FABRIC ARTICLES WITH ENGINEERED SUPPORT STRUCTURE

BACKGROUND

[0001]The present embodiments relate to fabric articles and more particularly to breast support garments with an engineered support structure.

[0002]Fabric articles may include a variety of different types and forms, including articles of apparel and articles of footwear. One type of an article of apparel is a breast support garment or bra. Conventional breast support garments, such as sport bras, that are able to deliver a sufficient amount of support and movement management for a given activity are also commonly found to be bulky and overly restrictive.

[0003]There exists a need in the art for fabric articles, including sports garments and footwear, that are lightweight while still providing good support to the wearer during a sports activity.

SUMMARY

[0004]In one aspect, the disclosure provides a breast support garment that includes a front portion for covering at least a portion of a chest area of a wearer and extending from a first side of the breast support garment to a second side of the breast support garment. The front portion has three or more layers, including an outer layer having an outer face and an opposite inner face, a liner layer having a first face and an opposite second face, and a spacer fabric layer having a first face and an opposite second face.

[0005]In another aspect, the disclosure provides a breast support garment that includes a front portion for covering at least a portion of a chest area of a wearer and extending from a first side of the breast support garment to a second side of the breast support garment. The front portion has three or more layers, including an outer layer having an outer face and an opposite inner face, an inner layer including a first face and an opposite second face, and a pocket liner layer including a first face and an opposite second face. The pocket liner layer forms a front pocket on the front portion of the breast support garment.

[0006]In another aspect, the disclosure provides a breast support garment that includes a front portion for covering at least a portion of a chest area of a wearer and extending from a first side of the breast support garment to a second side of the breast support garment. The front portion has a front pocket disposed between two layers of the breast support garment. The front portion also includes a tension element disposed inside the front pocket of the breast support garment. The tension element is configured to create tension lines that press against items inside the front pocket to restrain movement of the items inside the front pocket.

[0007]In another aspect, the disclosure provides a breast support garment wherein the engineered support structure comprises at least one third zone with a third level of support defined by a third adhesive dot density or a third size of the adhesive dots in the adhesive dot matrix pattern.

[0008]In another aspect, the disclosure provides a breast support garment wherein the spacer fabric layer comprises two separate breast cup portions.

[0009]In another aspect, the disclosure provides a breast support garment further comprising a rear portion for covering at least a portion of a back area of the wearer and a rear pocket disposed on the rear portion of the breast support garment.

[0010]In another aspect, the disclosure provides a breast support garment wherein the rear portion comprises: an outer layer; an inner layer; and a rear pocket liner layer; wherein the rear pocket liner layer is located between the outer layer and the inner layer to form the rear pocket.

[0011]In another aspect, the disclosure provides a breast support garment further comprising: a first wing portion extending from the first side of the breast support garment; a second wing portion extending from the second side of the breast support garment; and wherein at least one of the first wing portion or the second wing portion includes a side pocket.

[0012]In another aspect, the disclosure provides a breast support garment wherein the front pocket is a chest pocket located between a first breast cup and a second breast cup of the breast support garment.

[0013]In another aspect, the disclosure provides a breast support garment wherein the adhesive dot matrix pattern comprises at least one first zone with a first level of support defined by a first adhesive dot density or a first size of adhesive dots in the adhesive dot matrix pattern and at least one second zone with a second level of support defined by a second adhesive dot density or a second size of the adhesive dots in the adhesive dot matrix pattern, the first level of support being different from the second level of support.

[0014]In another aspect, the disclosure provides a breast support garment wherein the first zone is disposed in a center middle portion of the tension element and wherein the second zone is disposed along a perimeter of the tension element.

[0015]Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the disclosure will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the disclosure, and be protected by the following claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016]The disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. Throughout the drawings, reference numbers may be re-used to indicate correspondence between referenced elements. The drawings are provided to illustrate example embodiments described herein and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Sizes and relative positions of elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the shapes and sizes of various elements and angles are not drawn to scale, and some of these elements are arbitrarily enlarged and positioned to improve drawing legibility.

[0017]FIG. 1 is a front view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment;

[0018]FIG. 2 is a rear view of the example embodiment of a breast support garment;

[0019]FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the example embodiment of a breast support garment with a spacer fabric layer;

[0020]FIG. 4 is an exploded view of another example embodiment of a breast support garment with a spacer fabric layer;

[0021]FIG. 5 is a representative view of an example embodiment of a process of applying an adhesive dot matrix pattern to a portion of a breast support garment;

[0022]FIG. 6 is a representative view of an example embodiment of a first adhesive dot matrix pattern for providing support to a breast support garment;

[0023]FIG. 7A is a representative cross-section view of the breast support garment of FIG. 3;

[0024]FIG. 7B is a representative cross-section view of the breast support garment of FIG. 4;

[0025]FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the example embodiment of the first adhesive dot matrix pattern for providing support to a breast support garment;

[0026]FIG. 9 is a representative cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of an outer layer and an inner layer joined by an adhesive dot matrix pattern;

[0027]FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of an example embodiment of a second adhesive dot matrix pattern for providing support to a breast support garment;

[0028]FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view of an example embodiment of a third adhesive dot matrix pattern for providing support to a breast support garment;

[0029]FIG. 12 is an exploded view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment including the second adhesive dot matrix pattern;

[0030]FIG. 13 is an exploded view of another example embodiment of a breast support garment including the second adhesive dot matrix pattern;

[0031]FIG. 14 is an exploded view of another example embodiment of a breast support garment including the second adhesive dot matrix pattern;

[0032]FIG. 15 is an exploded view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment including two spacer fabric layers;

[0033]FIG. 16 is a cross-section view of a cup of the breast support garment including two spacer fabric layers of FIG. 15;

[0034]FIG. 17 is an exploded view of another example embodiment of a breast support garment including a modified version of the second adhesive dot matrix pattern;

[0035]FIG. 18 is an exploded view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment including the third adhesive dot matrix pattern;

[0036]FIG. 19 is an exploded view of another example embodiment of a breast support garment including the third adhesive dot matrix pattern;

[0037]FIG. 20A is a cross-section view of a first example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment;

[0038]FIG. 20B is a cross-section view of a second example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment;

[0039]FIG. 20C is a cross-section view of a third example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment;

[0040]FIG. 20D is a cross-section view of a fourth example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment;

[0041]FIG. 20E is a cross-section view of a fifth example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment;

[0042]FIG. 20F is a cross-section view of a sixth example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment;

[0043]FIG. 20G is a cross-section view of a seventh example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment;

[0044]FIG. 20H is a cross-section view of an eighth example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment;

[0045]FIG. 20I is a cross-section view of a ninth example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment;

[0046]FIG. 21 is a front view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment with a front panel pocket;

[0047]FIG. 22 is a side view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment with a side panel pocket;

[0048]FIG. 23 is a rear view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment;

[0049]FIG. 24 is an exploded view of the example embodiment of a breast support garment with a front panel pocket;

[0050]FIG. 25 is a representative view of the example embodiment of a breast support garment with a front panel pocket showing a water bottle being inserted into the front panel pocket;

[0051]FIG. 26 is a representative view of the example embodiment of a breast support garment with a front panel pocket showing the water bottle secured within the front panel pocket;

[0052]FIG. 27 is an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of a breast support garment with a front panel pocket attached using an adhesive dot matrix pattern;

[0053]FIG. 28 is a cross-section view of the alternate embodiment of a breast support garment with a front panel pocket of FIG. 27;

[0054]FIG. 29 is a front view of another example embodiment of a breast support garment with a full size front panel pocket;

[0055]FIG. 30 is a rear view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment with a rear panel pocket;

[0056]FIG. 31 is an exploded view of the example embodiment of a breast support garment with a full size front panel pocket of FIG. 29;

[0057]FIG. 32 is a representative view of the example embodiment of a breast support garment of FIG. 29 with one or more items in the full size front panel pocket;

[0058]FIG. 33 is an exploded view of the example embodiment of a breast support garment with a rear panel pocket of FIG. 30;

[0059]FIG. 34 is a representative view of the example embodiment of a breast support garment of FIG. 30 with an ice pack in the rear panel pocket;

[0060]FIG. 35 is a schematic view of a first example embodiment of a tension element for a breast support garment;

[0061]FIG. 36 is a schematic view of a second example embodiment of a tension element for a breast support garment;

[0062]FIG. 37 is a schematic view of a third example embodiment of a tension element for a breast support garment;

[0063]FIG. 38 is an exploded view of the breast support garment of FIG. 37 including the third embodiment of a tension element;

[0064]FIG. 39 is a schematic plan view of an example embodiment of an adhesive dot matrix pattern for the third embodiment of a tension element of FIG. 37;

[0065]FIG. 40 is a front view of another example embodiment of a breast support garment including a fourth example embodiment of a tension element;

[0066]FIG. 41 is an exploded view of the example embodiment of a breast support garment of FIG. 40;

[0067]FIG. 42 is a schematic view of the fourth example embodiment of a tension element isolated from the breast support garment of FIG. 40;

[0068]FIG. 43 is an enlarged view of a side of the breast support garment of FIG. 40 illustrating forces applied to the fourth example embodiment of a tension element;

[0069]FIG. 44 is an enlarged view of a pocket pull tab associated with the example embodiment of a breast support garment of FIG. 40;

[0070]FIG. 45 is a representative view of a pocket pull tab being used to help open a pocket in a breast support garment;

[0071]FIG. 46 is a front view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment with a front pocket for holding nipple covers;

[0072]FIG. 47 is an exploded view of the example embodiment of the breast support garment of FIG. 46;

[0073]FIG. 48 is a representative view of a first example embodiment of an opening for inserting the nipple covers into the breast support garment of FIG. 46; and

[0074]FIG. 49 is a representative view of a second example embodiment of openings for inserting the nipple covers into the breast support garment of FIG. 46.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0075]Fabric articles including breast support garments having an engineered support structure are described herein. The techniques of the present embodiments provide a support garment that distributes pressure in a way that is comfortable for the wearer while also effectively managing and reducing movement and acceleration of the wearer's breast tissue. In some aspects, the breast support garment of the present embodiments provides an engineered support structure having varied zones of support throughout areas of garment to allow for support of breast tissue and management of breast movement. In other aspects, the breast support garment of the present embodiments incorporates one or more layers of a spacer fabric for additional support and comfort. In still other aspects, the breast support garment of the present embodiments provides a built-in pocket reinforced by an engineered support structure to prevent or reduce sagging and bunching.

[0076]In the following description, details are set forth to provide an understanding of the application. In some instances, certain structures, techniques, and methods have not been described or shown in detail in order not to obscure the application. In the context of the present disclosure, various terms are used in accordance with what is understood to be the ordinary meaning of those terms.

[0077]For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are employed throughout this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. It will be understood that each of these directional adjectives may be applied to garments or articles of clothing, as well as individual components of the article of clothing or garment. Directional terms such as “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “back”, “upper”, “lower”, “outer” and “inner” are used in the following description for the purpose of providing relative reference only, and are not intended to suggest any limitations on how any article or garment is to be positioned during use, or to be mounted in an assembly or relative to an environment. The use of the word “a” or “an” when used herein in conjunction with the term “comprising” may mean “one”, but it is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more”, “at least one” and “one or more than one”. Any element expressed in the singular form also encompasses its plural form. Any element expressed in the plural form also encompasses its singular form. The term “plurality” as used herein means more than one, for example, two or more, three or more, four or more, and the like.

[0078]In accordance with the techniques described herein, embodiments of a breast support garment with an engineered support structure are provided. FIGS. 1-201 illustrate embodiments of a breast support garment including a spacer fabric. FIGS. 21-39 illustrate embodiments of a breast support garment having a built-in pocket. It should be understood that other embodiments of a breast support garment including the engineered support structure and/or the built-in pocket described herein may be provided. It should also be understood that the techniques described herein may be applied to other fabric articles, such as footwear uppers, shirts, pants, leggings, and other types of garments.

[0079]Referring now to FIG. 1, a front view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment 100 is shown. In an example embodiment, breast support garment 100 may include a front portion 102 for covering at least a portion of a chest area of a wearer. In some embodiments, front portion 102 extends between a first side 104 and a second side 106 of breast support garment 100. In an example embodiment, front portion 102 of breast support garment 100 includes a front portion outer face 108 that forms an outer surface of breast support garment 100 extending away from the chest area of the wearer.

[0080]In this embodiment, breast support garment 100 includes a pair of shoulder straps, including a first strap 110 and a second strap 112. First strap 110 and second strap 112 are configured to extend over the shoulders of a wearer of breast support garment 100. In an example embodiment, front portion 102 of breast support garment 100 extends from a top edge 114 to a bottom edge 116. Top edge 114 may form a neckline that extends from above and between the breasts of a wearer. Bottom edge 116 may form an under band that extends beneath the breasts of a wearer. Additionally, in some embodiments, front portion 102 of breast support garment 100 may also include a pair of breast cups, including a first breast cup 118 and a second breast cup 120, that are configured to receive breasts of the wearer. In one embodiment, first breast cup 118 and second breast cup 120 on front portion 102 of breast support garment 100 may be molded into the material forming front portion 102. For the purposes of this application, it should be understood to persons skilled in the art that the first breast cup 118 and the second breast cup 120 on front portion 102 of breast support garment 100 may be molded as individual first and second cups, or the first breast cup 118 and the second breast cup 120 on front portion 102 of breast support garment 100 may be molded as a single full panel cup where the first cup and the second cup are molded together in a single piece.

[0081]Referring now to FIG. 2, a rear view of breast support garment 100 is shown. In an example embodiment, breast support garment 100 may include a rear portion 200 for covering at least a portion of a back area of a wearer. Rear portion 200 of breast support garment 100 is joined with and attached to front portion 102 along each of first side 104 and second side 106. In an example embodiment, rear portion 200 may be formed by a continuous back band section 202 that extends from each side of breast support garment 100 and encircles a torso of the wearer. In other embodiments, rear portion 200 may be formed by a pair of separate back band sections that extend from each side of breast support garment 100 and join together using a closure system to wrap around the back area of the wearer.

[0082]In some embodiments, rear portion 200 of breast support garment 100 may include back straps that attach or join with the shoulder straps of front portion 102 at one end and attach or join with back band section 202 at the opposite end. In an example embodiment, rear portion 200 of breast support garment 100 includes a pair of back straps, including a first back strap 204 that is joined with first shoulder strap 110 at one end and extends in a diagonal direction to join with back band section 202 on the opposite end from first shoulder strap 110 and a second back strap 206 that is joined with second shoulder strap 112 at one end and extends in a diagonal direction to join with back band section 202 on the opposite end from second shoulder strap 112.

[0083]Rear portion 200 of breast support garment 100 also includes a top middle edge 208 that is disposed between first back strap 204 and second back strap 206 of back band section 202. In this embodiment, top middle edge 208 is approximately v-shaped and follows along with the diagonal direction of first back strap 204 and second back strap 206. Rear portion 200 also includes a top first side edge 210 extending from first back strap 204 towards first side 104 and a top second side edge 212 extending from second back strap 206 towards second side 106. Additionally, back band section 202 includes a bottom edge 214 that extends continuously around the back area of the wearer and joins with bottom edge 116 of front portion 102.

[0084]Referring now to FIG. 3, an exploded view of breast support garment 100 is shown. In some embodiments, breast support garment 100 may include multiple layers, including an outer layer 300, a liner layer 310, and a spacer fabric layer 320. In this embodiment, outer layer 300 is configured to face outwards and away from the wearer and spacer fabric layer 320 is configured to face towards the chest area of a wearer of breast support garment 100. Liner layer 310 is configured to be located between outer layer 300 and spacer fabric layer 320. In one embodiment, spacer fabric layer 320 may be directly in contact with the skin of the wearer of breast support garment 100.

[0085]Each layer of breast support garment 100 may be made from a separate fabric or textile. In an example embodiment, the fabrics or textiles forming outer layer 300 and/or liner layer 310 may have 4-way stretch capabilities, wicking properties, and quick drying characteristics. In one embodiment, outer layer 300 and liner layer 310 may be made from a knit textile. In some cases, the fabric or textile of outer layer 300 may be different from liner layer 310. For example, outer layer 300 may be made from a knit textile that has a greater amount or percentage of stretchable fibers or yarns (e.g., elastane or similar fibers/yarns) than liner layer 310. In other cases, the fabric or textile of outer layer 300 may be the same as liner layer 310. In still other cases, outer layer 300 and liner layer 310 may be made from any type or kind of fabric or textile, including combinations of textiles and/or fabrics.

[0086]In an example embodiment, spacer fabric layer 320 may be made from a spacer fabric. In general, a spacer fabric is a three-dimensional manufactured textile structure in which two outer fabric layers are connected by a layer of spacer yarns or pile threads. Because of the layer of these spacer yarns, a defined distance is established between the two outer fabric layers to form the three-dimensional structure. In comparison with conventional textiles which generally exhibit a two-dimensional arrangement (e.g., length and width), spacer fabrics also have a thickness defined by the spacer yarns so as to exhibit a three-dimensional arrangement. Due to the 3D structure, spacer fabric is breathable, provides cushioning, and a multi-faced fabric. Spacer fabrics can be manufactured via different textile manufacturing techniques including weaving and knitting.

[0087]In an example embodiment, outer layer 300 of front portion 102 of breast support garment 100 includes a front portion inner face 304 facing towards the chest area of the wearer opposite from front portion outer face 108. That is, front portion inner face 304 of outer layer 300 faces towards a first face 312 of liner layer 310 when liner layer 310 and outer layer 300 are joined together to form breast support garment 100. Liner layer 310 also includes a second face 314 opposite first face 312 that faces towards a first face 322 of spacer fabric layer 320. Spacer fabric layer 320 further includes a second face 324 opposite first face 322 that faces towards the chest area of the wearer when breast support garment 100 is worn.

[0088]Referring now to FIG. 4, an exploded view of an alternate arrangement of the layers of breast support garment 100 is shown. In this embodiment, outer layer 300 is configured to face outwards and away from the wearer and liner layer 310 is configured to face towards the chest area of a wearer of breast support garment 100. Spacer fabric layer 320 is configured to be located between outer layer 300 and liner layer 310. In one embodiment, liner layer 310 may be directly in contact with the skin of the wearer of breast support garment 100.

[0089]In this embodiment, front portion inner face 304 of outer layer 300 faces towards first face 322 of spacer fabric layer 320 when spacer fabric layer 320 and outer layer 300 are joined together to form breast support garment 100. Second face 324 of spacer fabric layer 320 faces towards first face 312 of liner layer 310 and second face 314 of liner layer 310 faces towards the chest area of the wearer when breast support garment 100 is worn. The arrangement of breast support garment 100 shown in FIG. 4 has liner layer 310 directly adjacent to the skin of the wearer as compared to the arrangement shown in FIG. 3 where spacer fabric layer 320 is directly adjacent to the skin of the wearer.

[0090]According to the techniques of the present embodiments, a support garment, including breast support garment 100, may be provided with an engineered support structure that allows the garment to have zones of varying support (i.e., stretch resistance) in different areas of the garment. In some embodiments, the engineered support structure may be formed by selectively applying drops or dots of adhesive in between the layers of the garment in different patterns to create the zones of varying support. When the layers of the garment are joined, the patterns of adhesive allow the garment to stretch to varying degrees or amounts, depending on the separation distance between the drops or dots of adhesive forming each zone. With this arrangement, a garment with an engineered support structure that provides zones of varying support to breast tissue and management of breast movement may be formed.

[0091]Referring now to FIG. 5, a process 500 for forming an engineered support structure on breast support garment 100 is shown. In some embodiments, process 500 may be implemented using a glue or adhesive deposition printer that allows individual drops or dots of glue or adhesive to be deposited directly onto a surface of a fabric, such as breast support garment 100, in a predetermined pattern. In this embodiment, process 500 is implemented by an adhesive deposition printer 502 having a nozzle 504 that deposits a droplet or dot 506 of glue or adhesive at specific locations on second face 314 of liner layer 310. The printer 502 can be pre-programmed to apply a pre-determined pattern of adhesive dots to the breast support garment 100. In an example embodiment, each droplet or dot 506 of glue or adhesive may have a predetermined volume. For example, droplet or dot 506 of glue or adhesive may have a volume of approximately 0.5 cubic millimeters. In other embodiments, the volume of each droplet or dot may vary. Additionally, in some embodiments, the size or volume of each droplet or dot 506 of glue or adhesive may be varied as described below to change or modify a support level of areas of the garment where the adhesive dots are applied.

[0092]As shown in FIG. 5, printer 502 has deposited a plurality of adhesive dots 508 in a specific pattern on second face 314 of liner layer 310 on front portion 102 of breast support garment 100 in an area following along a contour of first breast cup 118. Each adhesive dot of plurality of adhesive dots 508 is spaced apart by a separation distance that may vary in different areas of breast support garment 100 to provide an engineered support structure that has zones of varying levels of support (i.e., different levels of stretch resistance). Process 500 may continue by using printer 502 to cover all, substantially all, or a majority of front portion 102 with adhesive dots with varying separation distances to form the engineered support structure with different zones of support.

[0093]In one implementation of process 500, once process 500 has been completed (e.g., printer 502 has deposited plurality of adhesive dots 508 according to a predetermined dot matrix pattern), the layers of breast support garment 100 may be joined together by aligning and bringing together the opposing faces of the respective layers together to form breast support garment 100. It should be understood that the adhesive dot matrix pattern may be applied to different faces of the various layers in one or more implementations of process 500. For example, as shown here, second face 314 of liner layer 310 may be joined with first face 322 of spacer fabric layer 320 such that the adhesive dot matrix pattern is deposited between liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320 to form breast support garment 100 (as shown in FIG. 3). Outer layer 300 may then be layered over first face 312 of liner layer 310 and attached using conventional attachment mechanisms, such as stitching or bonding along the edges, to join outer layer 300 to liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320.

[0094]In another implementation, process 500 may be used to deposit the adhesive dot matrix pattern including plurality of adhesive dots 508 on second face 324 of spacer fabric layer 320. First face 312 of liner layer 310 may then be brought together with second face 324 of spacer fabric layer 320 such that the adhesive dot matrix pattern is deposited between the opposing faces (e.g., 324, 312) of liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320 to form breast support garment 100 (as shown in FIG. 4). Outer layer 300 may then be layered over first face 322 of spacer fabric layer 320 and attached using conventional attachment mechanisms, such as stitching or bonding along the edges, to join outer layer 300 to liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320.

[0095]In other implementations, each droplet or dot 506 of an adhesive dot matrix pattern can be deposited on either side of face of either layer of the two layers that are to be joined together by the adhesive dot matrix pattern. That is, for example, in the implementation of breast support garment 100 shown in FIG. 3 where the adhesive dot matrix pattern is located between liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320, process 500 may be used to apply the adhesive dot matrix pattern to second face 314 of liner layer 310 or first face 322 of spacer fabric layer 320. In another example, in the implementation of breast support garment 100 shown in FIG. 4 where the adhesive dox matrix pattern is located between spacer fabric layer 320 and liner layer 310, process 500 may be used to apply the adhesive dot matrix pattern to second face 324 of spacer fabric layer 320 or first face 312 of liner layer 310. It should be understood that the same principles apply to the various embodiments and implementations of breast support garments described herein so that where an adhesive dot matrix pattern is disposed between two layers, the adhesive dot matrix pattern may be applied to either or both of the two opposing faces.

[0096]The adhesive dots (e.g., plurality of adhesive dots 508) arranged in the dot matrix pattern bonds together the two layers (e.g., spacer layer 320 and liner layer 310) at the locations corresponding to the pattern of the drops or dots of adhesive to form the engineered support structure between spacer layer 320 and liner layer 310. At the locations where the adhesive is present, spacer layer 320 and liner layer 310 are bonded to each other and relative movement of the layers at that location is constrained, thereby limiting stretch. By varying the separation distance between the discrete drops or dots of adhesive that bonds the two layers, the amount or degree of stretch resistance may be correspondingly varied. That is, in areas where the separation distance between the drops or dots of adhesive is smaller (i.e., the drops or dots of adhesive are spaced closer together), the stretch resistance will be greater (i.e., permitting less stretching) in these areas to provide a greater amount of support. Conversely, in areas where the separation distance between the drops or dots of adhesive is larger (i.e., the drops or dots of adhesive are spaced farther apart), the stretch resistance will be less (i.e., permitting more stretching) in these areas to provide a lesser amount of support.

[0097]Additionally, in some embodiments, the amount or degree of stretch resistance may also be varied by changing a size or volume of the adhesive dots forming the adhesive dot matrix pattern. For example, by using adhesive dots of a first size that are larger than adhesive dots of a second size, the larger sized adhesive dots bond more material of the opposing layers together, thereby permitting less stretch in those areas where the adhesive dot size is larger than in the areas where the adhesive dot size is smaller. In still other embodiments, the engineered support structure may utilize variations in separation distance and adhesive dot size to change the level of support (e.g., stretch resistance) in different areas of breast support garment 100.

[0098]In one embodiment, each droplet or dot 506 of an adhesive dot matrix pattern may have a round or circular shape, for example, as shown in FIG. 5. In other embodiments, the shape or configuration of each droplet or dot of an adhesive dot matrix pattern may be different, including, but not limited to ovals, lines, dashes, and other regular or irregular shapes. In some cases, an adhesive dot matrix pattern may include droplets or dots having the same shape or configuration. In other cases, an adhesive dot matrix pattern may include droplets or dots of varying shapes and configurations throughout the pattern.

[0099]Referring now to FIG. 6, an example embodiment of a first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 is shown for forming an engineered support structure for breast support garment 100. In this embodiment, adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 includes four levels of adhesive dot density (e.g., associated with varying separation distances and/or adhesive dot sizes) arranged in different areas of breast support garment 100 to provide zones having different levels of support.

[0100]As shown in FIG. 6, adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 includes a first adhesive dot density 602 that is associated with a low adhesive dot density having a largest separation distance and/or a smallest adhesive dot size to provide a smallest level of support. That is, first adhesive dot density 602 bonds the opposite layers (e.g., liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320 as shown in FIG. 3 or FIG. 4) such that the areas of breast support garment 100 having first adhesive dot density 602 provide the least stretch resistance. In this embodiment, first adhesive dot density 602 may be used in at least a portion of first breast cup 118 and second breast cup 120, areas along a portion of top edge 114, and areas extending into first shoulder strap 110 and second shoulder strap 112.

[0101]Adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 also includes a second adhesive dot density 604 that is associated with a low-medium adhesive dot density having a separation distance that is smaller than the separation distance of first adhesive dot density 602 (and/or an adhesive dot size that is larger than the adhesive dot size of first adhesive dot density 602) to provide a level of support that is greater than the level of support provided by first adhesive dot density 602. That is, second adhesive dot density 604 bonds the opposite layers (e.g., liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320 as shown in FIG. 3 or FIG. 4) such that the areas of breast support garment 100 having second adhesive dot density 604 provide an amount or degree of stretch resistance that is greater than the amount or degree of stretch resistance provided by first adhesive dot density 602.

[0102]In this embodiment, second adhesive dot density 604 may be used in at least an area beneath the center portion of first breast cup 118 and second breast cup 120 extending around a lower area of first adhesive dot density 602. Second adhesive dot density 604 may also be used in at least areas of first shoulder strap 110 and second shoulder strap 112 above the areas where first adhesive dot density 602 is located.

[0103]Adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 further includes a third adhesive dot density 606 that is associated with a medium adhesive dot density having a separation distance that is smaller than the separation distance of second adhesive dot density 604 and first adhesive dot density 602 (and/or an adhesive dot size that is larger than the adhesive dot size of second adhesive dot density 604 and first adhesive dot density 602) to provide a level of support that is greater than the level of support provided by second adhesive dot density 604 and first adhesive dot density 602. That is, third adhesive dot density 606 bonds the opposite layers (e.g., liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320 as shown in FIG. 3 or FIG. 4) such that the areas of breast support garment 100 having third adhesive dot density 606 provide an amount or degree of stretch resistance that is greater than the amount or degree of stretch resistance provided by second adhesive dot density 604 and first adhesive dot density 602.

[0104]In this embodiment, third adhesive dot density 606 may be used in at least an area beneath the center portion of first breast cup 118 and second breast cup 120 extending around a periphery of the area of second adhesive dot density 604 and first adhesive dot density 602. Third adhesive dot density 606 may also be used in at least areas of first shoulder strap 110 and second shoulder strap 112 above the areas where second adhesive dot density 604 and first adhesive dot density 602 is located.

[0105]In this embodiment, adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 also includes a fourth adhesive dot density 608 that is associated with a high adhesive dot density having a separation distance that is smaller than the separation distance of third adhesive dot density 606, second adhesive dot density 604, and first adhesive dot density 602 (and/or an adhesive dot size that is larger than the adhesive dot size of third adhesive dot density 606, second adhesive dot density 604, and first adhesive dot density 602) to provide a level of support that is greater than the level of support provided by third adhesive dot density 606, second adhesive dot density 604, and first adhesive dot density 602. That is, fourth adhesive dot density 608 bonds the opposite layers (e.g., liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320 as shown in FIG. 3 or FIG. 4) such that the areas of breast support garment 100 having fourth adhesive dot density 608 provide an amount or degree of stretch resistance that is greater than the amount or degree of stretch resistance provided by third adhesive dot density 606, second adhesive dot density 604, and first adhesive dot density 602.

[0106]In this embodiment, fourth adhesive dot density 608 may be used in at least an area extending around the bottom and sides of first breast cup 118 and second breast cup 120 extending around the periphery of the areas of third adhesive dot density 606, second adhesive dot density 604, and first adhesive dot density 602, such that fourth adhesive dot density 608 is positioned along a bottom portion of the breast tissue of each of the wearer's breasts when breast support garment 100 is worn. Fourth adhesive dot density 608 may also extend upwards along each of first side 104 and second side 106. Additionally, fourth adhesive dot density 608 may be used in areas along a periphery of bottom edge 116 and at areas near the top of first shoulder strap 110 and second shoulder strap 112. With this arrangement, adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 forms an engineered support structure between liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320 of breast support garment 100.

[0107]FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate exemplary cross-section views of the implementations of breast support garment 100 shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, respectively. Referring to FIG. 7A, in this embodiment, the layers of breast support garment 100 include outer layer 300, liner layer 310, and spacer fabric layer 320 with first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 located between liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320. In this embodiment, outer face 108 of outer layer 300 faces outwards away from the wearer of breast support garment 100 and second face 324 of spacer fabric layer 320 is configured to contact or be adjacent to the skin of the wearer. As shown in FIG. 7A, first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 bonds or joins second face 314 of liner layer 310 with first face 322 of spacer fabric layer 320. As described above, in some cases, process 500 may be used to apply first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 to second face 314 of liner layer 310 or first face 322 of spacer fabric layer 320.

[0108]Referring to FIG. 7B, in this embodiment, the layers of breast support garment 100 include outer layer 300, spacer fabric layer 320, and liner layer 310, with first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 located between spacer fabric layer 320 and liner layer 310. In this embodiment, outer face 108 of outer layer 300 faces outwards away from the wearer of breast support garment 100 and second face 314 of liner layer 310 is configured to contact or be adjacent to the skin of the wearer. As shown in FIG. 7B, first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 bonds or joins second face 324 of spacer fabric layer 320 with first face 312 of liner layer 310. As described above, in some cases, process 500 may be used to apply first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 to second face 324 of spacer fabric layer 320 or first face 312 of liner layer 310.

[0109]As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, compared with the two-dimensional configuration of outer layer 300 and liner layer 310, spacer fabric layer 320 has a three-dimensional configuration defined by a thickness between first face 322 and second face 324. In an example embodiment, the thickness of spacer fabric layer 320 may be between 1 mm-2 mm. In other embodiments, the thickness of spacer fabric layer 320 may be from 1 mm up to 5 mm. It should be understood that in various implementations of a breast support garment, including breast support garment 100 and other embodiments described herein, the thickness of a spacer fabric layer may vary to be larger or smaller. In still other embodiments, a spacer fabric layer may have a variable thickness across one or more portions of the spacer fabric. For example, as shown in FIGS. 20D-20F, and 201, described below, a portion of the spacer fabric layer near the edge has a tapered thickness that decreases in thickness as it reaches the edge.

[0110]Referring now to FIG. 8, an enlarged view of adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 on a portion of breast support garment 100 is shown. In this embodiment, adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 provides an engineered support structure having a gradual supporting profile 800 across a portion of breast support garment 100 that includes first breast cup 118 (the portion of breast support garment 100 on the opposite side that includes second breast cup 120 may have a similar arrangement). In an example embodiment, a support level of gradual supporting profile 800 decreases as it extends into areas of breast support garment 100 covering the wearer's breast such that the density of adhesive dots in adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 gradually decreases from areas around the bottom and outside of each breast towards the areas of the garment covering the wearer's breast.

[0111]For example, as shown in FIG. 8, adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 has gradual supporting profile 800 across first breast cup 118 that includes a first zone 802 with fourth adhesive dot density 608 having a first level of support, a second zone 804 with third adhesive dot density 606 having a second level of support, a third zone 806 with second adhesive dot density 604 having a third level of support, and a fourth zone 808 with first adhesive dot density 602 having a fourth level of support. The corresponding levels of support of each zone decrease as gradual supporting profile 800 moves inward from the bottom area of first breast cup 118 towards the center portion of first breast cup 118. That is, the first level of support of first zone 802 (associated with fourth adhesive dot density 608) is greater than the second level of support of second zone 804 (associated with third adhesive dot density 606). Second level of support of second zone 804 is greater than the third level of support of third zone 806 (associated with second adhesive dot density 604) and third level of support of third zone 806 is greater than the fourth level of support of fourth zone 808 (associated with first adhesive dot density 602). With this arrangement, the support level of gradual supporting profile 800 decreases as it extends into areas of breast support garment 100 covering the wearer's breast such that density of adhesive dots in adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 gradually decreases from areas below each breast towards the areas of breast support garment 100 covering the wearer's breast.

[0112]As seen in FIG. 8, a close up view of first breast cup 118 of breast support garment 100 illustrates the varying separation distances between the adjacent adhesive dots in each zone associated with different adhesive dot densities of adhesive dot matrix pattern 600. In this embodiment, the adjacent adhesive dots of first adhesive dot density 602 are separated by a first separation distance D1. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, a first adhesive dot 810 and a second adhesive dot 812 in a zone having first adhesive dot density 602 are spaced apart from each other by first separation distance D1. The adjacent adhesive dots of second adhesive dot density 604 are separated by a second separation distance D2 that is smaller than first separation distance D1. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, a third adhesive dot 814 and a fourth adhesive dot 816 in a zone having second adhesive dot density 604 are spaced apart from each other by second separation distance D2. The adjacent adhesive dots of third adhesive dot density 606 are separated by a third separation distance D3 that is smaller than first separation distance D1 and second separation distance D2. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, a fifth adhesive dot 818 and a sixth adhesive dot 820 in a zone having third adhesive dot density 606 are spaced apart from each other by third separation distance D3.

[0113]In an example embodiment, the separation distances of the adjacent adhesive dots of each zone decrease from the center portion of first breast cup 118 outwards such that first separation distance D1 is greater than second separation distance D2 and third separation distance D3 and second separation distance D2 is greater than third separation distance D3. In one embodiment, first separation distance D1 is approximately 4 millimeters (mm), second separation distance D2 is approximately 2 mm, and third separation distance D3 is approximately 1 mm. In other embodiments, the specific separation distances may vary. The same variation in adjacent adhesive dot separation distances may also be applied in different directions. For example, the same effect may be achieved by changing the separation distances between the adjacent adhesive dots in a direction following along a curve of the different zones, (e.g., the adjacent adhesive dots along each curve have the same separation distance in the zone having first adhesive dot density 602 and are further separated from the neighboring adhesive dots in adjacent zones having the same separation distance in the zone having second adhesive dot density 604).

[0114]Additionally, in some embodiments, a zone having fourth adhesive dot density 608 may extend around portions of the zones having first adhesive dot density 602, second adhesive dot density 604, and third adhesive dot density 606 at portions of first breast cup 118. In an example embodiment, the separation distances of the adhesive dots in the zone having fourth adhesive dot density 608 may be smaller than each of first separation distance D1, second separation distance D2, and third separation distance D3. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the separation distances between the adhesive dots in the zone having fourth adhesive dot density 608 may be approximately 0.5 mm.

[0115]With this arrangement, the areas of breast support garment 100 having zones with an adhesive dot density that has a larger separation distance between the adhesive dots provides a lower amount or degree of stretch resistance (e.g., allowing more stretch) than the areas of breast support garment 100 having zones with an adhesive dot density that has a smaller separation distance between the adhesive dots provides a higher amount or degree of stretch resistance (e.g., allowing less stretch). That is, as shown in FIG. 8, the zone of first breast cup 118 having first adhesive dot density 602 associated with first separation distance D1 provides less support and allows more stretch than the zones having second adhesive dot density 604 associated with second separation distance D2 and third adhesive dot density 606 associated with third separation distance D3. The zone of first breast cup 118 having second adhesive dot density 602 associated with second separation distance D2 provides more support and allows less stretch than the zone having first adhesive dot density 602, but provides less support and allows more stretch than the zone having third adhesive dot density 606 associated with third separation distance D3. With this arrangement, areas of breast support garment 100 may be provided with an engineered support structure having varying levels of support determined by the specific adhesive dot matrix pattern applied between the layers of breast support garment 100 (e.g., liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320 as shown in FIG. 3 or FIG. 4).

[0116]In some embodiments, the adhesive dots of the adhesive dot matrix pattern forming the engineered support structure of breast support garment 100 may infiltrate or permeate into the fabric or textile forming the opposite layers of breast support garment 100 to join or bond the opposing faces together. FIG. 9 illustrates outer layer 300, liner layer 310, and spacer fabric layer 320 of breast support garment 100, liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320 joined or bonded together with a plurality of adhesive dots 900 arranged according to first adhesive dot matrix pattern 600 having first adhesive dot density 602, second adhesive dot density 604, and third adhesive dot density 606, as described above. In an example embodiment, outer layer 300 includes front portion outer face 108 that forms an outer surface of breast support garment 100 and second face 324 of spacer fabric layer 320 faces towards the chest area of the wearer when breast support garment 100 is worn.

[0117]As shown in FIG. 9, plurality of adhesive dots 900 are bonded or attached to the opposite faces of liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320. In this embodiment, plurality of adhesive dots 900 are directly bonded between second face 314 of liner layer 310 and first face 322 of spacer fabric layer 320. That is, plurality of adhesive dots 900 are arranged in thin layers between opposite faces of liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320. With this arrangement, plurality of adhesive dots 900 form the engineered support structure between liner layer 310 and spacer fabric layer 320 of breast support garment 100.

[0118]In some embodiments, different engineered support structures providing zones having varying levels of support to a breast support garment may be provided by using different adhesive dot matrix patterns applied between one or more layers of the breast support garment. FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate some alternate embodiments of adhesive dot matrix patterns that provide zones of varying levels of support to areas of a breast support garment, such as the embodiments of breast support garments shown in FIGS. 12 through 19. Other adhesive dot matrix patterns may also be provided according to the techniques described herein. Other embodiments of breast support garments using various adhesive dot matrix patterns may also be formed according to the techniques described herein.

[0119]Referring now to FIG. 10, an example embodiment of a second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 is shown for forming an engineered support structure for a breast support garment, including breast support garment 100 and/or other implementations of breast support garments formed using the techniques described herein. In this embodiment, second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 includes four levels of adhesive dot density (e.g., associated with varying separation distances and/or adhesive dot sizes) arranged in different areas of a breast support garment to provide zones having different levels of support. As shown in FIG. 10, second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 includes a first adhesive dot density 1002 that is associated with a low adhesive dot density having a large separation distance and/or a small adhesive dot size to provide a small level of support. In this embodiment, first adhesive dot density 1002 may be used in at least a top portion of a first breast cup 1018 and a second breast cup 1020 and extending along an area following the contour of a top edge 1014.

[0120]Second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 also includes a second adhesive dot density 1004 that is associated with a medium adhesive dot density having a separation distance that is smaller than the separation distance of first adhesive dot density 1002 (and/or an adhesive dot size that is larger than the adhesive dot size of first adhesive dot density 1002) to provide a level of support that is greater than the level of support provided by first adhesive dot density 1002. In this embodiment, second adhesive dot density 1004 may be used in at least an area beneath the top portion of first breast cup 1018 and second breast cup 1020 extending along a portion of the area of first adhesive dot density 1002.

[0121]Second adhesive dot density 1004 may also be used at areas along the sides of the breast support garment, including a first side portion 1022 and a second side portion 1024. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, second adhesive dot density 1004 extends approximately through a center area of first side portion 1022 and second side portion 1024.

[0122]Second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 further includes a third adhesive dot density 1006 that is associated with a medium-high adhesive dot density having a separation distance that is smaller than the separation distance of second adhesive dot density 1004 and first adhesive dot density 1002 (and/or an adhesive dot size that is larger than the adhesive dot size of second adhesive dot density 1004 and first adhesive dot density 1002) to provide a level of support that is greater than the level of support provided by second adhesive dot density 1004 and first adhesive dot density 1002. In this embodiment, third adhesive dot density 1006 may be used in at least an area of first breast cup 1018 and second breast cup 1020 beneath the area of second adhesive dot density 1004 and first adhesive dot density 1002. Third adhesive dot density 1006 may also be used in areas along the sides of the breast support garment, including first side portion 1022 and second side portion 1024. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, third adhesive dot density 1006 extends approximately along a top and bottom of first side portion 1022 and second side portion 1024 to be above and below the center area of second adhesive dot density 1004.

[0123]In this embodiment, second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 also includes a fourth adhesive dot density 1008 that is associated with a highest adhesive dot density having a separation distance that is smaller than the separation distance of third adhesive dot density 1006, second adhesive dot density 1004, and first adhesive dot density 1002 (and/or an adhesive dot size that is larger than the adhesive dot size of third adhesive dot density 1006, second adhesive dot density 1004, and first adhesive dot density 1002) to provide a level of support that is more than the level of support provided by third adhesive dot density 1006, second adhesive dot density 1004, and first adhesive dot density 1002.

[0124]In this embodiment, fourth adhesive dot density 1008 may be used in at least areas beneath first breast cup 1018 and second breast cup 1020 and along portions of a bottom edge 1016. As shown in FIG. 10, fourth adhesive dot density 1008 also extends between first breast cup 1018 and second breast cup 1020. With this arrangement, second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 forms an engineered support structure between layers of the breast support garment.

[0125]In an example embodiment, the separation distances of the adhesive dots of each area of different adhesive dot densities 1002, 1004, 1006, 1008 decrease from the top portion of each of first breast cup 1018 and second breast cup 1020 downwards through each area. In one embodiment, the separation distance of the adhesive dots in the areas having first adhesive dot density 1002 is approximately 4 mm, the separation distance of the adhesive dots in the areas having second adhesive dot density 1004 is approximately 3 mm, the separation distance of the adhesive dots in the areas having third adhesive dot density 1006 is approximately 2 mm, and the separation distance of the adhesive dots in the areas having fourth adhesive dot density 1008 is approximately 1 mm. In other embodiments, the specific separation distances may vary.

[0126]Referring now to FIG. 11, an example embodiment of a third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 is shown for forming an engineered support structure for a breast support garment. In this embodiment, third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 includes four levels of adhesive dot density (e.g., associated with varying separation distances and/or adhesive dot sizes) arranged in different areas of the breast support garment to provide zones having different levels of support. As shown in FIG. 11, third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 includes a first adhesive dot density 1102 that is associated with a low adhesive dot density having a large separation distance and/or a small adhesive dot size to provide a small level of support. In this embodiment, first adhesive dot density 1102 may be used in at least a top portion of a first breast cup 1118 and a second breast cup 1120 and extending along an area following the contour adjacent to a top edge 1114.

[0127]Third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 also includes a second adhesive dot density 1104 that is associated with a medium adhesive dot density having a separation distance that is smaller than the separation distance of first adhesive dot density 1102 (and/or an adhesive dot size that is larger than the adhesive dot size of first adhesive dot density 1102) to provide a level of support that is greater than the level of support provided by first adhesive dot density 1102. In this embodiment, second adhesive dot density 1104 may be used in at least an area beneath the top portion of first breast cup 1118 and second breast cup 1120 extending along a portion of the area of first adhesive dot density 1102.

[0128]Second adhesive dot density 1104 may also be used at areas along the sides of the breast support garment, including a first side portion 1122 and a second side portion 1124. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, second adhesive dot density 1104 extends approximately through a center area of first side portion 1122 and second side portion 1124.

[0129]Third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 further includes a third adhesive dot density 1106 that is associated with a medium-high adhesive dot density having a separation distance that is smaller than the separation distance of second adhesive dot density 1104 and first adhesive dot density 1102 (and/or an adhesive dot size that is larger than the adhesive dot size of second adhesive dot density 1104 and first adhesive dot density 1102) to provide a level of support that is greater than the level of support provided by second adhesive dot density 1104 and first adhesive dot density 1102. In this embodiment, third adhesive dot density 1106 may be used in at least an area of first breast cup 1118 and second breast cup 1120 beneath the area of second adhesive dot density 1104 and first adhesive dot density 1102. In this embodiment, third adhesive dot density 1106 also extends along a periphery of a first side edge 1126 and a second side edge 1128 as well along a periphery of top edge 1114. As shown in FIG. 11, third adhesive dot density 1106 extends above first adhesive dot density 1102 at the top portion of first breast cup 1118 and second breast cup 1120 along the periphery of top edge 1114.

[0130]Third adhesive dot density 1106 may also be used in areas along the sides of the breast support garment, including first side portion 1122 and second side portion 1124. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, third adhesive dot density 1106 extends approximately along a top and bottom of first side portion 1122 and second side portion 1124 to be above and below the center area of second adhesive dot density 1104.

[0131]In this embodiment, third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 also includes a fourth adhesive dot density 1108 that is associated with a largest adhesive dot density having a separation distance that is smaller than the separation distance of third adhesive dot density 1106, second adhesive dot density 1104, and first adhesive dot density 1102 (and/or an adhesive dot size that is larger than the adhesive dot size of third adhesive dot density 1106, second adhesive dot density 1104, and first adhesive dot density 1102) to provide a level of support that is greater than the level of support provided by third adhesive dot density 1106, second adhesive dot density 1104, and first adhesive dot density 1102.

[0132]In this embodiment, fourth adhesive dot density 1108 may be used in at least areas beneath first breast cup 1118 and second breast cup 1120 and along portions of a bottom edge 1116. As shown in FIG. 11, fourth adhesive dot density 1108 also extends between first breast cup 1118 and second breast cup 1120. With this arrangement, third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 forms an engineered support structure between layers of the breast support garment.

[0133]In one embodiment, the separation distance of the adhesive dots in the areas having first adhesive dot density 1102 is approximately 4 mm, the separation distance of the adhesive dots in the areas having second adhesive dot density 1104 is approximately 3 mm, the separation distance of the adhesive dots in the areas having third adhesive dot density 1106 is approximately 2 mm, and the separation distance of the adhesive dots in the areas having fourth adhesive dot density 1108 is approximately 1 mm. In other embodiments, the specific separation distances may vary.

[0134]Referring now to FIGS. 12 through 19, embodiments of breast support garments including second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 and third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 to join together layers of the breast support garments are shown. FIG. 12 illustrates an exploded view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment 1200 having layers that are joined using second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000. In this embodiment, breast support garment 1200 includes a liner layer 1202, a spacer fabric layer 1204, and an outer layer 1206. Second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 is disposed between liner layer 1202 and spacer fabric layer 1204 and joins together the opposing faces of liner layer 1202 and spacer fabric layer 1204. As described above, process 500 may be used to apply second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 to either face of liner layer 1202 or spacer fabric layer 1204 before joining the layers together.

[0135]In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 1204 has a shape that includes both breast cups, including a first breast cup 1210 and a second breast cup 1212, as well as a connecting portion 1214 extending between first breast cup 1210 and second breast cup 1212. With this arrangement, spacer fabric layer 1204 is a one-piece element that has a shape that corresponds with a shape of liner layer 1202 and outer layer 1206. In this embodiment, liner layer 1202 is configured to face towards a chest area of a wearer of breast support garment 1200 and outer layer 1206 is configured to face outwards away from the chest area of the wearer. In some cases, liner layer 1202 may contact or be adjacent to the skin of the wearer.

[0136]In some embodiments, breast support garment 1200 may also include additional components configured to provide support and/or shape to breast support garment 1200. As shown in FIG. 12, breast support garment 1200 includes an additional support structure 1208. In some implementations, additional support structure 1208 may act as a support structure and/or shaping structure that can provide support to manage breast tissue acceleration during a wearer's activity. In some embodiments, the additional support structure 1208 may be an underwire structure and/or a memory foam support structure. In some embodiments, support structure 1208 may be made from a compressible material. In one embodiment, the compressible material may be a foam, including, but not limited to a shape memory polymer foam or similar material. In some implementations, support structure 1208 may include two or more layers that are stacked on top of each other to provide a feathering effect. The two or more layers may include similar or different materials, including combinations of materials. In other implementations, support structure 1208 may be optional and may be omitted from a breast support garment, including breast support garment 1200.

[0137]Referring next to FIG. 13, an exploded view of another example embodiment of a breast support garment 1300 including second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 is shown. In this embodiment, breast support garment 1300 includes a liner layer 1302, a spacer fabric layer 1304, and an outer layer 1306. Second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 is disposed between liner layer 1302 and spacer fabric layer 1304 and joins together the opposing faces of liner layer 1302 and spacer fabric layer 1304. As described above, process 500 may be used to apply second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 to either face of liner layer 1302 or spacer fabric layer 1304 before joining the layers together.

[0138]In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 1304 has a shape that includes separate breast cup portions, including a first breast cup portion 1310 and a second breast cup portion 1312. In contrast with breast support garment 1200, in this embodiment, first breast cup portion 1310 and second breast cup portion 1312 are not connected to each other and are separate pieces of spacer fabric material. In this embodiment, each of first breast cup portion 1310 and second breast cup portion 1312 has a shape that corresponds with the shape of the breast cup areas of breast support garment 1300. In this embodiment, liner layer 1302 is configured to face towards a chest area of a wearer of breast support garment 1300 and outer layer 1306 is configured to face outwards away from the chest area of the wearer. In some cases, liner layer 1302 may contact or be adjacent to the skin of the wearer. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 13, breast support garment 1300 also includes an additional support structure 1308, which may be optional in some embodiments.

[0139]Referring now to FIG. 14, an exploded view of another example embodiment of a breast support garment 1400 including second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 is shown. In this embodiment, breast support garment 1400 includes a spacer fabric layer 1402, a liner layer 1404, and an outer layer 1406. Second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 is disposed between spacer fabric layer 1402 and liner layer 1404 and joins together the opposing faces of spacer fabric layer 1402 and liner layer 1404. As described above, process 500 may be used to apply second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 to either face of spacer fabric layer 1402 or liner layer 1404 before joining the layers together.

[0140]In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 1402 has a shape that includes separate breast cup portions, including a first breast cup portion 1410 and a second breast cup portion 1412 that are not connected to each other and are separate pieces of spacer fabric material. In this embodiment, each of first breast cup portion 1410 and second breast cup portion 1412 has a shape that corresponds with the shape of the breast cup areas of breast support garment 1400. As shown in FIG. 14, breast support garment 1400 also includes a fabric cradle 1414 associated with spacer fabric layer 1402. Fabric cradle 1414 is configured to hold and support the separate pieces of first breast cup portion 1410 and second breast cup portion 1412 of spacer fabric layer 1402. In this embodiment, fabric cradle 1414 is made from a thin textile material that is not a spacer fabric. However, in other embodiments, fabric cradle 1414 may be made from a spacer fabric material.

[0141]Liner layer 1404 also has a shape that includes separate breast cup portions, including a first breast cup liner portion 1422 and a second breast cup liner portion 1424 that are not connected to each other and are separate pieces of fabric material. As with spacer fabric layer 1402, each of first breast cup liner portion 1422 and second breast cup liner portion 1424 of liner layer 1404 has a shape that corresponds with the shape of the breast cup areas of breast support garment 1400. In addition, the shape of first breast cup liner portion 1422 and second breast cup liner portion 1424 corresponds with the shape of first breast cup portion 1410 and second breast cup portion 1412 of spacer fabric layer 1402.

[0142]In this embodiment, second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 is shown having multiple portions, including a main body portion 1416 that corresponds to the breast cup areas of breast support garment 1400 and a first wing portion 1418 and a second wing portion 1420 on opposite sides of breast support garment 1400. In this embodiment, because spacer fabric layer 1402 includes first breast cup portion 1410 and second breast cup portion 1412 that are separate from each other and from fabric cradle 1414, and liner layer 1404 also includes first breast cup liner portion 1422 and second breast cup liner portion 1424 that are separate, second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 may be applied to these separate portions individually.

[0143]For example, main body portion 1416 of second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 may be used to join first breast cup portion 1410 and second breast cup portion 1412 with first breast cup liner portion 1422 and second breast cup liner portion 1424. First wing portion 1418 and second wing portion 1420 of second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 may be used to join the corresponding wing portions of fabric cradle 1414 of spacer fabric layer 1402 with the wing portions of outer layer 1406. In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 1402 is configured to face towards a chest area of a wearer of breast support garment 1400 and outer layer 1406 is configured to face outwards away from the chest area of the wearer. In some cases, spacer fabric layer 1402 may contact or be adjacent to the skin of the wearer. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 14, breast support garment 1400 also includes an underwire structure 1408, which may be optional in some embodiments.

[0144]Referring now to FIG. 15, an exploded view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment 1500 including two spacer fabric layers is shown. In this embodiment, breast support garment 1500 includes a first spacer fabric layer 1502, a second spacer fabric layer 1504, and an outer layer 1506. In this embodiment, first spacer fabric layer 1502 has a shape that includes separate breast cup portions, including a first breast cup portion 1510 and a second breast cup portion 1512 that are not connected to each other and are separate pieces of spacer fabric material. In this embodiment, each of first breast cup portion 1510 and second breast cup portion 1512 has a shape that corresponds with the shape of the breast cup areas of breast support garment 1500.

[0145]As shown in FIG. 15, breast support garment 1500 also includes a fabric cradle 1514 associated with first spacer fabric layer 1502. Fabric cradle 1514 is configured to hold and support the separate pieces of first breast cup portion 1510 and second breast cup portion 1512 of first spacer fabric layer 1502. In this embodiment, fabric cradle 1514 is made from a thin textile material that is not a spacer fabric. However, in other embodiments, fabric cradle 1514 may be made from a spacer fabric material.

[0146]Second spacer fabric layer 1504 also has a shape that includes separate breast cup portions, including a first breast cup portion 1516 and a second breast cup portion 1518 that are not connected to each other and are separate pieces of fabric material. As with first spacer fabric layer 1502, each of first breast cup portion 1516 and second breast cup portion 1518 of second spacer fabric layer 1504 has a shape that corresponds with the shape of the breast cup areas of breast support garment 1500. In addition, the shape of first breast cup portion 1516 and second breast cup portion 1518 of second spacer fabric layer 1504 corresponds with the shape of first breast cup portion 1510 and second breast cup portion 1512 of first spacer fabric layer 1502.

[0147]Additionally, in this embodiment, breast support garment 1500 includes an additional support structure 1508 associated with second spacer fabric layer 1504 that corresponds to the shape of fabric cradle 1514 of first spacer fabric layer 1502. In this embodiment, support structure 1508 is configured to hold and support the separate pieces of first breast cup portion 1516 and second breast cup portion 1518 of second spacer fabric layer 1504. In other embodiments, support structure 1508 may be optional.

[0148]In this embodiment, adhesive or other bonding material is disposed along a perimeter of first breast cup portion 1510 and second breast cup portion 1512 of first spacer fabric layer 1502 to join or bond first breast cup portion 1510 to first breast cup portion 1516 and second breast cup portion 1512 to second breast cup portion 1518. As shown in FIG. 15, a first bonding material 1520 extends around the perimeter of first breast cup portion 1510 and a second bonding material 1522 extends around the perimeter of second breast cup portion 1512. In some cases, first bonding material 1520 and second bonding material 1522 may be applied using a deposition printer, such as printer 502, described above. In other cases, first bonding material 1520 and second bonding material 1522 may be applied using other techniques or may be strips of adhesive film or other bonding material that are laid onto the perimeter of first breast cup portion 1510 and second breast cup portion 1512. For example, the adhesive film may be a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material.

[0149]In this embodiment, breast support garment 1500 includes only a portion of second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 includes a first wing portion 1524 and a second wing portion 1526 on opposite sides of breast support garment 1500. First wing portion 1524 and second wing portion 1526 of second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 may be used to join the corresponding wing portions of fabric cradle 1514 of first spacer fabric layer 1502 with the wing portions of outer layer 1506.

[0150]In this embodiment, first spacer fabric layer 1502 is configured to face towards a chest area of a wearer of breast support garment 1500 and outer layer 1506 is configured to face outwards away from the chest area of the wearer. In some cases, first spacer fabric layer 1502 may contact or be adjacent to the skin of the wearer. Breast support garment 1500 includes two spacer fabric layers (e.g., first spacer fabric layer 1502 and second spacer fabric layer 1504) to provide additional support and cushioning to breast support garment 1500, particularly in each of the breast cup areas of breast support garment 1500.

[0151]FIG. 16 illustrates a cross-section view of a first cup 1600 of breast support garment 1500 including two spacer fabric layers with outer layer 1506 omitted. In this embodiment, first cup 1600 of breast support garment 1500 is formed by first breast cup portion 1510 and first breast cup portion 1516 that are joined or attached at each of a top end 1602 and a bottom end 1604 by first bonding material 1520. Additionally, the stiffness of the spacer fabric material caused by the spacer yarns which provide the spacer fabric with its thickness in the area of first cup 1600 forms a gap 1606 between each of the spacer fabric layers. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, gap 1606 is formed between the opposing faces of first breast cup portion 1510 and first breast cup portion 1516 at a location spaced away from each of top end 1602 and bottom end 1604. With this arrangement, gap 1606 formed by the spacer fabric material may provide additional cushioning and/or padding to first cup 1600 of breast support garment 1500.

[0152]Referring now to FIG. 17, an exploded view of another example embodiment of a breast support garment 1700 including a modified version of second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 is shown. In this embodiment, breast support garment 1700 includes a spacer fabric layer 1702 and an outer layer 1704. In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 1702 has a shape that includes both breast cups, including a first breast cup 1710 and a second breast cup 1712, as well as a connecting portion 1714 extending between first breast cup 1710 and second breast cup 1712. Breast support garment 1700 also includes a fabric cradle 1706 associated with spacer fabric layer 1702. Fabric cradle 1706 is configured to hold and support first breast cup 1710, second breast cup 1712, and connecting portion 1714 of spacer fabric layer 1702. In this embodiment, fabric cradle 1706 is made from a thin textile material that is not a spacer fabric. However, in other embodiments, fabric cradle 1706 may be made from a spacer fabric material.

[0153]With this arrangement, spacer fabric layer 1702 and fabric cradle 1706 have a shape that corresponds with a shape of outer layer 1704. In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 1702 is configured to face towards a chest area of a wearer of breast support garment 1700 and outer layer 1704 is configured to face outwards away from the chest area of the wearer. In some cases, spacer fabric layer 1702 may contact or be adjacent to the skin of the wearer.

[0154]In this embodiment, a modified version of second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 is disposed between spacer fabric layer 1702 and outer layer 1704 and joins together the opposing faces of spacer fabric layer 1702 and outer layer 1704. In this embodiment, the modified version of second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 includes a first breast cup portion 1716 and a second breast cup portion 1718. The modified version of second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 shown in FIG. 17 does not include wing portions or areas of adhesive dots along the bottom edge. In this embodiment, first breast cup portion 1716 corresponds to first breast cup 1710 of spacer fabric layer 1702 and second breast cup portion 1718 corresponds to second breast cup 1712 of spacer fabric layer 1702. As described above, process 500 may be used to apply portions of second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 to either face of spacer fabric layer 1702 and outer layer 1704 before joining the layers together. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 17, breast support garment 1700 also includes an additional support structure 1708, which may be optional in some embodiments.

[0155]FIG. 18 is an exploded view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment 1800 having layers that are joined using third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100. In this embodiment, breast support garment 1800 includes a spacer fabric layer 1802 and an outer layer 1804. Third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 is disposed between spacer fabric layer 1802 and outer layer 1804 and joins together the opposing faces of spacer fabric layer 1802 and outer layer 1804. As described above, process 500 may be used to apply second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 to either face of spacer fabric layer 1802 and outer layer 1804 before joining the layers together.

[0156]In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 1802 has a shape that includes both breast cups, including a first breast cup 1806 and a second breast cup 1808, as well as a connecting portion 1810 extending between first breast cup 1806 and second breast cup 1808. With this arrangement, spacer fabric layer 1802 is a one-piece element that has a shape that corresponds with a shape of outer layer 1804. In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 1802 is configured to face towards a chest area of a wearer of breast support garment 1800 and outer layer 1804 is configured to face outwards away from the chest area of the wearer. In some cases, spacer fabric layer 1802 may contact or be adjacent to the skin of the wearer. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 18, breast support garment 1800 also includes an additional support structure 1812, which may be optional in some embodiments.

[0157]FIG. 19 is an exploded view of another example embodiment of a breast support garment 1900 including third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100. In this embodiment, breast support garment 1900 includes a liner layer 1902 and an outer layer 1904 without a spacer fabric layer. Third adhesive dot matrix pattern 1100 is disposed between liner layer 1902 and outer layer 1904 and joins together the opposing faces of liner layer 1902 and outer layer 1904. As described above, process 500 may be used to apply second adhesive dot matrix pattern 1000 to either face of liner layer 1902 and outer layer 1904 before joining the layers together.

[0158]In this embodiment, liner layer 1902 is configured to face towards a chest area of a wearer of breast support garment 1800 and outer layer 1904 is configured to face outwards away from the chest area of the wearer. In some cases, liner layer 1902 may contact or be adjacent to the skin of the wearer. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 19, breast support garment 1900 also includes an additional support structure 1906, which may be optional in some embodiments.

[0159]In some embodiments, a breast support garment, including any of the example embodiments described herein or other breast support garments formed according to the techniques of the present embodiments, may include various edge finish options for closing or finishing the edges of the breast support garment. Edge finish options for the breast support garment provides a clean, finished look to the breast support garment and covers and protects the various layers that have been joined in accordance with the techniques described herein. The edge finish options described with reference to FIGS. 20A-201 may be used in combination with any type or implementation of a breast support garment. In the following embodiments, one side of a breast support garment (e.g., first side 104 of breast support garment 100) is shown including outer layer 300, spacer fabric layer 320, and liner layer 310. It should be understood that a similar arrangement for edge finish options may be applied to the opposite side (e.g., second side 106) as well as to other embodiments of breast support garments.

[0160]Referring first to FIG. 20A, a cross-section view of a first example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment is shown. In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between outer layer 300 and liner layer 310. At the edge of first side 104, a wedge form 2000 is provided to gradually transition the edge from the thickness of outer layer 300, spacer fabric layer 320, and liner layer 310 to a smooth edge 2002. In one embodiment, wedge form 2000 is made of a compressible foam material.

[0161]Additionally, a wrapping layer 2004 made of a textile or fabric material covers wedge form 2000 and portions of outer layer 300 and liner layer 310. For example, as shown in FIG. 20A, a first end 2006 of wrapping layer 2004 extends over a portion of outer face 108 of outer layer 300 on one side of breast support garment 100 and a second end 2008 of wrapping layer 2004 extends over a portion of second face 314 of liner layer 310 on the opposite side. First end 2006 and second end 2008 may be bonded or attached, respectively, to outer face 108 and second face 314.

[0162]FIG. 20B is a cross-section view of a second example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment. In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between outer layer 300 and liner layer 310. At the edge of first side 104, wedge form 2000 is provided to gradually transition the edge from the thickness of outer layer 300, spacer fabric layer 320, and liner layer 310 to a smooth edge 2010. In one embodiment, wedge form 2000 is made of a compressible foam material. In this embodiment, outer layer 300 extends over wedge form 2000 and wraps around to the opposite side to a first end 2012 that is joined or attached to second face 314 of liner layer 310. Additionally, liner layer 310 extends past spacer fabric layer 320 to lie beneath wedge form 2000.

[0163]FIG. 20C is a cross-section view of a third example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment. In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between outer layer 300 and liner layer 310. In contrast to FIG. 20B, this embodiment does not include wedge form 2000. That is, at the edge of first side 104, an empty space 2014 is provided at smooth edge 2010. Outer layer 300 extends over empty space 2014 and wraps around to the opposite side to first end 2012 that is joined or attached to second face 314 of liner layer 310 and liner layer 310 extends past spacer fabric layer 320 to lie beneath empty space 2014.

[0164]FIG. 20D is a cross-section view of a fourth example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment. In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between outer layer 300 and liner layer 310. In an example embodiment, a portion of spacer fabric layer 320 near smooth edge 2010 has a tapered thickness 2016 that decreases in thickness as it reaches towards smooth edge 2010. Outer layer 300 extends over empty space 2014 and wraps around to the opposite side to first end 2012 that is joined or attached to second face 314 of liner layer 310 beneath the portion of spacer fabric layer 320 having tapered thickness 2016. Liner layer 310 extends past spacer fabric layer 320 to lie beneath empty space 2014.

[0165]FIG. 20E is a cross-section view of a fifth example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment. In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between outer layer 300 and liner layer 310. In an example embodiment, a portion of spacer fabric layer 320 near smooth edge 2010 has tapered thickness 2016 that decreases in thickness as it reaches towards smooth edge 2010. Outer layer 300 extends over empty space 2014 and wraps around to the opposite side to first end 2012 that is joined or attached to second face 314 of liner layer 310 beneath the portion of spacer fabric layer 320 having tapered thickness 2016. Liner layer 310 extends to the end of spacer fabric layer 320. In contrast with the embodiment shown in FIG. 20D, liner layer 310 does not extend beneath empty space 2014 in this embodiment.

[0166]FIG. 20F is a cross-section view of a sixth example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment. In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between outer layer 300 and liner layer 310. In an example embodiment, a portion of spacer fabric layer 320 near smooth edge 2010 has tapered thickness 2016 that decreases in thickness as it reaches towards a smooth edge 2018. Outer layer 300 extends past the portion of spacer fabric layer 320 having tapered thickness 2016 and folds back onto itself at a folded end 2020 adjacent to the end of spacer fabric layer 320. Liner layer 310 extends beyond the end of spacer fabric layer 320 to lie beneath the folded end 2020 of outer layer 300.

[0167]FIG. 20G is a cross-section view of a seventh example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment. In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between outer layer 300 and liner layer 310. At the edge of first side 104, a u-shaped film layer 2026 is provided to gradually transition the edge from the thickness of outer layer 300, spacer fabric layer 320, and liner layer 310 to a smooth edge 2022. In one embodiment, u-shaped film layer 2026 is made of a bonding film material, such as a TPE or TPU material. In this embodiment, outer layer 300 extends over u-shaped film layer 2026 and wraps around to the opposite side to a first end 2024 that is joined or attached to second face 314 of liner layer 310 beneath spacer fabric layer 320.

[0168]FIG. 20H is a cross-section view of an eighth example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment. In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between outer layer 300 and liner layer 310. At the edge of first side 104, a stacked arrangement of film layers, including a first film layer 2030 and a second film layer 2032, is provided to gradually transition the edge from the thickness of outer layer 300, spacer fabric layer 320, and liner layer 310 to a smooth edge 2028. In one embodiment, each of first film layer 2030 and second film layer 2032 is made of a bonding film material, such as a TPE or TPU material. In an example embodiment, first film layer 2030 is shorter than second film layer 2032 to provide a stepped arrangement that helps transition the thickness at smooth edge 2028. In this embodiment, outer layer 300 extends over stacked arrangement of film layers and wraps around to the opposite side to first end 2024 that is joined or attached to second face 314 of liner layer 310 beneath spacer fabric layer 320.

[0169]FIG. 20I is a cross-section view of a ninth example embodiment of an edge finish option for a breast support garment. In this embodiment, spacer fabric layer 320 is disposed between outer layer 300 and liner layer 310. In an example embodiment, a portion of spacer fabric layer 320 near a smooth edge 2034 has tapered thickness 2016 that decreases in thickness as it reaches towards smooth edge 2034. Outer layer 300 extends over second film layer 2032 and wraps around to the opposite side to first end 2024 that is joined or attached to second face 314 of liner layer 310 beneath spacer fabric layer 320.

[0170]In some embodiments, a breast support garment may be provided with pocket feature that is formed in between layers of the fabric or textiles of the breast support garment. In various embodiments, the pocket feature may be located in the front portion, side or wing portions, and/or the back panel of the breast support garment to provide one or more storage capabilities to a wearer of the breast support garment. Referring now to FIGS. 21-39, embodiments of a breast support garment with a pocket feature are shown.

[0171]Referring now to FIG. 21, a front view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment 2100 with a pocket feature is shown. In an example embodiment, breast support garment 2100 may include a front portion 2102 for covering at least a portion of a chest area of a wearer. In some embodiments, front portion 2102 extends between a first side 2104 and a second side 2106 of breast support garment 2100. In an example embodiment, front portion 2102 of breast support garment 2100 includes a front portion outer face 2108 that forms an outer surface of breast support garment 2100 extending away from the chest area of the wearer.

[0172]In this embodiment, breast support garment 2100 includes a pair of shoulder straps, including a first strap 2110 and a second strap 2112. First strap 2110 and second strap 2112 are configured to extend over the shoulders of a wearer of breast support garment 2100. In an example embodiment, front portion 2102 of breast support garment 2100 extends from a top edge 2114 to a bottom edge 2116. Top edge 2114 may form a neckline that extends from above and between the breasts of a wearer. Bottom edge 2116 may form an under band that extends beneath the breasts of a wearer. Additionally, in some embodiments, front portion 2102 of breast support garment 2100 may also include a pair of breast cups, including a first breast cup 2118 and a second breast cup 2120, that are configured to receive breasts of the wearer. In one embodiment, first breast cup 2118 and second breast cup 2120 on front portion 2102 of breast support garment 2100 may be molded into the material forming front portion 2102.

[0173]In an example embodiment, breast support garment 2100 includes a chest pocket 2122 in front portion 2102. Chest pocket 2122 is disposed between the layers of fabric forming front portion 2102. In this embodiment, chest pocket 2122 is centrally located in the middle of top edge 2114 between first breast cup 2118 and second breast cup 2120. In addition, in some embodiments, chest pocket 2122 may include an opening 2124 adjacent to top edge 2114 of breast support garment 2100. In this embodiment, opening 2124 has a front lip 2126 that extends farther downwards from top edge 2114 than a rear lip 2128. With this arrangement, front lip 2126 may assist with placing items into opening 2124 of chest pocket 2122 by making it easier to open the space between the layers of breast support garment 2100 that form chest pocket 2122.

[0174]Referring now to FIG. 22, a side view of breast support garment 2100 is shown. In some embodiments, breast support garment 2100 may also or alternatively include one or more side pockets disposed on a wing portion of breast support garment. In an example embodiment, a wing portion 2200 of breast support garment 2100 on second side 2106 extends from a top side edge 2202 to bottom edge 2116. As shown in FIG. 22, in some embodiments, a side pocket 2204 may be disposed on wing portion 2200 of breast support garment 2100. In this embodiment, a side pocket opening 2206 is located at a distance spaced apart from top side edge 2202. In other embodiments, opening 2206 may be located along one of the sides of side pocket opening 2204. It should also be understood that while side pocket 2204 is shown on wing portion 2200 of second side 2106 of breast support garment 2100 a similar side pocket may additionally or alternatively be located on the opposite side of breast support garment 2100 (e.g., on a wing portion on first side 2104 of breast support garment 2100).

[0175]Referring now to FIG. 23, a rear view of breast support garment 2100 is shown. In an example embodiment, breast support garment 2100 may include a rear portion 2300 for covering at least a portion of a back area of a wearer. Rear portion 2300 of breast support garment 2100 is joined with and attached to front portion 2102 along each of first side 2104 and second side 2106. In an example embodiment, rear portion 2300 may be formed by a continuous back band section 2302 that extends from each side of breast support garment 2100 and encircles a torso of the wearer. In other embodiments, rear portion 2300 may be formed by a pair of separate back band sections that extend from each side of breast support garment 2100 and join together using a closure system to wrap around the back area of the wearer.

[0176]In some embodiments, rear portion 2300 of breast support garment 2100 may include back straps that attach or join with the shoulder straps of front portion 2102 at one end and attach or join with back band section 2302 at the opposite end. In an example embodiment, rear portion 2300 of breast support garment 2100 includes a pair of back straps, including a first back strap 2304 that is joined with first shoulder strap 2110 at one end and extends in a diagonal direction to join with back band section 2302 on the opposite end from first shoulder strap 2110 and a second back strap 2306 that is joined with second shoulder strap 2112 at one end and extends in a diagonal direction to join with back band section 2302 on the opposite end from second shoulder strap 2112.

[0177]Rear portion 2300 of breast support garment 2100 also includes a top middle edge 2308 that is disposed between first back strap 2304 and second back strap 2306 of back band section 2302. In this embodiment, top middle edge 2308 is approximately v-shaped and follows along with the diagonal direction of first back strap 2304 and second back strap 2306. Rear portion 2300 also includes a top first side edge 2310 extending from first back strap 2304 towards first side 2104 and top second side edge 2202 extending from second back strap 2306 towards second side 2106. Back band section 2302 includes a bottom edge 2312 that extends continuously around the back area of the wearer and joins with bottom edge 2116 of front portion 2102. In this embodiment, rear portion 2300 includes a center panel portion 2314 in the area where first back strap 2304 and second back strap 2306 join with back band section 2302.

[0178]Referring now to FIG. 24, an exploded view of an example embodiment of front portion 2102 of breast support garment 2100 with chest pocket 2122 is shown. In this embodiment, front portion 2102 includes an outer layer 2400 and an inner layer 2402. Outer layer 2400 is configured to face outwards and away from the wearer and inner layer 2402 is configured to face towards the chest area of a wearer of breast support garment 2100. In one embodiment, inner layer 2402 may be directly in contact with the skin of the wearer of breast support garment 2100. In some implementations, breast support garment 2100 may further comprise a spacer fabric layer as described herein above with respect to the garments shown in FIGS. 1-201.

[0179]In an example embodiment, a pocket liner layer 2404 is configured to be located between outer layer 2400 and inner layer 2402 at the location corresponding to chest pocket 2122. Pocket liner layer 2404 has a shape that corresponds to the shape of chest pocket 2122 and includes a top lip 2406 that corresponds with the shape of front lip 2126 of outer layer 2400. Each layer of breast support garment 2100 may be made from a separate fabric or textile. In an example embodiment, the fabrics or textiles forming outer layer 2400, inner layer 2402, and/or pocket liner layer 2404 may have 4-way stretch capabilities, wicking properties, and quick drying characteristics. In one embodiment, outer layer 2400, inner layer 2402, and/or pocket liner layer 2404 may be made from a knit textile. In some cases, the fabric or textile of pocket liner layer 2404 may be different from outer layer 2400 and/or inner layer 2402. For example, pocket liner layer 2404 may be made from a knit textile that has a greater amount or percentage of stretchable fibers or yarns (e.g., elastane or similar fibers/yarns) than outer layer 2400 and/or inner layer 2402. In other cases, outer layer 2400, inner layer 2402, and/or pocket liner layer 2404 may be made from any type or kind of fabric or textile, including combinations of textiles and/or fabrics.

[0180]In this embodiment, outer layer 2400 includes an outer face 2408 configured to face outwards and away from a wearer of breast support garment 2100 and an opposite inner face 2410. Pocket liner layer 2404 includes a first face 2412 facing towards inner face 2410 of outer layer 2400 and an opposite second face 2414 facing towards a first face 2416 of inner layer 2402. In this embodiment, pocket liner layer 2404 is configured to be joined to outer layer 2400 such that a portion of first face 2412 of pocket liner layer 2404 is joined to a portion of inner face 2410 of outer layer 2400. A bonding area 2418 on inner face 2410 of outer layer 2400, including a first side bonding strip 2420, a bottom bonding strip 2422, and a second side bonding strip 2424, corresponds to a perimeter 2426 of pocket liner layer 2404 to join pocket liner layer 2404 to inner face 2410 of outer layer 2400. In one embodiment, first side bonding strip 2420, bottom bonding strip 2422, and second side bonding strip 2424 may be a thin film adhesive or bonding material, including any of the bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesive or bonding materials.

[0181]With this arrangement, chest pocket 2122 may be formed in front portion 2102 of breast support garment 2100 such that opening 2124 provides access into an interior void of chest pocket 2122 formed between first face 2412 of pocket liner layer 2404 and inner face 2410 of outer layer 2400. A similar arrangement between layers of breast support garment 2100 may be provided to form side pockets on the wing portions of breast support garment 2100, including, for example, side pocket 2204, described above.

[0182]Referring now to FIG. 25, an example embodiment of breast support garment 2100 with chest pocket 2122 on front portion 2102 is shown having a water bottle 2500 inserted. In some embodiments, a wearer of breast support garment 2100 may use chest pocket 2122 on front portion 2102 to store a variety of items. In this embodiment, water bottle 2500 is shown being inserted into opening 2124 of chest pocket 2122 on front portion 2102 in a direction from above top edge 2114. In some cases, front lip 2126 may assist with placing items, such as water bottle 2500, into opening 2124 of chest pocket 2122.

[0183]FIG. 26 shows water bottle 2500 secured within chest pocket 2122 on front portion 2102 of breast support garment 2100. As shown in this embodiment, chest pocket 2122 is sized to snuggly fit water bottle 2500 so that the top portion of water bottle 2500 sticks out of opening 2124. In one embodiment, chest pocket 2122 may have a width of approximately 9 centimeters. In other embodiments, the size of chest pocket 2122 may be larger or smaller. With this arrangement, a wearer of breast support garment 2100 may easily access water bottle 2500 in chest pocket 2122 by pulling up on the top portion of water bottle 2500 that extends up out of opening 2124. In other embodiments, other items may be stored or secured in chest pocket 2122 on front portion 2102, including, but not limited to keys, a phone, credit cards, identification, wallet, etc.

[0184]FIG. 27 is an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of front portion 2700 of breast support garment 2100 with chest pocket 2122 attached using an adhesive dot matrix pattern. In this embodiment, front portion 2700 includes outer layer 2400, inner layer 2402, and pocket liner layer 2404 as described above in reference to front portion 2102. In this embodiment, chest pocket 2122 is formed by pocket liner layer 2404 being attached or joined to outer layer 2400 using an adhesive dot matrix pattern 2702 at a location that corresponds to perimeter 2426 of pocket layer liner 2404. That is, in this embodiment, a plurality of adhesive dots (as described above) of adhesive dot matrix pattern 2702 are disposed onto inner face 2410 of outer layer 2400 including a first side portion 2704, a bottom portion 2706, and a second side portion 2708. Pocket liner layer 2404 is configured to be joined to outer layer 2400 such that a portion of first face 2412 of pocket liner layer 2404 is joined to a portion of inner face 2410 of outer layer 2400 by adhesive dot matrix pattern 2702. With this arrangement, the amount or degree of support provided to the area around chest pocket 2122 may be varied by adjusting or changing the separation distances (or adhesive dot size) between the plurality of adhesive dots forming first side portion 2704, bottom portion 2706, and second side portion 2708.

[0185]FIG. 28 illustrates a cross-section view of the alternate embodiment of front portion 2700 of breast support garment with chest pocket 2122 shown in FIG. 27. In this embodiment, pocket liner layer 2404 is disposed between inner layer 2402 and outer layer 2400. Second side portion 2708 of adhesive dot matrix pattern 2702 is disposed between first face 2412 of pocket liner layer 2404 and inner face 2410 of outer layer 2400 and bonds or joins perimeter 2426 of pocket liner layer 2404 to outer layer 2400. With this arrangement, chest pocket 2122 is formed by the interior void between first face 2412 of pocket liner layer 2404 and inner face 2410 of outer layer 2400 which is accessed through opening 2124.

[0186]Additionally, in some embodiments, a second adhesive dot matrix pattern 2800 formed by a plurality of adhesive dots may be located between inner layer 2402 and portions of pocket liner layer 2404 and outer layer 2400 to bond or join together the layers of front portion 2700 of breast support garment 2100. As shown in FIG. 28, second adhesive dot matrix pattern 2800 joins first face 2416 of inner layer 2402 with second face 2414 of pocket liner layer 2404 and a portion of inner face 2410 of outer layer 2400. For example, process 500, described above, may be used to apply second adhesive dot matrix pattern 2800 to first face 2416 of inner layer 2402.

[0187]Referring now to FIG. 29, a front view of another example embodiment of a breast support garment 2900 with a full-size front panel pocket feature is shown. In an example embodiment, breast support garment 2900 may include a front portion 2902 for covering at least a portion of a chest area of a wearer. In some embodiments, front portion 2902 extends between a first side 2904 and a second side 2906 of breast support garment 2900. In an example embodiment, front portion 2902 of breast support garment 2900 includes a front portion outer face 2908 that forms an outer surface of breast support garment 2900 extending away from the chest area of the wearer.

[0188]In this embodiment, breast support garment 2900 includes a pair of shoulder straps, including a first strap 2910 and a second strap 2912. First strap 2910 and second strap 2912 are configured to extend over the shoulders of a wearer of breast support garment 2900. In an example embodiment, front portion 2902 of breast support garment 2900 extends from a top edge 2914 to a bottom edge 2916. Top edge 2914 may form a neckline that extends from above and between the breasts of a wearer. Bottom edge 2916 may form an under band that extends beneath the breasts of a wearer. Additionally, in some embodiments, front portion 2902 of breast support garment 2900 may also include a pair of breast cups, including a first breast cup 2918 and a second breast cup 2920, that are configured to receive breasts of the wearer. In one embodiment, first breast cup 2918 and second breast cup 2920 on front portion 2902 of breast support garment 2900 may be molded into the material forming front portion 2902.

[0189]In an example embodiment, breast support garment 2900 includes a full panel front pocket 2922 in front portion 2902. Full panel front pocket 2922 is disposed between the layers of fabric forming front portion 2902. In this embodiment, full panel front pocket 2922 extends over a majority of front portion 2902, including first breast cup 2918 and second breast cup 2920. In addition, in some embodiments, full panel front pocket 2922 may include an opening 2924 adjacent to top edge 2914 of breast support garment 2900. In this embodiment, the interior void forming full panel front pocket 2922 between the layers of front portion 2902 extends from opening 2924 to a bottom boundary 2926 that is adjacent to and spaced apart from bottom edge 2916.

[0190]In this embodiment, opening 2924 has a front lip 2928 that extends farther downwards from top edge 2914 than a rear lip 2930. With this arrangement, front lip 2928 may assist with placing items into opening 2924 of full panel front pocket 2922 by making it easier to open the space between the layers of breast support garment 2900 that form full panel front pocket 2922.

[0191]Referring now to FIG. 30, a rear view of breast support garment 2900 is shown. In an example embodiment, breast support garment 2900 may include a rear portion 3000 for covering at least a portion of a back area of a wearer. Rear portion 3000 of breast support garment 2900 is joined with and attached to front portion 2902 along each of first side 2904 and second side 2906. In an example embodiment, rear portion 3000 may be formed by a continuous back band section 3002 that extends from each side of breast support garment 2900 and encircles a torso of the wearer. In other embodiments, rear portion 3000 may be formed by a pair of separate back band sections that extend from each side of breast support garment 2900 and join together using a closure system to wrap around the back area of the wearer.

[0192]In some embodiments, rear portion 3000 of breast support garment 2900 may include back straps that attach or join with the shoulder straps of front portion 2902 at one end and attach or join with back band section 3002 at the opposite end. In an example embodiment, rear portion 3000 of breast support garment 2900 includes a pair of back straps, including a first back strap 3004 that is joined with first shoulder strap 2910 at one end and extends in a diagonal direction to join with back band section 3002 on the opposite end from first shoulder strap 2910 and a second back strap 3006 that is joined with second shoulder strap 2912 at one end and extends in a diagonal direction to join with back band section 3002 on the opposite end from second shoulder strap 2912.

[0193]Rear portion 3000 of breast support garment 2900 also includes a top middle edge 3008 that is disposed between first back strap 3004 and second back strap 3006 of back band section 3002. In this embodiment, top middle edge 3008 is approximately Y-shaped and follows along with the diagonal direction of first back strap 3004 and second back strap 3006. Rear portion 3000 also includes a top first side edge 3010 extending from first back strap 3004 towards first side 2904 and a top second side edge 3012 extending from second back strap 3006 towards second side 2906. Back band section 3002 includes a bottom edge 3014 that extends continuously around the back area of the wearer and joins with bottom edge 2916 of front portion 2902. In this embodiment, rear portion 3000 includes a center panel portion 3016 in the area where first back strap 3004 and second back strap 3006 join with back band section 3002.

[0194]In an example embodiment, rear portion 3000 of breast support garment 2900 may include a rear pocket feature. As shown in FIG. 30, a rear pocket 3018 is located in center panel portion 3016 in the area where first back strap 3004 and second back strap 3006 join with back band section 3002. In one embodiment, rear pocket 3018 has an opening 3020 along the top of rear pocket 3018 that allows access to the interior void of rear pocket 3018 formed between the layers of fabric forming rear portion 3000 of breast support garment 2900.

[0195]Referring now to FIG. 31, an exploded view of an example embodiment of front portion 2902 of breast support garment 2900 with full panel front pocket 2922 is shown. In this embodiment, front portion 2902 includes an outer layer 3100 and an inner layer 3102. Outer layer 3100 is configured to face outwards and away from the wearer and inner layer 3102 is configured to face towards the chest area of a wearer of breast support garment 2900. In one embodiment, inner layer 3102 may be directly in contact with the skin of the wearer of breast support garment 2900.

[0196]In an example embodiment, a pocket liner layer 3104 is located between outer layer 3100 and inner layer 3102 to form full panel front pocket 2922. Pocket liner layer 3104 has a shape that corresponds to the shape of full panel front pocket 2922 and includes a top lip 3106 that corresponds with the shape of front lip 2928 of outer layer 3100. Each layer of breast support garment 2900 may be made from a separate fabric or textile. In an example embodiment, the fabrics or textiles forming outer layer 3100, inner layer 3102, and/or pocket liner layer 3104 may have 4-way stretch capabilities, wicking properties, and quick drying characteristics. In one embodiment, outer layer 3100, inner layer 3102, and/or pocket liner layer 3104 may be made from a knit textile. In some cases, the fabric or textile of pocket liner layer 3104 may different from outer layer 3100 and/or inner layer 3102. For example, pocket liner layer 3104 may be made from a knit textile that has a greater amount or percentage of stretchable fibers or yarns (e.g., elastane or similar fibers/yarns) than outer layer 3100 and/or inner layer 3102. In other cases, outer layer 3100, inner layer 3102, and/or pocket liner layer 3104 may be made from any type or kind of fabric or textile, including combinations of textiles and/or fabrics.

[0197]In an example embodiment, an adhesive dot matrix pattern 3108 is disposed between inner layer 3102 and pocket liner layer 3104 and joins together the opposing faces of inner layer 3102 and pocket liner layer 3104. In one embodiment, adhesive dot matrix pattern 3108 may have a uniform separation distance and/or adhesive dot size between adjacent adhesive dots of the plurality of adhesive dots that form adhesive dot matrix pattern 3108. In other embodiments, adhesive dot matrix pattern 3108 may have varied separation distances and/or adhesive dot sizes between adjacent adhesive dots in different areas, for example, as described above with regard to previous embodiments of adhesive dot matrix patterns. As described above, process 500 may be used to apply adhesive dot matrix pattern 3108 to either face of inner layer 3102 or pocket liner layer 3104 before joining the layers together.

[0198]In this embodiment, outer layer 3100 includes outer face 2908 configured to face outwards and away from a wearer of breast support garment 2900 and an opposite inner face 3110. Pocket liner layer 3104 includes a first face 3112 facing towards inner face 3110 of outer layer 3100 and an opposite second face 3114 facing towards a first face 3116 of inner layer 3102. In this embodiment, pocket liner layer 3104 is configured to be joined to inner layer 3102 such that second face 3114 of pocket liner layer 3104 is joined to first face 3116 of inner layer 3102 using adhesive dot matrix pattern 3108. With this arrangement, an interior void is formed between first face 3112 of pocket liner layer 3104 and inner face 3110 of outer layer 3100 that defines full panel front pocket 2922.

[0199]As shown in FIG. 31, breast support garment 2900 includes an additional support structure 3120. In some implementations, additional support structure 3120 may act as a support structure and/or shaping structure that can provide support to manage breast tissue acceleration during a wearer's activity. In some embodiments, additional support structure 3120 may be made from a compressible material. In one embodiment, the compressible material may be a foam, including, but not limited to a shape memory polymer foam or similar material. In other implementations, additional support structure 3120 may be optional and may be omitted from a breast support garment, including breast support garment 2900.

[0200]Additionally, bonding strips may be used to bond or join portions of inner layer 3102 to outer layer 3100. In this embodiment, a bottom bonding strip 3122 extends along underneath support structure 3120 and may serve to seal bottom boundary 2926 of full panel front pocket 2922. A first side bonding strip 3124 and a second side bonding strip 3126 may also be used to bond portions of inner layer 3102 to outer layer 3100 extending upwards along each side of breast support garment 2900. In one embodiment, bottom bonding strip 3122, first side bonding strip 3124, and second side bonding strip 3126 may be a thin film adhesive or bonding material, including any of the bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesive or bonding materials.

[0201]FIG. 32 is a representative view of the example embodiment of breast support garment 2900 with one or more items in full panel front pocket 2922. In some embodiments, a wearer of breast support garment 2900 may use full panel front pocket 2922 on front portion 2902 to store a variety of items. In this embodiment, water bottle 2500 is shown extending up from opening 2924 of full panel front pocket 2922 on front portion 2902. In comparison with chest pocket 2122, full panel front pocket 2922 may allow a wearer to store more or larger items. For example, full panel front pocket 2922 may also hold a mobile phone 3200. Bottom boundary 2926 of full panel front pocket 2922 prevents the items stored in full panel front pocket 2922 from falling out of full panel front pocket 2922. In this embodiment, full panel front pocket 2922 has a width that extends across the entirety of front portion 2902 from first side 2904 to second side 2906. In other embodiments, the size of full panel front pocket 2922 may be smaller. With this arrangement, a wearer of breast support garment 2900 may easily access items, such as water bottle 2500 and/or mobile phone 3200, in full panel front pocket 2922 through opening 2924. In other embodiments, other items may be stored or secured in full panel front pocket 2922 on front portion 2902, including, but not limited to keys, credit cards, identification, wallet, etc.

[0202]As described above, in one embodiment, full panel front pocket 2922 is formed between outer layer 3100 and pocket liner layer 3104. In other embodiments, the arrangement of the layers of front portion 2902 may be reversed such that full panel front pocket 2922 is formed between inner layer 3102 and pocket liner layer 3104. With this arrangement, full panel front pocket 2922 is located closer to the body of the wearer of breast support garment 2900 and adhesive dot matrix layer 3108 joining inner layer 3102 and pocket liner layer 3104 may apply tension to items within full panel front pocket 2922 to help keep them in place during activities or movement of the wearer.

[0203]Referring now to FIG. 33, an exploded view of the example embodiment of breast support garment 2900 with rear pocket 3018 is shown. In this embodiment, rear portion 3000 of breast support garment 2900 includes an outer layer 3300 and an inner layer 3302. Outer layer 3300 is configured to face outwards and away from the wearer and inner layer 3302 is configured to face towards the back area of a wearer of breast support garment 2900. In one embodiment, inner layer 3302 may be directly in contact with the skin of the wearer of breast support garment 2900.

[0204]In an example embodiment, a rear pocket liner layer 3304 is located between outer layer 3300 and inner layer 3302 to form rear pocket 3018. Rear pocket liner layer 3304 has a shape that corresponds to the shape of rear pocket 3018. Each layer of breast support garment 2900 may be made from a separate fabric or textile. In an example embodiment, the fabrics or textiles forming outer layer 3300, inner layer 3302, and/or rear pocket liner layer 3304 may have 4-way stretch capabilities, wicking properties, and quick drying characteristics. In one embodiment, outer layer 3300, inner layer 3302, and/or rear pocket liner layer 3304 may be made from a knit textile. In some cases, the fabric or textile of rear pocket liner layer 3304 may different from outer layer 3300 and/or inner layer 3302. For example, rear pocket liner layer 3304 may be made from a knit textile that has a greater amount or percentage of stretchable fibers or yarns (e.g., elastane or similar fibers/yarns) than outer layer 3300 and/or inner layer 3302. In other cases, outer layer 3300, inner layer 3302, and/or rear pocket liner layer 3304 may be made from any type or kind of fabric or textile, including combinations of textiles and/or fabrics.

[0205]In an example embodiment, an adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306 is disposed between inner layer 3302 and rear pocket liner layer 3304 and joins together the opposing faces of inner layer 3302 and rear pocket liner layer 3304. In one embodiment, adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306 may have a uniform separation distance and/or adhesive dot size between adjacent adhesive dots of the plurality of adhesive dots that form adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306. For example, in one embodiment, the plurality of adhesive dots of adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306 have a separation distance of 3 mm. In other embodiments, adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306 may have varied separation distances and/or adhesive dot sizes between adjacent adhesive dots in different areas, for example, as described above with regard to previous embodiments of adhesive dot matrix patterns. As described above, process 500 may be used to apply adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306 to either face of inner layer 3302 and rear pocket liner layer 3304 before joining the layers together.

[0206]In this embodiment, adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306 includes multiple portions, including a main body portion 3308 configured to cover center panel portion 3016 in the area where rear pocket liner layer 3304 joins or bonds with inner layer 3302 to form rear pocket 3018. Adhesive dot matrix pattern 3306 also includes a first shoulder portion 3310 and a second shoulder portion 3312 configured to attach the shoulder straps of outer layer 3300 and inner layer 3302 to form first strap 2910 and second strap 2912 of rear portion 3000 of breast support garment 2900.

[0207]In some embodiments, bonding strips may be used to bond or join portions of inner layer 3302 to outer layer 3300. In this embodiment, a bottom bonding strip 3314 extends along bottom edge 3014 and a shoulder bonding strip 3316 having a crossing arrangement to join inner layer 3302 to outer layer 3300 in the areas corresponding to first strap 2910 and second strap 2912. In one embodiment, bottom bonding strip 3314 and shoulder bonding strip 3316 may be a thin film adhesive or bonding material, including any of the bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesive or bonding materials.

[0208]With this arrangement, rear portion 3000 of breast support garment 2900 may be provided with rear pocket 3018 that may receive various items. For example, as shown in FIG. 34, a wearer of breast support garment 2900 may place an ice pack 3400 into rear pocket 3018 of breast support garment 2900 through opening 3020 below center panel portion 3016. In an example embodiment, rear pocket 3018 has a size of approximately 6 centimeters by 6 centimeters. In other embodiments, the size of rear pocket 3018 may be larger or smaller. It should understood that ice pack 3400 is exemplary and other items may be placed into rear pocket 3018 on rear portion 3000 of breast support garment 2900.

[0209]In some embodiments, a breast support garment may include a tension element to provide tension to a pocket formed between the layers of the front portion of the breast support garment. The tension provided by the tension element helps keep the fabric of the breast support garment close to the body of the wearer and prevents the items stored in the pocket from falling out or bouncing during movement or other activities. FIGS. 35-39 illustrate example embodiments of tension elements that may be used with any of the pockets described herein.

[0210]Referring now to FIG. 35, a schematic view of a first example embodiment of a tension element 3500 associated with full panel front pocket 2922 of breast support garment 2900 is shown. In an example embodiment, tension element 3500 is bonded to the inside of full panel front pocket 2922 and may not be visible on front portion outer face 2908 of breast support garment 2900. In this embodiment, tension element 3500 extends horizontally in a lateral direction across the chest area of the wearer over front portion 2902 from first side 2904 to second side 2906. A first end 3502 of tension element 3500 is located on first side 2904 of breast support garment 2900 and an opposite second end 3504 is located on second side 2906 of breast support garment 2900. In this embodiment, tension element 3500 extends beneath front lip 2928 of front portion 2902.

[0211]In an example embodiment, tension element 3500 is bonded to the inside of full panel front pocket 2922. For example, tension element 3500 may be bonded to one of inner face 3110 of outer layer 3100 or first face 3112 of pocket liner layer 3104. Tension element 3500 may be a thin film adhesive or bonding material, including any of the bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesive or bonding materials. Tension element 3500 resists stretch in the area where tension element 3500 is located to create tension lines that press against the items inside full panel front pocket 2922. With this arrangement, tension element 3500 may help restrain or reduce movement of the items inside full panel front pocket 2922.

[0212]Referring now to FIG. 36, a schematic view of a second example embodiment of a tension element 3600 associated with full panel front pocket 2922 of breast support garment 2900 is shown. In an example embodiment, tension element 3600 is bonded to the inside of full panel front pocket 2922 and may not be visible on front portion outer face 2908 of breast support garment 2900. In this embodiment, tension element 3600 has an X-shape that crosses over the chest area of the wearer on front portion 2902. As shown in FIG. 36, tension element 3600 includes a first portion 3602 that extends from a first end 3604 near or adjacent to bottom edge 2916 on second side 2906 to a second end 3606 at or near top edge 2914 on first side 2904. Tension element 3600 also includes a second portion 3608 that extends from a first end 3610 near or adjacent to bottom edge 2916 on first side 2904 to a second end 3612 at or near top edge 2914 on second side 2906. First portion 3602 and second portion 3608 cross over each other at a cross-over area 3614 located between first breast cup 2918 and second breast cup 2920 in the middle of front portion 2902 of breast support garment 2900.

[0213]In an example embodiment, tension element 3600 is bonded to the inside of full panel front pocket 2922. For example, tension element 3600 may be bonded to one of inner face 3110 of outer layer 3100 or first face 3112 of pocket liner layer 3104. Tension element 3600 may be a thin film adhesive or bonding material, including any of the bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesive or bonding materials. Tension element 3600 resists stretch in the area where tension element 3600 is located to create tension lines that press against the items inside full panel front pocket 2922. With this arrangement, tension element 3600 may help restrain or reduce movement of the items inside full panel front pocket 2922.

[0214]Referring now to FIG. 37, a schematic view of a third example embodiment of a tension element 3700 associated with full panel front pocket 2922 of breast support garment 2900 is shown. In an example embodiment, tension element 3700 is bonded to the inside of full panel front pocket 2922 and may not be visible on front portion outer face 2908 of breast support garment 2900. In this embodiment, tension element 3700 has a y-shape that extends through the chest area of the wearer on front portion 2902. As shown in FIG. 37, tension element 3700 includes a center perimeter portion 3702 that follows along the contours of each of first breast cup 2918 and second breast cup 2920. Tension element 3700 also includes a first portion 3704 that extends along a periphery of top edge 2914 on first side 2904 and a second portion 3706 that extends along a periphery of top edge 2914 on second side 2906. Tension element 3700 also includes a top portion 3710 extending between first portion 3704 and second portion 3706 that extends along the periphery of top edge 2914 at front lip 2928 beneath opening 2924 of full panel front pocket 2922 and an opposite bottom portion 3708 that extends between center perimeter portion 3702 near or adjacent to bottom edge 2916. Tension element 3700 also includes a center middle portion 3712 located between first breast cup 2918 and second breast cup 2920 in the middle of front portion 2902 of breast support garment 2900.

[0215]In an example embodiment, tension element 3700 is bonded to the inside of full panel front pocket 2922. For example, tension element 3700 may be bonded to one of inner face 3110 of outer layer 3100 or first face 3112 of pocket liner layer 3104. In an example embodiment, tension element 3700 may include an adhesive dot matrix pattern, as described above, to join or bond tension element 3700 to the inside of full panel front pocket 2922. With this arrangement, tension element 3700 may help restrain or reduce movement of the items inside full panel front pocket 2922.

[0216]FIG. 38 illustrates an exploded view of breast support garment 2900 with full panel front pocket 2922 including tension element 3700 is shown. In this embodiment, front portion 2902 includes outer layer 3100 and inner layer 3102 with pocket liner layer 3104 located between outer layer 3100 and inner layer 3102 to form full panel front pocket 2922, as described above. Adhesive dot matrix pattern 3108 disposed between inner layer 3102 and pocket liner layer 3104 joins together the opposing faces of inner layer 3102 and pocket liner layer 3104. In this embodiment, pocket liner layer 3104 is joined to inner layer 3102 such that second face 3114 of pocket liner layer 3104 is joined to first face 3116 of inner layer 3102 using adhesive dot matrix pattern 3108. With this arrangement, the interior void between first face 3112 of pocket liner layer 3104 and inner face 3110 of outer layer 3100 that defines full panel front pocket 2922 is formed.

[0217]In an example embodiment, tension element 3700 is located between pocket liner layer 3104 and outer layer 3100. As described above, tension element 3700 is attached or bonded to the inside of full panel front pocket 2922 to help apply tension or pressure to the items inside the pocket. In this embodiment, tension element 3700 includes a fabric layer 3800 that is joined or bonded to inner face 3110 of outer layer 3100 by an adhesive dot matrix pattern 3802. In an example embodiment, adhesive dot matrix pattern 3802 may have varied separation distances and/or adhesive dot sizes between adjacent adhesive dots in different areas, for example, as described above with regard to previous embodiments of adhesive dot matrix patterns. As described above, process 500 may be used to apply adhesive dot matrix pattern 3802 to either the face of fabric layer 3800 or inner face 3110 of outer layer 3100 before joining the layers together.

[0218]FIG. 39 illustrates a schematic plan view of an example embodiment of adhesive dot matrix pattern 3802 for tension element 3700. In this embodiment, adhesive dot matrix pattern 3802 includes two levels of adhesive dot density (e.g., associated with varying separation distances and/or adhesive dot sizes) arranged in different areas of adhesive dot matrix pattern 3802 to provide zones having different levels of support to tension element 3700 on breast support garment 2900.

[0219]As shown in FIG. 39, adhesive dot matrix pattern 3802 includes a first adhesive dot density 3900 that is associated with a low adhesive dot density having a largest separation distance and/or a smallest adhesive dot size to provide a smallest level of support. That is, first adhesive dot density 3900 bonds the opposite layers (e.g., fabric layer 3800 and outer layer 3100 as shown in FIG. 38) such that the areas of full panel front pocket 2922 of breast support garment 2900 having first adhesive dot density 3900 provide the least stretch resistance. In this embodiment, first adhesive dot density 3900 may be used in center middle portion 3712.

[0220]Adhesive dot matrix pattern 3802 also includes a second adhesive dot density 3902 that is associated with a medium adhesive dot density having a separation distance that is smaller than the separation distance of first adhesive dot density 3900 (and/or an adhesive dot size that is larger than the adhesive dot size of first adhesive dot density 3900) to provide a level of support that is greater than the level of support provided by first adhesive dot density 3900. That is, second adhesive dot density 3902 bonds the opposite layers (e.g., fabric layer 3800 and outer layer 3100 as shown in FIG. 38) such that the areas of full panel front pocket 2922 of breast support garment 2900 having second adhesive dot density 3902 provide an amount or degree of stretch resistance that is greater than the amount or degree of stretch resistance provided by first adhesive dot density 3900.

[0221]In this embodiment, second adhesive dot density 3902 may be used at least along a perimeter of tension element 3700, including center perimeter portion 3702, first portion 3704, second portion 3706, top portion 3710 extending between first portion 3704 and second portion 3706, and bottom portion 3708. In one embodiment, the separation distance of the adhesive dots in the areas having first adhesive dot density 3900 is approximately 3 mm and the separation distance of the adhesive dots in the areas having second adhesive dot density 3902 is approximately 1 mm. In other embodiments, the separation distances may be larger or smaller. With this arrangement, tension element 3700 bonded to the inside of full panel front pocket 2922 using adhesive dot matrix pattern 3802 may help restrain or reduce movement of the items inside full panel front pocket 2922.

[0222]Referring now to FIG. 40, a front view of another example embodiment of a breast support garment 4000 with a full-size front panel pocket feature is shown. In an example embodiment, breast support garment 4000 may include a front portion 4002 for covering at least a portion of a chest area of a wearer. In some embodiments, front portion 4002 extends between a first side 4004 and a second side 4006 of breast support garment 4000. In an example embodiment, front portion 4002 of breast support garment 4000 includes a front portion outer face 4008 that forms an outer surface of breast support garment 4000 extending away from the chest area of the wearer.

[0223]In this embodiment, breast support garment 4000 includes a pair of shoulder straps, including a first strap 4010 and a second strap 4012. First strap 4010 and second strap 4012 are configured to extend over the shoulders of a wearer of breast support garment 4000. In an example embodiment, front portion 4002 of breast support garment 4000 extends from a top edge 4014 to a bottom edge 4016. Top edge 4014 may form a neckline that extends from above and between the breasts of a wearer. Bottom edge 4016 may form an under band that extends beneath the breasts of a wearer. Additionally, in some embodiments, front portion 4002 of breast support garment 4000 may also include a pair of breast cups, including a first breast cup 4018 and a second breast cup 4020, that are configured to receive breasts of the wearer. In one embodiment, first breast cup 4018 and second breast cup 4020 on front portion 4002 of breast support garment 4000 may be molded into the material forming front portion 4002.

[0224]In an example embodiment, breast support garment 4000 includes a full panel front pocket 4022 in front portion 4002. Full panel front pocket 4022 is disposed between the layers of fabric forming front portion 4002. In this embodiment, full panel front pocket 4022 extends over a majority of front portion 4002, including first breast cup 4018 and second breast cup 4020. In addition, in some embodiments, full panel front pocket 4022 may include an opening 4024 adjacent to top edge 4014 of breast support garment 4000. In this embodiment, the interior void forming full panel front pocket 4022 between the layers of front portion 4002 extends from opening 4024 to a bottom boundary that is adjacent to and spaced apart from bottom edge 4016.

[0225]In this embodiment, breast support garment 4000 includes a front lip 4026 that includes a pull tab 4028 along top edge 4014 to allow access to opening 4024 of full panel front pocket 4022. In an example embodiment, front portion 4002 of breast support garment 4000 also includes a plurality of perforations 4030 located in an area of breast support garment 4000 between first breast cup 4018 and second breast cup 4020 and above bottom edge 4016. Plurality of perforations 4030 are holes or openings in the layer forming front portion outer face 4008 so that full panel front pocket 4022 may have additional stretch in this area to accommodate items or objects within full panel front pocket 4022. In some cases, plurality of perforations may also allow for additional airflow into full panel front pocket 4022, for example, to assist with evaporation of sweat and/or condensation from a water bottle.

[0226]FIG. 40 also illustrates a fourth example embodiment of a tension element 4040 associated with full panel front pocket 4022 of breast support garment 4000. In an example embodiment, tension element 4040 is bonded to the inside of full panel front pocket 4022 and may not be visible on front portion outer face 4008 of breast support garment 4000. In this embodiment, tension element 4040 has a pair of intersecting Y-shaped portions that cross over the chest area of the wearer on front portion 4002. In this embodiment, tension element 4040 includes a first Y-shaped portion 4042 that extends from first shoulder strap 4010 and first side 4004 over the chest area to a location adjacent to bottom edge 4016 on the opposite side beneath second breast cup 4020. Tension element 4040 also includes a second Y-shaped portion 4044 that extends from second shoulder strap 4012 and second side 4006 over the chest area to a location adjacent to bottom edge 4016 on the opposite side beneath first breast cup 4018.

[0227]FIG. 41 illustrates an exploded view of breast support garment 4000 with full panel front pocket 4022 including tension element 4040 is shown. In this embodiment, front portion 4002 includes an outer layer 4100 (i.e., facing away from the wearer) and an inner layer 4102 (i.e., facing towards the wearer) with a pocket liner layer 4104 located between outer layer 4100 and inner layer 4102 to form full panel front pocket 4022, in a similar manner as described above with reference to full panel front pocket 2922. In this embodiment, outer layer 4100 includes outer face 4008 and an opposite inner face 4108. Pocket liner layer 4104 includes a first face 4110 and an opposite second face 4112 and inner layer 4102 includes a first face 4114 and an opposite second face 4116. In some embodiments, second face 4116 of inner layer 4102 may be in contact with or adjacent to the chest of a wearer of breast support garment 4000.

[0228]In one embodiment, an adhesive dot matrix pattern 4106 is disposed between inner layer 4102 and pocket liner layer 4104 to join together the opposing faces of inner layer 4102 and pocket liner layer 4104. In this embodiment, pocket liner layer 4104 is joined to inner layer 4102 such that second face 4112 of pocket liner layer 4104 is joined to first face 4114 of inner layer 4102 using adhesive dot matrix pattern 4106. With this arrangement, the interior void between first face 4110 of pocket liner layer 4104 and inner face 4108 of outer layer 4100 that defines full panel front pocket 4022 is formed.

[0229]In an example embodiment, tension element 4040 is located between pocket liner layer 4104 and outer layer 4100. As described above, tension element 4040 is attached or bonded to the inside of full panel front pocket 4022 to help apply tension or pressure to the items inside the pocket. For example, tension element 4040 may be bonded to one of inner face 4108 of outer layer 4100 or first face 4110 of pocket liner layer 4104. Tension element 4040 may be a thin film adhesive or bonding material, including any of the bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesive or bonding materials. Tension element 4040 resists stretch in the area where tension element 4040 is located to create tension lines that press against the items inside full panel front pocket 4022. With this arrangement, tension element 4040 may help restrain or reduce movement of the items inside full panel front pocket 4022.

[0230]Referring now to FIG. 42, an isolated view of tension element 4040 is shown. In this embodiment, tension element 4040 has a pair of intersecting Y-shaped portions, including first Y-shaped portion 4042 and second Y-shaped portion 4044. First Y-shaped portion 4042 includes a first upper section 4200 that extends from a first end 4202 that is configured to attach to first shoulder strap 4010 to a first merge location 4204. At first merge location 4204, first upper section 4200 joins or combines with a first side section 4206. First side section 4206 extends from a second end 4208 that is configured to attach to first side 4004 of breast support garment 4000 to first merge location 4204 where it joins or combines with first upper section 4200. First Y-shaped portion 4042 continues from first merge location 4204 in a downward diagonal direction through a cross-over area 4210 where first Y-shaped portion 4042 and second Y-shaped portion 4044 meet and includes a first lower section 4212 that extends from cross-over area 4210 to a third end 4214. In an example embodiment, first lower section 4212 is configured to attach to breast support garment 4000 adjacent to bottom edge 4016 (shown in FIG. 40) on the opposite side from where first side section 4206 is attached.

[0231]In this embodiment, second Y-shaped portion 4044 includes a second upper section 4220 that extends from a first end 4222 that is configured to attach to second shoulder strap 4012 to a second merge location 4224. At second merge location 4224, second upper section 4220 joins or combines with a second side section Second side section 4226 extends from a second end 4228 that is configured to attach to second side 4006 of breast support garment 4000 to second merge location 4224 where it joins or combines with second upper section 4220. Second Y-shaped portion 4044 continues from second merge location 4224 in a downward diagonal direction through cross-over area 4210 where first Y-shaped portion 4042 and second Y-shaped portion 4044 meet and includes a second lower section 4230 that extends from cross-over area 4210 to a third end 4232. In an example embodiment, second lower section 4230 is configured to attach to breast support garment 4000 adjacent to bottom edge 4016 (shown in FIG. 40) on the opposite side from where second side section 4226 is attached.

[0232]In an example embodiment, cross-over area 4210 where first Y-shaped portion 4042 and second Y-shaped portion 4044 meet is located between first breast cup 4018 and second breast cup 4020 in the middle of front portion 4002 of breast support garment 4000. First Y-shaped portion 4042 is attached to a bottom portion of first shoulder strap 4010 (e.g., at first end 4202 of first upper section 4200), along first side 4004 (e.g., at second end 4208 of first side section 4206), and adjacent to bottom edge 4016 on second side 4006 (e.g., at third end 4214 of first lower section 4212). Second Y-shaped portion 4044 is attached to a bottom portion of second shoulder strap 4012 (e.g., at first end 4222 of second upper section 4220), along second side 4006 (e.g., at second end 4228 of second side section 4226), and adjacent to bottom edge 4016 on first side 4004 (e.g., at third end 4232 of second lower section 4230). With this arrangement, Y-shaped tension element 4040 is formed.

[0233]Referring now to FIG. 43, an enlarged view of second side 4006 of breast support garment 4000 is shown illustrating the forces applied to the fourth example embodiment of tension element 4040. As shown in FIG. 43, second Y-shaped portion 4044 is attached to a bottom portion 4300 of second shoulder strap 4012 at first end 4222 of second upper section 4220. Second Y-shaped portion 4044 is also attached to a side portion 4302 on second side 4006 at second end 4228 of second side section 4226. Additionally, as shown in this embodiment, first lower section 4212 of first Y-shaped portion 4042 is attached at a lower portion 4304 adjacent to bottom edge 4016 at third end 4214. The opposite side of breast support garment 4000 (e.g., first side 4004) has a substantially similar arrangement of first Y-shaped portion 4042. With this arrangement, tension may be applied to full panel front pocket 4022.

[0234]For example, second upper section 4220 of second Y-shaped portion 4044 applies tension in a first direction 4310 between first end 4222 attached to bottom portion 4300 of second shoulder strap 4012 and second merge location 4224. In this embodiment, first direction 4310 is associated with a vertical direction extending from top edge 4014 to bottom edge 4016. Second side section 4226 applies tension in a second direction 4312 between second end 4228 attached to side portion 4302 on second side 4006 and second merge location 4224. In this embodiment, second direction 4312 is associated with a horizontal direction extending from first side 4004 to second side 4006. With this arrangement, tension element 4040 assists with applying tension in both a vertical direction and a horizontal direction to full panel front pocket 4022 of breast support garment 4000 to help keep items or objects secure within full panel front pocket 4022.

[0235]Referring now to FIG. 44, an enlarged view of pocket pull tab 4028 associated with breast support garment 4040 of FIG. 40 is shown. In this embodiment, inner face 4108 of outer layer 4100 is shown to illustrate the connection of pocket pull tab 4028 to breast support garment 4040. In an example embodiment, pull tab 4028 may be made of an elastic cord or other stretchable material. In other embodiments, pull tab 4028 may be made of other materials. As shown in FIG. 44, pocket pull tab 4028 includes a first end 4400 and a second end 4402 that are attached along top edge 4014 at opposite sides of front lip 4026. In this embodiment, front lip 4026 has a notch or cut-out beneath pull tab 4028 that assists with allowing a wearer to grasp pull tab 4028 to open full panel front pocket 4022 of breast support garment 4000.

[0236]In one embodiment, pull tab 4028 may be attached along top edge 4014 using stitches. For example, as shown in FIG. 44, first end 4400 is attached using a first stitch 4404 and second end 4402 is attached using a second stitch 4406. In other embodiments, first end 4400 and second end 4402 may be attached using adhesive and/or stitching. Additionally, in some embodiments, an overlay 4408 may be disposed over inner face 4108 of outer layer 4100 along the periphery of top edge 4014 to cover first end 4400 and second end 4402 and to reduce any irritation or roughness that may be caused by first stitch 4404 and second stitch 4406 and/or adhesive. Overlay 4408 may be a thin film adhesive or bonding material, including any of the bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesive or bonding materials.

[0237]FIG. 45 is a representative view of pocket pull tab 4028 being used to help open full panel pocket 4022 of breast support garment 4000. As shown in this embodiment, pull tab 4028 allows a wearer of breast support garment 4000 to easily pull front lip 4026 away from the chest of the wearer to open full panel front pocket 4022. With this arrangement, pull tab 4028 on front lip 4026 may assist with placing items into opening 4024 of full panel front pocket 4022 by making it easier to open the space between the layers of breast support garment 4000 that form full panel front pocket 4022.

[0238]For example, as shown in FIG. 45, water bottle 2500 may be easily inserted into full panel front pocket 4022 when pull tab 4028 is used to pull front lip 4026 away from the wearer's chest to open full panel front pocket 4022. Additionally, as described above, in some embodiments, pull tab 4028 may be made of an elastic cord. In these embodiment, pull tab 4028 may be wrapped over a cap 4500 of water bottle 2500 when water bottle 2500 is inserted into full panel front pocket 4022 to keep it in place within full panel front pocket 4022 and to prevent water bottle 2500 from falling out or moving during physical activity.

[0239]FIG. 46 is a front view of an example embodiment of a breast support garment 4600 with a front pocket for holding nipple covers. In an example embodiment, breast support garment 4600 may include a front portion 4602 for covering at least a portion of a chest area of a wearer. In some embodiments, front portion 4602 extends between a first side 4604 and a second side 4606 of breast support garment 4600. In an example embodiment, front portion 4602 of breast support garment 4600 includes a front portion outer face 4608 that forms an outer surface of breast support garment 4600 extending away from the chest area of the wearer.

[0240]In this embodiment, breast support garment 4600 includes a pair of shoulder straps, including a first strap 4610 and a second strap 4612. First strap 4610 and second strap 4612 are configured to extend over the shoulders of a wearer of breast support garment 4600. In an example embodiment, front portion 4602 of breast support garment 4600 extends from a top edge 4614 to a bottom edge 4616. Top edge 4614 may form a neckline that extends from above and between the breasts of a wearer. Bottom edge 4616 may form an under band that extends beneath the breasts of a wearer.

[0241]In an example embodiment, front portion 4602 of breast support garment 4600 includes a front pocket 4620 between the layers of fabric forming front portion 4602. Front pocket 4620 has an interior void 4622 for holding a pair of nipple covers, including a first nipple cover 4624 and a second nipple cover 4626, that are configured to cover the nipples of the wearer. In one embodiment, first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626 may be made from a foam material. In an example embodiment, first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626 have a tapered configuration with a thicker middle section that thins out to thinner peripheral section around the edges so that first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626 provide a relatively smooth appearance to front portion outer face 4608 of breast support garment 4600. In other embodiments, first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626 may be made from other cushioning materials, including a spacer fabric, which may have a tapered thickness that decreases in thickness as it reaches towards the edges, for example as shown in FIGS. 20D-20F, and 201.

[0242]Referring now to FIG. 47, an exploded view of an example embodiment of front portion 4602 of breast support garment 4600 with front pocket 4620 is shown. In this embodiment, front portion 4602 includes an outer layer 4700 and an inner layer 4702. Outer layer 4700 is configured to face outwards and away from the wearer and inner layer 4702 is configured to face towards the chest area of a wearer of breast support garment 4600. In one embodiment, inner layer 4702 may be directly in contact with the skin of the wearer of breast support garment 4600.

[0243]In an example embodiment, a pocket liner layer 4704 is located between outer layer 4700 and inner layer 4702 to form front pocket 4620. Pocket liner layer 4704 has a shape that corresponds to the shape of front pocket 4620 and is configured to hold first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626. Each layer of breast support garment 4600 may be made from a separate fabric or textile. In an example embodiment, the fabrics or textiles forming outer layer 4700, inner layer 4702, and/or pocket liner layer 4704 may have 4-way stretch capabilities, wicking properties, and quick drying characteristics. In one embodiment, outer layer 4700, inner layer 4702, and/or pocket liner layer 4704 may be made from a knit textile. In some cases, the fabric or textile of pocket liner layer 4704 may different from outer layer 4700 and/or inner layer 4702. For example, pocket liner layer 4704 may be made from a knit textile that has a greater amount or percentage of stretchable fibers or yarns (e.g., elastane or similar fibers/yarns) than outer layer 4700 and/or inner layer 4702. In other cases, outer layer 4700, inner layer 4702, and/or pocket liner layer 4704 may be made from any type or kind of fabric or textile, including combinations of textiles and/or fabrics.

[0244]In an example embodiment, an adhesive dot matrix pattern 4706 is disposed between inner layer 4702 and pocket liner layer 4704 and a portion of outer layer 4700. Adhesive dot matrix pattern 4706 joins together the opposing faces of inner layer 4702 and pocket liner layer 4704 and a portion of inner face 4710 of outer layer 4700. In one embodiment, adhesive dot matrix pattern 4706 may have a uniform separation distance and/or adhesive dot size between adjacent adhesive dots of the plurality of adhesive dots that form adhesive dot matrix pattern 4706. In other embodiments, adhesive dot matrix pattern 4706 may have varied separation distances and/or adhesive dot sizes between adjacent adhesive dots in different areas, for example, as described above with regard to previous embodiments of adhesive dot matrix patterns. As described above, process 500 may be used to apply adhesive dot matrix pattern 4706 to a first face of inner layer 4702 before joining with pocket liner layer 4704 and outer layer 4700.

[0245]In this embodiment, outer layer 4700 includes outer face 4608 configured to face outwards and away from a wearer of breast support garment 2900 and opposite inner face 4710. Pocket liner layer 4704 includes a first face 4712 facing towards inner face 4710 of outer layer 4700 and an opposite second face 4714 facing towards a first face 4716 of inner layer 4702. In this embodiment, pocket liner layer 4704 is configured to be joined to inner layer 4702 such that second face 4714 of pocket liner layer 4704 is joined to first face 4716 of inner layer 4702 using adhesive dot matrix pattern 4706. Additionally, portions of adhesive dot matrix pattern 4706 applied to first face 4716 of inner layer 4702 that are not covered by pocket liner layer 4704 (i.e., extending beyond the outer perimeter of pocket liner layer 4704) join inner face 4710 of outer layer 4700 to first face 4716 of inner layer 4716 to form a closed edge around the outer perimeter of front pocket 4620. With this arrangement, interior void 4622 is formed between first face 4712 of pocket liner layer 4704 and inner face 4710 of outer layer 4700 that defines front pocket 4620 for receiving first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626.

[0246]As shown in FIG. 47, breast support garment 4600 includes an additional support structure 4720. In some implementations, additional support structure 4720 may act as a support structure and/or shaping structure that can provide support to manage breast tissue acceleration during a wearer's activity. In some embodiments, additional support structure 4720 may be made from a compressible material. In one embodiment, the compressible material may be a foam, including, but not limited to a shape memory polymer foam or similar material. In other implementations, additional support structure 4720 may be optional and may be omitted from a breast support garment, including breast support garment 4600.

[0247]Additionally, bonding strips may be used to bond or join portions of inner layer 4702 to outer layer 4700. In this embodiment, a bottom bonding strip 4722 extends along underneath support structure 4720. A first side bonding strip 4724 and a second side bonding strip 4726 may also be used to bond portions of inner layer 4702 to outer layer 4700 extending upwards along each side of breast support garment 4600. In one embodiment, bottom bonding strip 4722, first side bonding strip 4724, and second side bonding strip 4726 may be a thin film adhesive or bonding material, including any of the bonding materials described herein, including TPE, TPU, or other adhesive or bonding materials.

[0248]In some embodiments, one or more openings may be provided to access front pocket 4620 of breast support garment 4600 to allow first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626 to be removably inserted into and/or removed from interior void 4622. Referring now to FIG. 48, a representative view of a first example embodiment of an opening 4800 for inserting first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626 into front pocket 4620 of breast support garment 4600 is shown. In this embodiment, opening 4800 is disposed along top edge 4614 of breast support garment 4600. Opening 4800 is located approximately in the middle of top edge 4614 between the breasts of the wearer. As shown in FIG. 48, opening 4800 provides access into interior void 4622 of front pocket 4620 so that first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626 may be inserted into and/or removed from front pocket 4620.

[0249]In some embodiments, opening 4800 may be provided between the layers of fabric forming front portion 4602 of breast support garment 4600. In one embodiment, adhesive dot matrix pattern 4706 that is used to join together the layers of breast support garment 4600 may omit adhesive dots at the location corresponding to opening 4800 so that inner face 4710 of outer layer 4700 remains free from being attached or joined with first face 4716 of inner layer 4702 at the location corresponding to opening 4800. With this arrangement, inner layer 4702 and outer layer 4700 may be moved apart or away from each other at opening 4800 to access interior void 4622 of front pocket 4620 to insert or remove first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626.

[0250]In another embodiment, opening 4800 may be formed by including an additional portion of fabric on pocket liner layer 4704 that extends upwards to top edge 4614 through the location corresponding to opening 4800. The additional portion of pocket liner layer 4704 covers adhesive dot matrix pattern 4706 at the location corresponding to opening 4800 so that inner face 4710 of outer layer 4700 remains free from being attached or joined with first face 4716 of inner layer 4702. With this arrangement, inner layer 4702 and outer layer 4700 may be moved apart or away from each other at opening 4800 to access interior void 4622 of front pocket 4620 to insert or remove first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626.

[0251]Referring now to FIG. 49, a representative view of a second example embodiment of openings for inserting first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626 into front pocket 4620 of breast support garment 4600 is shown. In this embodiment, front pocket 4620 is formed as described above with closed edges extending completely around the outer perimeter and enclosing interior void 4622. During a separate process during or after the assembly of breast support garment 4600, openings are cut into the fabric on the backside of front portion 4602 that faces towards the chest of the wearer.

[0252]In this embodiment, a first opening 4900 to front pocket 4620 is provided on first side 4604 of breast support garment 4600 and a second opening 4902 to front pocket 4620 is provided on second side 4606 of breast support garment 4600. As shown in FIG. 49, first opening 4900 and second opening 4902 are located beneath the breasts of the wearer towards bottom edge 4616 of breast support garment 4600. With this arrangement, first nipple cover 4624 may be inserted into and/or removed from front pocket 4620 through first opening 4900 and second nipple cover 4626 may be inserted into and/or removed from front pocket 4620 through second opening 4902.

[0253]In one embodiment, first opening 4900 and second opening 4902 are cut into the fabric on the face of inner layer 4702 facing towards the chest of the wearer and second face 4714 of pocket liner layer 4704 (as shown in FIG. 47) to form first opening 4900 and second opening 4902. With this arrangement, first opening 4900 and second opening 4902 remain hidden on the inner portion of breast support garment 4600 when worn by a wearer so that the openings are not visible on front portion outer face 4608 of breast support garment 4600.

[0254]In some embodiments, nipple covers, such as nipple covers 4624, 4626 described above, may be bonded or attached directly to one or more layers forming the breast support garment, including any of the breast support garment embodiments described herein. For example, in one embodiment, a pair of nipple covers, such as first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626, may be bonded to a face of a spacer fabric layer of a breast support garment. The nipple covers may be sized and dimensioned so as to cover a nipple area of a wearer of the breast support garment, but not a substantial majority of the remaining area of the breast of the wearer. For example, nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626 have a shape and size that is smaller than the other layers of the breast support garment embodiments described above.

[0255]In an example embodiment, an adhesive dot matrix pattern having a plurality of adhesive dots with a shape that corresponds approximately to a shape of first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626 may be disposed between an outer face (i.e., facing away from a chest of the wearer) of a spacer fabric layer (e.g., any of the spacer fabric layers described above) and first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626 so as to directly bond or attach first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626 to the outer face of the spacer fabric layer.

[0256]In some embodiments, one or more adhesive dot matrix patterns may be disposed between the spacer fabric layer and the nipple covers. The nipple covers, (e.g., first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626) may be formed from one or more panels of a fabric, including any of the fabrics described above for forming the layers of the breast support garment embodiments. Additionally, the combined spacer fabric layer with first nipple cover 4624 and second nipple cover 4626 bonded or attached to the spacer fabric layer by one or more adhesive dot matrix patterns may be itself joined or attached to one or more additional fabric panel layers to form an outer layer and/or inner layer of the breast support garment. By providing a breast support garment with nipple covers directly bonded or attached to the spacer fabric layer, the nipple covers may remain in place on the chest of the wearer and wrinkles or bagging caused by movement or shifting of the nipple covers within a pocket in the breast support garment may be avoided.

[0257]While various embodiments of the disclosure have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure is not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.