WO2022195520A1

WO2022195520A1 - An article of clothing

Info

Publication number: WO2022195520A1
Application number: PCT/IB2022/052410
Authority: WO
Inventors: Priya Darsni SINGH
Original assignee: Singh Priya Darsni
Priority date: 2021-03-17
Filing date: 2022-03-17
Publication date: 2022-09-22

Abstract

An article of clothing 100 is disclosed. The article of clothing 100 comprises an inner layer 102 and an outer layer 104. The inner layer 102 and the outer layer 104 are engaged or configured to be engaged together, and when engaged together at least a portion of the inner layer 102 and the outer layer 104 form an entry portion 106 at or near the top edge of each of the inner layer 102 and the outer layer 104. The article of clothing 100 being configured to receiving at least a portion of a separate piece of a wearable garment through the entry portion 106 to allow at least the portion of the garment to be secured between the inner layer 102 and the outer layer 104.

Description

AN ARTICLE OF CLOTHING

The present invention relates to an article of clothing.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Several different types of clothing articles that are configured to be draped around the waist of a wearer are known. A saree (also known as a sari or a shari) is one example of such a clothing article. A saree is traditionally worn by women in the Indian sub continent, but in recent times has also become a reasonably well-known clothing outfit in other parts of the world.

A saree comes in a form of a long strip of unstitched cloth, ranging typically between four to nine meters in length and is able to be configured to be draped around a waist of a wearer in different styles to be worn.

Sarees can come in a variety of forms and styles. A saree may be a plain saree (i.e. without any decoration) or it may include geometric, floral or figurative ornaments and/or embroideries. Some sarees may also contain patterns woven with gold and/or silver threads, which is called 'zari'. Also, the sarees can be made with a variety of materials such as cotton, polyester, nylon, rayon, silk etc.

While a saree can be a glamorous and a traditional clothing attire suitable to be worn in many occasions such as but not limited to weddings, parties, religious functions, cultural events, work etc., donning and wearing a saree properly generally requires frequent practice and dexterity. Donning and wearing a saree can be a difficult and time- consuming process especially for a less experienced person and it often requires aid from an additional person to don a saree.

Further, since a saree is mostly worn with multiple pleats being created these pleats then need to be secured properly often with multiple pins such as safety pins. These pins cannot only cause discomfort to the wearer but can also be a poking hazard. Also, if the pins are not available then securing the saree properly without affecting the appearance during wear can be difficult, if not impossible. Since sarees can be made out of delicate and thin fabric(s) such as a silk, using pins can snag such delicate and thin fabric(s).

A saree can also be a problem when using restrooms as the pleats can be distorted in which case it can be a difficult and time-consuming exercise to re-adjust the pleats and/or don the saree again. Other non-limiting examples of other articles of clothing configured to be draped around a waist of a wearer with similar problems include dhotis, sarongs etc.

Securing of the bottom portion of garments such as formal shirts or tops to ensure that the bottom portion of the garment stays tucked in can also be difficult especially when a garment has contact with the skin of the wearer, and therefore prone to untucking from the wearer's normal movements. For example, to tuck a formal shirt, the bottom portion of such a shirt may be tucked into a wearer's pants beneath the shirt and in contact with the skin of the wearer. However, a problem can occur with such an arrangement, when the bottom portion of the shirt becomes untucked due to the wearer's normal movement. Although, the bottom portion of the shirt can be tucked between the undergarment and the skin of the wearer for extra security, if the tucked portion of the shirt gets untucked from the undergarment, that can cause discomfort for the wearer and potentially cause the formal shirt to become untucked from the pants too. Similarly, depending upon the garment material, figurative ornaments and/or embroideries in the garment, movement of such portion of the garment that is in direct contact with the skin of the wearer can cause abrasions or similar to the wearer's skin due to rubbing of that portion of the garment against the wearer's skin. Similar problems, as described herein, can also arise when tucking in the garments configured to be draped around and waist of a wearer, e.g. sarees, dhotis, sarongs etc.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide an article of clothing which overcomes or at least partially ameliorates some of the abovementioned disadvantages or which at least provides the public with a useful choice.

STATEMENTS OF INVENTION

In a first aspect, the invention resides in an article of clothing for covering at least a part of a lower body of a wearer, the article of clothing being configured to be worn together with a separate piece of a wearable garment and is configured to be used for securing at least a portion of the garment, the article of clothing comprises: an inner layer that is configured to be proximal to the lower body of the wearer; and an outer layer this configured to be distal to the lower body of the wearer as compared to the inner layer; the inner layer and the outer layer each extending (or comprising and extending) from a top edge to a bottom edge or vice-versa of the inner layer and the outer layer, the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer being configured to be distal to the wearer's feet as compared to the bottom edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer, the inner layer and the outer layer being engaged or configured to be engaged together, and when engaged together at least a portion of the inner layer and the outer layer form an entry portion between an outer surface of the inner layer that is facing towards the outer layer and an inner surface of the outer layer that is facing towards the inner layer, the entry portion being formed at or near the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer, and the article of clothing being configured to or at least be suitable for receiving (passing) at least a portion of a separate piece of a wearable garment through the entry portion to allow at least the portion of the garment to be secured (e.g. tucked, retained and/or clamped) between the inner layer and the outer layer.

In a second aspect, the invention resides in an article of clothing for covering at least a part of a lower body of a wearer, the article of clothing comprising: an inner layer that is configured to be proximal to the lower body of the wearer; and an outer layer this configured to be distal to the lower body of the wearer as compared to the inner layer; the inner layer and the outer layer each extending (or comprising and extending) from a top edge to a bottom edge or vice-versa of the inner layer and the outer layer, the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer being configured to be distal to the wearer's feet as compared to the bottom edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer, and at least a part of the outer layer being or made of a stretch fabric or being or made of an elastic material , the outer layer being configured to bias at least the part of the outer layer towards the inner layer, the inner layer and the outer layer being engaged or configured to be engaged together, and when engaged together at least a portion of the inner layer and the outer layer form an entry portion between an outer surface of the inner layer that is facing towards the outer layer and an inner surface of the outer layer that is facing towards the inner layer, the entry portion being formed at or near the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer, and the article of clothing being configured to or at least be suitable for receiving (passing) at least a portion of a separate piece of a wearable garment through the entry portion to allow at least the portion of the garment to be secured (e.g. tucked, retained and/or clamped) between the inner layer and the outer layer.

In a third aspect, the invention resides in an article of clothing for covering at least a part of a lower body of a wearer, the article of clothing comprising: an inner layer that is configured to be proximal to the lower body of the wearer; and an outer layer this configured to be distal to the lower body of the wearer as compared to the inner layer; the inner layer and the outer layer each extending (or comprising and extending) from a top edge to a bottom edge or vice-versa of the inner layer and the outer layer, the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer being configured to be distal to the wearer's feet as compared to the bottom edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer, the article of clothing further comprising at least one a stretch fabric member or an at least one elastic member that comprises and extends from a first end to a second end or vice-versa of the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member, wherein the first end and the second end of the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member is secured or configured to be secured between the inner layer and the outer layer, and wherein the inner layer and the outer layer are engaged or configured to be engaged together and when engaged together at least a portion of the inner layer and the outer layer form an entry portion between an outer surface of the inner layer that is facing towards the outer layer and an inner surface of the outer layer that is facing towards the inner layer, the entry portion being formed at or near the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer, and the article of clothing being configured to or at least be suitable for passing (receiving) at least a portion of a separate piece of a wearable garment through the entry portion to allow at least the portion of the garment to be secured (e.g. tucked , retained and/or clamped) between the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member and either one of the inner layer and the outer layer with which the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member is engaged or configured to be engaged.

In a fourth aspect, the invention resides in an article of clothing for covering at least a part of a lower body of a wearer, wherein the article of clothing is configured to be worn together with the separate piece of a wearable garment and is configured to be used for securing (e.g. tucking, retaining and/or clamping) at least a portion of the garment, the garment being configured to be draped around a waist area of the wearer, the article of clothing comprising: an inner layer that is configured to be proximal to the lower body of the wearer; and an outer layer this configured to be distal to the lower body of the wearer as compared to the inner layer; the inner layer and the outer layer each extending (or comprising and extending) from a top edge to a bottom edge or vice-versa of the inner layer and the outer layer , the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer being configured to be distal to the wearer's feet as compared to the bottom edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer, the inner layer and the outer layer being engaged or configured to be engaged together and when engaged together at least a portion of the inner layer and the outer layer form an entry portion between an outer surface of the inner layer that is facing towards the outer layer and an inner surface of the outer layer that is facing towards the inner layer, the entry portion being formed at or near the top edge of each of the inner layer and outer the layer, and the article of clothing being configured to receive (pass) the garment through the entry portion to allow the portion of the garment to be secured (e.g. tucked , retained and/or clamped) between the inner layer and the outer layer.

Any one or more of the statement below may apply to any one of more of the first, second, third and fourth aspects defined above.

In one embodiment, the bottom edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer is below a waist area of the wearer.

In one embodiment, at least part of the outer layer is made of a stretch fabric or an elastic material that is configured to bias at least the part of the outer layer towards the inner layer. In one embodiment, a pocket is formed when the inner layer and the outer layer are engaged together, wherein the entry portion is an opening of the pocket.

In one embodiment, the article of clothing further comprises at least one stretch fabric member or an at least one elastic member extending (or comprising and extending) from a first end to a second end or vice-versa of the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member, wherein the first end and the second end of the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member are secured or configured to be secured with either one of the inner layer and the outer layer.

In one embodiment, the article of clothing further comprises at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member extending (or comprising and extending) from a first end to a second end or vice-versa of the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member, wherein the first end and the second end of the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member is secured or configured to be secured between the inner layer and the outer layer. In one embodiment, the at least one stretch fabric member or the at least one elastic member is located between the inner layer and the outer layer and the article of clothing is configured to or at least be suitable for passing at least the portion of the garment through the entry portion to allow at least the portion of the garment to be secured (e.g. tucked , retained and/or clamped) between the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member and either one of the inner layer and the outer layer with which the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member is engaged or configured to be engaged.

In one embodiment, the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member extends longitudinally between the first end and the second end or vice-versa in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to a longitudinal axis extending substantially vertically from the top edge of the inner layer to the bottom edge of the inner layer.

In one embodiment, the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member is located between the first edge and the second edge of at least the inner layer.

In one embodiment, the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member is located more proximal to the top edge of the inner layer than the bottom edge of the inner layer.

In one embodiment, the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member is secured or configured to be secured to one of the inner layer or the outer layer at the first end and the second end.

In one embodiment, the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member is secured or configured to be secured to the inner layer at the first end and the second end.

In one embodiment, at least one of the first end and the second end of the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member comprises at least one engagement member that is configured to be secured together with at least one complementary engagement member located at one of the inner layer and the outer layer (preferably the inner layer) to enable securing of the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member to the inner or outer layer (preferably the inner layer) at which the complementary engagement member is located.

In one embodiment, at least one of the first end and the second end of the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member comprises at least one engagement member and the one of the inner or outer layer comprises a plurality of complementary engagement members, wherein the at least one engagement member is configured to be secured together with one or more of the plurality of complementary engagement members to enable securing of the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member to either one of the inner layer and the outer layer.

In one embodiment, the plurality of complementary engagement members are spaced apart from each other to enable the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member to be secured to either one of the inner layer and the outer layer at variable lengths.

In one embodiment, the stretch fabric has an elastic property or elastic properties.

In one embodiment, the stretch fabric is able to resume to its normal shape (preferably spontaneously) after being stretch or compressed.

In one embodiment, the stretch fabric member is an elastic member having an elastic property or elastic properties.

In one embodiment, the stretch fabric member is able to resume to its normal shape (preferably spontaneously) after being stretch or compressed.

In one embodiment, either one of the inner layer and the outer layer comprises at least one strap having two ends, one end of the at least one strap being coupled or configured to be coupled with one of the inner layer and the outer layer, and another end of the at least one strap which is a free end is configured to be received by at least one buckle that is coupled to another one of the inner layer and the outer layer.

In one embodiment, one of the inner layer and the outer layer to which the at least one buckle is coupled comprises at least one hole for allowing the free end of the strap to pass through for securing the at least one strap with at least one buckle.

In one embodiment, the inner layer comprises the at least one strap and the outer layer comprises the at least one buckle.

In one embodiment, the at least one buckle comprises ridges to provide friction to secure the at least one strap.

In one embodiment the outer layer comprises the at least one hole. In one embodiment, the inner layer and the outer layer are of same length.

In one embodiment the inner layer and the outer layer are of different length.

In one embodiment, the inner layer is shorter than the outer layer.

In one embodiment, the inner layer and the outer layer are stitched together.

In one embodiment, the inner layer is longer than the outer layer.

In one embodiment, the article of clothing is configured to receive a portion of a or the garment between the inner and the outer layer to allow securing (e.g. tucking retaining and/or clamping) of the portion of the garment between the inner layer and the outer layer.

In one embodiment, the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member is configured to receive the portion of the garment to allow securing (e.g. tucking, retaining and/or clamping) of the portion of the garment by the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member.

In one embodiment, the garment is configured to be draped around a waist area of the wearer.

In one embodiment, the article of clothing is configured to be worn together with the garment and is configured to be used for securing (e.g. tucking, retaining and/or clamping) at least a portion the garment.

In one embodiment, the garment is a saree.

In one embodiment, the saree comprises pleats that are formed during use and the article of clothing is configured to secure at least the portion of the pleats of the saree between the inner and the outer layer to allow securing (e.g. tucking retaining and/or clamping) of the portion of the pleats between the inner layer and the outer layer.

In one embodiment, the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member is configured to receive the portion of the pleats to allow securing (e.g. tucking, retaining and/or clamping) of the portion of the pleats by at least the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member.

In one embodiment, the article of clothing is an undergarment.

In one embodiment, the article of clothing further comprises a coupling means that is configured to releasably couple a petticoat with the outer layer using a coupling means.

In one embodiment, the article of clothing further comprises a petticoat that is configured to be releasably coupled with the outer layer using a coupling means.

In one embodiment, the outer layer is configured to be releasably coupled with the petticoat using the coupling means.

In one embodiment, an inner surface of the petticoat that is facing towards the outer layer, and an outer surface of the outer layer that is facing away from the inner layer are configured to be releasably coupled together using the coupling means.

In one embodiment, the coupling means is in a form of a plurality of snap fasteners (popper buttons) each of the plurality of snap fasteners having a pair of interlocking discs with one interlocking disc being located at the outer surface of the outer layer, and another interlocking disc being located at the inner surface of the petticoat.

In one embodiment, the petticoat comprises a first edge of the petticoat and a second edge of the petticoat, the first edge of the petticoat is a top edge of the petticoat configured to be located proximal to a waist area of the wearer and the second edge of the petticoat is a bottom edge of the petticoat configured to be located proximal to the wearer's feet, wherein at least one cut-out is formed in the petticoat, the cut-out extending from a first edge of the petticoat towards a direction of the second edge of the petticoat.

In one embodiment, the cut-out comprises a fastener (preferably a zipper) to allow opening and closing of the cut-out.

In one embodiment, the cut-out extends less than a quarter of a total distance between the first edge and the second edge.

In one embodiment, at least the inner layer comprises a pair of pant legs.

In one embodiment, the wearer is a human. In one embodiment, the wearer is a mannequin of a human.

In a fifth aspect, the present invention resides in use of an article of clothing as defined in any one of the above aspects.

In a sixth aspect, the invention resides in a set of articles for use as a clothing comprising: an article of clothing for covering at least a part of a lower body of a wearer, the article of clothing comprising: an inner layer that is configured to be proximal to the lower body of the wearer; and an outer layer this configured to be distal to the lower body of the wearer as compared to the inner layer; the inner layer and the outer layer each extending (or comprising and extending) from a top edge to a bottom edge or vice-versa of the inner layer and the outer layer, the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer being configured to be distal to the wearer's feet as compared to the bottom edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer, the inner layer and the outer layer being engaged or configured to be engaged together and when engaged together at least a portion of the inner layer and the outer layer form an entry portion between an outer surface of the inner layer that is facing towards the outer layer and an inner surface of the outer layer that is facing towards the inner layer, the entry portion being formed at or near the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer, wherein: the set of articles further comprises a petticoat that is configured to be worn outside (over) the article of clothing, and the petticoat is configured to be releasably coupled with the outer layer using a coupling means.

In one embodiment, the article of clothing is the one as defined in any one of the above aspects.

In one embodiment, an inner surface of the petticoat that is facing towards the outer layer, and an outer surface of the outer layer that is facing away from the inner layer are configured to be releasably coupled together using the coupling means. In one embodiment, the coupling means is in a form of a plurality of snap fasteners (popper buttons) each having a pair of interlocking discs with one interlocking disc being located at the outer surface of the outer layer and another interlocking disc being located at the inner surface of the petticoat.

In one embodiment, the petticoat comprises a first edge and a second edge, the first edge being the top edge of the petticoat configured to be located proximal to a waist of the wearer and the second edge being a bottom edge of the petticoat configured to be located proximal to the wearer's feet, wherein at least one cut-out is formed in the petticoat, the cut-out extending from a first edge towards the direction of the second edge.

In a seventh aspect, the invention resides in a method of using an article of clothing, the method comprising at least the following steps: providing an article of clothing for covering at least a part of a lower body of a wearer, the article comprising: an inner layer that is configured to be proximal to the lower body of the wearer; and an outer layer this configured to be distal to the lower body of the wearer as compared to the inner layer; the inner layer and the outer layer each extending (or comprising and extending) from a top edge to a bottom edge or vice-versa of the inner layer and the outer layer, the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer being configured to be distal to the wearer's feet as compared to the bottom edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer , wherein, the method further comprises: engaging the inner layer and the outer layer together save for at least a portion of the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer from each other to form an entry portion between an outer surface of the inner layer that is facing towards the outer layer and an inner surface of the outer layer that is facing towards the inner layer, and receiving (i.e. passing through) at least a portion of a separate piece of a wearable garment through the entry portion to allow at least the portion of the garment to be secured (e.g. tucked, retained and/or clamped) between the inner layer and the outer layers. In one embodiment, the method further comprises providing at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member that comprises and extends from a first end to a second end or vice-versa of the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member and securing (tucking, retaining and/or clamping) the first and second ends of the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member between the inner layer and the outer layer.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises receiving the portion of the garment through the entry portion and securing (e.g. tucking, retaining and/or clamping) at least the portion of the garment between the first and second ends of the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises providing at least one strap having two ends, coupling one end of the strap to either one of the inner layer and the outer layer (preferably inner layer) and coupling at least one buckle (preferably having ridges for providing friction to the at least one strap) to another one of the inner layer and the outer layer (preferably the outer layer), wherein the method further comprises receiving another end which is a free end of the at least one strap by the at least one buckle, thereby securing the inner layer and the outer layer together using the at least one buckle.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises creating at least one hole on one of the inner layer and the outer layer to which the one end of the strap is attached and allowing the free end of the at least one strap to pass through the at least one hole to be secured using the at least one buckle.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises providing a coupling means on the outer layer and releasably coupling the outer layer and a petticoat together using the coupling means.

In one embodiment, releasably coupling the outer layer and a petticoat together using the coupling means comprises releasably coupling an inner surface of the petticoat that is facing towards the outer layer and an outer surface of the outer layer that is facing away from the inner layer together using the coupling means.

In one embodiment, the coupling means is in a form of a plurality of snap fasteners (popper buttons) each having a pair of interlocking discs, and the method comprises placing the interlocking discs at the outer surface of the outer layer and at the inner surface of the petticoat to allow releasable coupling between the inner layer and the outer layer.

In one embodiment, the garment is a saree and the method comprises forming pleats in the saree during use, and the article of clothing is configured to receive at least the portion of the pleats between the inner and the outer layer through the entry portion to allow securing (e.g. tucking, retaining and/or clamping) of the pleats between the inner layer and the outer layer.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises receiving the portion of the pleats by the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member to allow securing (e.g. tucking, retaining and/or clamping) of the portion of the pleats using at least the at least one stretch fabric member or the elastic member.

In an eighth aspect, the invention resides in a petticoat configured to or at least be suitable to be worn outside (over) the article of clothing as defined in any one of the above aspects, wherein the petticoat is configured to be releasably coupled with the outer layer using a coupling means, the petticoat comprising: a first edge and a second edge, the first edge is the top edge of the petticoat that is configured to be located proximal to a waist area of the wearer and the second edge is a bottom edge of the petticoat configured to be located proximal to the wearer's feet, wherein at least one cut-out is formed in the petticoat, the cut-out extending from a first edge towards the direction of the second edge, wherein, the inner surface of the petticoat that is configured to face towards the outer layer, and an outer surface of the outer layer that is facing away from the inner layer are configured to be releasably coupled together using the coupling means.

In one embodiment, the cut-out extends less than a quarter of a total distance between the first edge and the second edge. In one embodiment, the coupling means in a form of a plurality of snap fasteners (popper buttons) each having a pair of interlocking discs.

In a ninth aspect, the invention broadly resides in use of the article of clothing, the set of articles or the petticoat as defined in any one the above aspects together with a separate piece of a wearable garment that is configured to be draped around a waist area of the wearer.

In one embodiment, the garment is a saree.

Other aspects of the invention may become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

In this specification where reference has been made to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated otherwise, any reference to such external documents is not to be construed as an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, in any jurisdiction, are prior art, or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.

For the purpose of this specification, where method steps are described in sequence, the sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps are to be chronologically ordered in that sequence unless there is no other logical manner of interpreting the sequence.

For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "lateral", "longitudinal" and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as it is oriented in the drawing figures. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative variations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following description are simply exemplary embodiments of the invention. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting.

It is acknowledged that the term "comprise" may, under varying jurisdictions, be attributed with either an exclusive or an inclusive meaning. For the purpose of this specification, and unless otherwise noted, the term 'comprise' shall have an inclusive meaning, allowing for the inclusion of not only the listed components or elements but also other non-specified components or elements. The terms 'comprises' or 'comprised' or 'comprising' have a similar meaning when used in relation to the system or to one or more steps in a method or process.

As used hereinbefore and hereinafter, the term "and/or" means "and" or "or", or both.

As used hereinbefore and hereinafter, "(s)" following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun.

When used in the claims and unless stated otherwise, the word 'for' is to be interpreted to mean only 'suitable for', and not for example, specifically 'adapted' or 'configured' for the purpose that is stated.

Unless specifically stated otherwise, in this specification, use of the word 'substantially' with a term, to define a characterizing feature(s), gets all the benefit (i.e. benefit of any broadening) afforded by the use of the word 'substantially', and also includes within its scope the feature(s) being that term exactly, (without broadening). For example, if a feature is described/defined in the present specification as being 'substantially orthogonal' then that includes, within its scope, the feature being 'close' to orthogonal (in so far the word 'substantially' is deemed to broaden the term 'orthogonal'), and also includes within its scope the feature being 'exactly' orthogonal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings in which:

Figure 1: shows an exploded view of an article of clothing according one embodiment of the present invention having an inner layer and an outer layer.

Figure 2: shows the article of clothing of Figure 1 with the inner layer and the outer layer in an assembled form.

Figure 3: shows the article of clothing of Figure 1 during use.

Figure 4: shows a rear view of the outer layer of the article of clothing of Figure 1.

Figure 5: shows a rear view of the inner layer of the article of clothing of Figure 1.

Figure 6: is a schematic cross-sectional view of the article of clothing of Figure 1

Figure 7: is a schematic cross-sectional view of the article of clothing of Figure 1 when a portion of another piece of garment is secured between the inner layer and the outer layer.

Figures 8A-8E: show an example of securing the inner layer and the outer layer of the article of clothing of Figure 1. Figures 9A-9C: show examples of a buckle(s) that may be used in the article of clothing of Figure 1.

Figure 10: shows an article of clothing according to one embodiment of the present invention in which the article of clothing is configured to be worn as a skirt.

Figure 11: shows an article of clothing according to one embodiment of the present invention in which the article of clothing is configured to be worn as a long skirt or a petticoat.

Figure 12: shows an article of clothing according to one embodiment of the present invention in which the article of clothing is configured to be worn as a trouser or pants

Figure 13: shows how the inner layer and the outer layer of the article of clothing of Figure 1 can be stitched together to form a pocket.

Figure 14A: shows a petticoat according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 14B: shows an example of wearing a petticoat of Figure 14A being placed over the article of clothing of Figure 1.

Figure 14C: shows a petticoat of Figure 14A when worn together with the article of clothing of Figure 1.

Figure 15A: shows a length of a saree in an extended position.

Figures 15B-15C: show an example of a saree of Figure 15A during use.

Figure 16: is a schematic diagram showing an example of wearing/donning a saree of Figure 15 A.

Figures 17A-17D: show use of a saree of Figure 15A to secure (e.g. tuck, retain and/or clamp) at least a portion of pleats of the saree between the inner layer and the outer layer of the article of clothing of Figure 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It is desirable to have an article of clothing for covering at least a part of a lower body of a wearer that is multi-purpose in use, i.e. an article of clothing that can be used as a wearing apparel, but at the same time is also suitable to be used as to facilitate the portion of the garment to be secured (e.g. tucked, retained and/or clamped) between the inner and outer layers reliably and comfortably.

It is also desirable have an article of clothing that is suitable to receive a separate piece of a wearable garment and allow the portion of the garment to be secured (e.g. tucked, retained and/or clamped) between the inner and outer layers preferably without any aid from any other device or any other person, while also can be used as a wearing apparel (e.g. tights, pants, shorts, skirts, underwear etc.)

With reference to the above drawings, an article of clothing according to an embodiment of the present invention is generally indicated by the numeral 100.

As shown in Figures 1-3, the article of clothing 100 (hereafter may also be referred to as a clothing article 100) is suitable for covering at least a part of a lower body of a wearer 101 (i.e. at or below the waist area 105 of the wearer 101). Although the clothing article 100 is primarily intended to be worn by a human or a mannequin, in certain embodiments, the wearer may even be a bipedal animal having a similar body structure as a human. The clothing article can be used as a wearable apparel.

As shown in Figures 1-7, the clothing article comprises an inner layer 102 and an outer layer 104. When used, the inner layer 102 is configured to be proximal to the lower body of the wearer 101 and the outer layer 104 is configured to be distal from the lower body of the wearer 101 as compared to the inner layer 102. In other words, the outer layer 104 is configured to be outer more from the lower body of the wearer 101 compared to the inner layer 102.

Each of the inner layer 102 and the outer layer 104 comprises and extends from a top edge 102a, 104a to a bottom edge 102b, 104b or vice-versa. When used, the top edge 102a, 104a of each of the inner layer 102 and the outer layer 104 are configured to be distal to the wearer's feet 101b as compared to the bottom edge 102b, 104b of each of the inner and outer layer 102, 104 (see Figure 3). The bottom edges 102b, 104b may be located below the waist area 105 of the wearer 101. The inner layer 102 and the outer layer 104 are engaged or configured to be engaged together. When engaged together, at least a portion of the inner and outer layers 102, 104 form an entry portion 106 between the inner and outer layers 102, 104. The entry portion 106 may be formed between an outer surface 102d of the inner layer 102 that is facing towards the outer layer 104 and an inner surface 104c of the outer layer 104 that is facing towards the inner layer 102.

Figures 6 and 7 is a schematic cross sectional diagram showing how the clothing article 100 may be configured to or at least be suitable to pass (receive) a separate piece of a wearable garment 200 (e.g. saree) through the entry portion 106 to allow at least the portion of the garment 200 to be secured between the inner and outer layers 102, 104. In some embodiments, secured may mean tucked, retained and/or clamped. In some embodiments, garment 200 may be tucked, retained and/or clamped between the inner and outer layers. In Figures 6 and 7, connection between a stretch fabric member 108 and the inner layer 102 are not shown for the sake of clarity. In certain embodiments, the stretch fabric member 108 referred to hereinbefore and hereinafter may be an elastic member. In certain embodiments, an elastic member may be used instead of the stretch fabric member 108 as hereinbefore or hereinafter described and therefore, the elastic member and the stretch fabric member may be used interchangeably in the description.

In some embodiments, the stretch fabric member 108 may be made out of any suitable stretch fabric, such as but not limited to, cotton or polyester blends, cotton, knitted wool, nylon, elastic, polyester, elastane, elastic, polyester or a combination thereof. The stretch fabric may have an elastic property or elastic properties. The stretch fabric may be able to resume to its normal shape (more preferably spontaneously) after being stretch or compressed. In certain embodiments, the stretch fabric member 108 may be an elastic member having an elastic property or elastic properties. In certain embodiments, the stretch fabric member 108 may be able to resume to its normal shape (more preferably spontaneously) after being stretch or compressed.

As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the clothing article 100 may be configured to at least be suitable to receive at least a portion of the garment 200 through the entry portion 106 (i.e. opening) to allow the portion of the garment 200 to be secured (tucked) between the inner and outer layers 102, 104. Therefore, it may be appreciated that a portion of the inner and outer layers 102, 104 may be disconnected/separate (not stitched or not permanently coupled together) least at or near the top edges 102a, 104a for forming the entry portion 106.

At least part of the outer layer 104 may be or may be made of an stretch fabric , that may be configured to bias at least part of the outer layer towards the inner layer 102, i.e. in the direction as shown by arrows 130b, 130c in Figures 6 and 7. That may allow the garment 200 to be secured tightly between the inner and outer layers 102, 104. The stretch fabric may be and/or may have one or more properties as described above. In certain embodiments, both the inner and outer layers 102, 104 may be or made of the stretch fabric. The stretch fabric may be and/or may have one or more properties as described above. . In certain embodiments, at least all of the outer layer 104 may be or made of the stretch fabric may be configured to bias the outer layer towards the inner layer 102, i.e. in the direction as shown by arrows 130b, 130c in Figures 6 and 7. To allow the garment 200 to be secured even more tightly to further minimise the risk of the secured (e.g. tucked, retained and/or clamped) portion of the garment 200 from accidently coming out from the clothing article 100, the clothing article 100 may further comprise at least one stretch fabric member 108. The stretch fabric member 108 may be and/or may have one or more properties the one as described above. The stretch fabric member 108 may comprise and extend from a first end 108a to a second end 108b or vice-versa. The first and second ends 108a and 108b may be secured or configured to be secured between the inner layer 102 and the outer layer 104. The stretch fabric member 108 may extend longitudinally between the first end 108a and a second end 108b or vice- versa in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to a longitudinal axis extending substantially vertically from the top edge 102a of the inner layer 102 to the bottom edge 102b of the inner layer 102. Therefore, in use, the stretch fabric member 108 may extend in a substantially lateral direction compared to the height of the wearer 101. The stretch fabric member 108 may be located between the first edge 102a and the second edge 102b of at least the inner layer 102. In certain embodiments, the stretch fabric member 108 may be or may also be located between the first edge 104a and the second edge 104b of at least the outer layer 104. The stretch fabric member 108 may be located more proximal to the top edge 102a of the inner layer 102 than the bottom edge 102b of the inner layer 102. In certain embodiments, the stretch fabric member 108 may be or may also be located more proximal to the top edge 104a of the outer layer 104 than the bottom edge 104b of the outer layer 104. The stretch fabric member 108 may be secured or configured to be secured to one of the inner or outer layers 102, 104 at the first end 108a and the second end 108b.

As shown in Figure 1, at least one of the first end 108a and the second end 108b of the stretch fabric member 108 may comprise at least one engagement member 109a and one of the inner or outer layer 102, 104 (most preferably inner layer 102) may comprise a plurality of complementary engagement members 109b. The engagement member(s) 109a may be configured to be secured together with one or more the complementary engagement members 109b to enable securing of the stretch fabric member 108 to one of the inner or outer layer 102, 104 (preferably inner layer 102). Complementary engagement members 109b may be spaced apart from each other (preferably spaced apart in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to the length of the clothing article 100 or in a direction that is substantially same as the direction along which the stretch fabric member 108 longitudinally extends) and that is advantageous for enabling the stretch fabric member 108 to be secured to one of the inner or outer layers at variable lengths.

In certain embodiments, at least one of the first end 108a and the second end 108b of the stretch fabric member 108 may comprise plurality of engagement members 109a and one of the inner or outer layer 102,104 (most preferably inner layer 102) may comprise a complementary engagement members 109b. The engagement members 109a may be spaced apart from each other (preferably spaced apart in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to the length of the clothing article 100 or in a direction that is substantially same as the direction along which the stretch fabric member 108 longitudinally extends) and that is advantageous for enabling the elastic member 108 to be secured to one of the inner or outer layers at variable lengths.

In certain embodiments, at least one of the first end 108a and the second end 108b of the stretch fabric member 108 may comprise a plurality of engagement members 109a and one of the inner or outer layer 102,104 (most preferably inner layer 102) may also comprise a plurality of complementary engagement members 109b. The engagement members 109a may be spaced apart from each other (preferably spaced apart in a direction that is substantially the same as the length of the clothing article 100 or in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to the direction along which the stretch fabric member 108 longitudinally extends) and the complementary engagement members 109b may also be spaced apart from each other (preferably spaced apart in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to the length of the clothing article 100 or in a direction that is substantially same as the direction along which the stretch fabric member 108 longitudinally extends) and that is advantageous for enabling the stretch fabric member 108 to be strongly secured to one of the inner or outer layers at variable lengths. Such an arrangement is shown in Figure 1.

The engagement member(s) 109a and complementary engagement member(s) may be in the form of hook(s) and eye(s) are shows. Other non-limiting examples of the engagement member and complementary engagement member(s) may include snap fasteners (popper buttons), hook and loop fastener(s) (i.e. Velcro®).

Only one of the first end 108a and the second end 108b of the stretch fabric member 108 may comprise at least one engagement member 109a and the other end (in the example shown the first end 108a) may be secured to the inner and outer layers 102, 104 (in this example to outer layer) by being stitched or otherwise secured to the inner or outer layer 102, 104 by many other suitable means. In certain embodiments, both the first end 108a and second end 108b may be coupled to the inner or outer layer 102, 104 using stitches. In certain embodiments both the first end 108a and the second end 108b of the stretch fabric member 108 may comprise at least one engagement member 109a at each of the first and second ends 108a, 108b and those engagement members 109a may be configured to be secured together with complementary engagement members 109b which may be located at the inner layer 102 or outer layer 104 to allow securing of the stretch fabric member 108 to the inner or outer layer 102, 104.

Securing the stretch fabric member 108 to the inner layer 102 is more advantageous than securing it to the outer layer 104. This is at least because the inner layer 102 will be proximal and in direct contact with the body of the wearer 101 during use. Therefore as it may be appreciated, a gripping force will be exerted by the stretch fabric member 108 towards the body of the wearer 101 in addition to the gripping force exerted by engaging outer layer 104 with the inner layer 102 will mean that the portion of the garment 200 that is secured (tucked, retained and/or clamped) between the inner and outer layers 102, 104 (more specifically portion of garment tucked between the stretch fabric member 108 and the inner layer 102) will be strong.

On the other hand, in a design where stretch fabric member is secured to the outer layer 104 that is more distal to the body of the wearer 101, a gripping force will be exerted by the stretch fabric member 108 away the body of the wearer 101 which will mean that the portion of the garment 200 secured (tucked retained and/or clamped) between the inner and outer layers (more specifically portion of garment 200 secured (tucked, retained and/or clamped) between the stretch fabric member 108 and the outer layer 1048) may be may still be sufficiently strong for gripping a portion of the garment 200 but not as strong compared to a design where the stretch fabric member 108 is secured to the inner layer 102.

As shown in Figures 1-5, one of the inner and outer layers 102, 104 (preferably the inner layer 102) may comprise at least one strap 110 having two ends 110a, 110b. One of the ends 110a of the strap 110 may be attached or configured to be coupled to either one of the inner and outer layers 102, 104 (preferably coupled to the inner layer 102) and another end 110b of the strap 110 which is a free end may be configured to be received by at least one buckle 112 that may coupled to another one of the inner and outer layers 102, 104 (preferably coupled to the outer layer 104).

One of the inner and outer layers 102, 104 (preferably outer layer 104 as shown) to which the buckle is coupled may comprise at least one hole 114 (see Figure 4) for allowing the free end 110b of the strap 110 to pass through the hole 114 for securing the strap 110 with the buckle 112.

One example of wearing the clothing article 100 will now be described with reference to Figures 1-7 and 8A to 8D. As shown, at least the inner layer 102 may comprise a pair of pant legs, i.e. a right pant leg 117a and a left pant leg 117b. Each pant leg may be configured to extend between waist area 105 to or near the knee of the wearer 101. The length of the pant legs 117a, 117b may be variable as desired. In order to wear the clothing article 100, the wearer 101 may wear the clothing article 100 so that the top edge 102a of the inner layer is adjacent to or near the waist area 105 of the wearer 101 and the remaining portion of the covers at least a portion of the legs of the wearer 101, preferably the remaining portion covers the portion above the knee of the wearer 101. As shown in Figure 3, the inner layer 100 may be worn similar to how pants or shorts or tights are worn with the right pant leg 117a covering at least a portion of the right leg of the wearer 101 and the left pant leg 117b covering at least a portion of the left leg of the wearer 101. As shown in Figures 8A-8B, the stretch fabric member 108 may then be moved towards the direction of the arrow 130d so that the engagement members located at the first end 108a of the stretch fabric member couples with complementary engagement member located at one of the inner and outer layers 102, 104 (in this case outer surface 102d of the inner layer 102). In this example, the second end 108b is shown as being stitched to the outer surface 102d of the inner layer 102.

The outer layer 104 may be placed over the inner layer 102 to cover at least the top portion of the inner layer 102 as shown in Figure 8C. For example, the outer layer 104 may first be received above the waist area 105 of the wearer 101 and then slid down towards the direction shown by arrow 130a as shown in Figure 1 to cover at least the top portion of the inner layer 102 as shown in Figure 8C. In Figure 8C, the stretch fabric member 108 that is concealed by outer layer 104 is shown by broken lines.

As shown in Figure 8D which is the rear view of the clothing article of Figure 8C, one of the inner and outer layers 102, 104 (in this case outer layer 104) to which the buckle 112 is coupled may comprise at least one hole 114 and the free end 110b of the strap 110 may to pass through that hole 114.

Figure 8E is a rear view of the clothing article of Figure 8C in an assembled position. As shown in Figure 8E, the free end 110b may be configured to be received by at least one buckle 112 that may be coupled to another one of the inner and outer layers 102, 104 (in this case coupled to the outer layer 104).

Figure 9A shows one example of the buckle 112 that may be used in the clothing article 100. The buckle 112 may comprise a buckle frame 112a and a buckle bar 112b extending along two opposite sides of the buckle frame 112a. The free end 110b of the strap 110 may enter the hole 114 and then to the buckle 112 through one side 112c of the buckle bar 112b and then pass over the buckle bar 112 and then enter the other side 112d of the buckle bar 112b. The free end 112 of the strap may then be pulled to in the direction away from the buckle 112 to allow the inner and outer layers 102, 104 to be secured together as tightly as desired. The buckle 112 may comprise ridges 112e to provide friction to secure the at least one strap. Figures 9B and 9C show many other suitable types of buckles that may be used. In certain embodiments, such as the one shown in Figure 9C, a buckle 112" may comprise a prong 112f for securing the strap 110. In such case, the strap 112 may comprise plurality of spaced apart apertures for receiving the prong 112d to secure the inner and outer layers 102, 104 similar to how belts having similar buckles are used. Other suitable non limiting examples of a buckle that may be used in the clothing article 100 may include a buckle having a screw closure, a clamp closure or a stitch closure, a clip-on buckle, a double ring buckle, a military buckle, an auto-grip buckle, a flip closure buckle, a self-defence buckle, an automatic latch buckle, a clip latch buckle etc.

The garment 200 is preferably not a part of the clothing article 100. The garment 200 may be a saree but may also be any other suitable garment that is configured to be draped around a waist area of the wearer to be worn, e.g. a sarong, a dhoti etc. In certain embodiments, garment 200 may be other clothing articles such as a formal shirt or a top or any other suitable article that requires a portion of it to be secured (tucked, retained and/or clamped).

The inner and outer layers 102, 104 may be substantially of same length or be of different length. In certain embodiments, the inner layer 102 is shorter than the outer layer 104 so that the inner layer 102 is fully concealed by the outer layer 104. The clothing article 100 may be used as a tight, an undergarment or a short as shown in Figure 3. However, as shown in Figures 10-12 the clothing article may also be used as skirt, petticoat/long skirt, pants/trousers.

Figure 10 shows clothing article 300 according to one example of the present invention where the clothing article 300 is configured to be worn as a skirt. Figure 11 shows a clothing article 400 according to one example of the present invention where the clothing article 400 is configured to be worn as a long skirt/petticoat. Figure 12 shows a clothing article 500 according to one example of the present invention where the clothing article 500 is configured to be worn as a pair of pants/trousers. As shown, the outer layers 304, 404, 504 are longer in length than the outer layer 104 of the clothing article 100 as described above and the outer layers 304, 404, 504 are designed so that the clothing article 300, 400, 500, can be worn as a skirt, long skirt/petticoat and pants/trousers respectively. The top portion 300, 440, 500 of each of the clothing article 300,400, 500 may be identical to the outer layer 104 as described above. The inner layer of each of the clothing article 300, 400, 500 may be the same as the inner layer 102 as described above. In each of the figures 10-12, the inner layers of the clothing article 300, 400, 500 are not shown as such inner layers may be fully concealed by the outer layers 304, 404, 504. The inner layer of each of the clothing articles 300, 400, 500 may be used as an inner-wear or an undergarment. Apart from the length and design of each of the outer layer 304, 404, 504, each clothing article 300, 400, 500 may be substantially the same as the clothing article 100 as described above. Apart from the differences identified in this paragraph, all or at least most of the above description of the clothing article 100 above equally apply to each of the clothing articles 300, 400, 500.

It can be appreciated that in order to be used as pants or shorts or undergarments at least the inner layer 102 may comprise a pair of pant legs 118a, 118b as shown in Figure 1. In certain embodiments, as shown in Figure 12, the outer layer may also comprise pant legs 119a, 119b.

In certain embodiments, the inner layer 102 may be designed as skirt (long or short skirt), petticoat, pants/trousers and the outer layer 104 may look and function exactly as described above.

Figure 13 shows a clothing article shows an example of the clothing article 100 as described above with a pocket formed between the inner and outer layers 104. The clothing article 300 is almost the same as the clothing article 100 as described above. As shown, the inner layer 102 and the outer layer 104 may be stitched together to form the pocket. This stitching 650 may be located at or near the bottom edge 104b of the outer layer 104. When the inner and outer layers 102, 104 are coupled together in such a manner, the entry portion 106 may function as the opening of the pocket. Such a pocket may be useful for storing items, e.g. keys, wallets, small cosmetic items, travel documents and/or any other valuable items in addition to being suitable for receiving a portion of garment 200 for securing (tucking retaining and/or clamping) at least a portion of garment 200. Many other suitable alternatives to stitching may be possible to form a pocket. It can be appreciated that similar pocket may be formed in clothing articles 300, 400 and 500.

Figure 14 A shows a petticoat 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The petticoat 400 may be configured or at least be suitable to be worn outside the clothing article 100 as described above. The petticoat 1000 may be configured or at least be suitable to be worn outside the clothing article 100 as described above. In other words, the petticoat 400 may be configured to or at least be suitable to be worn outside the outer surface 104d of the clothing article 100 as described above to cover both the inner and outer layers 102, 104 of the clothing article 100. The petticoat 1500 may be configured to be releasably coupled with the outer layer 104 using one or more releasable coupling means (i.e. couplers).

The petticoat 1000 may comprise a first edge 1000a (which is a top edge) and a second edge 100b (which is a bottom edge). When in use, the first edge 1000a may be configured to be located proximal to the waist area 105 of the wearer 101 and the second edge 1000b may be configured to be located proximal to the feet of the wearer 101. At least one cut-out 1060 may be formed in the petticoat 1000. The cut-out 1060 may extend from a first edge 1000a towards the direction of the second edge 1000b. The cut-out may comprise a fastener to allow opening and closing of the cut-out 1060. The fastener may be a zipper 1060. The cut-out 1060 may extend less than a quarter of a total distance between the first edge 1000a and the second edge 1000b.

Figure 14B and 14C show how the petticoat 1000 of Figure 14A may be worn together with a clothing article 100.

Once the clothing article 100 is worn in a manner as shown in Figure 3, the petticoat 1000 may be inserted into the body of the wearer 101 either though the head 101a of the wearer 101 or through the feet 101b of the wearer 101. The petticoat 1000 may then be slid downwards to the waist area 105 (if inserted through the head 101a of the wearer 101) or upwards to the waist area 105 (if inserted through the feet 101b of the wearer 101) with the fastener, preferably a zipper 1065 being in an open position. The petticoat 1000 may then be adjusted so that the first edge 1000a of the petticoat 1000 is substantially at the same level as the top edge 104a of the outer layer 104.

An inner surface 1000c of the petticoat 1000 that is facing towards the outer layer 104 and an outer surface 104d of the outer layer 104 that is facing away from the inner layer 102 may comprise one or more couplers (i.e. coupling means) for releasably coupling inner surface 1000c of the petticoat 1000 with the outer surface 104d of the outer layer as shown in Figure 14B. The couplers may be in a form of a plurality of snap fasteners (popper buttons) each having a pair of interlocking discs 800 located at the outer surface 104d of the outer layer 307 and at the inner surface 1000c of the petticoat 1000.

The petticoat 1000 may be adjusted (e.g. by moving the petticoat 1000 in the direction shown by arrow 130e) so that the pair of interlocking discs 800 located at the outer surface 104d of the outer layer 104 and at the inner surface 1000c of the petticoat 1000 are aligned together. Each pair of interlocking discs 800 may then be coupled together to allow the petticoat 1000 to be coupled with the outer layer 104 (more specifically with the outer surface 104d of the outer layer 104).

The cut-out 1060 may be formed in such a position that when the petticoat 1000 is positioned to be adjacent to the strap 110 and the buckle 112 the cut-out may be located adjacent the buckle 112 of the clothing article 100. To further tighten the coupling between the petticoat 1000 and the outer layer 104, the zipper 105 may be moved to a closed position as shown in Figure 14C from an open position shown in Figure 14B.

Having one or more couplers such as poppers with pair of locking discs 800 is advantageous as it helps stronger coupling between the petticoat 1000 and the outer layer 104. Preferably, multiple couplers are used to provide a stronger coupling of the petticoat 1000 to the outer layer 104. Having such couplers is advantageous over traditional petticoats having strings that needs to be tied to hold the petticoat on the waist area. Not only such strings are difficult to tie properly for holding the petticoat, but such strings can also cause discomfort and/or skin abrasions as they often need to be tightly worn around the waist area of the wearer.

Many other suitable alternatives to poppers having pair of interlocking discs 800 may be used as couplers such as but not limited to hook and eye fasteners, hook and loop fasteners (i.e. Velcro®) etc.

It may be appreciated that the petticoat 1000 may be or may also be configured or at least be suitable to be worn outside the clothing article 300, 400, 500 as described above.

In one embodiment, the present invention may reside in a set of articles comprising a petticoat 1000 as described above and the clothing article 100, 300, 400, 500 as described above.

There are several different ways of wearing a saree 1500 depending upon a preferred style. One example of the method of wearing a saree 1500 using the clothing article 100 and petticoat 1000 will now be described.

In order to wear a saree first a petticoat 1000 may be worn in a manner as shown in Figure 14C. It can be appreciated that wearing such a petticoat 1000 may be optional when the clothing article 100 is already worn. For example, if the clothing article 100 is already in the form of petticoat (e.g. see clothing article 400 as described above) or already of a suitable length to provide a functionality of a petticoat then wearing a separate petticoat may not be required.

Figure 15A shows how a traditional saree 1500 can look like in a fully extended position. As shown, a saree 1500 may come in a form of a long strip of unstitched cloth. A saree 1500 may be typically between four to nine meters in length which is configured to be draped around a waist of a wearer in different styles to be worn. The saree 1500 may comprise at least a top edge 1510, a bottom edge 1520, an inner end 1530 and outer end 140. A portion of length extending from an outer end towards the direction of the inner end is known as 'pallu'. The pallu portion 1550 typically extends less than a half of the total length of the saree 1550. The pallu portion 1550 may extend less than a quarter of the total length of the saree as shown in Figure 15a.

In order to wear/don a saree 1500, first a petticoat 1000 may be worn in a manner as shown in Figure 14C. It can be appreciated that wearing such a petticoat 1000 may be optional, for example if the clothing article is already in the form of petticoat (e.g. see clothing article 400 as described above) or already provide a functionality of a petticoat then wearing a separate petticoat may not be required.

Figures 15A and 15B show a saree worn/don by the wearer 101 using the clothing article 100.

The wearer 101 (or a person assisting a wearer, if the wearer is not a human, e.g. a mannequin) may hold the top edge of the inner end 1530 saree 1500 and may wrap the saree around the waist area 105 and secure (tuck, retain and/or clamped) the top edge of the inner end 1530 of the saree firmly into the petticoat 1000 through the top edge 1000a of the petticoat 1000 (see arrow A in Figure 16). The saree 1500 may then be wrapped around the back of the wearer 101 (see arrow B in Figure 16) while maintaining the same height throughout the draping process. The top edge 1510 of the wrapped around portion of the saree 1500 may be secured (tucked, retained and/or clamped) through the top edge 1000a of the petticoat 1000. Multiple pleats 1560 (typically 7 to 12 pleats) may then be formed by holding the top edge 1510 of the portion of the saree 1500 (typically holding the top edge of the saree using one hand and folding using another hand). Once the pleats 1560 are formed the pleats 1560 may be held together and the height of the pleats 1560 may be adjusted so that the bottom edge 1520a of the pleats 1560 are of the same or similar height as the bottom edge of the draped portion of the saree 1500 and/or the second edge 1000b of the petticoat 1000 (see Figures 17A). As shown in Figure 17A and 17B, an upper portion 1560a of the pleats 1560 may then be received (i.e. passed through) at least a through the entry portion 106 of the clothing article 100 to allow the portion (i.e. upper portion 1560a of the pleat 1560) of a saree 1500 to be secured (tucked, retained and/or clamped) between the inner and outer layers 102, 104. In Figure 17A, arrow 130g shows the direction of securing (tucking, retaining and/or clamping) the upper portion of the saree 1500. A portion (i.e. upper portion of the pleat 1560a) of a saree 1000 may be secured (tucked, retained and/or clamped) between the first and second ends 108a, 108b of the stretch fabric member 108 by passing through the stretch fabric member 108. Figure 17C and 17D show how the upper portion 1560a of the pleats 1560 may be secured (tucked, retained and/or clamped) between the stretch fabric member 108 and the outer surface 102a of the inner later 102. The remaining portion including the pallu portion 1050 of the saree 1500 may be held in a first side (e.g. right side) of the wearer 101 and passed on to a second side (e.g. left side) of the wearer 101. The pallu portion 1560 may then be draped over the shoulder of the wearer in the second side (e.g. left side) so that the pallu portion 1560 can fall freely back (see arrow C in Figure 16). The pallu portion 1550 may also be pleated if desired as shown in Figures 15A and 15B.

Figures 15A-B show the wearer with the saree worn/donned using the process as described above.

It may be appreciated that the clothing articles 300, 400 and 500 may be used in with the saree 1500 in a similar manner as clothing article 100.

Many different styles of wearing/donning sarees may be used with the clothing article of the present invention as such the above described process of wearing a saree is not to be considered as limiting.

In any case, from the above description it may be appreciated that the clothing article of the present invention can allow at least the upper portion 1560a of the pleats 1560 to be secured (tucked, retained and/or clamped) between the inner and outer layers 102, 104 without having to using any pins (e.g. safety pins).

In one aspect of the invention may reside in a method of using the clothing article 100. The method may comprise at least the following steps:

• providing the clothing article 100 for covering at least a part of a lower body of a wearer. The clothing article 100 may have an inner layer 102 that is configured to be proximal to the lower body of the wearer 101. The clothing article may also have an outer layer 104 this configured to be distal to the lower body of the wearer 101 as compared to the inner layer 102. In other words, the clothing article may also have an outer layer 104 that is outer more from the body of the wearer 101 compared to the inner layer 102. Each of the inner layer 102 and the outer layer 104 may comprise and extend from a top edge 102a, 104a to a bottom edge 102b, 104b or vice- versa. The top edges 102a, 104a may be configured to be distal to the feet 101b of the wearer as compared to the bottom edges 102b, 104b.

• engaging the inner and outer layers 102, 104 together save for (except for) at least a portion of the top edge 102a, 104b of each of the inner and outer layers 102, 104 from each other to form an entry portion 106 between an outer surface 102d of the inner layer 102 that is facing towards the outer layer 104 and an inner surface 104c of the outer layer 104 that is facing towards the inner layer 102

• receiving (i.e. passing through) at least a portion of a separate piece of a wearable garment 200, 1500 through the entry portion 106 to allow the portion of the garment 106 to be secured (tucked, retained and/or clamped) between the inner and outer layers 102, 104.

The method may further comprise providing at least one stretch fabric member 108 extending (or comprising and extending) from a first end 108a to a second end 108b or vice-versa and securing (tucking, retaining and/or clamping) the first and second ends 108a, 108b between the inner layer and the outer layer 102, 104 (preferably inner layer 102).

The method may further comprise receiving the portion of the garment 200, 1500 through the entry portion 106 to allow that portion of the garment 200, 1500 to be secured (tucked, retained and/or clamped) between first and second ends 108a, 108b of the stretch fabric member 108.

The method may further comprise providing at least one strap 110 having two ends 110a, 110b and coupling one end 110a of the strap to either one of the inner and outer layers 102, 104 (preferably to inner layer 102). At least one buckle (preferably at least buckle 112 having ridges 112e for providing friction to the strap 110) may be provided to another one of the inner and outer layers 102, 104 (preferably to outer layer 104). The method may further comprise receiving another end which is a free end 110b of the strap 110 by the buckle 112, thereby securing the inner and outer layers 102, 104 together using the buckle 112.

The method may further comprise creating at least one hole 114 to one of the inner and outer layers 102, 104 (preferably to outer layer 104) and allowing the free end 110b of the strap 102 to pass through the hole 114 to be secured using the buckle 112. The method may further comprise providing a coupling means (i.e. coupler) on the outer layer 104 and releasably coupling the outer layer 104 and a petticoat 1000 together using the coupling means. Releasably coupling the outer layer 104 and a petticoat 1000 together using the coupling means may include releasably coupling an inner surface 1000c of the petticoat that is facing towards the outer layer 104 and an outer surface 104d of the outer layer 104 that is facing away from the inner layer 102 together using the coupling means. As explained above, the coupling means may be in a form of a plurality of snap fasteners (popper buttons) each having a pair of interlocking discs 800 and the method may comprise placing/securing the interlocking discs at the outer surface 104d of the outer layer 104 and at the inner surface 1000c of the petticoat 1000 to allow releasable coupling between the inner and the outer layer.

The garment 200, 1500 may be configured to be draped around a waist area of the wearer 101 .The garment 200, 1500 may be saree and the method may further comprises forming pleats 1560 in the saree during use and the article of clothing may be configured to receive at least the portion 1560a of the pleats 1560 between the inner and the outer layer 102, 104 through the entry portion 106 to allow securing (tucking, retaining and/or clamping) of the pleats 1560 between the inner and outer layers 102, 104. The method may further comprise receiving the portion 1060a of the pleats 1060 by the stretch fabric member 108 to allow securing (tucking, retaining and/or clamping) of the portion 1060a of the pleats 1060 using the stretch fabric member 108.

The clothing article may be any one of the clothing articles 100, 300, 400, 500 as described above.

A skilled person will appreciate when wearing a saree properly using the traditional methods (i.e. without a clothing article of the present invention) the need to be secured with pins (safety pins) and the pleats need to be secured (tucked, retained and/or clamped) between a petticoat and a body of the wearer. When such pleats a need to be removed temporarily (e.g. while using restrooms), it can be difficult to secure (tuck, retain and/or clamp) back the pleats without distorting the pleats. If the pleats are distorted for any reason, forming the pleats again and securing (tucking, retaining and/or clamping) the pleats back between the petticoat and the body of the wearer can not only be challenging, but can also be a time-consuming exercise, especially for inexperience saree wearers. Often, forming the pleats and securing (tucking, retaining and/or clamping) the pleats will require assistance from another person. If the pin (e.g. safety pin) is accidently dropped or is lost that can add further complexity of wearing the saree back again in a proper manner. Use of the clothing article 100, 300, 400, 500 of the present invention to secure the pleats 1560 of a saree can allow the wearer to temporarily remove the pleats from 1560 the clothing article easily. Since no pins are required, the upper portion 1560a of the pleats 1560 that is secured between the inner and outer layers 102, 104 can simply be removed from the clothing article 100 by pulling out from the clothing article and then held by a hand of the wearer to keep the pleats 1560 intact. The wearer 101 may then simply secure (tuck, retain and/or clamp) the pleats back between the inner and outer layers 102, 104 without any assistance from another person and/or without requiring any pin. No requirement to use pins to secure the pleats 1560 would mean the present invention can avoid damage to the delicate fabrics caused by the pins. Further, since the portion of pleats are secured (tucked, retained and/or clamped) between the inner and outer layers 102, 104, there any contact between the secured (tucked, retained and/or clamped) portion of the pleats and the skin of the wearer can be avoided, which can make the saree comfortable to be worn.

It can be appreciated that the clothing article 100 of the present invention may be used to secure (tuck retain and/or clamp) many other types of garment between the inner layer and the outer layer. Some non-limiting examples of such other types of garment are shirts, sarongs, lungis, dhotis etc. When not used for securing (tucking) another piece of garment, the clothing article 100 may still be used as a wearing apparel or undergarment on its own as described above.

Some non-limiting advantages of the clothing article of the present invention may include:

• Easy to use

• Simple design

• Aesthetically pleasing

• Can allow securing (e.g. tucking retaining and/or clamping) different types of garments easily and reliably, including garments that need to be draped around a waist of a wearer to be worn

• Can worn on its own as a wearing apparel and/or undergarment

• No pins required for securing (e.g. tucking, retaining and/or clamping) another piece of garment

• Comfortable to wear clothing garments such as sarees as secured (e.g. tucked, retained and/or clamped) portion of such garments need not contact the skin of the wearer

• The present invention can prevent easy displacement of the securing (tucked, retained and/or clamped) portion of a garment (e.g. saree) due to the wearer's normal movement. This is because such a portion of the garment is secured between the inner and outer layers of the clothing article of the present invention as opposed to being in direct contact with the wearer's skin. Therefore, the present invention can allow the wearer to perform a more physically demanding task without displacing the garment. Since the secured portion of the garment (e.g. saree) does not directly contact a skin of the wearer and will instead be sandwiched between the inner and outer layers, that portion is less likely to be directly exposed to the moisture (sweat). This can minimise the need for washing the garment frequently.

Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to elements or integers having known equivalents, then such equivalents are included as if they were individually set forth.

Although the invention has been described by way of example and with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that modifications and/or improvements may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. An article of clothing for covering at least a part of a lower body of a wearer, the article of clothing being configured to be worn together with a separate piece of a wearable garment and is configured to be used for securing at least a portion of the garment, the article of clothing comprising: an inner layer that is configured to be proximal to the lower body of the wearer; and an outer layer that is configured to be distal to the lower body of the wearer as compared to the inner layer; the inner layer and the outer layer each extending from a top edge to a bottom edge or vice-versa of the inner layer and the outer layer, the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer being configured to be distal to the wearer's feet as compared to the bottom edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer, the inner layer and the outer layer being engaged or configured to be engaged together, and when engaged together at least a portion of the inner layer and the outer layer form an entry portion between an outer surface of the inner layer that is facing towards the outer layer and an inner surface of the outer layer that is facing towards the inner layer, the entry portion being formed at or near the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer, and the article of clothing being configured to receive at least the portion of the garment through the entry portion to allow at least the portion of the garment to be secured between the inner layer and the outer layer.

2. An article of clothing as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bottom edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer is below a waist area of the wearer.

3. An article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein a pocket is formed when the inner layer and the outer layer are engaged together, wherein the entry portion is an opening of the pocket.

4. An article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least part of the outer layer is or is made of a stretch fabric or an elastic material that is configured to bias at least the part of the outer layer towards the inner layer.

5. An article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the article of clothing further comprises at least one stretch fabric member extending from a first end to a second end or vice-versa of the at least one stretch fabric member, wherein the first end and the second end of the at least one stretch fabric member are secured or configured to be secured with either one of the inner layer and the outer layer.

6. An article of clothing as claimed in claim 5, wherein the at least one stretch fabric member extends longitudinally between the first end and the second end or vice- versa in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to a longitudinal axis extending substantially vertically from the top edge of the inner layer to the bottom edge of the inner layer.

7. An article of clothing as claimed in claim 5 or 6, wherein the at least one stretch fabric member is located between the first edge and the second edge of at least the inner layer.

8. An article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the at least one stretch fabric member is located more proximal to the top edge of the inner layer than the bottom edge of the inner layer.

9. An article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the at least one stretch fabric member is secured or configured to be secured to one of the inner layer or the outer layer at the first end and the second end.

10. An article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein the at least one stretch fabric member is located between the inner layer and the outer layer and the article of clothing is configured to pass at least the portion of the garment through the entry portion to allow at least the portion of the garment to be secured between the at least one stretch fabric member and either one of the inner layer and the outer layer with which the at least one stretch fabric member is engaged or configured to be engaged.

11. An article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 10, wherein at least one of the first end and the second end of the at least one stretch fabric member comprises at least one engagement member that is configured to be secured together with at least one complementary engagement member located at one of the inner layer and the outer layer to enable securing of the at least one stretch fabric member to the inner or outer layer at which the complementary engagement member is located.

12. An article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein either one of the inner layer and the outer layer comprises at least one strap having two ends, one end of the at least one strap being coupled or configured to be coupled with one of the inner layer and the outer layer, and another end of the at least one strap which is a free end is configured to be received by at least one buckle that is coupled to another one of the inner layer and the outer layer.

13. An article of clothing as claimed in claim 12, wherein one of the inner layer and the outer layer to which the at least one buckle is coupled comprises at least one hole for allowing the free end of the strap to pass through for securing the at least one strap with at least one buckle.

14. An article of clothing as claimed in claim 11 or 12, wherein the inner layer comprises the at least one strap and the outer layer comprises the at least one buckle.

15. An article of clothing as claimed in claim 13 or 14, wherein the at least one buckle comprises ridges to provide friction to secure the at least one strap.

16. An article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 11, wherein the at least one stretch fabric member is configured to receive the portion of the garment to allow securing of the portion of the garment by the at least one stretch fabric member.

17. An article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the garment is configured to be draped around a waist area of the wearer.

18. An article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the garment is a saree.

19. An article of clothing as claimed in claim 18, wherein the saree comprises pleats that are formed during use and the article of clothing is configured to secure at least the portion of the pleats of the saree between the inner and the outer layer to allow securing of the portion of the pleats between the inner layer and the outer layer.

20. An article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the article of clothing is an undergarment.

21. An article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the article of clothing further comprises a petticoat that is configured to be releasably coupled with the outer layer using a coupling means.

22. An article of clothing as claimed in claim 21, wherein an inner surface of the petticoat that is facing towards the outer layer, and an outer surface of the outer layer that is facing away from the inner layer are configured to be releasably coupled together using the coupling means.

23. An article of clothing as claimed in claim 22, wherein the petticoat comprises a first edge of the petticoat and a second edge of the petticoat, the first edge of the petticoat is a top edge of the petticoat configured to be located proximal to a waist area of the wearer and the second edge of the petticoat is a bottom edge of the petticoat configured to be located proximal to the wearer's feet, wherein at least one cut-out is formed in the petticoat, the cut-out extending from a first edge of the petticoat towards a direction of the second edge of the petticoat.

24. An article of clothing as claimed in claim 23, wherein the cut-out comprises a fastener to allow opening and closing of the cut-out.

25. An article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein at least the inner layer comprises a pair of pant legs.

26. A method of using an article of clothing, the method comprising at least the following steps: providing the article of clothing for covering at least a part of a lower body of a wearer, the article comprising: an inner layer that is configured to be proximal to the lower body of the wearer; and an outer layer this configured to be distal to the lower body of the wearer as compared to the inner layer; the inner layer and the outer layer each extending from a top edge to a bottom edge or vice-versa of the inner layer and the outer layer, the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer being configured to be distal to the wearer's feet as compared to the bottom edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer, and wherein, the method further comprises: engaging the inner layer and the outer layer together save for at least a portion of the top edge of each of the inner layer and the outer layer from each other to form an entry portion between an outer surface of the inner layer that is facing towards the outer layer and an inner surface of the outer layer that is facing towards the inner layer, and receiving at least a portion of a separate piece of a wearable garment through the entry portion to allow the portion of the garment to be secured between the inner layer and the outer layer.

27. A petticoat configured to or at least be suitable to be worn outside the article of clothing as claimed in any one of claims 1-25, wherein the petticoat is configured to be releasably coupled with the outer layer using a coupling means, the petticoat comprising: a first edge and a second edge, the first edge is the top edge of the petticoat that is configured to be located proximal to a waist area of the wearer and the second edge is a bottom edge of the petticoat configured to be located proximal to the wearer's feet, wherein: at least one cut-out is formed in the petticoat, the cut-out extending from a first edge towards the direction of the second edge, and the inner surface of the petticoat that is configured to face towards the outer layer, and an outer surface of the outer layer that is facing away from the inner layer are configured to be releasably coupled together using the coupling means.

28. Use of the article of clothing, as claimed in any one of the claims 1-25 or the petticoat as claimed in claim 27 together with a separate piece of a wearable garment that is configured to be draped around a waist area of the wearer.