covering portion 704. The top portion 702 includes an elastic doubled on fold self-band 705 below the bust covering portion 704. The bust covering portion 704 is made of an outer fabric layer 706a and a self-lining fabric layer 706b. Removable pads may be inserted through inner openings 743 (FIG. 7C) of inner pockets 745 formed by the layers 706a, 706b at the bust covering portion 704. Adjustable shoulder straps 742 are attached to the top portion 702 and extend over the shoulder when the swimsuit 700 is worn by the wearer with the ends of the shoulder straps 742 tied together. The top portion 702 has clasps 711 on the back for fastening the side ends of the top portion 702 together.

As seen in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the bottom portion 703 comprises an outer fabric portion 714 that has an outer fabric layer 716a. Like the sixth embodiment, the swimsuit 700 includes leg openings 24 of the swimsuit that are defined by end portions 26. Each end portion 26 comprises a single layer of self-start mesh. The self-start mesh layer uses the natural edge of the fabric created during knitting and does not require a hem, binding or finishing at the edge that may contribute to bulging and may unravel over time. The end portions 26 are attached by stitching, bonding or other suitable way to outer side ends 28 of the self-lining layer 716.

As seen in FIGS. 7C and 7D, the bottom portion 703 has an inner fabric portion 712 that comprises a central compression fabric portion 30. The central compression fabric portion 30 comprises outer and inner compression layers 30a, 30b (FIG. 9) that form a double layer of power mesh fabric. The outer and inner second compression layers 30a, 30b of the power mesh fabric are attached to each other and to the outer fabric layer 716a with the outer fabric layer 716a positioned over the outer layer 30a as illustrated in FIG. 9. The outer fabric layer 716a is also attached to the self-lining layer 716b and covers the self-lining layer 716b as illustrated in FIG. 8. The central compression fabric portion 30 is substantially an hourglass shape and fits around the waist, belly, and lower back areas of a wearer but does not cover the bust, upper back, and buttock areas. The central compression fabric portion 30 extends from below the wearer's chest or bust to just above the respective bottom edges of the self-lining layer 16. The central compression fabric portion 30 also extends laterally between the side ends of the self-lining layer 716 near the leg openings 24. The bottom portion 703 also includes a doubled-on fold self-band 709 located just above the central compression fabric portion 30.

The central compression fabric portion 30 comprises a waist covering portion 37 that is located inside the garment waist and reduces waist girth and stomach protrusion when the swimsuit is worn. The power mesh fabric of the central compression fabric portion 30 may be made of 100 percent nylon. The power mesh fabric acts as a heavy weight compression layer and is much less elastic than swimwear fabrics primarily composed of lycra or spandex or other elastic fiber type material. The central compression fabric portion 30 has a higher elastic modulus than that of the outer fabric portion 14, which includes the self-lining layer 716 and the end portions 26. The power mesh fabric of the central compression fabric portion 30 provides superior hold and sculpting benefits due to its lack of stretch. It is also lightweight and does not add bulk to garments.

A central zipper placket 738 is stitched, bonded, or otherwise attached to the swimsuit 700 and extends from the center of the upper end of the bottom portion 703 down along the central compression fabric portion 30 and terminating at a hip portion 35 of the swimsuit 10. The zipper placket 738 includes a zipper 740 (FIG. 7A) that removably binds opposing edges of an opening defined by the zipper placket 738 to open and close the opening. The zipper placket 738 enables or helps the wearer to easily put on and take off the bottom portion 703, since without the zipper placket 738 or other suitable alternative fastener for the opening, the inelastic power mesh fabric would make putting on and off the swimsuit 700 more difficult.

The swimsuit 700 may expand by unzipping it to enable the bottom portion 703 to be put on and off by the wearer. The zipper placket 738 may be in the front or back and may be visible or an invisible. The single mesh layer 26 at the leg opening maybe be sheer or opaque.

The swimsuit 700 is put on by using the zipper 740 to unzip the opening defined by the zipper placket 738, extending the legs through the leg openings 24, pulling the bottom portion 703 over the buttocks and thighs, and using the zipper 740 to zip up the opening defined by the zipper placket 738. The top portion 702 is put on by extending the arms through the arm openings 22, placing the shoulder straps 742 over the shoulders, and then fastening the clasps 711 together. All other elements of this seventh embodiment are similar in structure and function to that of the sixth embodiment.

Referring now to FIG. 10 through FIG. 14-2, in one embodiment, a garment 1000 is shown which, for illustrative purposes only, is a one-piece style women's swimsuit. It should be noted, however, that other types of garments such as lingerie (not shown), dresses (as shown in FIG. 15 through FIG. 17-2) and tops (as shown in FIG. 18 through FIG. 20-2) may incorporate the features of the present disclosure and are not limited to garments only for women.

The swimsuit 1000 includes a front panel 1005 and a back panel 1010 attached to one another by a first side seam 1015-1 and a second side seam 1015-2, where only the second side seam 1015-2 is visible in FIG. 10, and by a seam 1105 at the crotch portions of the front and back panels 1005, 1010 as shown in FIG. 11. The front and back panels 1005, 1010 may be formed as a single continuous piece of fabric (as shown in FIG. 11), or using any other method known to those of skill in the art. Several methods of attachment, as known to those of ordinary skill in the art, may be used to attach the front and back panels 1005, 1010. When attached, the front and back panels 1005, 1010 at least define arm openings 1020 and leg openings 1025, as shown.

Referring now to FIG. 12-1 and FIG. 12-2, the front panel 1005 is generally an hourglass shape and has two concave sides or edges 1205-1, 1205-2. The front panel 1005 may include a front outer facing surface 1210 and an inner facing surface 1215.

The front panel 1005 may include an opening 1217, like the openings of the other embodiments, to aid the wearer in putting on the garment. The opening 1217 may be closed by any of the approaches described herein, for example, but not limited to, a zipper, lacing, or clasp. As discussed in other embodiments of the present disclosure, in lieu of (or in addition to) the front panel opening 1217, the back panel 1010 may include an opening 1402 that may also be closed by any of the approaches described herein (e.g., zipper (shown in FIGS. 1A, 1C and 2A), lacing (as shown in FIGS. 3B, 3D, 4B, 4D, 5B, 5D, 6B and 6D), clasp, or the like).

Each of the inner and outer facing surfaces 1210, 1215 may include a pectoral portion 1220, a torso portion 1225, and a crotch portion 1230. Generally, for purposes of the present disclosure, the torso portion 1225 is between the pectoral portion 1220 and the crotch portion 1230. The outer facing surface 1215 is that which is seen when the garment is worn while the inner facing surface 1210 is against the skin of the wearer. The pectoral portion 1220 is generally defined as the bust area of a woman and can have components as described herein in reference to the other embodiments of this disclosure, including components similar to those found in bras.

The front panel 1005 may include multiple layers of material as shown in FIG. 12-1, FIG. 12-2 and FIG. 13. An outer fabric layer 1235 may be provided as the outer facing surface 1210 and is similar to the outer fabric layers 1235 described herein with respect to other embodiments. The inner facing surface 1215 of the front panel 1005 may include self-lining material 1240 in the crotch portion 1230 and the pectoral portion 1220. A compression layer 1245 may be provided in the torso portion 1225 of the inner facing surface 1215 of the front panel 1005 between the crotch portion 1230 and the pectoral portion 1220.

The compression layer 1245 of the front panel 1005 generally has a higher elastic modulus than the material of the outer fabric layer 1235 and/or the self-lining material 1240. The compression layer 1245 may be of a similar multi-layer construction as described herein with reference to other embodiments. For example, the compression layer 1245 may be formed of a power mesh fabric, including a double layer power mesh fabric or any other material that provides a higher elastic modulus than the material of the outer fabric layer 1235 and/or the self-lining 1240. As described herein with reference to other embodiments, the power mesh fabric may be made of 100 percent nylon or other materials such as spandex, polyester, or combinations thereof.

The outer facing surface 1235 and the inner facing surface 1215 of the front panel 1005 may be attached at the first and second side seams 1015-1, 1015-2 (as shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11) and seam 1105 (shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11) of the garment 1000, which for illustrative purposes only is a swimsuit. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the seams can be created by any number of different approaches including, but not limited to, stitching, bonding, adhesives, and the like. A garment of the present disclosure may also include a seamless construction.

Referring now to FIG. 14-1 and FIG. 14-2, the back panel 1010 of the swimsuit 1000 (or other garment) is generally an hourglass shape and has two concave sides or edges 1405-1, 1405-2, like the front panel 1005. The back panel 1010 may include a back outer facing surface 1410 and an inner facing surface 1415. Each of the inner and outer facing surfaces 1410, 1415 may include a torso portion 1425 and a crotch portion 1430. Generally, the back panel 1010 does not include a pectoral portion, as is provided on the front panel 1005, as the back panel 1010 generally does not rise that high up on the back of the wearer. However, for other types of garments, the back panel may include an upper back portion (not shown). The outer facing surface 1410 is that which is seen when the garment is worn while the inner facing surface 1415 is against the skin of the wearer.

The back panel 1010 may include multiple layers of material. For example, an outer fabric layer 1435 may be provided as the outer facing surface 1410 and is like the outer fabric layers described herein in other embodiments. The inner facing surface 1415 may include a first arcuate or concave portion 1440-1 of compression material layer 1441-1 and a second arcuate or concave portion 1440-2 of compression material layer 1441-2. These two arcuate areas 1440-1, 1440-2 extend from a top of the torso portion 1445-1, 1445-2 to a respective upper portion of the leg openings 1450-1, 1450-2 and generally follow the hourglass curvature of the front and back panels 1005, 1010 at the seams (not shown). Self-lining material 1455 extends from the crotch portion 1430 up to the top of the torso portion 1445-1, 1445-2 between the two arcuate portions 1440-1, 1440-2 and separates the arcuate portions of compression material 1441-1,1441-2 from one another. The compression layer material 1441-1,1441-2 generally has a higher elastic modulus than the material of the outer fabric layer 1435 and the self-lining material 1455. The compression layer 1441-1,1441-2 may be of a similar multi-layer construction as described herein with reference to the other embodiments. For example, compression 1441-1,1441-2 may be formed of a power mesh fabric, including a double layer power mesh fabric or any other material that provides a higher elastic modulus than the material of the outer fabric layer 1435 and/or the self-lining 1455. As described herein with reference to other embodiments, the power mesh fabric may be made of 100 percent nylon or other materials such as spandex, polyester, or combinations thereof.

Advantageously, the compression material 1245, 1441-1, 1441-2 in the front and back panels 1005, 1010 and the selective placement of the back panel 1010 compression material 1441-1,1441-2 operate to give the wearer a garment that provides the desired hourglass shape—i.e., improved fit without creating bulging on the body of the wearer and/or the garment itself. Further, the garment is relatively easy to get on, and wear, due to, for example, the self-lining material between the arcuate portions of compression material in the back panel and/or the openings 1217 and 1402. While the compression material is less elastic than the self-lining material, the back panel can stretch as the wearer puts on the garment. Once on, the self-lining material will contract while the arcuate compression portions conform the sides of the wearer.

Referring now to FIG. 15, in another embodiment, a dress 1500 incorporates a front panel 1505 and a back panel 1510 attached to one another by a first side seam 1515-1 and a second side seam 1515-2, where only the second side seam 1515-2 is visible in FIG. 15. The construction of the dress 1500 is comparable to the swimsuit embodiments of FIG. 10 through FIG. 14-2. Each of the front and back panels 1505, 1510 has an hourglass shaped top portion 1520, similar to the bathing suit 1000, with a dress lower portion 1525. As will be discussed below, compression layers in the front and back panels 1505, 1510 and the selective placement of the back panel 1510 compression layer material 1723-1,1723-2 within the arcuate portions function to provide the desired hourglass shape to the wearer of the dress without creating bulging on the body of the wearer or the garment itself.

Referring now to FIG. 16-1 and FIG. 16-2, the front panel 1505 is generally an hourglass shape at the torso portion 1520 and has two concave sides or edges to define an hourglass shape on the wearer. The front panel 1505 may include an opening 1605, similar to the openings of the other embodiments, to aid the wearer in putting on the garment. The opening 1605 may be closed by any of the approaches described herein, for example, but not limited to, a zipper, lacing, or clasp. The front panel 1505 has a front outer facing surface 1610 and an inner facing surface 1615. Each of the inner and outer facing surfaces 1610, 1615 includes a pectoral portion 1620 a torso portion 1625 and a dress lower portion 1627. Generally, the torso portion 1625 is below the pectoral portion 1620. The outer facing surface 1610 is that which is seen when the garment is worn while the inner facing surface is against the skin of the wearer. The pectoral portion 1620 is generally defined as the bust area of a woman and can have components as described herein in reference to the other embodiments of this disclosure.

The front panel 1505 may include multiple layers of material as shown in FIG. 16-1 and FIG. 16-2. An outer fabric layer 1630 may be provided as the outer facing surface and is similar to the outer fabric layers described herein with respect to other embodiments. The inner facing surface 1610 may include self-lining material 1635 in the pectoral portion 1620. A compression layer 1640 is provided in the torso portion 1625 and the lower dress portion 1627 of the inner facing surface 1610 down to the lower portion of the garment. The compression layer 1640 generally has a higher elastic modulus than the material of the outer fabric layer 1630 and the self-lining material 1635. The compression layer 1640 may be of a similar multi-layer construction as described herein with reference to the other embodiments. The outer facing surface 1615 and the inner facing surface 1610 are attached at the first and second side seams 1515-1, 1515-2 of the garment. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the seams can be created by any number of different approaches including, but not limited to, stitching, bonding, adhesives, and the like.

Referring now to FIG. 17-1 and FIG. 17-2, the back panel 1510 is generally an hourglass shape and has two concave sides or edges 1705-1, 1705-2 like the front panel 1505. The back panel 1510 has a back outer facing surface 1710 and an inner facing surface 1715. Each of the inner and outer facing surfaces 1710, 1715 includes the torso portion 1625 and the lower dress portion 1627. Generally, the back panel 1510 does not include a pectoral portion as the back panel does not rise that high up on the back of the wearer. The outer facing surface is that which is seen when the garment is worn while the inner facing surface is against the skin of the wearer.

The back panel 1510 comprises multiple layers of material. An outer fabric layer 1720 may be provided as the outer facing surface and is like the outer fabric layers described herein in other embodiments. The inner facing surface 1715 includes a first arcuate or concave portion 1725-1 of compression material 1723-1 and a second arcuate or concave portion 1725-2 of compression material 1723-2. These two arcuate areas 1725-1, 1725-2 extend from a top of the torso portion 1730 to a bottom portion of the dress opening 1735 and generally follow the hourglass curvature of the front and back panels 1505, 1510 at the first and second seams. Self-lining material 1740 extends from the bottom of the dress 1735 up to a top of the torso portion 1745 and separates the arcuate portions 1725-1, 1725-2 of compression layer material 1723-1,1723-2. The compression layer material 1723-1,1723-2 generally has a higher elastic modulus than the material of the outer fabric layer and the self-lining material. The compression layer may be of a similar multi-layer construction as described herein with reference to the other embodiments.

Advantageously, the compression material 1640, 1723-1, 1723-2 in the front and back panels 1505, 1510 of the dress 1500 operate to give the wearer a garment that provides the desired hourglass shape. Additionally, the selective placement of the back panel 1510 compressing material layer 1723-1,1723-2 function to provide improved fit without creating bulging on the body of the wearer or the garment itself. Further, the garment is relatively easy to get on, and wear, due to, for example, the self-lining material between the arcuate portions of compression material in the back panel. While the compression material 1723-1,1723-2 is less elastic than the self-lining material, the back panel can stretch as the wearer puts on the garment. Once on, the self-lining material will contract while the arcuate compression portions conform the sides of the wearer.

A decorative mesh insert and zipper, as disclosed herein, may be provided in the opening 1605 in the front panel 1505 or in an opening 1750 in the back panel 1510 of the garment 1500 in FIGS. 15-17-2. For example, the openings 1605 and 1750 may be closed using a zipper, clasp, lacing or the like, as has been described herein.

Referring now to FIG. 18, in another embodiment, a top 1800 incorporates a front panel 1805 and a back panel 1810 attached to one another by a first side seam 1815-1 and a second side seam 1815-2, where only the second side seam 1815-2 is visible in FIG. 18. The construction of the top 1800 is comparable to the swimsuit and dress embodiments of FIG. 10 through FIG. 17-2. Each of the front and back panels 1805, 1810 has an hourglass shaped top portion 1820, similar to the bathing suit 1000. As will be discussed below, compression layers in the front and back panels 1805, 1810 function to provide the desired hourglass shape to the wearer of the top.

Referring now to FIG. 19-1 and FIG. 19-2, the front panel 1805 is generally an hourglass shape at the torso portion and has two concave sides or edges to define an hourglass shape on the wearer. The front panel 1805 may include an opening 1905, similar to the openings of the other embodiments, to aid the wearer in putting on the garment. The opening 1905 may be closed by any of the approaches described herein, for example, but not limited to, a zipper, lacing, or clasp. The front panel 1805 has a front outer facing surface 1910 and an inner facing surface 1915. Each of the inner and outer facing surfaces 1910, 1915 includes a pectoral portion 1920 and a torso portion 1925. Generally, the torso portion 1925 is below the pectoral portion 1920. The outer facing surface 1910 is that which is seen when the garment is worn while the inner facing surface is against the skin of the wearer. The pectoral portion 1920 is generally defined as the bust area of a woman and can have components as described herein in reference to the other embodiments of this disclosure.

The front panel 1805 may include multiple layers of material as shown in FIG. 19-1 and FIG. 19-2. An outer fabric layer 1930 may be provided as the outer facing surface and is similar to the outer fabric layers described herein with respect to other embodiments. The inner facing surface 1915 may include self-lining material 1935 in the pectoral portion 1920. A compression layer 1940 is provided in the torso portion 1925 of the inner facing surface from below the pectoral portion 1920 down to the lower portion of the garment. The compression layer 1940 generally has a higher elastic modulus than the material of the outer fabric layer 1930 and the self-lining material 1935. The compression layer 1940 may be of a similar multi-layer construction as described herein with reference to the other embodiments. The outer facing surface and the inner facing surface are attached at the first and second side seams 1815-1, 1815-2 of the garment. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the seams can be created by any number of different approaches including, but not limited to, stitching, bonding, adhesives, and the like.

Referring now to FIG. 20-1 and FIG. 20-2, the back panel 1810 is generally an hourglass shape and has two concave sides or edges 2005-1, 2005-2 like the front panel 1805. The back panel 1810 has a back outer facing surface 2010 and an inner facing surface 2015. Each of the inner and outer facing surfaces 2010, 2015 includes the torso portion 1820. Generally, the back panel 1810 does not include a pectoral portion as the back panel 1810 does not rise that high up on the back of the wearer. The outer facing surface is that which is seen when the garment is worn while the inner facing surface is against the skin of the wearer.

The back panel 1810 may comprise multiple layers of material. An outer fabric layer 2020 may be provided as the outer facing surface and is similar to the outer fabric layers described herein in other embodiments. The inner facing surface 2015 includes a first arcuate or concave portion 2025-1 of compression material 2013-1 and a second arcuate or concave portions portion 2025-2 of compression material 2013-2. These two arcuate areas 2025-1, 2025-2 extend from a top of the torso portion 2030 to a bottom portion of the dress opening 2035 and generally follow the hourglass curvature of the front and back panels at the first and second seams. Self-lining material 2040 extends from the bottom 2035 up to a top of the torso portion 2045 and separates the arcuate portions 2025-1, 2025-2 of compression layer material 2013-1,2013-2. The compression layer material 2013-1, 2013-2 generally has a higher elastic modulus than the material of the outer fabric layer and the self-lining material. The compression layer 2013-1,2013-2 may be of a similar multi-layer construction as described herein with reference to the other embodiments, including the selective placement of compression material 2013-1, 2013-2 at arcuate areas of a back panel, as described in the present disclosure.

Advantageously, the compression material in the front and back panels of the top operate to give the wearer a garment that provides the desired hourglass shape. Further, the garment is relatively easy to get on, and wear, due to, for example, the self-lining material between the arcuate portions of compression material in the back panel. While the compression material is less elastic than the self-lining material, the back panel can stretch as the wearer puts on the garment. Once on, the self-lining material will contract while the arcuate compression portions conform the sides of the wearer.

A decorative mesh insert and zipper, as disclosed herein, may be provided in the opening 1905 in the front panel 1805 or in an opening 2050 in the back panel 1810 of the top 1800 in FIGS. 18-20-2. Similarly, lacing or a clasp may be provided as has been described.

Referring now to FIG. 21 through FIG. 25, in another embodiment, a surf-styled swimsuit 2100 incorporates a front panel 2101 and a back panel 2103 components attached to one another by a first side seam 2105-1 and a second side seam 2105-2. The construction of the swimsuit 2100 is comparable to the swimsuit embodiments of FIG. 10 through FIG. 14-2. Each of the front and back panels 2101, 2103 has an hourglass shape similar to the swimsuit 1000 of FIG. 10 through FIG. 14-2. As will be discussed below, a compression layer material in the front panel 2101 of the swimsuit 2100 and selectively placed compression layer material within arcuate portions of the back panel 2103 of the swimsuit 2100 function to provide the desired hourglass shape to the wearer of the swimsuit 2100 without creating bulging on the body of the wearer or the garment itself. Such compression layer materials, as discussed in the FIG. 10 through FIG. 14-2 embodiments, may be formed of a double layer power mesh fabric or any other material that provides a higher elastic modulus than the material of the outer fabric layer and/or the self-lining or lining of the swimsuit 2100.

As shown in FIG. 22-1 and FIG. 22-2, the front panel 2101 is generally an hourglass shape and has two concave sides or edges 2107, 2109 to define an hourglass shape on the wearer. The front panel 2101 may include an opening 2111 similar to the openings of the other embodiments, to aid the wearer in putting on the garment. The opening 2111 may be closed by any of the approaches described herein, for example, but not limited to, a zipper (as shown in FIG. 22-1 and FIG. 22-2), lacing, or clasp. The front panel 2101 has an outer facing surface 2113 and an inner facing surface 2115. Each of the outer and inner facing surfaces 2113, 2115 includes a pectoral portion 2117 and a torso portion 2119. Generally, the torso portion 2119 is below the pectoral portion 2117. The outer facing surface 2113 (shown in FIG. 21-1) is that which is seen when the garment is worn while the inner facing surface 2115 (shown in FIG. 21-2) is against the skin of the wearer. The pectoral portion 2117 is generally defined as the bust or thoracic area of the wearer and can have components as described herein in reference to the other embodiments of this disclosure. The torso portion 2119 is generally defined as the abdominal and pelvic areas of a wearer and can have components as described herein in reference to the other embodiments of this disclosures.

The front panel 2101 may include multiple layers of material as shown in FIG. 23-1, FIG. 23-2 and FIG. 22. An outer fabric layer 2020 may be provided as the outer facing surface 2113 of the front panel 2101 and is similar to the outer fabric layers described herein with respect to other embodiments. A lining or self-lining layer 2121 may be provided as the inner facing surface 2115 of the front panel 2101 pectoral portion 2117 and crotch portion 2020. A compression layer 2123 may be provided as the inner facing surface 2115 of the front panel 2101 torso portion 2119. The compression layer 2123 generally has a higher elastic modulus than the material of the outer fabric layer 2020 and the lining or self-lining layer 2121 material. The compression layer 2123 may be of a similar multi-layer construction as described herein with reference to the other embodiments. The lining or self-lining layer 2121 material may be as described herein with reference to the other embodiments. The outer facing surface 2113 and the inner facing surface 2115 of the front panel 2101 are attached at the first and second side seams 2105-1, 2105-2 of the garment. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the seams 2105-1, 2105-2 can be created by any number of different approaches including, but not limited to, stitching, bonding, adhesives, and the like.

As shown FIG. 24-1 and FIG. 24-2, the back panel 2103 is generally an hourglass shape and has two concave sides or edges 2401, 2403 like the front panel 2101. The back panel 2103 has a back outer facing surface 2405 and an inner facing surface 2407. Each of the outer and inner facing surfaces 2405, 2407 includes the pectoral portion 2117 and a torso portion 2119. Generally, the back panel 2103 covers the entire back of the wearer, as shown in FIG. 24-1. The outer facing surface 2405 is that which is seen when the garment is worn while the inner facing surface 2407 is against the skin of the wearer.

The back panel 2103 may include multiple layers of material as shown in FIG. 25-1 and FIG. 25-2. An outer fabric layer 2501 may be provided as the outer facing surface 2405 of the back panel 2103 and is similar to the outer fabric layers described herein with respect to other embodiments. In one embodiment, the outer fabric layer 2501 of the back panel 2103 may include arcuate portions 2413-1, 2413-2 (shown in FIG. 24-1) that generally align with the respective arcuate portions 2423-1, 2423-2 discussed below and a central portion 2415 that extends from a neck portion of the swimsuit 2100 to a crotch portion of the swimsuit 2100 and separates the arcuate portions 2413-1, 2413-2. However, other outer fabric layer 2501 configurations are possible. The outer facing surface 2305 of the back panel may include lacing 2417. The lacing 2417 may extend through eyelets 2419 that are located along the opposing inner edges 2421-1, 2421-2 portions of the arcuate portions 2413-1, 2413-2 at the back of the swimsuit 2100. The lacing 2417 enables the wearer to adjust the waist size of the swimsuit 2100 for an even more hourglass-shaped and custom fit.

Turning now to the inner facing surface 2407 of the back panel 2103, the inner facing surface 2407 may include a first arcuate or concave portion 2423-1 of compression material 2505 (shown in FIG. 25-2) and a second arcuate or concave portion 2423-2 of compression material 2505 (shown in FIG. 25-2). These two arcuate areas 2423-1, 2423-2 generally extend from a bottom of the pectoral portion 2409 to a top portion of the swimsuit leg opening 2425 and generally follow the hourglass curvature of the front and back panels 2101, 2103 at the first and second seams 2105-1, 2105-2. A central portion 2427 of the inner facing surface 2407 may be provided as lining or self-lining material 2503 (shown in FIG. 25-1) that extends from the neck of the swimsuit 2100 to crotch portion of the swimsuit 2100 and separates the arcuate portions 2423-1, 2423-2 of compression layer material 2505 (shown in FIG. 25-2). The compression layer material 2505 generally has a higher elastic modulus than the material of the outer fabric layer 2501 (shown in FIG. 25-1) and the lining or self-lining material 2503 (shown in FIG. 25-1). The compression layer material 2505 may be of a similar multi-layer construction as described herein with reference to the other embodiments. The lining or self-lining material 2503 may be as described herein with reference to the other embodiments.

The outer facing surface 2305 and the inner facing surface 2307 of the back panel 2103 are attached at the first and second side seams 2105-1, 2105-2 of the swimsuit 2100. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the seams can be created by any number of different approaches including, but not limited to, stitching, bonding, adhesives, and the like.

The compression material 2123, 2505 in the front and back panels 2101, 2103 of the swimsuit 2100 operate to give the wearer a desired hourglass shape. Additionally, the selective placement of the back panel 2103 compression material layer 2505 function to provide improved fit without creating bulging on the body of the wearer or the garment itself. Further, the garment is relatively easy to get on, and wear, due to, for example, the lining or self-lining material 2503 between the arcuate portions of compression material 2123 in the back panel 2103. While the compression material 2505 is less elastic than the lining or self-lining material 2503, the back panel 2103 can stretch as the wearer puts on the garment. Once on, the lining or self-lining material 2503 will contract while the arcuate compression portions 2423-1, 2423-2 conform the sides of the wearer.

A Dress Including an Outer Garment and an Undergarment

In one aspect, embodiments herein relate to a dress that is capable of adjusting a waistline of a wearer and a method of adjusting a waist size of a wearer. The method may include providing a dress of one or more embodiments and adjusting a lacing of the dress, thereby adjusting a waistline of the dress. A dress of one or more embodiments may include an outer garment and an under garment.

The outer garment may include a front fabric panel coupled to a back fabric panel at first and second seams such that the respective inner surfaces of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel face each other. The outer garment of the dress may cover the under garment. In some embodiments, the outer garment may drape over the under garment. In some embodiments, the outer garment covers the under garment such that the outer garment aligns and fits to the wearer's figure. In such embodiments, the outer garment may fit to the wearer's hourglass figure, where the hourglass figure of the wearer is shaped by the under garment. The under garment may shape the figure of wearers of different body types such that wearers of different body types may achieve an hourglass figure. The outer garment may include a shoulder section, an arm section, a torso section, a bottom section, or any combination thereof. In one or more particular embodiments, the outer garment includes at least a torso section and a bottom section.

In one or more embodiments, a lining material is coupled to an inner surface of the front fabric panel of the outer garment, the back fabric panel of the outer garment, or both. In such embodiments, the entirety of the outer garment may include a lining material as an inner layer. In some embodiments, a compression layer material, a non-rigid fabric, or both is coupled between an outer layer of the outer garment and an inner layer of the outer garment. An outer layer of the front fabric panel, the back fabric panel or both may have a decreased compression effect as compared to the under garment and/or an inner layer of the outer garment. In some embodiments, the outer layer of the front fabric panel of the outer garment, the back fabric panel of the outer garment, or both may include a scuba material, a ponte material, a polyester-spandex material, or combinations thereof. The polyester-spandex material may include polyester in a range from 85 to 95% and spandex in a range from 5 to 15%. The polyester-spandex material may include polyester in a range with a lower limit of any one of 85, 87, 90, and 92% and an upper limit of any one of 90, 92, 94, and 95%, where a lower limit can be paired with a mathematically compatible upper limit. The polyester-spandex material may include spandex in a range with a lower limit of any one of 5, 7, 9, 10, and 12% and an upper limit of any one of 9, 10, 12, 14, and 15%, where a lower limit can be paired with a mathematically compatible upper limit.

The front fabric panel and the back fabric panel of the outer garment may be coupled such that a bottom section of each of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel forms a bottom opening (e.g., a dress opening) for the lower extremities of a wearer to fit through. A torso section of the front fabric panel, the back fabric panel, or both of the outer garment extends from a top of the bottom section (e.g., a point at the tops of the hips) to a neckline A bottom section of the front fabric panel and a bottom section of the back fabric panel may each extend past the hips, pelvis and buttocks of the wearer such that the edge of the bottom opening reaches at least the upper thigh of the wearers of different body types. In some embodiments, the bottom opening reaches at least to the middle distance between the hip and the knee of wearers of different body types. The edge of the bottom opening reaches at least to the knee of wearers of different body types. The edge of the bottom opening may reach at least to the calf of wearers of different body types. The edge of the bottom opening may reach to the ankle of wearers of different body types.

The length of the outer garment may be adjusted by gathering the dress opening (or “hem”) of the outer garment. In such embodiments, the outer garment may include one or more additional components to provide ruching of the fabric, which may be gathered, thereby adjusting the hem of the outer garment. The terms “ruched” or “ruching” refer to a gathered material for a horizontal pleating effect that can be capable of distributing and redistributing fabric to other areas. In some embodiments, the outer garment includes an outer material that is capable of providing a ruched effect over an inner fabric layer, such as a shear material outer layer coupled to a lining material inner layer. In such embodiments, the ruched outer material can be coupled to a lining material of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel via the left and right seams. The hem of the outer garment may be configured to be shortened or elongated. The elongated hem may be shortened by gathering the dress opening to a point shorter than the elongated hem, such as above the knees if the hem was knee length or longer. The shortened hem may be elongated by increasing the tension on the shortened hem, thereby straightening the outer garment and extending the vertical ruching to elongate the hem.

The front fabric panel, the back fabric panel, or both may be a continuous fabric that extends vertically from the bust to the torso to a bottom section of the outer garment. In some embodiments, the front fabric panel is continuous such that the front fabric panel extends from a shoulder section to the bottom section of the outer garment. In some embodiments, the bust covering of the outer garment is coupled to the under garment at a top edge of the front fabric layer of the undergarment. In such embodiments, a torso section of the front fabric panel of the outer garment extends from a bottom of the bust covering to a bottom section of the front fabric panel of the outer garment. In such embodiments, the torso panel is coupled to the bust covering by a horizontal seam.

In some embodiments, the outer garment includes a closure coupled to one or more fabric materials that extends in a line such that a wearer is enabled to easily put on and take off the outer garment. The front fabric panel of the outer garment may include a front closeable opening (i.e., a closure) extending from the dress opening of the bottom section to point above the natural waistline of the wearer (e.g., a location below a bust section of the front fabric panel of the outer garment). When the closure has an opening point that begins at a neckline seam of the front fabric panel, the closure may extend below the natural waistline of the wearer. The front opening of the outer garment of the dress may include at least one of a zipper, a lacing, and a clasp configured to close and open the front opening of the dress. In one or more embodiments, the front opening may be a discreet opening such that the front opening is not recognizable by an observer. The front opening of the outer garment may include at least one of a zipper, a lacing, and a clasp configured to close and open the front opening of the dress. The front opening may assist a wearer at putting the dress on, disrobing from the dress, or both.

The front fabric panel, the back fabric panel, or both may include one or more fabrics selected from a compression layer material, a high spandex content fabric, a low spandex content fabric, a lining material, which may include the lining material of a bust section of the undergarment, a shear material, or combinations thereof. In embodiments where the outer garment includes compression layer material, the compression layer material of the outer garment and the compression layer of the under garment may be the same or different. The compression layer material may include at least two layers of compression fabric.

The compression layer material may have a higher elastic modulus than a lining material. In some embodiments, the compression fabric includes nylon in a range from 65% to 90%. The compression fabric may include nylon in a range with a lower limit of any one of 65, 67, 70, 72, 75, 78, 80, and 85% and an upper limit of any one of 75, 78, 80, 82, and 85%, where a lower limit can be paired with a mathematically compatible upper limit. In some embodiments, the compression fabric includes a spandex content in a range from 10% to 30%. The compression fabric may include spandex in a range with a lower limit of any one of 10, 12, 15, 18, and 20% and an upper limit of any one of 12, 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 28, and 30%, where a lower limit can be paired with a mathematically compatible upper limit. In one or more particular embodiments, the compression fabric includes a spandex content of 22%. The compression fabric may include at least 65% nylon and at least 15% spandex. In one or more particular embodiments, the compression fabric includes at least 70% nylon and at least 20% spandex. The compression fabric may include at least 75% nylon and at least 20% spandex. A non-limiting example of a compression fabric may include 78% Nylon and 27% spandex. In some embodiments, the compression fabric has a weight in a range from 100 gsm (grams per square meter) to 200 gsm. The compression fabric may have a weight in a range with a lower limit of any one of 100, 105, 110, 115, 120, 125, 130, 135, and 140 gsm, and an upper limit of any one of 120, 125, 130, 135, 140, 145, 150, 170, 190, 195, 199, and 200 gsm where a lower limit can be paired with a mathematically compatible upper limit. The compression fabric may have a weight of at least 100 gsm or more. The compression fabric may have a weight of at least 120 gsm or more. The compression fabric may have a weight of at least 150 gsm or more. The compression fabric may have a weight of at least 170 gsm or more. The compression fabric may have a weight of at least 190 gsm or more. The compression fabric may have a weight of at least 200 gsm or more.

In some embodiments, the front panel of the outer garment includes a non-stretch panel to restrict stretching the of the outer garment. The non-stretch panel may vertically extend from under a point proximate to the bottom of the bust of the wearer to the dress opening. The non-stretch panel may smooth the torso of the wearer, thereby enhancing the hourglass shape of the wearer. The non-stretch panel of the outer garment front panel may include tricot nylon fabric. The non-stretch panel may be coupled between a right material and a left material of the front panel.

In one or more particular embodiments, the non-stretch panel is coupled between a right lining material and a left lining material of the front panel. The right and left lining material may each independently extend from the first and second seams of the front panel of the outer garment toward a centerline of the front fabric panel. The non-stretch panel may extend vertically from a bottom section of the bust covering of the front fabric panel to the bottom of the bottom section of the outer garment (e.g., the dress opening). The right material and the left material may extend from the first and second seams, respectively, toward a centerline. In such embodiments, the outer garment may include a front opening or a closure between the right material and the non-stretch panel or between the left material and the non-stretch panel. The non-stretch panel may be coupled to a closure including at least one of a zipper, a lacing, and a clasp provided in the front panel of the outer garment. The at least one of a zipper, a lacing, and a clasp may reversibly open and close the front opening.

The shoulder section of the outer garment may optionally include at least one straps extending from a top section of the front fabric torso section of the outer garment to the torso section of the back fabric torso section of the outer garment. A first strap may extend over a first shoulder of the wearer and a second strap may extend over a second shoulder of the wearer such that the first strap and the second strap provide support to maintain placement of a bust covering area of the front fabric torso section; however, it is also understood that a single strap may be used or the garment may be strapless. The bust section may extend from or be coupled to a bottom section of the at least two straps of the shoulder section of the front fabric panel to the top of a torso section of the under garment. The bust section may include a shelf bra with at least two removable bust pads. The bust section may include one or more layers of lining material. For example, the bust section of the under garment may include at least two layers of lining material.

In some embodiments, the shoulder section extends from a shoulder of the wearer to an arm of the wearer such that the shoulder section and the arm section are continuous. In some embodiments, the shoulder section is coupled to an arm section, such as at a seam. In some embodiments, a shoulder section includes a strap that is coupled to an arm portion by a seam. The arm section may wrap around an arm of the wearer. The arm section may include an arm opening such that a wearer may extend a portion of their arm and hand through the arm opening. The arm section of one or more embodiments may extend from a strap of the shoulder section to a bottom edge of the arm opening. The arm section may include a short sleeve, such as a cap sleeve, a t-shirt length sleeve, or a three-quarter length sleeve. The arm section may include a long sleeve, such as a sleeve that extends at least to the wrist of an arm of a wearer, such that the arm opening is located proximate to a wrist of the wearer. In some embodiments, the arm opening of the arm section is fitted to the arm of the wearer. The arm opening of one or more embodiments may be a loose-fitting sleeve such that the arm opening is larger than the circumference of arms of wearers with different arm sizes.

The undergarment may be coupled to an inner layer of the outer garment such that the outer garment covers or drapes over at least a portion of the undergarment. In some embodiments, the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel of the outer garment is coupled to the front fabric layer and the back fabric layer of the under garment via a neckline seam, an arm portion seam (e.g., a seam in a shoulder strap), or both. In some embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment is coupled to the back fabric layer of the undergarment adjacent the lacing (e.g, along a u-shaped opening or along a seam between a compression layer material and a lining material). In one or more particular embodiments, the lacing, the back fabric layer of the under garment, and the back fabric panel of the outer garment are coupled at the u-shaped seam. As one of ordinary skill may appreciate, different styles of outer garment can be coupled to an under garment of one or more embodiments in different locations such that the coupling of the outer garment to the under garment does not interfere with the lacing and compression material's capability for adjusting the waist size of the wearer.

In some embodiments, the under garment includes one or more features of the swimsuits and garments as described above. The under garment may be a bodysuit that includes a front fabric layer and a back fabric layer. The front fabric layer of the under garment and the back fabric layer of the under garment may be coupled at third and fourth seams such that the respective inner surfaces of each layer face each other. One or more portions of the under garment may include a compression layer material as described above.

The front fabric layer of the under garment may include a lining material and a compression layer material. The front fabric layer of the under garment may include a compression layer material that extends from a point below the bust of the wearer throughout the torso section of the front fabric layer of the under garment. In such embodiments, the compression layer material of the torso section and a lining material of the bust covering of the under garment may be coupled by a bust line seam.

In some embodiments, the front fabric layer of the under garment includes a compression layer material in the torso section and an additional panel of the torso section (e.g., a stabilizing region) that covers the mid to lower belly of wearers of different sizes. In such embodiments, the additional panel is a stabilizing region extending across a centerline and surrounded by the compressive layer material surrounded by compression layer material. The additional panel may be a lower belly stabilizer that includes at least one additional layer of compression fabric to form to flatten and smooth the lower belly of the wearer. The lower belly as used herein is understood to refer to the region corresponding to under the wearer's belly button. The additional panel may provide additional compression and support to for a wearer to achieve an hourglass figure.

The front fabric layer of the under garment may include a bust covering coupled to a torso section and a front crotch section extending from the torso section. The bust covering may include at least two layers of lining material, a shelf bra, two or more removable pads, or combinations thereof. The torso section of the front fabric layer of the under garment and the back fabric layer of the undergarment may include a hip section that may be a height that is approximately that of the hips of the wearer of the dress. The hip section may be shaped to resemble the hips of the wearer of the dress. The front fabric layer of the under garment may be coupled to the back fabric layer of the under garment at a closure (or a “fastener”) of a crotch section of each of the front and back fabric layers.

The front fabric layer of the under garment may include a bust covering and a shoulder section. In some embodiments, the shoulder section of the front fabric layer of the under garment, the shoulder section of the back fabric layer of the under garment, or both includes one or more shoulder straps. The shoulder section of the front fabric layer of the under garment may include a right and left shoulder strap. The shoulder strap of the front fabric layer of the under garment, the back fabric layer of the under garment, or both may be coupled to an arm section that extends from a shoulder of the wearer to a point above or proximate to the wrist of the wearer.

The right and left shoulder strap may each be coupled to the top of the bust covering of the front fabric panel and extend over the wearer's shoulders to a top of the back fabric layer of the under garment. The shoulder section including a right and left shoulder strap may maintain the position of at least a portion of the undergarment (e.g., the bust covering) on the wearer. The bust covering of the undergarment may be a shelf bra with at least two removable pads. The bust covering may include two layers of lining material. In embodiments where the front fabric layer of the under garment, the back fabric layer of the under garment, or both include a shoulder section, the inner surface of the outer garment may be coupled to the undergarment at first and second shoulder seams. In some embodiments, an inner layer of the front fabric layer of the under garment of the under garment includes lining material in each of a bust section, a torso section, and a crotch section coupled to the lining material in each of a crotch, torso, and bust sections of the front fabric layer of the under garment of the under garment.

The front fabric layer of the under garment may be coupled to the back fabric layer of the under garment at a closure of a crotch section of each of the front and back fabric layers. The front fabric layer of the under garment may include a front crotch panel. The front crotch panel may extend from a torso section of the front fabric layer of the under garment. The front crotch panel may be configured to reversibly attach and detach with a back crotch panel of the back fabric layer of the under garment. The front crotch panel and the back crotch panel may reversibly attach and detach via a closure. The closure may include a zipper closure, a clasp closure, a snap button closure, a hook and eye closure, or any combination thereof. The front crotch panel may include a fabric (e.g., at least one layer of a lining material) configured to cover the front pubic area of the wearer. In some embodiments, the front fabric layer of the under garment is reinforced with a double layer of self-fabric to minimize the appearance of pubic anatomy.

The back fabric layer of the under garment may include a torso section and a back crotch section extending from the torso section. The back fabric layer of the undergarment may include at least a torso section, a hip section, and a back crotch panel. The torso section of the back fabric layer of the under garment may include a right compressive panel, a left compressive panel, and a lining material extending between the right compressive panel and the left compressive panel. The right compressive panel may be formed from a compression layer material extending from the third seam towards the centerline of the undergarment and along the torso section of the back fabric layer to a bottom portion of the torso section. The left compressive panel may be formed from a compression layer material extending from a fourth seam towards the centerline and along a torso section of the back fabric layer to a bottom section of the torso section.

In some embodiments, the back fabric layer of the under garment includes a u-shaped opening extending from the center of top portion of the under garment down along a central compression fabric portion and terminates at a hip. Lining material separating right and left compressive panels of the undergarment may include a u-shaped opening extending from the center of top portion of the under garment down along a central compression fabric portion and terminates at a hip. The u-shaped opening may include a u-shaped seam that couples one or more selected from lining material, self fabric, lacing, the under garment, and the outer garment. The length of the u-shaped opening of one or more embodiments may be about two-thirds of the distance, such as from one-half to three-quarters of the distance, from the center of the top of the under garment to the bottom of the back crotch panel. The back fabric panel of the outer garment may be coupled to the back fabric layer of the under garment at a u-shaped seam.

In one or more particular embodiments, the outer garment and the undergarment include a u-shaped opening extending from the center of a top portion of the outer garment and the undergarment and terminates at a hip. In such embodiments, the edge of the u-shaped opening of the outer garment is coupled to an edge of the u-shaped opening of the undergarment. In some embodiments, lacing may extend across a centerline of the back fabric panel of the outer garment, the back fabric layer of the undergarment, or both. In such embodiments, the lacing adjusts a waist size of the wearer, for example, by tightening or loosening the lacing. The lacing, the compressive material of the under garment, or both may adjust the figure of the wearer such that the circumference of the waist is decreased to provide an hourglass figure.

In some embodiments, the back fabric layer of the undergarment and the back fabric panel of the outer garment each include a back opening extending from an upper section of a torso portion to a bottom section of the torso section of each of the outer garment and the under garment. The back fabric panel of the outer garment and the back fabric layer of the undergarment are each coupled at a seam along the back opening. In such embodiments, a lacing extending across the back opening may be coupled to the back fabric layer of the under garment and the back fabric panel of the outer garment.

In some embodiments, lining material of the back fabric layer of the under garment, the back fabric panel of the outer garment, or both extends across the back of the wearer such that the lining material or back fabric panel covers at least a portion of the back of the wearer. An additional lining material that may cover at least a portion of the back of the wearer may be coupled to one or more seams of the u-shaped opening of the undergarment, the outer garment, or both. The lining material may extend from a torso section of the back panel of the outer garment, the back fabric layer of the under garment, or both to a shoulder section the back panel of the outer garment, the back fabric layer of the under garment. In one or more embodiments, the lining material can extend from a torso section of the back panel of the outer garment, the back fabric layer of the under garment, or both to a neckline of the back panel of the outer garment, the back fabric layer of the under garment, or both. The neckline of such embodiments may be proximate to a natural collar of the wearer, a point below the shoulders of the wearer, among other variations. Lacing coupled to the back fabric layer of the under garment, the back fabric panel of the outer garment, or both may extend across an outer surface of the lining material of one or more embodiments such that the lacing is accessible to the wearer and for making adjustments to the wearer's waistline without removing the outer garment or under garment of the dress.

A non-limiting example of an outer surface of an under garment 2600 is shown in FIGS. 26A to 26C. FIG. 26A is a view of an outer surface of a front fabric layer of the under garment 2601 of an under garment 2600 in accordance with one or more embodiments. As shown in FIG. 26A, a front fabric layer of the under garment 2601 includes a shoulder section 2602, which includes a right and left shoulder strap. The shoulder section 2602 extends vertically from bust section 2604. Bust section 2604 of the front fabric layer of the under garment 2601 may optionally include a notch, a gap, or an opening to show a portion of the wearer's chest. As noted above, bust section 2604 may be a shelf bra with two removable pads 2606. The pads 2606 may be removed through at least one opening 2608 of the bust section 2604.

The bust section 2604 may be coupled to a torso section 2612 of the front fabric layer of the under garment 2601, such as by a seam 2610. The torso section 2612 may include compression layer material as described above. The compression layer material may be at least two compression fabric layers that assist in adjusting a waist size of the wearer, provides compression to smooth the torso of the wearer, or both. The torso section 2612 may include a hip section 2614 that extends to a crotch section 2616. The crotch section 2616 may include a front crotch panel 2618. In some embodiments, the front crotch panel 2618 includes a closure that is configured to connect to a closure of a back crotch panel of the back fabric layer of the under garment (e.g., via connection 2620). The closure of the front crotch panel and the closure of the back crotch panel may be as described above. In some embodiments, the closure of the front crotch panel may include at least two bars for a hook and eye closure to couple the front crotch panel to the back crotch panel. Front crotch panel 2618 may be a size sufficient to provide coverage of a front pubic area for wearers of different body shapes and sizes. For example, the front crotch panel 2618 may be wide enough to cover the vaginal lips for wearers of different body shapes and sizes.

A side view of an outer surface of a non-limiting example of an under garment in accordance with one or more embodiments is shown in FIG. 26B. Shoulder section 2602 of the front fabric layer of the under garment 2601 may be coupled to an upper portion of a torso section of the back fabric layer of the under garment 2622 by a seam 2624. Bust section 2604 may be coupled to an upper portion of the torso section of the back fabric layer of the under garment 2622 by a seam 2624. Seam 2626 may couple the torso section 2612 of the front fabric layer of the under garment 2601 to the back fabric layer of the under garment 2622. A shoulder strap of shoulder section 2602 may be coupled to the back fabric layer of the under garment 2622 by seam 2624.

FIG. 26C shows an outer surface of a back fabric layer of an under garment 2600 in accordance with one or more embodiments. As described above, seam 2624 may couple one or more shoulder straps extending from the front fabric layer of the under garment (e.g., 2602 of FIGS. 26A and 26B) to an upper portion of the torso section of the back fabric layer of the under garment 2622. The torso section of the back fabric layer of the under garment 2622 may include right and left panels 2627 extending from right and left seams (not shown) toward a centerline of the back fabric layer of the under garment 2622. The right and left panels 2627 may include a compression layer material that adjusts the waistline of the wearer to provide an hourglass shape for the wearer. The right and left panels 2627 may be separated by a lining material 2630.

The back fabric layer of the undergarment may include a u-shaped opening 2628 having a u-shaped seam 2629. The u-shaped opening may remain uncovered such that a portion of the wearer's back may be exposed. In some embodiments, lacing extends across the u-shaped opening to assist in achieving an hourglass shape of the wearer. As described above, the right and left seams may couple the back fabric panel to the front fabric panel.

In some embodiments, an additional lining material 2631 is coupled to one or more seams (e.g., seam 2629 of the u-shaped opening 2628 of the back fabric layer of the under garment such that the lining material covers the back of the wearer as shown in FIG. 26C. The additional lining material 2631 and the lining material 2630 that separates the right and left panels 2627 of the undergarment can be the same or different. In some embodiments, lacing can be coupled to one or more seams of the back fabric layer of the under garment (e.g., the u-shaped seam 2629 of the back fabric layer of the undergarment), the back fabric panel of the outer garment (e.g., a u-shaped seam of the back fabric panel of the outer garment), or both. The back fabric panel of an outer garment may be coupled to the back fabric layer of the under garment via a u-shaped seam (e.g., seam 2629). In such embodiments, lacing extends across an outer surface of the under garment and the outer garment such that the lacing is visible to an observer. The lacing may extend across a centerline of the back of the wearer.

In some embodiments, the back fabric layer of an under garment (e.g., an under garment having a front fabric layer as shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B) covers the entire back of the wearer. In some embodiments, the back fabric layer of the under garment may be as shown in FIGS. 24-1 and 24-2. For example, a torso section and a shoulder section of the back fabric layer of the under garment may include a torso section and a shoulder section as shown in FIGS. 24-1 and 24-2 that includes fabric covering the entire back of the wearer to an opening proximate to the neck of the wearer (e.g., a head and neck opening). In such embodiments, lacing of the back fabric layer of the under garment extends from left and right panels of the under garment across the back of the wearer as shown in FIGS. 24-1 and 24-2. The left and right panels may be as described above in FIG. 26C. The lacing may be coupled to left and right compressive panels of the back fabric layer of the under garment. The lacing and the left and right panels of the under garment may provide compression and support to provide an hourglass shape of the wearer. It is also envisioned that the back fabric layer of the over garment may be as shown in FIGS. 34A and 34B, where the outer garment includes fabric covering the entire back of the wearer to an opening proximate to the neck of the wearer (e.g., a head and neck opening).

In some embodiments, the compression layer material of the front fabric layer of the under garment and the compression layer material of the right and left panels of the back fabric layer of the under garment are sufficient to adjust the waist size of the wearer to provide an hourglass shape. In one or more particular embodiments, the compression layer material of the front fabric layer of the under garment, the compression layer material of the right and left panels of the back fabric layer of the under garment, and the lacing extending across a u-shaped opening in the back fabric layer of the under garment provide support to shape the torso of a wearer to provide an hourglass shape. In such embodiments, the compression layer material of the front and back fabric layers of the undergarment and the lacing shape (or “adjust”) the wearer's torso such that a circumference of the waist is decreased, a circumference of the wearer's lower belly is decreased, or both.

As shown in FIG. 26C, a crotch section 2632 of the back fabric layer of the under garment 2622 may extend from the torso section of the back fabric layer of the under garment 2622. The crotch section 2632 may include a back crotch panel 2634 configured to reversibly couple to the front crotch panel of the front fabric layer of the under garment. As shown in FIG. 26C, the back crotch panel 2634 may be a thong to prevent the appearance of underwear lines through the outer garment. In some embodiments, the back crotch panel 2634 is a bikini shape or full coverage shape such that at least a portion of the wearer's buttocks are covered by the back crotch panel. The back crotch panel 2634 may include a closure, such as one or more components of a hook and eye closure, to reversibly couple to the front crotch panel. In some embodiments, the back crotch panel 2634 includes at least two closures to reversibly couple to the front crotch panel 2618. The front crotch panel 2618 and the back crotch panel 2634 may reversibly couple to each other, thereby easing the process of putting on and disrobing from the undergarment of the dress without the wearer having to remove the outer garment.

FIGS. 27A-27D show an outer surface of an under garment (e.g. the under garment of FIGS. 26A-26C) overlaid with an inner surface of an outer garment in accordance with one or more embodiments. FIGS. 27A and 27B show a front view of the under garment-outer garment overlay. As shown in FIG. 27A, the outer garment may cover the shoulder section 2602 of the undergarment (2600 in FIGS. 26A-C). Thus, it is understood that the outer garment may be used in combination with the undergarment illustrated in FIGS. 26A-C as well as any of the garments in the preceding figures as well) The outer garment may include an arm portion 2702 that includes sleeves to assist in covering the shoulder section of the undergarment. The outer garment may include a bust section 2703 that covers a bust section of the under garment (e.g., section 2604 of FIG. 26A). A torso section 2704 of the outer garment may vertically extend from the bust section 2703. The torso section 2704 may be fitted to the curve of the waist of the under garment. A bottom section 2706 of the outer garment may extend from the hips of the torso section 2704 to a location above the feet of the wearer. As shown in FIGS. 27A-27D, the bottom section 2706 may extend to a dress opening 2710, which may be at a location above the knees of the wearer. The bottom section 2706 of the outer garment may cover the hips and upper legs of the wearer. The bottom section 2706 of the outer garment may cover a crotch section 2708 of the undergarment. The outer garment may include a closure 2712 that may assist the wearer in securing the outer garment over the under garment. The closure 2712 may be located in a front fabric panel of the outer garment. As shown in FIGS. 27A and 27B, the closure 2712 may be coupled to a lining material 2711 and a non-flexible fabric panel 2713. The closure 2712 may be a vertical closure as shown in FIG. 27B that can reversibly open and close in a vertical line.

FIG. 27C shows a side view of an under garment and outer garment overlay in accordance with one or more embodiments. The bust section 2703, the torso section 2704, and the bottom section 2706 of the front fabric panel of the outer garment may fit to the bust section and torso sections of the under garment. The bottom section 2706 of the front fabric panel, the bottom section 2720 the back fabric panel, or both of the outer garment may fit to the legs of the wearer. A back fabric layer 2722 of the under garment may include right and left sections (e.g., panels) of compression layer material 2714 separated by a lining material 2715. As shown in FIG. 27C, the compression layer material 2714 may extend into a shoulder section of the back fabric layer 2722. In some embodiments, the compression layer material is included in the torso section of the back fabric layer of the under garment (e.g., panels 2627 of FIG. 26C). The compression layer material 2714 is located on right and left panels extending from right and left seams to the centerline of the back fabric layer of the under garment and are separated by a lining material 2715. In such embodiments, the right and left panels are coupled to the front fabric layer of the under garment of the undergarment by the right and left seams.

The compression layer material 2714 may be located in the torso section of the back fabric layer 2722 of the under garment (e.g., in the left and right panels of the back fabric layer). The compression layer material 2714 of the torso section may assist in providing an hourglass shape for the wearer. The lining material 2715 of the back fabric layer 2722 of the under garment may include a u-shaped opening 2716. In some embodiments, lacing 2718 extends across the u-shaped opening to assist in achieving an hourglass shape of the wearer. In some embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment is fitted to the back fabric layer 2722 of the undergarment and the legs and buttocks of the wearer. The back fabric layer 2722 of the under garment may include a back crotch panel 2724 that extends from a torso section to attach with a front crotch panel.

FIG. 27D shows a back view of an overlay of an outer garment over an undergarment in accordance with one or more embodiments. As mentioned above, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may cover a back fabric layer 2722 of the under garment. In some embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may be coupled to a back fabric layer 2722 of the under garment at a seam 2717, which may be a u-shaped seam. As shown in FIG. 27D, seam 2717 may form the u-shaped opening 2716 of the back fabric layer 2722 of the under garment. The back fabric panel of the outer garment includes a u-shaped opening 2716. Lacing 2718 may extend across the u-shaped opening 2716 of the back fabric panel of the outer garment and the back fabric layer 2722 of the under garment. Lacing 2718 may assist in providing an hourglass shaped torso of the wearer by adjusting a circumference of the waist of the under garment, the outer garment, or both. In some embodiments, the compression layer material 2714 of the undergarment and lacing 2718 shape the figure of the wearer to provide an hourglass shape. In such embodiments, adjusting the lacing in of the under garment may adjust the figure of the wearer such that the circumference of the waist is decreased to provide an hourglass figure.

In embodiments in which the back fabric layer of the under garment covers a portion or the entire back of the wearer, a front fabric panel of the outer garment of FIGS. 27A and 27B may be coupled to the back fabric panel of the outer garment and the undergarment such that the back fabric panel of the outer garment covers a portion or the entirety of the back fabric layer of the under garment. In such embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may cover a portion or the entire back of the wearer. In one or more particular embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may have a bottom section as shown in FIGS. 27C and 27D. Lacing of the back fabric layer of the under garment may extend from left and right compressive panels of the under garment across the back of the wearer. In some embodiments, the back fabric layer of the under garment, the back fabric panel of the outer garment, the lacing, or combinations thereof may be as shown in FIGS. 24-1 and 24-2.

The lacing may be coupled to left and right compressive panels of the back fabric layer of the under garment, left and right sections of the back fabric panel of the outer garment, or both. Lacing may be coupled to one or more seams of the back fabric layer of the under garment, the back fabric layer of the outer garment, or both. For example, lacing may be coupled to a u-shaped seam of the back fabric panel of the outer garment and the back fabric layer of the under garment. In some embodiments, the lacing is coupled to the outer garment and the under garment such that the lacing is visible to an observer and accessible by the wearer for adjustment without removing the outer garment or the under garment. A lining material may be coupled to the u-shaped seam to cover at least a portion of the wearer's back.

The under garment of one or more embodiments may be coupled to an outer garment as described above. A non-limiting example of another outer garment may be as shown in FIGS. 28A-28D. FIG. 28A shows a front view of an outer garment in accordance with one or more embodiments. The outer garment may include a front fabric panel that includes a shoulder section 2802, an arm section 2804, a bust section 2806, torso section 2808, a bottom section 2810, and a dress opening 2814. In some embodiments, the front fabric panel of the outer garment includes at least two types of fabric, which may be arranged in at least two vertical panels. For example, the front fabric panel may include a center panel 2812 that includes a non-flexible fabric to prevent stretching of the front panel of the outer garment. The non-flexible fabric may be a center panel 2812 as shown in FIG. 28A. In some embodiments the center panel 2812 separates left and right sections of material 2813 and 2815. The left and right sections of material 2813 and 2815 may include a lining material as described above. The left and right sections of material 2813 and 2815 may extend from left and right seams toward a centerline of the outer garment and along at least a torso section and a bottom section of the outer garment.

The non-flexible fabric center panel 2812 may extend from a neckline of the bust section 2806 to the dress opening 2814. In some embodiments, the non-flexible fabric panel extends from a point below the bust section 2806 to the dress opening 2814. In some embodiments, the front fabric panel of the outer garment includes nylon tricot fabric. For example, the front fabric panel may include a layer of nylon tricot fabric attached to an inner surface layer, an outer surface layer, or both. The inner surface layer, the outer surface layer, or both may include a lining material. In some embodiments, the rigid panel can be applied to an inner layer of the front fabric panel of the outer garment, an outer layer of the front fabric panel of the outer garment, or both as a bonded layer or stitched layer. In some embodiments, the non-rigid panel may be coupled between an outer layer of the front fabric panel of the outer garment and an inner layer of the front fabric panel of the outer garment.

In some embodiments, the front fabric panel of the outer garment includes a closure 2816 extending vertically from the dress opening to a point below the bust section 2806 of the outer garment. The closure 2816 may be as described above. The closure 2816 may be coupled to non-flexible center panel 2812 and either the left or right sections of material (e.g., 2813 or 2815). The closure 2816 may be configured to reversibly open and close in along a vertical line between a left or right sections of material and a center panel. FIG. 28B shows a front view of an outer garment with an open closure 2816.

FIG. 28C shows a side view of the outer garment of FIG. 28A in accordance with one or more embodiments. A left and right section of material (e.g., 2813 and 2815 of FIG. 28A) may be coupled to the back fabric panel via at least one seam 2817. In some embodiments, the left and right sections of material of the front fabric panel are connected to left and right sections of material of the back fabric panel via the shoulder section of the front panel. For example, material section 2813 may be connected to a back section 2818 via shoulder section 2802. Material section 2813 may be coupled to a back section 2818 via seam 2817. The back fabric panel of the outer garment may include at least one additional fabric panel 2820, a u-shaped section (e.g., an opening) 2622, a lacing 2824, or combinations thereof. For example, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may be as shown in FIG. 28D. The lacing 2824 extending across a u-shaped opening 2822 may be coupled to a seam of the u-shaped opening of an under garment. In such embodiments, the under garment may include right and left compression panels as described above such that the lacing and the right and left compression panels can adjust the shape of the wearer to provide an hourglass shape.

In some embodiments, lining material is coupled to the seam of the u-shaped opening 2822 of the back fabric layer of the under garment, the back fabric panel of the outer garment, or both. In embodiments in which the back fabric layer of the under garment covers a portion or the entire back of the wearer, a front fabric panel of the outer garment of FIGS. 28A and 28B may be coupled to the back fabric panel of the outer garment and the under garment such that the back fabric panel of the outer garment covers a portion or the entirety of the back fabric layer of the under garment. In such embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may cover a portion or the entire back of the wearer. The back fabric panel of the outer garment of such embodiments may have a bottom section as shown in FIGS. 28C and 28D. In some embodiments, the back fabric layer of the under garment, the back fabric panel of the outer garment, the lacing, or combinations thereof may be as shown in FIGS. 24-1 and 24-2. In some embodiments, the lacing is coupled to the outer garment and the under garment such that the lacing is visible to an observer and accessible for a wearer to tighten or loosen the lacing without undressing from the outer garment or the under garment.

An outer garment of one or more embodiments may be as shown in FIGS. 29A-29D. As shown in FIGS. 29A-29D a shoulder section 2902 of the outer garment may include at least two straps that extend over the right and left shoulder. In such embodiments, the shoulder section 2902 may not include an arm section. The front panel of the outer garment may include a shoulder section 2902, a bust section 2904 coupled to a torso section 2908 via a horizontal seam 2906, and a bottom section 2910 extending from the torso section 2908 to a dress opening 2916. As shown in FIGS. 29A-29D, the dress opening 2916 may extend past the knee of the wearer. The bottom section 2910, the bust section 2904, or both may include one or more fabric panels (e.g., panels 2912). The one or more fabric panels may include a non-flexible panel as described above. A closure 2914 may be included in the bottom section and configured to reversibly open and close a bottom section 2910 and a torso section 2908 as shown in FIGS. 29A and 29B. The closure 2914 may be as described above. In some embodiments, the closure 2914 is coupled to one or more panels of the bottom section 2910 of the outer garment such that the closure 2914 is not visible. As shown in FIG. 29C, the bust section 2904, torso section 2908 and bottom section 2910 of the front panel may be connected to a back panel by at least one seam 2917. A shoulder section 2902 of the front panel may be connected to a shoulder section 2903 of a back panel via seam 2905. The shoulder section of the outer garment of one or more embodiments may be configured to cover the bust section of an undergarment. As shown in FIG. 29D, the back panel of the outer garment may include lacing 2918 extending across a u-shaped section 2919 of the back panel, two or more fabric panels (e.g., panels 2922, 2924, and 2926), or both. The lacing 2918 extending across a u-shaped section 2919 may be coupled to a u-shaped opening of the under garment. A lining material (e.g., lining material 2925) may be coupled to a u-shaped seam of the u-shaped section 2919 of the under garment. In such embodiments, the under garment may include right and left compression panels as described above such that the lacing and the right and left compression panels can adjust the shape of the wearer to provide an hourglass shape. In some embodiments, the back panel of the outer garment includes an upper torso section (not shown) coupled to a lower torso section 2920. The lower torso section 2920 may extend to a bottom section 2921 that extends to a dress opening 2916. The lower torso section 2920 and the bottom section 2921 may include a center fabric panel 2922 separating a left and right fabric panel 2924 and 2926.

In some embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment of FIGS. 29C and 29D, the back fabric layer of the under garment, or both covers a portion or the entire back of the wearer. In such embodiments, a front fabric panel of the outer garment of FIGS. 29A and 29B may be coupled to the back fabric panel of the outer garment and the undergarment such that the back fabric panel of the outer garment covers a portion or the entirety of the back fabric layer of the under garment. In such embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may cover a portion or the entire back of the wearer. In one or more particular embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may have a bottom section 2921 as shown in FIGS. 29C and 29D. In some embodiments, the back fabric layer of the under garment, the back fabric panel of the outer garment, the lacing, or combinations thereof may be as shown in FIGS. 24-1, 24-2, 34A, and 34B. In some embodiments, lacing 2918 is coupled to the outer garment and the under garment such that the lacing is visible to an observer and accessible for a wearer to tighten or loosen the lacing. Lacing 2918 may be as described above.

In some embodiments, the outer garment may drape over the under garment. In such embodiments, the outer garment is configured to have a looser fit over the under garment and the wearer as compared to fitted garments shown in FIGS. 28A-28D and 29A-29D. FIG. 30A shows a front view of an outer garment in accordance with one or more embodiments. The outer garment of FIG. 30A may include a front fabric panel that includes a shoulder section 3002, a bust section 3004 coupled to a torso section 3006 via seam 3008, a bottom section 3010, and a dress opening 3012. The bust section 3004, torso section 3006, bottom section 3010, or combinations thereof may include one or more fabric panels 3014. The torso section 3006, bottom section 3010, or both may have a looser, more flowing fit as compared to outer garments of FIGS. 28A-28D and 29A-29D. As shown in FIGS. 30A-30C, the dress opening 3012 of the bottom section 3010 may extend to a point above the knees of the wearer. In some embodiments, the bottom section 3010 extends to a point below the knees and above the feet of the wearer.

As shown in FIG. 30B, the bust section 3004, torso section 3006, and bottom section 3010 of the front fabric panel may be connected to a back fabric panel by at least one seam 3017. A shoulder section 3002 of the front fabric panel may be connected to a shoulder section 3003 of a back fabric panel via seam 3005. The shoulder section of the outer garment of one or more embodiments may be configured to cover the bust section of an undergarment. As shown in FIG. 30C, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may include lacing 3018 extending across a u-shaped section 3019 of the back fabric panel, two or more fabric panels (e.g., panel sections 3024 and 3026), or both. The u-shaped section 3019 may be a u-shaped opening of the under garment. In some embodiments, the u-shaped section 3019 includes a u-shaped seam. The u-shaped seam may couple the back fabric panel of the outer garment to the back fabric layer of the under garment. An additional lining material 3007 that covers at least a portion of the back of the wearer may be coupled to the u-shaped seam. The under garment may be as described above. In some embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment includes an upper torso section 3020 coupled to a lower torso section 3021. The lower torso section 3021 may extend to a bottom section 3022 that extends to a dress opening 3012. The lower torso section 3021 and the bottom section 3022 may include a center fabric panel 3023 separating a left and right fabric panel 3024 and 3026. The torso section 3021, bottom section 3022, or both may have a looser fit as compared to outer garments of FIGS. 28A-28D and 29A-29D.

In embodiments in which the back fabric layer of the under garment covers a portion or the entire back of the wearer, a front fabric panel of the outer garment of FIG. 30A may be coupled to the back fabric panel of the outer garment and the undergarment such that the back fabric panel of the outer garment covers a portion or the entirety of the back fabric layer of the under garment. In such embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may cover a portion or the entire back of the wearer. In one or more particular embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may have a bottom section 3010 as shown in FIGS. 30B and 30C. In some embodiments, the back fabric layer of the under garment, the back fabric panel of the outer garment, the lacing, or combinations thereof may be as shown in FIGS. 24-1, 24-2, 34A, and 34B. In some embodiments, lacing 3018 is coupled to the outer garment and the under garment such that the lacing is visible to an observer and accessible for a wearer to tighten or loosen the lacing. Lacing 3018 may be as described above.

FIGS. 31A-31C show an outer garment in accordance with one or more embodiments. As shown in FIGS. 31A and 31B, a front fabric panel of the outer garment may include a shoulder section 3102, a bust section 3104 that extends from shoulder section 3102 to a torso section 3106, a bottom section 3108 that extends from torso section 3106 to a dress opening 3110. The outer garment of FIGS. 31A-31C may include a ruching material, one or more elements configured to provide a ruching effect of the outer garment, or both.

As shown in FIG. 31B, the bust section 3104, torso section 3106, and bottom section 3108 of the front fabric panel may be connected to a back fabric panel by at least one seam 3113. A shoulder section 3102 of the front fabric panel may be connected to a shoulder section 3114 of a back fabric panel via at least two adjustable connections 3116. The shoulder section 3102 of the outer garment of one or more embodiments may be configured to cover the bust section 3104 of an undergarment. As shown in FIG. 15C, the back panel of the outer garment may include lacing 3118 extending across a u-shaped section 3120 of the back panel of the outer garment. The u-shaped section 3120 may include a u-shaped opening and a u-shaped seam. In some embodiments, an additional lining material (not shown) is coupled to one or more locations of the u-shaped seam such that the additional lining material covers at least a portion of the wearer's back. Lacing 3118 extending across a u-shaped section 3120 may be coupled to the u-shaped seam. In such embodiments, the under garment may include right and left compression panels as described above such that the lacing and the right and left compression panels can adjust the shape of the wearer to provide an hourglass shape.

In embodiments in which the back fabric layer of the under garment covers a portion or the entire back of the wearer, a front fabric panel of the outer garment of FIG. 31A may be coupled to the back fabric panel of the outer garment and the undergarment such that the back fabric panel of the outer garment covers a portion or the entirety of the back fabric layer of the under garment. In such embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may cover a portion or the entire back of the wearer. In one or more particular embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may have a bottom section 3108 as shown in FIGS. 31B and 31C. In some embodiments, the back fabric layer of the under garment, the back fabric panel of the outer garment, the lacing, or combinations thereof may be as shown in FIGS. 24-1, 24-2, 34A, and 34B. In some embodiments, lacing 3118 is coupled to the outer garment and the under garment such that the lacing 3118 is visible to an observer and accessible for a wearer to tighten or loosen the lacing. Lacing 3118 may be as described above.

In some embodiments, the dress opening 3110 of a niched outer garment (e.g., the outer garment of FIGS. 31A-31C) can be shortened to the hips of the wearer as shown in FIGS. 32A and 32B. In such embodiments, the bottom section 3108 of the outer garment may be collected and gathered at a point proximate to the torso section 3106 of the outer garment to provide a shortened outer garment. The shortened outer garment may expose the crotch sections 3202 and 3204 of the outer garment as shown in FIGS. 32A and 32B, respectively. As shown in FIG. 32B, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may be shortened with the ruched material 3112 such that the torso section 3106 and bottom section 3108 are gathered together. In such embodiments, shortening the dress opening 3110 of the outer garment does not cause crowding (or “bunching”) of the lacing 3118 extending across the u-shaped section 3120 such that the ruching of the shortened outer garment does not interfere with the ability of the lacing and the right and left compression panels to adjust the shape of the wearer to provide an hourglass shape.

FIG. 33A shows an outer garment of one or more embodiments. As shown in FIG. 33A, the outer garment may include a shoulder section 3302. The shoulder section 3302 may be coupled to left and right arm sections 3304 and 3306. Shoulder section 3302 may include at least one shoulder strap extending from the front fabric panel over the shoulder of the wearer to a back fabric panel of the outer garment. The outer garment may include arm sections 3304 and 3306 that includes sleeves (e.g., long sleeves as shown in FIG. 33A) to assist in covering a shoulder section of an undergarment. The outer garment may include a bust section 3308 that covers a bust of the wearer, a bust section of an under garment (e.g., section 3324 of FIG. 33B), or both. A torso section 3310 of the outer garment may vertically extend from the bust section 3308 to a bottom section 3312 of the outer garment. The torso section 3310 may be fitted to the curve of the waist of the under garment. A bottom section 3312 of the outer garment may extend from the hips of the torso section 3310 to a location above the feet of the wearer. As shown in FIGS. 33A and 33B, the bottom section 3312 may extend to a dress opening 3314, which may be at a location above the knees of the wearer. In some embodiments, dress opening 3314 extends past the knees of the wearer to a location proximate to the ankles of the wearer or between the knees and ankles of the wearer.

The bottom section 3312 of the outer garment may cover the hips and upper legs of the wearer. The outer garment may include a closure 3316 that may assist the wearer in securing the outer garment over the under garment. The closure 3316 may be located in a front fabric panel of the outer garment. As shown in FIGS. 33A and 33B, the closure 3316 may be coupled to one or more sections of the material of the front fabric panel. The closure 3316 may be coupled to left and right sections of material that can include a lining material (e.g., sections of material labelled 3318). The closure 3316 may be coupled to a center section of material 3320 that includes a non-flexible fabric, such as nylon tricot fabric, to prevent stretching of the front fabric panel of the outer garment. The closure 3316 may be a vertical closure as shown in FIGS. 33A and 33B that can reversibly open and close in a vertical line. The closure 3316 may be coupled to non-flexible center panel 3320 and either the left or right sections of material. The closure 3316 may be configured to reversibly open and close in along a vertical line between a left or right sections of material and a center panel.

In some embodiments the center section of material 3320 separates left and right sections of material (e.g., sections 3318). The left and right sections of material 3318 may include a lining material as described above. The left and right sections of material 3318 may extend from left and right seams toward a centerline of the outer garment and along at least a torso section and a bottom section of the outer garment. As shown in FIG. 33A, the non-flexible fabric center panel 3320 may extend from a point below the bust section 3308 to the dress opening 3314. In some embodiments, the non-flexible fabric panel extends from a neckline of the front fabric panel of the outer garment to the dress opening 3314. In some embodiments, the front fabric panel of the outer garment includes nylon tricot fabric. For example, the front fabric panel may include a layer of nylon tricot fabric attached to an inner surface layer, an outer surface layer, or both. The inner surface layer, the outer surface layer, or both may include a lining material.

The front fabric panel of the outer garment may be coupled to a back fabric panel 3322 of the outer garment (e.g., via right and left seams denoted by 3323). In some embodiments, the left and right sections of material of the front fabric panel are connected to left and right sections of material of the back fabric panel via the shoulder section of the front panel, via left and right seams, or both. The back fabric panel of the outer garment may include at least one additional material section, a u-shaped section (e.g., an opening, a u-shaped seam), a lacing (e.g., lacing 3326 of FIG. 33B), or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the lacing extends across a u-shaped opening. In some embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment is coupled to the back fabric layer of the under garment at the u-shaped seam of the u-shaped section. In such embodiments, an additional lining material can be coupled to the u-shaped seam that extends across a centerline of the wearer's back to cover at least a portion of the wearer's back. In some embodiments, the back fabric layer of the under garment, the back fabric panel of the outer garment, the lacing, or combinations thereof may be as shown in FIGS. 24-1, 24-2, 34A, and 34B. In some embodiments, lacing is coupled to the outer garment and the under garment such that the lacing is as described above, visible to an observer, and accessible for a wearer to tighten or loosen the lacing without having to undress from the outer garment and the under garment.

The lacing may be coupled to the u-shaped seam. In such embodiments, the under garment may include right and left compression panels as described above such that the lacing and the right and left compression panels can adjust the shape of the wearer to provide an hourglass shape. As a non-limiting example, the back fabric panel of the outer garment may include a shoulder section, a torso section, and a bottom section of the outer garment that may be as shown in FIG. 28D. In such embodiments, the shoulder section of the back fabric panel of the outer garment may be coupled to long sleeves as shown in FIG. 33A. In some embodiments, the lacing is coupled to the outer garment and the under garment such that the lacing is visible to an observer and accessible for a wearer to tighten or loosen the lacing.

In some embodiments, the back fabric layer of the undergarment, the back fabric panel of the outer garment, or both covers the entire back of the wearer. For example, the back fabric layer of the under garment may be as described in FIG. 24-1, 24-2 or 26C. In some embodiments, the torso section and a shoulder section of the back fabric panel of the outer garment, the back fabric layer of the under garment or both includes a torso section and a shoulder section as shown in FIGS. 24-1 and 24-2. Lacing of the back fabric layer of the under garment may extend from left and right compressive panels of the under garment across the back of the wearer as shown in FIG. 24-1. The lacing may be coupled to left and right compressive panels of the back fabric layer of the under garment, left and right sections of the back fabric panel of the outer garment, or both.

FIG. 33B shows an outer surface of an under garment overlaid with an inner surface of an outer garment (e.g., the outer garment of FIG. 33A) in accordance with one or more embodiments. The under garment of one or more embodiments may be coupled to an outer garment such that the outer garment covers the under garment as shown in FIG. 33B. In such embodiments, a back fabric layer of the under garment may include right and left compression panels as described above such that lacing and the right and left compression panels can adjust the shape of the wearer to provide an hourglass shape. In some embodiments, the back fabric layer of the under garment includes left and right compression panels that are sufficient to adjust the shape of the wearer's waist to provide an hourglass shape. A back fabric layer of the under garment may include right and left sections of compression layer material separated by a lining material as described above.

The compression layer material may extend into a shoulder section of the back fabric layer of the under garment. In some embodiments, the compression layer material is included in the torso section of the back fabric layer of the under garment. The compression layer material may be located on right and left panels extending from right and left seams to the centerline of the back fabric layer of the under garment and are separated by a lining material. In such embodiments, the right and left panels are coupled to the front fabric layer of the under garment of the undergarment by the right and left seams. Adjusting the lacing of one or more embodiments may adjust the figure of the wearer such that the circumference of the waist is decreased to provide an hourglass figure.

Compression layer material may be located in the torso section of the back fabric layer of the under garment, such as in left and right panels separated by a lining material as described above. In some embodiments, the lining material of the back fabric layer of the under garment may include a u-shaped opening. In some embodiments, lacing extends across the u-shaped opening of the under garment to assist in achieving an hourglass shape of the wearer.

In some embodiments, the back fabric panel of the outer garment is fitted to the back fabric layer of the undergarment and the legs and buttocks of the wearer. The bust section 3308, the torso section 3310, and the bottom section 3312 of the front fabric panel of the outer garment of FIG. 33A may fit to the bust section 3324 and torso section 3310 of the under garment. The bust section 3324 may include lining material, removable padded inserts, or both. In some embodiments, the bust section 3324 of the under garment is a shelf bra.

In some embodiments, the torso section 3310 of the front fabric layer of the under garment includes compression layer material, lining material, or both. In one or more particular embodiments, the torso section includes an additional stabilizing panel 3328 that is a stabilizing region extending across a centerline and surrounded by the compressive layer material of the torso section 3330. The additional panel may be a lower belly stabilizer that includes at least one additional layer of compression fabric to form to flatten and smooth the lower belly of the wearer. In such embodiments, the additional stabilizing material layer includes compression layer material that may be the same or different from the compression layer material of torso section 3330. The additional stabilizing panel 3328 provides additional compression and support to provide the wearer with an hourglass shape.

The bottom section 3312 of the front fabric panel of the outer garment, the back fabric panel of the outer garment, or both may fit to the legs of the wearer and cover a crotch section of each of the front and back fabric layers of the under garment. The front fabric layer and the back fabric layer of the under garment may each include crotch panels that extends from a torso section to reversibly attach (e.g., via closure 3334). The back crotch panel may be a thong or cover at least a portion of the wearer's buttocks. Each of the front crotch panel, the back crotch panel, or both may include lining material. The front crotch panel may be configured to cover the front pubic region (e.g., vaginal lips) of the wearer.

Referring now to FIGS. 34A and 34B, an outer garment of one or more embodiments is shown. As shown in FIG. 34A (showing the front view) and 34B (showing the back view), the outer garment may include a front fabric panel that includes a shoulder section 3402, an arm section 3404, a bust section 3406, torso section 3408, a bottom section 3410, and a dress opening 3414. As shown in FIGS. 34A-34B, the dress opening 3414 may extend at least to the ankle of the wearer (i.e., be floor length). The bottom section 3410, the bust section 3406, or both may include one or more fabric panels (not separately shown), which may include any of the features described above.

The bust section 3406, torso section 3408 and bottom section 3410 of the front panel may be connected to a back fabric panel 3403 by at least one seam (not separately shown). The back fabric panel 3403 is generally an hourglass shape and has two concave sides or edges 3401. Generally, the back fabric panel 3403 covers the entire back of the wearer, as shown in FIG. 34B. In one embodiment, the outer fabric layer of the back panel 3403 may include arcuate seams 3413 having an hourglass shape that generally extend along and through the torso section of the back panel (from adjacent a bust section to a bottom portion of the torso section, corresponding to the location of the hips of the wearer). The arcuate seams 3413 may align (for at least a portion of the length thereof) with the compression layer material of the under garment that is under the over garment. In such embodiments, the under garment and the over garment may be sewn together along such arcuate seams. The back panel 3403 may include lacing 3417 that extends through eyelets 3419 that are located along the arcuate seams 3413. The lacing 3417 enables the wearer to adjust the waist size of the dress for an even more hourglass-shaped and custom fit. As shown, the back fabric panel 3403 of the outer garment of FIG. 34B the entire back of the wearer, and the lacing extends across the torso section 3408 of the back fabric panel 3403; however, it is also understood that a portion of the upper back of the wear may be exposed with lacing 3417 still extending across a centerline of the back fabric panel 3403.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may provide at least one of the following advantages. Advantageously, aspects of the present disclosure provide for lifting the breasts, smoothing the stomach, reducing waist girth, prohibiting, or minimizing bulges of the buttocks and outer thigh at the leg opening and is relatively easy (considering the tight fit) to put on and take off because it can be unzipped or unlaced. Other aspects of the present invention provide maximum compression at the front and back waist and stomach but gradually reduces the amount of compression at the buttocks, hips, and thighs to create an hourglass shape without bulges at the leg opening.

Although only a few example embodiments have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the example embodiments without materially departing from this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A dress, comprising: an outer garment comprising a front fabric panel coupled to a back fabric panel at first and second seams such that the respective inner surfaces of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel face each other, wherein the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel are coupled such that a bottom section of each of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel forms a dress opening, andan under garment coupled to an inner layer of the outer garment such that the outer garment is configured to cover the under garment, wherein the under garment comprises a back fabric layer coupled to a front fabric layer of the under garment at a closure of a crotch section and at third and fourth seams such that the respective inner surfaces of the front fabric layer of the under garment and the back fabric layer of the under garment face each other,wherein the closure of the crotch section is configured to open and close the crotch section of the under garment without removal of the outer garment,wherein the front fabric layer of the under garment of the under garment comprises a lining material and a compression layer material, andwherein the back fabric layer of the under garment comprises a right compressive panel formed from a compression layer material extending from a third seam towards a centerline and along a torso section of the back fabric layer to a bottom portion of the torso section, a left compressive panel formed from a compression layer material extending from a fourth seam towards the centerline and along a torso section of the back fabric layer to a bottom section of the torso section, and lining material extending between the right compressive panel and the left compressive panel,wherein the compression layer material has a higher elastic modulus than the lining material.

2. The dress of claim 1, wherein the front fabric panel of the outer garment comprises a front, closeable opening extending from the dress opening of the bottom section of the front fabric panel to a location below a bust section of the outer garment front fabric panel.

3. The dress of claim 2, wherein the front opening of the outer garment comprises at least one of a zipper, a lacing, and a clasp configured to close and open the front opening of the dress.

4. The dress of claim 1, wherein the back fabric layer of the undergarment and the back fabric panel of the outer garment each comprise a back opening extending from an upper section of a torso portion to a bottom section of the torso portion of each of the outer garment and the under garment.

5. The dress of claim 1, wherein the back fabric panel of the outer garment, the back fabric layer of the under garment, and a lacing extending across a centerline of the back fabric panel of the outer garment and the back fabric layer of the under garment are each coupled at a seam along a u-shaped back opening.

6. The dress of claim 1, wherein the back fabric panel of the outer garment, the back fabric layer of the under garment, are coupled along arcuate seams of the back fabric panel extending along the torso section of the back fabric panel of the outer garment.

7. The dress of claim 1, further comprising lacing extending across a centerline of the back fabric panel of the outer garment and the back fabric layer of the under garment, wherein the lacing is configured to adjust a waist size of the dress.

8. The dress of claim 1, wherein the compression layer material comprises at least two layers of compression material.

9. The dress of claim 1, wherein the compression layer material comprises at least 65% nylon and at least 15% spandex.

10. The dress of claim 1, wherein a bust section of the front fabric panel of the under garment comprises a lining material and two padded inserts, wherein a bust section is coupled to a shoulder section that comprises a right shoulder strap and a left shoulder strap each attached to a top of the torso section of the back fabric layer of the under garment, andwherein the right shoulder strap and the left shoulder strap are configured to hold at least a portion of the under garment in place.

11. The dress of claim 1, wherein the outer garment comprises one or more fabrics selected from a second compression layer material, a high spandex content fabric, a low spandex content fabric, the lining material of a bust section of the under garment, or combinations thereof.

12. The dress of claim 1, wherein the torso section of the back fabric panel of the outer garment extends from the bottom section to a neckline.

13. The dress of claim 1, wherein an inner layer of the front fabric layer of the under garment comprises lining material in each of a bust section, a torso section, and a crotch section coupled to the lining material in each of a crotch, torso, and bust sections of the front fabric layer of the under garment.

14. The dress of claim 1, wherein the front fabric panel of the outer garment comprises a non-stretch panel configured to restrict stretching of the front fabric panel of the outer garment, and wherein the non-stretch panel comprises nylon tricot fabric.

15. The dress of claim 14, wherein the non-stretch panel is coupled between a right lining material and a left lining material of the front fabric panel, wherein the right and left lining material extend from the first and second seams of the front fabric panel of the outer garment toward a centerline of the front fabric panel.

16. The dress of claim 14, wherein the non-stretch panel is coupled to at least one of a zipper, a lacing, and a clasp provided in the front fabric panel of the outer garment, and wherein the at least one of a zipper, a lacing, and a clasp are configured to close and open the front opening.

17. The dress of claim 1, wherein a torso section of the front fabric panel of the under garment includes a stabilizing region extending across a centerline and surrounded by the compressive layer material.

18. A dress, comprising: an outer garment comprising a front fabric panel coupled to a back fabric panel at first and second seams such that the respective inner surfaces of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel face each other, and wherein the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel are coupled such that a bottom section of each of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel forms a dress opening, andan under garment coupled to the inner layers of the outer garment such that the outer garment is configured to cover the under garment, wherein the under garment comprises a back fabric layer coupled to a front fabric layer at a closure of a crotch section and at third and fourth seams such that the respective inner surfaces of the front fabric layer and the back fabric layer of the under garment face each other,wherein the closure of the crotch section is configured to open and close the crotch section of the under garment without removal of the outer garment,wherein the front fabric layer of the under garment comprises a lining material and a compression layer material, andwherein the compression layer material has a higher elastic modulus than the lining material.

19. The dress of claim 18, wherein a torso section of the back fabric layer of the under garment comprises a right compressive panel formed from a compression layer material extending from a third seam towards a centerline and along a torso section of the back fabric layer of the under garment to a bottom portion of the torso section, a left compressive panel formed from a compression layer material extending from a fourth seam towards the centerline and along a torso section of the back fabric layer of the under garment to a bottom section of the torso section, and lining material extending between the right compressive panel and the left compressive panel.

20. The dress of claim 19, further comprising lacing extending across a centerline of the back fabric panel of the outer garment, wherein the lacing is configured to adjust a waist size.

21. A method for adjusting a waist size of a dress, the method comprising: providing the dress, wherein the dress comprises: an outer garment comprising a front fabric panel coupled to a back fabric panel at first and second seams such that the respective inner surfaces of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel face each other, wherein the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel are coupled such that a bottom section of each of the front fabric panel and the back fabric panel forms a dress opening, andan under garment coupled to an inner layer of the outer garment such that the outer garment is configured to cover the under garment, wherein the under garment comprises a back fabric coupled to a front fabric at a closure of a crotch section and at third and fourth seams such that the respective inner surfaces of the front fabric layer and the back fabric layer face each other of the under garment,wherein the closure of the crotch section is configured to open and close the crotch section of the under garment without removal of the outer garment,wherein the front fabric layer of the under garment comprises a lining material and a compression layer material, andwherein the back fabric layer of the under garment comprises a right compressive panel formed from a compression layer material extending from a third seam towards a centerline and along a torso section of the back fabric layer to a bottom portion of the torso section, a left compressive panel formed from a compression layer material extending from a fourth seam towards the centerline and along a torso section of the back fabric layer to a bottom section of the torso section, and lining material extending between the right compressive panel and the left compressive panel,wherein the compression layer material has a higher elastic modulus than the lining material; anda lacing extending across a centerline of the back fabric panel of the outer garment, the back fabric layer of the under garment, or both; andadjusting the lacing to decrease a circumference of a waist, thereby adjusting the waist size of the dress.