EP1787536A1

EP1787536A1 - Women's garment and method of manufacturing the same

Info

Publication number: EP1787536A1
Application number: EP05739218A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Ryohko Murotani
Original assignee: Gunze Ltd
Current assignee: Gunze Ltd
Priority date: 2004-08-20
Filing date: 2005-05-13
Publication date: 2007-05-23
Also published as: EP1787536A4; HK1103603A1; JPWO2006018919A1; KR20070059104A; CN1993063A; KR100879697B1; WO2006018919A1; CN1993063B

Abstract

The present invention provides a brassiere capable of reducing sagging muscles and skin wrinkles by being worn, and providing wearing comfort with almost no physical burden on the wearer. The present invention relates to a garment for women including cup portions 1 for holding the breasts, a support portion 2 for fixing the cup portions, elastic underarm band portions 3 for covering the body from the side to the back thereof, and straps 4, and to a method for manufacturing the same. Each underarm band portion 3 has disposed thereto a first member 5 made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the first members each press against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn. The support portion 2 has disposed thereto second members 6 made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the second members each press against the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a garment for women, as typified by a brassiere, which subjects the wearer to less pressure and tightness, and is capable of improving blood circulation by being worn, and thereby alleviating sagging muscles and skin.

PRIOR ART

Brassieres have been used as underwear for supporting the breasts of women and beautifying the shape of the chest. Meanwhile, the function of shaping the bodyline of the wearer has been too highly prioritized, resulting in increased pressure and a tighter fit so that the act of wearing the garment itself has become an undue physical burden on women.
It would be extremely desirable if brassieres and like garments for women were available which maintain such a bodyline-shaping function while reducing or eliminating the undue physical burden on the wearer.
Further, lowering of the metabolism in the human body with aging leads to noticeable sagging muscles, skin wrinkles, etc. From a woman's point of view, it is natural to try to reduce sagging and wrinkles as much as possible to maintain a beautiful appearance.
Therefore, it would be extremely significant if sagging and wrinkles could be reduced or eliminated by a simple method, such as the daily wearing of a garment.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide a brassiere or like garment for women capable of reducing sagging muscles and skin wrinkles by being worn, and providing wearing comfort with little physical burden on the wearer.

MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEM

As a result of extensive research, the present inventors found that the above objects can be achieved by a garment for women including cup portions 1 for holding the breasts of a woman, a support portion 2 for fixing the cup portions, elastic underarm band portions 3 for covering the body from the side to the back thereof, and straps 4. Each of the underarm band portions has disposed thereto a first member 5 made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the first members each press against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn. The support portion has disposed thereto second members 6 made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the second members each press against part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn. Based on this finding, the present inventors conducted further research and accomplished the present invention.
Specifically, the present invention provides the following garments for women and methods for manufacturing the same.
Item 1. A garment for women comprising cup portions for holding the breasts, a support portion for fixing the cup portions, elastic underarm band portions for covering the body from the side to the back thereof, and straps,
each underarm band portion having disposed thereto a first member made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the first members each press against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn, and
the support portion having disposed thereto second members made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the second members each press against the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.
Item 2. A garment for women according to item 1, wherein:

the first members are shaped as approximate triangles and each disposed to one of the underarm band portions in such a manner that one side of each first member presses against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn, and
the second members are shaped as approximate triangles and disposed to the support portion in such a manner that one side of each second member presses against the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.

Item 3. A garment for women according to item 2 wherein:

the first members are shaped as approximate right-angle triangles and each disposed to one of the underarm band portions in such a manner that the hypotenuse of each first member presses against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn, and
the second members are shaped as approximate right-angle triangles and disposed to the support portion in such a manner that the hypotenuse of each second member presses against the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.

Item 4. A garment for women according to item 3, wherein:

the base of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped first member is in contact with the base of one of the underarm band portions,
the side perpendicular to the base of each first member is in contact with a joint portion between the support portion and one of the underarm band portions,
the base of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped second member is in contact with the base of the support portion, and
the side perpendicular to the base of each second member is in contact with a joint portion between the support portion and one of the underarm band portions.

Item 5. A garment for women according to item 3 or 4, wherein:

the base of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped first member is about 4 to about 8 cm wide,
the side perpendicular to the base of each first member is about 5 to about 10 cm long,
the base of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped second member is about 4 to about 8 cm wide, and
the side perpendicular to the base of each second member is about 5 to about 10 cm long.

Item 6. A garment for women according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein the first members and the second members are made of marquisette.
Item 7. A garment for women according to any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the second members are part of the support portion.
Item 8. A garment for women according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the garment is at least one member selected from the group consisting of a brassiere, a body suit, a bra-slip, a camisole, and a swimming suit.
Item 9. A method for manufacturing a garment for women, the garment comprising cup portions for holding the breasts, a support portion for fixing the cup portions, elastic underarm band portions for covering the body from the side to the back thereof, and straps,
the method comprising:

a step of providing each underarm band portion with a first member made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the first members each press against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn, and
a step of providing the support portion with second members made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the second members each press against the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.

Item 10. A garment for women comprising cup portions for holding the breasts, a support portion made of a non-elastic fabric for fixing the cup portions, elastic underarm band portions for covering the body from the side to the back thereof, and straps,
each underarm band portion having disposed thereto a first member made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the first members each press against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.
Item 11. A garment for women according to item 10, wherein the first members are shaped as approximate triangles and each disposed to one of the underarm band portions in such a manner that one side of each first member presses against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.
Item 12. A garment for women according to item 11, wherein the first members are shaped as approximate right-angle triangles and each disposed to one of the underarm band portions in such a manner that the hypotenuse of each first member presses against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.
Item 13. A garment for women according to item 12, wherein:

the base of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped first member is in contact with the base of one of the underarm band portions, and
the side perpendicular to the base of each first member is in contact with a joint portion between the support portion and one of the underarm band portions.

Item 14. A garment for women according to item 12 or 13, wherein:

the base of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped first member is about 4 to about 8 cm wide, and
the side perpendicular to the base of each first member is about 5 to about 10 cm long.

Item 15. A garment for women according to any one of items 10 to 14, wherein the first members are made of marquisette.
Item 16. A garment for women according to any one of items 10 to 16, wherein the garment is at least one member selected from the group consisting of a brassiere, a body suit, a bra-slip, a camisole, and a swimming suit.
Item 17. A method for manufacturing a garment for women, the garment comprising cup portions for holding the breasts, a support portion made of a non-elastic fabric for fixing the cup portions, elastic underarm band portions for covering the body from the side to the back thereof, and straps,
the method comprising a step of providing each underarm band portion with a first member made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the first members each press against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.
The garment for women of the present invention is described below in detail.
The garment for women of the present invention is not limited in kind so far as it includes cup portions 1 for holding the breasts, a support portion 2 for fixing the cup portions, elastic underarm band portions 3 for covering the body from the side to the back thereof, and straps 4. The garment may be, for example, a brassiere, a body suit, a bra-slip, a camisole, a swimming suit, etc.
Among these, embodiments of a brassiere, which typifies garments for women, are described below to further illustrate the present invention. However, the invention is not limited thereto.

First embodiment

A first embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention is as follows.
The first embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention is a brassiere including cup portions 1 for holding the breasts, a support portion 2 for fixing the cup portions, elastic underarm band portions 3 for covering the body from the side to the back thereof, and straps 4. Each of the underarm band portions 3 has disposed thereto a first member 5 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "first member") made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the first members each press against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the brassiere is worn. The support portion 2 has disposed thereto second members 6 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "second members") made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the second members each press against the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area when the brassiere is worn.
The material of the first members 5 is not limited so far as it is a non-elastic fabric. For example, marquisette is suitable in terms of strength, air permeability, etc.
The shape of the first members 5 is not limited so far as it enables each member to press against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the brassiere is worn, thereby lifting the latissimus dorsi muscle 10. An example thereof is the shape of an approximate triangle. An approximate triangle means a triangle or like shape (including triangle-like shapes with gently curved sides, etc). Among these, an approximate right-angle triangle is preferable, and a right-angle triangle is particularly preferable.
Approximately triangle shaped first members 5 are each disposed to an underarm band portion 3 in such a manner that one side of each first member 5 presses against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the brassiere is worn. Specifically, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2, approximately right-angle triangle shaped first members 5 are each disposed to an underarm band portion 3 in such a manner that the hypotenuse X3 of each first member 5 presses against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the brassiere is worn.
One of the two sides forming the right angle of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped first member 5, i.e., the base X1 of each first member 5, is preferably in contact with the base 3a of an underarm band portion. In this case, the base X1 of each first member 5 may be about 4 to about 8 cm wide (particularly about 6 to about 8 cm wide). This is because a first member 5 having the base too narrow may not reach the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area, while a base that is too wide may decrease the stretchable regions of the underarm band portions 3, thereby reducing the effect of lifting the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area.
The other of the two sides forming the right angle of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped first member 5, i.e., the side X2 perpendicular to the base of each first member 5, is preferably positioned in contact with a joint portion 8 between the support portion 2 and an underarm band portion 3. The side X2 perpendicular to the base of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped first member 5 may be about 5 about 10 cm long (particularly about 7 to about 8 cm long). This is because agreement between the length of the side perpendicular to the base of the second members 5 and the length of the joint portion 8 is a structural necessity for the brassiere, and when the side is too long, it may protrude beyond the joint portion 8.
It is necessary that each first member 5 be disposed to an underarm band portion 3 in such a manner that the hypotenuse of each first member 5 presses against the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm region. Within the scope that this is satisfied, and according to the configuration of the brassiere (e.g., shape of the underarm band portions 3, etc.), the approximately right-angle-triangle shape of the first members 5 may be suitably modified.
The underarm band portions 3 are usually made of power net, tricot, or a like elastic fabric. Non-elastic first members 5 are each disposed to an underarm band portion 3 by sewing, adhesion, etc. The first members 5 may be disposed on either the front or rear surfaces of the underarm band portions 3. The rear surfaces are preferable.
For example, the side X2 perpendicular to the base of each first member 5 may be placed underneath a spun tape fabric that covers a suture portion (joint portion) 8 at the boundary between the support portion 2 and an underarm band portion 3 (i.e., placed in between the tape fabric and the underarm band portion fabric), and sewed up with the tape. The base X1 of each first member 5 may be placed underneath a spun tape fabric that covers the base 3a of an underarm band portion (i.e., placed in between the tape fabric and the underarm band portion fabric), and sewed up with the tape. The hypotenuse X3 of each first member 5 may be folded back at the end and sewed directly on the fabric of an underarm band portion 3.
Alternatively, the first members 5 may be provided as a part of the underarm band portions 3 by, for example, forming first members 5 with a non-elastic yarn when weaving the elastic underarm band portions 3.
The material of the second members 6 is not limited so far as it is a non-elastic fabric. For example, marquisette is suitable in terms of strength, air permeability, etc. The material of the second members 6 may be the same as or different from that of first members 5.
The shape of the second members 6 is not limited so far as it enables each member to press against the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area when the brassiere is worn, thereby lifting the pectoralis major muscle 11. Among these, as with first members 5, the shape is an approximate triangle, preferably an approximate right-angle triangle, and more preferably a right-angle triangle.
Approximately triangle shaped second members 6 are disposed to the support portion 2 in such a manner that one side of each second member 6 presses against the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area when the brassiere is worn. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, approximately right-angle triangle shaped second members 6 are disposed to the support portion 2 in such a manner that the hypotenuse Y3 of each second member 6 presses against the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area when the brassiere is worn.
One of the two sides forming the right angle of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped second member 6, i.e., the base Y1 of each second member 6, is preferably in contact with the base 2a of the support portion. In this case, the base Y1 of each second member 6 may be about 4 to about 8 cm wide (particularly about 6 to about 8 cm wide). This is because a second member 6 having the base too narrow may not reach the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area, while a base that is too wide may decrease the stretchable regions of the underarm band portions 3, thereby reducing the effect of lifting the pectoralis major muscle at the underarm region.
The other of the two sides forming the right angle of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped second member 6, i.e., the side Y2 perpendicular to the base of the second member 6, is preferably in contact with a joint portion 8 between the support portion 2 and an underarm band portion 3. The side Y2 perpendicular to the base of each second member 6 may be about 5 about 10 cm long (particularly about 7 to about 8 cm long). This is because agreement between the length of the side perpendicular to the base of the second members 6 and the length of the joint portion 8 is a structural necessity for the brassiere, and when the side is too long, it may protrude beyond the joint portion 8.
It is necessary that the second members 6 be disposed to the support portion 2 in such a manner that the hypotenuse Y3 of each second member 6 presses against the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area. Within the scope that this is satisfied, and according to the configuration of the brassiere (e.g., shape of the support portion, etc.), the approximately right-angle triangular shape of the second members 6 may be suitably modified.
The support portion 2 may be made of either an elastic fabric or a non-elastic fabric. Generally, in order to maintain the shape of the cup portions 1 that hold the breasts, non-elastic fabrics such as those obtained by affixing marquisette onto any fabric are suitable. Second members 6 are disposed to the support portion 2 by sewing, adhesion, etc. The second members 6 may be disposed on either the front or rear surfaces of the support portion 2. The rear surfaces are preferable.
For example, the side Y2 perpendicular to the base of each second member 6 may be placed underneath a spun tape fabric that covers a joint portion 8, and sewed up with the tape. The base Y1 of each second member 6 may be placed underneath a spun tape fabric that covers the base 2a of the support portion, and sewed up with the tape. The hypotenuse Y3 of each second member 6 may be folded back at the end and sewed directly on the fabric of the support portion 2.
Alternatively, the second members 6 may be part of the support portion 2.

Second Embodiment

When the support portion 2 of the above first embodiment is made of a non-elastic fabric and performs the functions of the second members 6, this yields a brassiere as in the above first embodiment with the second members 6 omitted, which is a second embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention.
The second embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention is a brassiere including cup portions 1 for holding the breasts, a support portion 2 made of an non-elastic fabric for fixing the cup portions, elastic underarm band portions 3 for covering the body from the side to the back thereof, and straps 4. Each of the underarm band portions 3 has disposed thereto a first member 5 (first member) made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the first members each press against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the brassiere is worn.
The material and shape of the first members 5 may be selected from those mentioned for the first embodiment.
Approximately triangle shaped first members 5 are each disposed to an underarm band portion 3 in such a manner that one side of each first member 5 presses against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the brassiere is worn. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 3, approximately right-angle triangle shaped first members 5 are each disposed to an underarm band portion 3 in such a manner that the hypotenuse X3 of each first member 5 presses against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the brassiere is worn.
The base X1 of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped first member 5 is preferably in contact with the base 3a of an underarm band portion. In this case, the base X1 of each first member 5 may be about 4 to about 8 cm wide (particularly about 6 to about 8 cm wide). This is because a first member 5 having the base too narrow may not reach the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area, while a base that is too wide may decrease the stretchable regions of the underarm band portions 3, thereby reducing the effect of lifting the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area.
The side X2 perpendicular to the base of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped first member 5 is preferably in contact with a joint portion 8 between the support portion 2 and an underarm band portion 3. The side X2 perpendicular to the base of each first member 5 may be about 5 about 10 cm long (particularly about 7 to about 8 cm long). This is because agreement between the length of the side perpendicular to the base of the first members 5 and the length of the joint portion 8 is a structural necessity for the brassier, and when the side is too long, it may protrude beyond the joint portion 8.
It is necessary that each first member 5 be disposed to an underarm band portion 3 in such a manner that the hypotenuse X3 of each first member 5 presses against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area. Within the scope that this is satisfied, and according to the configuration of the brassiere (e.g., shape of the underarm band portions 3, etc.), the approximately right-angle triangle shape of the first members 5 may be suitably modified.
The underarm band portions 3 are usually made of power net, tricot, or a like elastic fabric. Non-elastic first members 5 are each disposed to an underarm band portion 3 by sewing, adhesion, etc. The first members 5 may be disposed on either the front or rear surfaces of the underarm band portions 3. The rear surfaces are preferable.
For example, the side X2 perpendicular to the base of each first member 5 may be placed underneath a spun tape fabric that covers a joint portion 8 between the support portion 2 and an underarm band portion 3, and sewed up with the tape. The base X1 of each first member 5 may be placed underneath a spun tape fabric that covers the base 3a of an underarm band portion, and sewed up with the tape. The hypotenuse X3 of each first member 5 may be folded back at the end and sewed directly on the fabric of an underarm band portion 3.
Alternatively, the first members 5 may be provided as a part of the underarm band portions 3 by, for example, forming first members 5 with a non-elastic yarn when weaving the elastic underarm band portions 3.
The cup portions 1, support portion 2, underarm band portions 3, and straps 4 constituting the brassiere of the present invention are not limited, and may be selected from known items. Examples thereof include the followings.
Cup portions. 1 constitute a member sewed into a shape capable of attractively holding full-shaped breasts. Examples include those with approximately arc-shaped lower edges (joint portions between each cup portion and a support portion) each having sewed thereto a tape that includes a core material, such as a wire 7, enclosed therein for maintaining the shape of the cup. The cup portions 1 are not limited to this configuration and may be any known items.
A support portion 2 constitutes a member that defines the position of the cup portions 1, and also, together with the cup portions 1, supports the breasts while being in close contact with the front and sides (underarms) of the body of the brassiere wearer at the underbust area. The support portion 2 is sewed to the lower ends of the cup portions 1 as shown in Figs. 1, 3 and 7. Usable for such a support portion 2 are non-elastic fabrics and fabrics having reduced elasticity obtained by, for example, sewing non-elastic fabrics to elastic fabrics. If necessary, the support portion 2 may be provided with closure members such as front hooks.
Underarm band portions 3 are each disposed to an opposite side of the support portion 2, and are shaped to cover the body from the side to the back thereof. The underarm band portions 3 connect the opposite ends of the support portion 2, and may have back closure members. For example, as shown in Fig. 7, the left and right underarm band portions 3 may be provided, at the ends thereof, with closure members 9 which are detachable from each other. As is conventionally known, such closure members 9 have male and female metal fittings that engage each other. The male metal fitting(s) is disposed to one underarm band portion 3, and the female metal fitting(s) is disposed to the other underarm band portion 3. An elastic fabric is suitable as the material of the underarm band portions 3. The border between the support portion 2 and an underarm band portion 3 is sewed, forming a joint portion 8.
Straps 4 may be known elastic items. The straps function to pull up the underarm band portions 3 (and support portion 2) provided with first members (and second members) of the present invention. Accordingly, the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area is suitably lifted.

Brassiere Characteristics

As described above, the brassiere of the present invention is characterized in that underarm band portions 3 have disposed thereto first members 5 (or a support portion 2 further has disposed thereto second members 6). In the present invention, the act of wearing of the brassiere makes muscles and skin more elastic, and reduces or eliminates wrinkles and sagging.
Specifically, the following remarkable effects can be achieved.
For example, (1) excellent effects on the face region include a shallowing of wrinkles under the eyes, thus making the wrinkles less conspicuous (orbicularis oculi muscle); an upward shift of the ear positions (temporalis muscle); an upward shift of the eyebrows, thus making forehead wrinkles less conspicuous (frontalis muscle); an upward shift of the corners of the mouth (orbicularis oris muscle); a firming of the face line (platysma); an upward shift of the cheek positions and the elimination of sagging (zygomaticus major muscle, zygomaticus minor muscle); etc.

(2) Excellent effects on the upper part of the body include the alleviation of wrinkles/hollows in the clavicular region, thus making them less conspicuous (sternocleidomastoid muscle); an upward shift of the shoulder line (sternocleidomastoid muscle); a firming of the scapula region (trapezius muscle, latissimus dorsi muscle); an elasticizing and slimming of the upper arms (deltoid muscle); a forward shift of the hand positions, as seen from the side (trapezius muscle, latissimus dorsi muscle); an upward shift of the breast positions (trapezius muscle, latissimus dorsi muscle); an increase in the distance between the underbust and the waist (trapezius muscle, latissimus dorsi muscle); a reduction of fat in the intestines (lower abomen) (rectus abdominis muscle); a firming of the entire abdominal region (rectus abdominis muscle); etc.
(3) Excellent effects on the lower part of the body include an upward shift of the hip line (line of the lower part of the gluteus maximus muscle) (gluteus maximus muscle); a rounding of bell-pepper-shaped hips (external oblique muscle, latissimus dorsi muscle); a firming of Achilles tendons (muscles of the legs); an upward shift of the calf positions (muscles of the legs); a shift of the center of gravity to the inner sides of the feet (muscles of the legs); etc.

Further, the brassiere of the present invention provides excellent wearing comfort such that there is no slacking at the upper edges of the brassiere cups, the lower cups fit with no space, the undertapes of the brassiere do not fold inside, the wires at the sides of the cups press into the skin only slightly, the breasts fit within the wire lines, etc. Further, the brassiere of the present invention subjects the wearer to almost no pressure and tightness.
No prior art exists which applies such first members 5 (and second members 6) to a brassiere, and the present invention was thus accomplished based on completely new findings. The reasons for the excellent effects of the brassiere of the present invention have not been revealed, but may be as follows.
The explanations are given with reference to Fig. 4, which schematically shows muscles and a vein with blood flowing toward the heart. As shown in Fig. 4, the cephalic vein 13 is close to the heart 19, and therefore, an obstruction of the blood flow in this blood vessel will have a significant effect on the blood circulation throughout the entire body. This cephalic vein 13 passes through the boundary between the pectoralis major muscle 11 and the deltoid muscle 12. Accordingly, when muscles undergo sagging due to aging or other like factor, the downward sagging movement of the muscles kinks, elongates, contracts, or otherwise deforms the cephalic vein 13. This compresses the cephalic vein 13, thus blocking the blood flow (Fig. 5). In other words, sagging of deltoid muscle 12 due to aging or the like causes pressure on the cephalic vein 13 and reduces the blood flow to the heart 19, probably contributing to the formation of wrinkles and sagging.
When the brassiere of the present invention is worn, the first members 5 (and second members 6) lift the sagging latissimus dorsi muscle 10 (and pectoralis major muscle 11), and this further lifts the deltoid muscle 12. The latissimus dorsi muscle 10, the deltoid muscle 12, and the pectoralis major muscle 11 are thus lifted all together and returned to the condition before the downward sagging (Fig. 6). This prevents stricture of the cephalic vein 13, restores the blood flow, and improves the blood circulation, probably resulting in the above-described effects.
In addition to the above brassieres, other garments for women (e.g., body suits, bra-slips, camisoles, swimming suits, etc.) also achieve the same effects as the brassieres, as long as they include cup portions 1, a support portion 2 for fixing the cup portions, elastic underarm band portions 3, and straps 4 as defined herein.

EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION

The garment for women, as typified by a brassiere, of the present invention is capable of effects such as improving blood circulation by being worn, thereby reducing, eliminating or preventing sagging muscles and wrinkles in the skin. Moreover, as compared to conventional garments for women, the garment of the invention provides superior wearing comfort.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 schematically shows the side view of a brassiere according to the first embodiment of the present invention, as worn;
Fig. 2 shows an enlarged view of a first member and a second member in the brassiere according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 3 schematically shows the side view of a brassiere according to the second embodiment of the present invention, as worn;
Fig. 4 schematically shows muscles and a vein with blood flowing toward the heart;
Fig. 5 schematically shows muscles and a cephalic vein deformed due to the downward sagging movement of the muscles;
Fig. 6 schematically shows muscles and a cephalic vein in the normal condition; and
Fig. 7 shows the brassiere of Example 1.

EXPLANATION OF SYMBOLS

1: Cup portion
2: Support portion
2a: Base of a support portion
3: Underarm band portion
3a: Base of an underarm band portion
4: Strap
5: First member (fabric for lifting the latissimus dorsi muscle)
6: Second member (fabric for lifting the pectoralis major muscle)
7: Wire
8: Joint portion
9: Closure member
10: Latissimus dorsi muscle
11: Pectoralis major muscle
12: Deltoid muscle
13: Cephalic vein
14: Axillary vein
15: Basilic vein
16: External jugular vein
17: Internal jugular vein
18: Subclavian vein
19: Heart
20: Section of pectoralis major muscle separated and angled for viewing
X1: Base of a first member (4 to 8 cm)
X2: Side perpendicular to the base of a first member (5 to 10 cm)
X3: Hypotenuse of a first member
Y1: Base of a second member (4 to 8 cm)
Y2: Side perpendicular to the base of a second member (5 to 10 cm)
Y3: Hypotenuse of a second member

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Examples are given below to illustrate the present invention, but the invention is not limited thereto.

Example 1

The first embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention was manufactured as follows (see Figs. 1, 2 and 7).
A brassiere was used which had underarm band portions 3 made of a power net fabric (elastic, warp-knitting fabric), a support portion 2 formed from a decorative lace fabric lined with a back fabric made of marquisette, cup portions 1, and straps 4. First members 5 and second members 6 made of marquisette were also used. The first members 5 and the second members 6 were both right-angle triangle shaped, and both had a length of 8 cm (the side perpendicular to the base) and a width of 5 cm (the base) (see, e.g., Fig. 2). This size was selected with breasts of C (cup)-75 (underbust girth) in mind.
The first members 5 and the second members 6 were sewed on the rear sides of the underarm band portions 3 and the rear side of the support portion 2, respectively, in the following manner.
The lengthwise side (the side perpendicular to the base) of each first member 5 was placed underneath a spun tape fabric that covers the suture portion (joint portion) 8 at the boundary between the support portion 2 and an underarm band portion 3 (i.e., placed in between the tape fabric and the underarm band portion fabric), and sewed up with the tape. The base of each first member 5 was placed underneath a spun tape fabric that covers the base of an underarm band portion 3 (i.e., placed in between the tape fabric and the underarm band portion fabric), and sewed up with the tape. The hypotenuse of each first member 5 was folded back at the end and sewed directly on the fabric of an underarm band portion 3.
The lengthwise side (the side perpendicular to the base) of each second member 6 was placed underneath a spun tape fabric that covers the joint portion 8 (i.e., placed in between the tape fabric and the support portion fabric), and sewed up with the tape. The base of each second member 6 was placed underneath a spun tape fabric that covers the base of the support portion 2 (i.e., placed in between the tape fabric and the support portion fabric), and sewed up with the tape. The hypotenuse of each second member 6 was folded back at the end and sewed directly on the fabric of the support portion 2.
The first embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention as shown in Fig. 7 was thus manufactured.

EXAMPLE 2

The second embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention was manufactured as follows (see Fig. 3).
A brassiere was used which had underarm band portions 3 made of a power net fabric (elastic, warp-knitting fabric); a support portion 2 formed from a lace fabric, knitted fabric, etc., lined with a marquisette fabric; cup portions 1; and straps 4. First members 5 made of marquisette were also used. The first members 5 were right-angle triangle shaped, and had a length of 8 cm (the side perpendicular to the base) and a width of 5 cm (the base). This size was selected with breasts of C (cup)-75 (underbust girth) in mind.
The first members 5 were sewed on the rear sides of the underarm band portions 3 in the following manner.
The lengthwise side (the side perpendicular to the base) of each first member 5 was placed underneath a spun tape fabric that covers the suture portion (joint portion) 8 at the boundary between the support portion 2 and an underarm band portion 3 (i.e., placed in between the tape fabric and the underarm band portion fabric), and sewed up with the tape. The base of each first member 5 was placed underneath a spun tape fabric that covers the base of an underarm band portion 3 (i.e., placed in between the tape fabric and the underarm band portion fabric), and sewed up with the tape. The hypotenuse of each first member 5 was folded back at the end and sewed directly on the fabric of an underarm band portion 3.
The second embodiment of the brassiere of the present invention was thus manufactured.

TEST EXAMPLE 1

Monitors (six women in their 40s to 50s) wore brassieres manufactured as in the above Example 1, and the evaluation results shown in Table 1 were obtained therefrom. The evaluation results are based on the number of monitors who gave the following A to C replies.

A: Yes
B: No
C: Not sure

TABLE 1

Evaluation	A	B	C
(1) Wrinkles under the eyes shallowed and became less conspicuous.	3	0	3
(2) The ear positions shifted upward.	3	0	3
(3) The eyebrows moved upward, and forehead wrinkles became less conspicuous.	3	0	3
(4) The corners of the mouth shifted upward.	3	1	2
(5) The face line was firmed.	5	0	1
(6) The cheek positions shifted upward, and sagging was eliminated.	5	0	1
(7) Wrinkles/hollows in the clavicular region were alleviated and became less conspicuous.	4	0	2
(8) The shoulder line shifted upward.	5	0	1
(9) The scapular region was firmed	5	0	1
(10) The upper arms were elasticized and slimmed.	3	0	3
(11) The hand positions shifted forward, as seen from the side.	5	0	1
(12) The breast positions shifted upward.	6	0	0
(13) The distance between the underbust and the waist increased.	4	0	2
(14) Fat in the intestines (lower abdomen) was reduced.	3	0	3
(15) The entire abdominal region was firmed.	4	0	2
(16) The hip line (line of lower part of the gluteus maximus muscle) shifted upward.	3	0	3
(17) Bell-pepper-shaped hips were rounded.	3	0	3
(18) Achilles tendons were firmed.	4	0	2
(19) The calf positions shifted upward.	4	0	2
(20) The center of gravity shifted to the inner sides of the feet.	4	0	2
(21) There was no slacking at the upper edges of the brassiere cups.	6	0	0
(22) The lower cups fitted with no space.	6	0	0
(23) The undertapes of the brassiere did not fold inside.	6	0	0
(24) Pressing of the wire at the side of the cups into the skin was reduced.	6	0	0
(25) The breasts fitted within the wire lines.	6	0	0

The results as shown above revealed that, over the entire body (especially in the face region, the upper and the lower parts of the body, etc.), the muscles and skin became more elastic, and wrinkles and sagging were reduced or eliminated. They also revealed excellent wearing comfort such that the act of wearing the brassiere resulted in almost no pressure or tightness, improved the smoothness of the shoulders and arms, allowed ease of breathing, etc.
For brassieres manufactured as in the above Example 2, similar evaluation results were obtained.

Claims

A garment for women comprising cup portions for holding the breasts, a support portion for fixing the cup portions, elastic underarm band portions for covering the body from the side to the back thereof, and straps,
each underarm band portion having disposed thereto a first member made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the first members each press against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn, and
the support portion having disposed thereto second members made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the second members each press against the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.
A garment for women according to claim 1, wherein:
the first members are shaped as approximate triangles and each disposed to one of the underarm band portions in such a manner that one side of each first member presses against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the' garment is worn, and

the second members are shaped as approximate triangles and disposed to the support portion in such a manner that one side of each second member presses against the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.
A garment for women according to claim 2 wherein:
the first members are shaped as approximate right-angle triangles and each disposed to one of the underarm band portions in such a manner that the hypotenuse of each first member presses against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn, and

the second members are shaped as approximate right-angle triangles and disposed to the support portion in such a manner that the hypotenuse of each second member presses against the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.
A garment for women according to claim 3, wherein:
the base of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped first member is in contact with the base of one of the underarm band portions,

the side perpendicular to the base of each first member is in contact with a joint portion between the support portion and one of the underarm band portions,

the base of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped second member is in contact with the base of the support portion, and

the side perpendicular to the base of each second member is in contact with a joint portion between the support portion and one of the underarm band portions.
A garment for women according to claim 3, wherein:
the base of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped first member is about 4 to about 8 cm wide,

the side perpendicular to the base of each first member is about 5 to about 10 cm long,

the base of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped second member is about 4 to about 8 cm wide, and

the side perpendicular to the base of each second member is about 5 to about 10 cm long.
A garment for women according to claim 1, wherein the first members and the second members are made of marquisette.
A garment for women according to claim 1, wherein the second members are part of the support portion.
A garment for women according to claim 1, wherein the garment is at least one member selected from the group consisting of a brassiere, a body suit, a bra-slip, a camisole, and a swimming suit.
A method for manufacturing a garment for women, the garment comprising cup portions for holding the breasts, a support portion for fixing the cup portions, elastic underarm band portions for covering the body from the side to the back thereof, and straps,
the method comprising:
a step of providing each underarm band portion with a first member made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the first members each press against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn, and

a step of providing the support portion with second members made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the second members each press against the part of the pectoralis major muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.
A garment for women comprising cup portions for holding the breasts, a support portion made of a non-elastic fabric for fixing the cup portions, elastic underarm band portions for covering the body from the side to the back thereof, and straps,
each underarm band portion having disposed thereto a first member made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the first members each press against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.
A garment for women according to claim 10, wherein the first members are shaped as approximate triangles and each disposed to one of the underarm band portions in such a manner that one side of each first member presses against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.
A garment for women according to claim 11, wherein the first members are shaped as approximate right-angle triangles and each disposed to one of the underarm band portions in such a manner that the hypotenuse of each first member presses against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.
A garment for women according to claim 12, wherein:
the base of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped first member is in contact with the base of one of the underarm band portions, and

the side perpendicular to the base of each first member is in contact with a joint portion between the support portion and one of the underarm band portions.
A garment for women according to claim 12, wherein:
the base of each approximately right-angle triangle shaped first member is about 4 to about 8 cm wide, and

the side perpendicular to the base of each first member is about 5 to about 10 cm long.
A garment for women according to claim 10, wherein the first members are made of marquisette.
A garment for women according to claim 10, wherein the garment is at least one member selected from the group consisting of a brassiere, a body suit, a bra-slip, a camisole, and a swimming suit.
A method for manufacturing a garment for women, the garment comprising cup portions for holding the breasts, a support portion made of a non-elastic fabric for fixing the cup portions, elastic underarm band portions for covering the body from the side to the back thereof, and straps,
the method comprising a step of providing each underarm band portion with a first member made of a non-elastic fabric for lifting the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area, in such a manner that the first members each press against the part of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the underarm area when the garment is worn.