Hook and eye closure with alternative spacing

Abstract

A closure portion for a bra includes an inner surface configured to contact the wearer's skin when the bra is worn. An outer surface faces away from the wearer's skin when the bra is worn. A first end is attached to a wing of the bra. A free second end is opposite to the first end. Eyelets on the outer surface of the closure portion are arranged such that a first row of eyelets is adjacent to a second row of eyelets, and a third row of eyelets is adjacent to a second row of eyelets. A first lateral spacing is provided between the first and second rows of eyelets, which is different from a second lateral spacing between the second and third rows of eyelets. A bra having such a closure portion is also provided according to this disclosure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to bras, and more specifically to hook-and-eye closures for bras. Background Technology

[0002] U.S. Patent No. 6,520,832 discloses a hook-and-eye closure for garments such as bras. The eyelets and / or hooks are stable in the vertical direction but stretch in the horizontal direction to provide a comfortable and self-adjusting fit for the garment. The eyelets preferably comprise a soft, stretchable backing material that wraps around three edges of the eyelets and is heat-sealed to the front. This provides a soft, seamless back and edge portion for enhanced comfort.

[0003] U.S. Patent No. 7,128,635 discloses a method for attaching fasteners to a molded bra with a seamless construction, the bra comprising an outer panel of moldable material and an inner panel of moldable material adjacent to and laminated with the outer panel, except for a non-laminated area where at least the fasteners are located, and wherein the fasteners include connectors supported by a flexible mounting panel, the method comprising creating an opening through one of the outer and inner panels at the non-laminated area and at its location, wherein at least a portion of the connector will extend through the opening, positioning the flexible mounting panel in the middle of the outer and inner panels at the non-laminated area in such a manner that at least a portion of the connector will extend through the opening, and securing at least one of the outer and inner panels to the flexible mounting panel.

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 7,618,305 discloses a hook-and-eye closure for garments such as bras. The eyelets and / or hooks are formed from a laminated, elastic, stretchable layer and can be combined with a cushioning layer to provide a comfortable and self-adjusting fit for the garment. The lamination of the elastic, stretchable layer allows for manufacturing on existing equipment and helps to provide smooth, soft edges, especially when ultrasonically cut.

[0005] U.S. Patent No. 7,722,433 discloses a garment including a bra with a back portion, wherein the back fabric is made very thin, without any indentations or protrusions, with only the heads of the convex-concave engagement devices appearing on the outer surface of the back fabric, thereby providing a smooth and neat fashionable appearance and a comfortable feel without discomfort when worn. The garment includes a back for a bra, etc., which can be freely put on and taken off by using convex-concave engagement devices provided to the back fabric in an area extending from the wearer's armpits towards the back. The convex-concave engagement devices are integrally attached to the inner surface portion of the back fabric. The heads of the convex-concave engagement devices are exposed to the outside through slits.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. D530,648 discloses a hook eye.

[0007] U.S. Patent No. D703,095 discloses a bra back fastener.

[0008] U.S. Patent No. D763,132 discloses a hook-eye fastener.

[0009] U.S. Patent No. D826,084 discloses an eye component for a hook-eye fastener.

[0010] Japanese Patent No. 4415197 discloses an eyelet sewing system consisting of multiple eyelet sewing machines connected in series. This system allows for data transmission / reception between the corresponding sewing machines. When the head sewing machine changes its sewing pattern, before sewing the changed pattern, the head sewing machine sews several eyelets at intervals of periodically unused eyelets in the sewing pattern as a marker of the pattern change. When the marker is detected by an eyelet detection sensor, the corresponding subsequent sewing machine immediately changes its pattern to the changed pattern transmitted from the head sewing machine, and sews the eyelets into the thread of the corresponding machine.

[0011] International PCT Application No. WO 2014 / 174332 discloses a closure comprising a main strip and a base, which can be easily attached to the side of a garment. For this purpose, the base has a device at its connecting edge that prevents a sewing seam from forming in the plane of the soft contact surface of the base after the connection to the side has been established. The closure has sufficient tensile strength and provides a high level of wearing comfort. Summary of the Invention

[0012] This summary is provided to introduce the selection of concepts further described in the detailed embodiments. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0013] According to one example of this disclosure, a closure for a bra includes an inner surface configured to contact the wearer's skin when the bra is worn and an outer surface configured to face away from the wearer's skin when the bra is worn. A first end of the closure is configured to attach to a wing of the bra, and a free second end is opposite to the first end. A plurality of eyelets are located on the outer surface of the closure and are arranged such that a first row of eyelets is adjacent to a second row of eyelets, and a third row of eyelets is adjacent to a second row of eyelets. A first lateral spacing between the first and second rows of eyelets is different from a second lateral spacing between the second and third rows of eyelets. In one example, a fourth row of eyelets is adjacent to the third row of eyelets, and the third and fourth rows of eyelets are spaced apart from the first lateral spacing.

[0014] According to another example of this disclosure, the bra includes a chest-covering portion, a first wing extending from a first side of the chest-covering portion and terminating at a first closed portion, and a second wing extending from an opposite second side of the chest-covering portion and terminating at a second closed portion. A plurality of hooks are located on the first closed portion. A plurality of eyelets are located on the second closed portion and configured to engage with the plurality of hooks to join the first and second closed portions together. The eyelets are arranged such that a first row of eyelets is adjacent to a second row of eyelets, and a third row of eyelets is adjacent to a second row of eyelets. A first lateral spacing between the first and second rows of eyelets is different from a second lateral spacing between the second and third rows of eyelets. In one example, a fourth row of eyelets is adjacent to the third row of eyelets, and the third and fourth rows of eyelets are separated by the first lateral spacing.

[0015] According to another aspect, a series of bras are provided in a variety of bra sizes, wherein each given bra size is configured such that for a given bra size, at least one volumetric cup size is associated with at least two ribcage wrap sizes. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The following figures illustrate examples of hook-and-eye closures and bras. The same numerals are used throughout the figures to denote similar features and components.

[0017] Figure 1 An example of a bra according to this disclosure is shown.

[0018] Figure 2 An example of an eyeband according to this disclosure is shown.

[0019] Figure 3 Another example of an eyeband according to this disclosure is shown.

[0020] Figure 4 An example of multiple layers for a portion of a closure according to this disclosure is shown in exploded cross-section.

[0021] Figure 5 The layer found in a portion of a bra according to this disclosure is shown.

[0022] Figure 6 Another example of multiple layers for a closure according to this disclosure is shown in exploded cross-section.

[0023] Figure 7 A dimension transformation diagram according to an example of this disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Figure 1A bra 10 according to an example of the present disclosure is shown. As is well known, the bra 10 includes a breast covering portion 12, which includes cups 14a, 14b. Instead of the molded cups 14a, 14b shown herein, the bra 10 may alternatively include a breast covering portion comprising a single piece of fabric, with or without defined cups. Therefore, the breast covering portion 12 shown herein is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, and it should be understood that the closure portion described below can be used with underwear, sports or casual bras or bralettes, and can be sized according to cup and strap systems (e.g., 32A, 32B, 32C, 34A, 34B, 34C, etc.), according to alpha systems (e.g., S, M, L, XL, etc.), or according to novel hybrid strap and alpha sizing systems (32 / 34S, 32 / 34M, 32 / 34L, 36 / 38S, 36 / 38M, etc.), as will be further described below.

[0025] The first wing 16a extends from a first side of the chest-covering portion 12 (more specifically, from the first cup 14a) and terminates at a first closure portion 18a. The second wing 16b extends from the opposite second side of the chest-covering portion 12 (more specifically, from the second cup 14b) and terminates at a second closure portion 18b. Although the first closure portion 18a and the second closure portion 18b are shown herein as integrally formed with the wings 16a, 16b (i.e., as part of their fabric), it should be understood that the first closure portion 18a and the second closure portion 18b may alternatively be configured such that they are sewn, adhered, glued, or otherwise attached to the respective ends of the first wing 16a and the second wing 16b.

[0026] Straps 20a and 20b connect the upper portions of the corresponding wings 16a and 16b to the upper portion of the bust covering 12, particularly at the upper edges of the cups 14a and 14b. As is well known, straps 20a and 20b include sliders 22a and 22b that allow adjustment of the length of straps 20a and 20b. In other examples, straps 20a and 20b do not have sliders providing adjustable length. In other examples, straps 20a and 20b are configured differently from those shown herein, such as with an X-back, V-back, racerback, or any known strap configuration. In other examples, bra 10 is a strapless bra.

[0027] Still referencing Figure 1Multiple hooks 24 are disposed on the first closure portion 18a, on its surface, which is configured to face the wearer's skin when the bra 10 is worn. Here, the bra 10 is shown from the back, and therefore the hooks 24 on the skin-facing side are shown in dashed lines; it should be understood that they will not be visible from the rear view. Multiple eyelets 26 are disposed on the second closure portion 18b, on its surface, which faces away from the wearer's skin. As is well known, the multiple eyelets 26 are configured to engage with the multiple hooks 24 to join the first closure portion 18a and the second closure portion 18b together. This is achieved by the multiple hooks 24 being spaced apart in a vertical "V" shape with the same vertical spacing as the eyelets among the multiple eyelets 26. By attaching the multiple hooks 24 to a set of eyelets among the multiple eyelets 26, the size (i.e., circumference) of the chest circumference portion 28 of the bra 10 can be adjusted. To allow for such adjustments, the plurality of eyes 26 are arranged such that the first row of eyes 26a is adjacent to the second row of eyes 26b, the third row of eyes 26c is adjacent to the second row of eyes 26b, and the fourth row of eyes 26d is adjacent to the third row of eyes 26c. As will be further described below, there is a first lateral spacing in the lateral direction “L” between the first row of eyes 26a and the second row of eyes 26b. This first lateral spacing is different from the second lateral spacing between the second row of eyes 26b and the third row of eyes 26c. Furthermore, the third row of eyes 26c and the fourth row of eyes 26d are also separated by the first lateral spacing.

[0028] The closure portion 18b for the bra 10 includes an inner surface configured to contact the wearer's skin when the bra 10 is worn. Although the inner surface is not shown here, those skilled in the art will understand that it is located on the opposite side of the closure portion 18b shown herein. The closure portion 18b also includes an outer surface 30 configured to face away from the wearer's skin when the bra 10 is worn. A first end 32 of the closure portion 18b is configured to attach to a second wing 16b of the bra 10. A free second end 34 is positioned opposite to the first end 32. A plurality of eyelets 26 are provided on the outer surface 30 and arranged as described above: a first row of eyelets 26a is adjacent to a second row of eyelets 26b, a third row of eyelets 26c is adjacent to a second row of eyelets 26b, and a fourth row of eyelets 26d is adjacent to a third row of eyelets 26c.

[0029] As from Figure 1 It can be further understood that the plurality of hooks 24 are located on the inner surface of the first closed portion 18a. Although the inner surface is not shown, those skilled in the art will understand that the inner surface is related to... Figure 1The surfaces shown are opposite and configured to face the wearer's skin when the bra 10 is worn. As described above, a plurality of eyes 26 are located on the outer surface 30 of the second closure portion 18b, which is configured to face away from the wearer's skin when the bra 10 is worn. In this way, a plurality of hooks 24 can be connected to one of the multiple rows of eyes 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d to adjust the size of the ribcage surrounding portion 28 and accommodate wearers with different ribcage sizes.

[0030] Although the hooks 24 and multiple eyelets 26a-d shown herein have two vertically spaced hooks / eyelets per column, in other examples, one, three, or four hooks / eyelets may be provided in a single column. For example, one hook / eyelet per column may be suitable for smaller bra sizes, while three or four vertically spaced hooks / eyelets per column may be desirable for larger bra sizes. This difference in the number of hooks / eyelets per column is well known in the art.

[0031] Turn now Figure 2 and Figure 3 This section will describe two examples of how different first and second lateral spacings can be set between multiple columns of eyes 26a-d in multiple eyes 26. For example... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first lateral spacing L1 is disposed between the eyes in the first row of eyes 26a and the second row of eyes 26b, and between the eyes in the third row of eyes 26c and the fourth row of eyes 26d. Note that although the first lateral spacing L1 is shown as being measured between the seam lines 36 that attach the eyes to the eyebands 38a, 38b, or 38c, the lateral spacing can alternatively be measured from any part of the eyes in one row to any part of the eyes in another row. As described above, the second lateral spacing L2 is disposed between the second row of eyes 26b and the third row of eyes 26c. Again, note that although the second lateral spacing L2 is shown as being measured between the seam lines 36 that attach the second row of eyes 26b and the third row of eyes 26c to the eyebands 38a, 38b, or 38c, the second lateral spacing L2 can be measured from any part of the eyes in one row to any part of the eyes in another row. However, note that for comparative purposes, the lateral spacings L1 and L2 should be measured from the congruent portion of the eyes so that a similar comparison can be made between the first lateral spacing L1 and the second lateral spacing L2. That is, if the first lateral spacing L1 is measured from the seam line 36 of the first row of eyelets 26a to the seam line 36 of the second row of eyelets 26b, then the second lateral spacing L2 should be measured from the seam line 36 of the second row of eyelets 26b to the seam line 36 of the third row of eyelets 26c. As noted, it is alternatively possible to measure between different portions of the eyelets 26, such as between the anchoring end 40 of an eyelet 26 in one row and the anchoring end 40 of an eyelet 26 in another row, or from the hook receiving end 42 of an eyelet 26 in one row to the hook receiving end 42 of an eyelet 26 in another row.

[0032] If possible Figure 2 and Figure 3 The inspection revealed that the second lateral spacing L2 is greater than the first lateral spacing L1. In some examples, the second lateral spacing L2 is between approximately 1.3 and 1.8 times the first lateral spacing L1. In some examples, the second lateral spacing L2 is greater than 1.5 times the first lateral spacing L1. In a specific example, the second lateral spacing is approximately 1.7 times the first lateral spacing L1, ±10%. This exemplary relationship between the first lateral spacing L1 and the second lateral spacing L2 provides a wider range of strap sizes for the ribcage wrap 28, thereby allowing wearers of different strap sizes to wear the same size bra 10 and / or allowing wearers with individual strap size changes (as the wearer gains or loses weight or as the ribcage wrap 28 stretches between washes or over time) to wear a single bra 10. For example, if the first eyelets 26a and the second eyelets 26b are positioned for wearers who would typically wear a size 34 strap, then the third eyelets 26c and the fourth eyelets 26d can be positioned for wearers who would typically wear a size 32 strap. Similarly, bra 10 can be worn by a wearer with a size 34 or 36 strap, and so on, up to every known strap size. This grading spacing also allows for greater flexibility in strap size for alpha-sized bras relative to the size of the chest-covering portion 12, as will be discussed further below.

[0033] Note that because the spacing L2 is greater than the spacing L1, the current arrangement of multiple eyelets 26 offers an advantage over known arrangements with three or more rows of eyelets, where the same spacing is set between each row of eyelets. In such known arrangements, a wearer of a particular strap size can only adjust the strap by the increments provided for that strap size. For example, if her size is 34, the equal spacing of the eyelets in the known arrangement only provides adjustment within the 34 strap size range (e.g., from approximately 34” circumference to approximately 35.5” circumference of the ribcage wrap 28), but does not allow her to effectively transition to a 32 or 36 strap size. In contrast, the graded spacing of the multiple rows of eyelets in this disclosure provides her with at least two options to adjust to at least two different strap sizes, an option that would not be available if three or four rows of eyelets with the same lateral spacing between each row were provided. By way of a specific example, if the lateral spacing L1 is 14 mm and the lateral spacing L2 is 24 mm, then the hypothetical third row of eyes, located at an equal lateral spacing L1 of 14 mm to the left of the second row of eyes 26b (as in a known arrangement), would be located 10 mm to the right of the position of the third row of eyes 26c in the current closed portion 18b. The hypothetical fourth row of eyes, also located at an equal lateral spacing L1 of 14 mm to the left of the hypothetical third row of eyes, would be located 4 mm to the left of the third row of eyes 26c in the current closed portion 18b. Therefore, with three or four rows of eyes, each row spaced apart from each other by an equal lateral spacing L1, this does not provide a true “reduced” fit for the size 32 strip.

[0034] As from Figure 2 and Figure 3 It can also be seen that each of the first, second, third, and fourth rows of eyes 26a-d has an anchoring end 40 connected to eyebands 38a, 38b, or 38c. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth rows of eyes 26a-d also has a hook receiving end 42 opposite to the anchoring end 40. Although the anchoring end 40 and hook receiving end 42 are marked only in the first row of eyes 26a, it should be understood that these anchoring ends 40 and hook receiving ends 42 are present in each of the second, third, and fourth rows of eyes 26b-d. Therefore, from Figure 2 As can be seen, each of the first row of eyelets 26a and the second row of eyelets 26b has an anchoring end 40 connected to the first eyelet band 38a, and each of the eyelets in the third row of eyelets 26c and the fourth row of eyelets 26d has an anchoring end 40 connected to the second eyelet band 38b. As described above, the eyelets in the plurality of eyelets 26 are connected to the eyelet bands 38a, 38b, or 38c at the seam line 36, such as by sewing. In other examples, the eyelets in the plurality of eyelets 26 may be connected to the eyelet bands 38a-c by known methods of sewing, fusion, gluing, adhesive, bonding, riveting, or otherwise.

[0035] Figure 2 and Figure 3The comparison illustrates two different ways of using eyebands 38a, 38b, or 38c to which the eye 26 is attached to achieve the spacing difference between the first row of eyes 26a and the second row of eyes 26b and the third row of eyes 26c.

[0036] exist Figure 2 In the example, as known to those skilled in the art, the first eyelet band 38a and the second eyelet band 38b, each having a typical spacing (e.g., a first lateral spacing L1) between multiple eyelets, are positioned end-to-end in the lateral direction and joined together in this arrangement, wherein sufficient fabric is provided at adjacent ends 44, 46 of the eyelet bands 38a, 38b such that more than the first lateral spacing L1 of fabric is provided between the second eyelet band 26b and the third eyelet band 26c. More specifically, the first eyelet band 38a and the second eyelet band 38b are placed on a single piece of fabric, such as inner fabric 52 ( Figure 4 The first eyeband 38a and the second eyeband 38b are positioned on a separate stabilizer fabric such that the end 44 of the first eyeband 38a is located adjacent to the end 46 of the second eyeband 38b. The end-to-end eyebands 38a and 38b can be bonded to the fabric sheet in any known manner, such as by laminating the eyebands 38a and 38b with a spray, screen printing, tape, or mesh adhesive, followed by heating the layered assembly. Alternatively, the eyebands 38a and 38b can be sewn, fused, glued, adhesively bonded, adhered, riveted, or otherwise attached to the fabric sheet. In other examples, the first eyeband 38a and the second eyeband 38b can be joined together at the joint 48 by known methods, such as by sewing, by adhesive, or by bonding or fusion, before lamination (or other type of connection) with the fabric sheet. For example, the first eyeband 38a and the second eyeband 38b, positioned laterally end-to-end, can be ultrasonically bonded together along their respective adjacent ends 44 and 46. Ultrasonic bonding, or acoustic welding, utilizes high-frequency (ultrasonic) sound waves under pressure to hold two eyebands 38a and 38b together and fuse them into a single piece. Regardless of how they are coupled to each other, such as... Figure 2 The arrangement of the eyebands 38a, 38b shown allows the use of conventional eyebands known to those skilled in the art to form the closed portion 18b of this disclosure.

[0037] Alternatively, such as Figure 3As shown, a single eyelet 38c can be provided, and as described above, multiple rows of eyelets 26a-d can be attached thereto by sewing or by other known attachment methods along seam line 36 to provide a first lateral spacing L1 between the first and second rows of eyelets 26a and 26b, and between the third and fourth rows of eyelets 26c and 26d, and a second lateral spacing L2 between the second and third rows of eyelets 26b. Special machinery may be required to provide this spacing on the single eyelet 38c. In some examples (as described above with respect to two eyelets 38a, 38b), the single eyelet 38c is laminated, sewn, fused, glued, adhesive, bonded, riveted, or otherwise attached to a piece of fabric, such as inner fabric 52, before being incorporated into the bra 10. Figure 4 (or separate stabilizer fabric)

[0038] exist Figure 2 or Figure 3 In any of the examples, only three rows of eyes may be provided, wherein the first lateral spacing L1 is between a set of two adjacent columns, and the second lateral spacing L2 is between a different set of two adjacent columns. This arrangement will provide two fit options for the first band size and one fit option for the other band size. Alternatively, more than four rows of eyes may be provided, wherein the second lateral spacing L2 is between the fourth row of eyes 26d and the fifth (or more) row of eyes, in order to provide sizes in three or more band size ranges. It should also be noted that the definition of multiple rows of eyes, from "first" to "fourth" as used from right to left, may be reversed, and such definition does not limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0039] Several different methods can be used to attach eye straps 38a, 38b, or 38c to bra 10. (See reference) Figure 4 and Figure 5 The bra 10 may also include an outer fabric 50 that defines the outer surface 30 of the second closure portion 18b. The bra 10 may also include an inner fabric 52 that defines the inner surface 54 of the second closure portion 18b. Figure 4 This illustrates how the first eyelet 38a is sandwiched between the inner fabric 52 and the outer fabric 50, and how the second eyelet 38b is also sandwiched between the inner fabric 52 and the outer fabric 50. Although Figure 4 Two eyebands, 38a and 38b, are shown, but it should be understood that if used... Figure 3 If a single eyeband 38c is used, then the eyeband 38c will be sandwiched between the inner fabric 52 and the outer fabric 50 in the same manner. For example, see... Figure 5 .

[0040] Return to Figure 4As described above, each of the multiple eyelets 26a-d has an anchoring end 40 that connects to the eyelet straps 38a, 38b, as along the seam line 36. The hook receiving end 42 extends through a corresponding hole 56 in the outer fabric 50 (see also...). Figure 5 ), so that it is located on the outer surface 30 of the closed portion 18b. Although Figure 4 and Figure 5 The hook receiving end 42 extending through the hole 56 is not shown, but Figure 1 The final product appearance is shown when the hook receiving end 42 has been inserted through the hole 56 and placed on the outer surface 30 of the second closure portion 18b. (See diagram.) Figure 5 As shown, the hole 56 can be a slit cut into the outer fabric 50 by means of laser cutting, ultrasonic cutting / adhesion, or another known method.

[0041] In order to form Figure 4 The closed portion 18b, eyebands 38a, 38b can be positioned end-to-end on the inner fabric 52, wherein an adhesive is disposed between the eyebands 38a, 38b and the inner fabric 52. The eyebands 38a, 38b can be joined together at the connecting portion 48 before they are placed on the inner fabric 52, or the eyebands 38a, 38b can be joined together before they are placed on the inner fabric 52. Figure 4 When the eyebands 38a and 38b are separated, heat can be applied to activate the adhesive and laminate (bond) the eyebands 38a and 38b to the inner fabric 52. The outer fabric 50 can then be placed on top of the eyebands 38a and 38b, with a layer of adhesive between the eyebands 38a and 38b and the outer fabric 50. Heat is then applied to laminate (bond) the outer fabric 50 to the layered eyebands 38a and 38b and the inner fabric 52. A hole 56 can then be cut (e.g., ultrasonically cut) through the outer fabric 50, and the hook receiving end 42 of the eye is pulled through the hole 56. Alternatively, the hole 56 can be cut before assembly, and the hook receiving end 42 of the eye can be pulled through the hole 56 before bonding the outer fabric 50 and the eyebands 38a and 38b together. In some examples, additional materials may be sewn, adhered, glued, or otherwise inserted into the closed portion 18b, such as a stabilizer layer (e.g., polymer mesh, 100% polyester knit) or a cushioning layer (e.g., foam, terry knit, fiber filling), which are typically contained between the inner fabric 52 and the eyebands 38a, 38b, or 38c.

[0042] like Figure 5 As shown, the outer fabric 50 can integrate (define) the outer surface 57 of the first wing 16a and the outer surface 58 of the second wing 16b. Figure 5The bra 10 of this disclosure can be assembled, for example, by molding a single outer fabric 50 and a single inner fabric 52 together to form the cups 14a, 14b and wings 16a, 16b of the breast-covering portion 12, while keeping the outer fabric 50 and inner fabric 52 unattached at the ends of the wings 16a, 16b. Then, an eyelet strap 38c with a plurality of eyes 26 arranged in the aforementioned multi-row eyelet configuration can be placed between the unattached outer fabric 50 and inner fabric 52 at the end of the second wing 16b, and a hook receiving end 42 can be inserted through a hole 56 in the outer fabric 50. Similarly, a hook strap 60 with a plurality of hooks 24 attached can be inserted between the outer fabric 50 and inner fabric 52 at the end of the first wing 16a. The hooks 24 are inserted through corresponding holes 63 in the inner fabric 52 so as to be positioned on its inner surface 54. The outer fabric 50 and inner fabric 52 at the ends of the wings 16a and 16b can be sewn, glued, laminated, and / or further molded together to seal the eyeband 38c and hook strap 60 between them, as described above. Figure 4 As stated above. Furthermore, in Figure 5 In the components shown, eyebands 38a and 38b can be used instead of eyeband 38c.

[0043] Note that although it indicates that bra 10 is in the unfinished stage of manufacturing... Figure 5 Stripes 20a and 20b are not shown, but stripes 20a and 20b can be... Figure 1 The following will be shown later. Also note that in other examples, the wings 16a, 16b and the cups 14a, 14b do not need to be integral with each other, but can be cut and sewn or glued together. Additionally, it should be understood that if Figure 2If the first eyelet strap 38a and the second eyelet strap 38b are used in the bra 10, they do not need to be end-to-end connected before being inserted between and attached to the inner fabric 52 and the outer fabric 50. However, pre-attaching the first eyelet strap 38a and the second eyelet strap 38b end-to-end can provide a more robust closure 18 and / or make the bra 10 easier to assemble. It should also be noted that although the closure portions 18a, 18b are shown herein as integral with the ends of the wings 16a, 16b, respectively, the closure portions 18a, 18b may be manufactured separately from the rest of the bra 10 and later attached to the ends of the wings 16a, 16b, respectively, by stitching, sewing, ultrasonic bonding, adhesion, gluing, or any combination of these attachment methods. In one particular example where the closure portion 18b is manufactured separately from the bra 10, the inner fabric 52 is placed on the outside of the outer fabric 50 (i.e., on the side of the outer fabric 50 opposite to the eyebands 38a, 38b, or 38c) and joined (e.g., ultrasonically welded or sewn) to the periphery of the outer fabric 50, except at one end, such as the end closest to the fourth row of eyebands 26d. The inner fabric 52 is then folded around the assembly from the inside out to cover the eyebands 38a, 38b, or 38c. Finally, those skilled in the art will recognize that the bra 10 may include layers other than the outer fabric 50 and the inner fabric 52, such as additional layers of fabric, foam, fiber filling, mesh / knotted mesh, and / or plastic or metal support components.

[0044] Figure 6 An alternative arrangement for attaching the multiple eyelets 26 to the bra is shown. In this example of the closure 18b', the anchoring ends 40 of the eyelets 26 remain connected to the eyelet straps 38c; however, the hook receiving ends 42 do not extend through the holes in the outer fabric 50. Instead, separate outer fabrics 61, 62, 64 are layered between each row of eyelets 26. For example, the first separate outer fabric 61 covers the eyelet straps 38c and extends below the eyelets in the first row of eyelets 26a. The second separate outer fabric 62 is layered between the eyelets in the first row of eyelets 26a and the eyelets in the second row of eyelets 26b. The third separate outer fabric 64 is layered between the eyelets in the second row of eyelets 26b and the eyelets in the third row of eyelets 26c. The eyelet straps 38c remain positioned between the inner fabric 52 and the outer fabric 50, with the outer fabric positioned on the anchoring ends 40 of the eyelets in the third row of eyelets 26c. Note that although the fourth eyelet 26d is not shown here, as disclosed above, it can be positioned adjacent to the third eyelet 26c, with an additional separate outer fabric disposed between the third eyelet 26c and the fourth eyelet 26d. Also note that although shown in this example... Figure 3 The eyeband is 38c, but alternative settings are available. Figure 2 Eyebands 38a and 38b.

[0045] exist Figure 6 In this example, the outer fabric 50 may be sewn along seam line 66 to an eye in the third row of eyelets 26c, sewn to one end of a separate outer fabric 64, and sewn to eyelet band 38c. The other end of the separate outer fabric 64 may be sewn to an eye in the second row of eyelets 26b, sewn to one end of a separate outer fabric 62, and sewn along seam line 68 to eyelet band 38c. The other end of the separate outer fabric 62 may be sewn to an eye in the first row of eyelets 26a, sewn to a separate outer fabric 61, and sewn along seam line 70 to eyelet band 38c. Seams 66, 68, 70 (shown schematically) may extend through the inner fabric 52, or the inner fabric 52 may be sewn, glued, or otherwise attached to the assembly in a later step to provide a seamless inner surface for the closure portion 18b'. For example, the closure 18b' can be finished at its ends by gluing, fusion, sewing, or other known finishing methods that attach the inner fabric 52 to the outer fabric 61 at finished edge 72 and to the outer fabric 50 at finished edge 74. Note that the outer fabrics 61, 62, 64, 50 can be folded at their exposed ends to provide a clean appearance for the closure 18b', although such folding is not shown herein for clarity. In some exemplary methods, the eyeband 38c, eye 26, and the layers of fabric 61, 62, 64, 50 are sewn together before being attached to the inner fabric 52. The inner fabric 52 is then placed on top of the eye 26 and the layers of fabric 61, 62, 64, 50 and glued or sewn to them around the edges, and the assembly is then turned inside out to achieve... Figure 6 The configuration. Further layers, such as foam layers, stabilizer layers, or additional fabric layers, may be disposed between the eyeband 38c and the inner fabric 52. These additional layers may be sewn to the bottom of the eyeband 38c and to the eye 26 and the respective fabric layers 61, 62, 64, 50, after which all layers are attached around their edges to the inner fabric 52, and the assembly is then turned inside out. For some examples of how this is achieved, see U.S. Patents Nos. 6,820,312 and 7,918,711.

[0046] therefore, Figure 6A closed portion 18b' is shown, having outer fabrics 61, 62, 64, 50 defining its outer surface and an inner fabric 52 defining its inner surface. An eyelet 38c is sandwiched between the inner fabric 52 and the outer fabrics 61, 62, 64, 50. Each eyelet 26 in the first, second, and third rows of eyes 26a-c has an anchoring end 40 connected to the eyelet 38c and a hook receiving end 42 opposite to the anchoring end 40. The anchoring end 40 of the eyelet 26 is covered by a corresponding layer of fabric from the outer fabrics 61, 62, 64, or 50, while the hook receiving end 42 of the eyelet 26 lies on the outer surface of another corresponding outer fabric from the outer fabrics 61, 62, 64, or 50. For example, the anchoring end 40 of the eyelet in the third row of eyes 26c is covered by the outer fabric 50, while the hook receiving end 42 of the eyelet in the third row of eyes 26c lies on the outer surface of the outer fabric 64.

[0047] Figure 6 The closure portion 18b' shown can be manufactured as a separate pre-assembled piece subsequently sewn to the end of the second wing 16b, or it can be configured as part of the bra 10, such as if the inner fabric 52 is the inner fabric of the wings 16a, 16b (or even the cups 14a, 14b), and / or the outer fabric 50 is the outer fabric of the wings 16a, 16b (or even the cups 14a, 14b). Similarly, as described above, Figure 4 The closing portion 18b can be a separately manufactured sub-assembly, which is then sewn to the end of the second wing 16b at the end closest to the fourth row eye 26d, or otherwise attached to the end of the second wing 16b. In some cases, the end closest to the fourth row eye 26d can remain open (i.e., provided with two flaps) to allow the end of the wing 16b to be inserted therein, and then the end of the wing 16a and the pre-assembled closing portions 18b, 18b' can be connected by one of the methods described above. For an example, see International Application Publication No. WO2014 / 174332.

[0048] Note that in Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the example, eye 26 can be pre-attached to eyebands 38a, 38b, or 38c (e.g., by sewing), and then eyebands 38a, 38b, or 38c with pre-attached eyes can be placed between two layers of fabric 50, 52, and the hook receiving end 42 of eye 26 is pulled through hole 56. However, in Figure 6In one example, eyelet 26 is set separately from eyelet strap 38c and then layered and sewn onto the outer fabrics 61, 62, 64, 50. This is because the outer fabrics 61, 62, 64, 50 overlap each other and are located between eyelet 26 and eyelet strap 38c. In this way, eyelet strap 38c acts as a stabilizing fabric to which eyelet 26 is attached. In other examples, eyelet straps 38a-c are not used at all, and eyelet 26 may be sewn or otherwise directly attached to the inner fabric 52 of bra 10, or sewn or otherwise directly attached to the bottom / inner fabric of a separately pre-assembled closure portion.

[0049] The fabric used to make the bra 10 is a fabric known in the art for such purposes. The inner fabric 52 and the outer fabric 50 may be cotton, polyester, nylon, spandex, and / or mixtures thereof. The eyebands 38a, 38b, or 38c may be nylon, polyester, cotton, and / or mixtures thereof, and in some examples are made of a single material and manufactured with little or no stretch. For example, eyebands 38a-c may be made of known stabilizing materials such as non-stretch or low-stretch knitted fabrics, woven fabrics, or mesh. The inner fabric 52 and the outer fabric 50 may be laminated and / or molded together by methods known to those skilled in the art, such as by laminating and / or molding together with a polyurethane hot-melt adhesive melt. Alternatively, the inner fabric 52 and the outer fabric 50 may be sewn and / or bonded together along their edges.

[0050] The aforementioned closures 18b, 18b' can be used to manufacture a series of bras sized according to a novel hybrid sizing system, where each cup size is associated with at least two band sizes. Current alpha sizing systems (e.g., bras sized according to S, M, L, etc.) often include charts associated with the bra that tell the buyer what alpha size she should purchase based on the cup and band sizes. For example, known alpha sizing charts can equate sizes 34AA, 34A, 34B, and 32D to size small (S), while sizes 36A, 36B, 34C, and 34D are equivalent to size medium (M). These charts are based on a trade-off between rib circumference and breast volume, which occurs when converting cup and band sizes to alpha sizes and is often unique to a particular brand. Known alpha sizing conversion charts may have several given alpha sizes where a single cup size is associated with two band sizes, but often, as the band size increases, the alpha size also increases. This means that wearers may be forced to increase or decrease their alpha size, resulting in a less than ideal fit, especially if the wearer has a large cup and small strap size or a large strap size and small cup size. In some cases, the wearer's cup and strap sizes are not even covered by a given alpha size conversion table. Therefore, the inventors recognized that providing a hook-and-eye closure with multiple rows of eyelets spaced apart at locations where two different "conventional" strap size options are provided by a single closure would offer increased sizing flexibility, allowing a range of bras to fit a wider range of wearers with fewer unique products to manufacture (i.e., fewer SKUs).

[0051] The aforementioned trade-off between chest circumference and breast volume that occurs when converting cup and strap sizes to alpha sizes is a byproduct of the typical structure of cup-strap bras versus alpha bras.

[0052] A typical cup-strap bra is constructed as its name suggests: fabric and / or foam and / or other suitable materials are provided to form two cups, which can be joined by a central triangle of fabric or molded into a single front panel. The design incorporates the necessary amount of fabric through molding and / or provision to accommodate the volume of a wearer's breasts of a specific size. The cups are attached to wings, one on each side, designed to extend below the wearer's arms and around her back, forming a "band" around the wearer. Eyelet closures can be used to allow for variations in the combined circumference of the cups, triangle of fabric, and wings, allowing adjustments to accommodate stretching between washes and over time. Typically, the eyelets are provided in three or four rows, offering a total variation of 1.5–7.5 inches in the band's circumference. As mentioned above, known eyelet closures separate multiple rows of eyelets at equal intervals. The wearer can determine the correct cup-strap bra size by measuring the area around her ribcage below her breasts and the fullest part of her breasts (aligned with the nipples). The difference between the two measurements is then used to calculate the cup size, while the band size is based on measurements around the chest. (Note that for some brands, the chest measurement is directly converted to the band size, while others add length to the chest measurement to determine the band size.) Typically, bra band sizes are in increments (e.g., 2-inch increments in the US and UK, and 5-centimeter increments in most of continental Europe and Asia), and if a woman's chest measurement falls between these increments, she is advised to round down to the nearest band size.

[0053] In contrast, alpha-size bras are typically manufactured without separate cups, instead providing a single piece of fabric or "straps" to accommodate the wearer's breasts. This front piece is usually not molded but sewn or integrated with the fabric of the back piece, which is configured to extend below the wearer's arms and across her back, typically without closures. Elastic bands are usually sewn or otherwise attached around the bottom of the front and back pieces and are configured to hold the bra snugly against the chest cavity below the wearer's breasts. Sometimes, instead of providing elastic bands, the bra fabric uses a different weave in the underbust area. The alpha size of a bra largely depends on the manufacturer's conventions, where larger sizes generally correspond to larger chest cavity measurements and larger measurements of the fullest part of the breast. For example, the aforementioned trade-off arises when a woman with a large cup and small strap size needs to choose an alpha-size bra larger than her individual strap size to accommodate her breast volume. This may result in the bra being too loose around her chest cavity. Alternatively, if she chooses an alpha-size bra with a properly fitting ribcage band, her breasts may spill out of the fabric provided for the front panel. Meanwhile, women with a larger band size and smaller cups may encounter fit problems at the other end of the range, where a bra that fits her ribcage is not supportive enough for her breasts, or a bra that sits too close to her breasts is too tight around the ribcage.

[0054] Therefore, as described above, the inventors have developed a novel mixed-size convention in which, for any given nominal bra size in the series, at least two strap sizes are associated with each cup size, thereby providing the wearer with more options for achieving a better fit. Reference Figure 7An exemplary size chart for converting cup and strap measurements to mixed sizes is shown. Conversion table 702 covers a variety of cup and strap size combinations, 40 of which are shown here. Index table 704 shows how conversion table 702 is associated with 10 different mixed sizes (in other words, 10 different bras or SKUs). It can be seen that each mixed size covers at least two strap sizes for each cup size. For example, mixed size 28 / 30S covers strap sizes 28 and 30 for cup size B, and covers strap sizes 28 and 30 for cup size C. Mixed size 32 / 34S covers strap sizes 32 and 34 for cup size A, and covers strap sizes 32 and 34 for cup size B. Mixed size 32 / 34M covers strap sizes 32 and 34 for cup size D. Mixed size 32 / 34L covers strap sizes 32 and 34 for cup size DDD. Mixed size 36 / 38S covers strap sizes 36 and 38 for cup size B. Mixed size 36 / 38M covers band sizes 36 and 38 for cup D. Mixed size 36 / 38L covers band sizes 36 and 38 for cup DDD. Mixed size 40 / 42S covers band sizes 40 and 42 for cup B. Mixed size 40 / 42M covers band sizes 40 and 42 for cup D. Mixed size 40 / 42L covers band sizes 40 and 42 for cup DDD. The ability to provide two band sizes on a given bra by including the eye closure portion 18b or 18b' described in detail above allows for a bra range that can fit a wider range of wearers compared to traditional alpha-size bra ranges. For example, even at the high end of the cup size range, women still have three mixed sizes to choose from: 32 / 34L, 36 / 38L, and 40 / 42L, covering six different band sizes. At the lower end of the cup size range, women also have three mixed sizes to choose from: 28 / 30S, 32 / 34S, and 36 / 38S, covering four band sizes.

[0055] Note that in the above mixed-size system, the choice of S, M, L, etc., is arbitrary, and the second part of the mixed-size naming convention can be equally easily represented using any other letter, number, or symbol. Also note that the two band sizes separated by a slash in the above mixed-size system are also arbitrary, and the first part of the mixed-size naming convention can be equally easily represented by any other number, letter, or symbol. Finally, note that even though bra cup and band sizes vary by brand, Figure 7Figures 702 and index table 704 are merely illustrative, and different combinations of cup and strap sizes may correspond to different mixed sizes from different brands. Furthermore, the number of mixed sizes (ten in this case) does not limit the scope of this disclosure, and it should be understood that more mixed sizes (for more size variations) or fewer mixed sizes (for fewer size variations) may exist, depending on the manufacturer's choice. However, in general, at least in terms of mixed sizes, there will not be as many mixed sizes as cup-strap sizes, otherwise the advantage of fewer SKUs would be lost.

[0056] Therefore, this disclosure provides a series of bras in multiple bra sizes, wherein each given bra size is configured such that, for a given bra size, at least one volumetric cup size is associated with at least two ribcage wrap sizes. While the closures 18b and 18b' described herein, as well as the mixed-size system, are particularly suitable for sports and casual bras and bras, they are equally applicable to lingerie bras. For example, note that the current closures 18b or 18b' can be used for a series of bras with typical cup sizes (A, B, C, etc.), thereby covering two wrap sizes for each cup size, potentially reducing the number of SKUs by half.

[0057] The following are some exemplary solutions of the present invention.

[0058] Option 1: A closure portion for a bra, the closure portion comprising:

[0059] An inner surface, the inner surface being configured to contact the wearer's skin when wearing the bra;

[0060] An outer surface configured to face away from the wearer's skin when the bra is worn;

[0061] A first end, configured to be attached to a wing of the bra;

[0062] The second end of freedom is the opposite of the first end; and

[0063] The plurality of eyes on the outer surface are arranged such that a first row of eyes is adjacent to a second row of eyes, and a third row of eyes is adjacent to a second row of eyes;

[0064] The first lateral spacing between the first and second rows of eyes is different from the second lateral spacing between the second and third rows of eyes.

[0065] Option 2: According to the closed portion described in Option 1, the closed portion further includes a fourth row of eyes adjacent to the third row of eyes, and the third row of eyes and the fourth row of eyes are separated by the first lateral spacing.

[0066] Option 3: The closed portion according to Option 1, wherein the second lateral spacing is greater than the first lateral spacing.

[0067] Option 4: The closed portion according to Option 1, wherein the second lateral spacing is greater than 1.5 times the first lateral spacing.

[0068] Option 5: According to the closed portion described in Option 1, the closed portion further includes:

[0069] The outer fabric defining the outer surface; and

[0070] The inner fabric defining the inner surface;

[0071] Each of the first, second, and third eye columns has an anchoring end and a hook receiving end opposite to the anchoring end;

[0072] The anchoring end of the eye is covered by a corresponding outer fabric of the outer fabric;

[0073] And wherein the hook receiving end of the eye is located on the outer surface of another corresponding outer fabric in the outer fabric.

[0074] Option 6: According to the closed portion described in Option 1, the closed portion further includes:

[0075] The outer fabric defining the outer surface;

[0076] The inner fabric defining the inner surface; and

[0077] A first eyelet, the first eyelet being sandwiched between the inner fabric and the outer fabric;

[0078] The eye in at least one of the first, second, and third eye columns has an anchoring end that is connected to the first eyeband.

[0079] Option 7: The closed portion according to Option 6, wherein each of the first, second and third eyelets has a hook receiving end opposite to the anchoring end, and wherein the hook receiving end extends through a corresponding hole in the outer fabric so as to be located on the outer surface of the closed portion.

[0080] Option 8: According to the closing portion of Option 6, the closing portion further includes a second eyelet strap, which is sandwiched between the inner fabric and the outer fabric;

[0081] The anchoring end of the eye in the first and second eye columns is connected to the first eyeband, and the anchoring end of the eye in the third eye column is connected to the second eyeband.

[0082] Option 9: The closed portion according to Option 8, wherein the first eyeband and the second eyeband are positioned end-to-end in the lateral direction and connected together.

[0083] Option 10: A bra comprising:

[0084] The part that covers the chest;

[0085] A first wing extends from a first side of the chest-covering portion and terminates at a first closed portion;

[0086] The second wing extends from the opposite second side of the chest-covering portion and terminates at the second closed portion;

[0087] Multiple hooks on the first closed portion; and

[0088] The second closed portion has a plurality of eyes configured to engage with the plurality of hooks to connect the first closed portion and the second closed portion together;

[0089] The eyes in the plurality of eyes are arranged in such a way that the first column of eyes is adjacent to the second column of eyes, and the third column of eyes is adjacent to the second column of eyes;

[0090] Furthermore, the first lateral spacing between the first and second eye columns is different from the second lateral spacing between the second and third eye columns.

[0091] Option 11: The bra according to Option 10, wherein the plurality of hooks are on the inner surface of the first closure portion, the inner surface being configured to face the wearer's skin when the bra is worn, and the plurality of eyelets are on the outer surface of the second closure portion, the outer surface being configured to face away from the wearer's skin when the bra is worn, and the bra further includes:

[0092] An outer fabric that defines the outer surface of the second closure portion;

[0093] Inner fabric, defining the inner surface of the second closure portion; and

[0094] A first eyelet, the first eyelet being sandwiched between the inner fabric and the outer fabric;

[0095] Each of the eyes in the first, second, and third rows of eyes has an anchoring end;

[0096] And the anchoring end of the eye in at least one of the first, second and third eye columns is connected to the first eyeband.

[0097] Option 12: The bra according to Option 11, the bra further includes a second eyelet strap, the second eyelet strap being sandwiched between the inner fabric and the outer fabric;

[0098] The anchoring end of the eye in the first and second eye columns is connected to the first eyeband, and the anchoring end of the eye in the third eye column is connected to the second eyeband;

[0099] Furthermore, the first eyeband and the second eyeband are positioned end-to-end in the lateral direction and connected together.

[0100] Option 13: The closing portion according to Option 11, wherein each of the eyes in the first, second, and third rows of eyes has a hook receiving end opposite to the anchoring end, and wherein the hook receiving end extends through a corresponding hole in the outer fabric so as to be located on the outer surface of the second closing portion.

[0101] Option 14: The bra according to Option 10 further includes a fourth row of eyelets adjacent to the third row of eyelets, the third row of eyelets and the fourth row of eyelets being separated from the first lateral spacing.

[0102] Option 15: The bra according to Option 10, wherein the second lateral spacing is greater than the first lateral spacing.

[0103] Option 16: The bra according to Option 10, wherein the plurality of hooks are on the inner surface of the first closure portion, the inner surface being configured to face the wearer's skin when the bra is worn, and the plurality of eyelets are on the outer surface of the second closure portion, the outer surface being configured to face away from the wearer's skin when the bra is worn, and the bra further includes:

[0104] An outer fabric that defines the outer surface of the second closure portion;

[0105] and an inner fabric that defines the inner surface of the second closed portion;

[0106] Each of the first, second, and third eye columns has an anchoring end and a hook receiving end opposite to the anchoring end;

[0107] The anchoring end of the eye is covered by a corresponding outer fabric of the outer fabric;

[0108] And wherein the hook receiving end of the eye is located on the outer surface of another corresponding outer fabric in the outer fabric.

[0109] Option 17: A series of bras provided in multiple bra sizes, wherein each given bra size is configured such that for the given bra size, at least one volumetric cup size is associated with at least two ribcage wrap sizes.

[0110] Option 18: A series of bras according to Option 17, wherein each bra in the series comprises:

[0111] The part that covers the chest;

[0112] A first wing extends from a first side of the chest-covering portion and terminates at a first closed portion;

[0113] The second wing extends from the opposite second side of the chest-covering portion and terminates at the second closed portion;

[0114] Multiple hooks on the first closed portion; and

[0115] The second closed portion has a plurality of eyes configured to engage with the plurality of hooks to connect the first closed portion and the second closed portion together;

[0116] The eyes in the plurality of eyes are arranged in such a way that the first column of eyes is adjacent to the second column of eyes, and the third column of eyes is adjacent to the second column of eyes;

[0117] Furthermore, the first lateral spacing between the first and second eye columns is different from the second lateral spacing between the second and third eye columns.

[0118] Option 19: A series of bras according to Option 18, wherein the fourth row of eyelets is positioned adjacent to the third row of eyelets, and the third row of eyelets and the fourth row of eyelets are separated by the first lateral spacing.

[0119] Option 20: A series of bras according to Option 18, wherein the second lateral spacing is greater than the first lateral spacing.

[0120] In the above description, certain terms have been used for the purpose of brevity, clarity, and understanding. Unnecessary limitations beyond the requirements of the prior art should not be inferred from these terms, as they are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly interpreted. The various components and methods described herein can be used individually or in combination with other components and methods. Various equivalents, substitutions, and modifications are contemplated within the scope of the appended claims.

[0121] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also enables those skilled in the art to make and use the invention. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, but may include other examples that would occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A closure portion for a bra, the closure portion comprising: an inner surface configured to contact a wearer's skin when the bra is worn, wherein an inner layer of fabric defines the inner surface; an outer surface configured to face away from the wearer's skin when the bra is worn, wherein an outer layer of fabric defines the outer surface; a first end configured to be attached to a wing of the bra; a free second end, opposite the first end; and a plurality of eyes on the outer surface, the plurality of eyes being arranged with a first column of eyes adjacent a second column of eyes, a third column of eyes adjacent the second column of eyes, and a fourth column of eyes adjacent the third column of eyes; wherein a first lateral spacing between the first column of eyes and the second column of eyes is different than a second lateral spacing between the second column of eyes and the third column of eyes; wherein the third column of eyes and the fourth column of eyes are spaced apart by the first lateral spacing; wherein the eyes in the first, second, third, and fourth columns of eyes each have an anchoring end and a hook-receiving end opposite the anchoring end; wherein the anchoring ends of the eyes are covered by a respective one of the outer layers of fabric; wherein the hook-receiving ends of the eyes are located on an outer surface of another respective one of the outer layers of fabric; wherein the first lateral spacing between the first column of eyes and the second column of eyes provides first and second circumference size options for the bra within a first numerical band size, the first and second circumference size options differing from each other by the first lateral spacing; wherein the first lateral spacing between the third column of eyes and the fourth column of eyes provides third and fourth circumference size options for the bra within a second numerical band size, the second numerical band size being different than the first numerical band size, the third and fourth circumference size options differing from each other by the first lateral spacing; and wherein the second lateral spacing between the second column of eyes and the third column of eyes allows for adjustment of a circumference size of the bra from the first numerical band size to the second numerical band size.

2. The closure portion of claim 1, wherein the second lateral spacing is greater than the first lateral spacing.

3. The closure portion of claim 1, wherein the second lateral spacing is greater than 1.5 times the first lateral spacing.

4. The closure portion of claim 1, further comprising: a first eye strap sandwiched between the inner layer of fabric and the outer layer of fabric; wherein the anchoring ends of the eyes in at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth columns of eyes are connected to the first eye strap.

5. The closure portion of claim 4, further comprising a second eye strap sandwiched between the inner layer of fabric and the outer layer of fabric; wherein the anchoring ends of the eyes in the first and second columns of eyes are connected to the first eye strap, and wherein the anchoring ends of the eyes in the third and fourth columns of eyes are connected to the second eye strap.

6. The closure portion of claim 5, wherein the first strap and the second strap are positioned end to end in the transverse direction and coupled together.

7. The closure portion of claim 1, wherein the inner surface of the closure portion comprises a continuous surface configured to be positioned between each of the first, second, third, and fourth rows of eyes and the skin of a wearer when the bra is worn.

8. A bra comprising: a chest covering portion; a first wing extending from a first side of the chest covering portion and terminating in a first closure portion; a second wing extending from an opposite second side of the chest covering portion and terminating in a second closure portion; a plurality of hooks on the first closure portion; and a plurality of eyes on the second closure portion configured to engage with the plurality of hooks to couple the first closure portion and the second closure portion together; wherein the plurality of hooks are on an inner surface of the first closure portion configured to face the skin of a wearer when the bra is worn, and the plurality of eyes are on an outer surface of the second closure portion configured to face away from the skin of the wearer when the bra is worn; wherein an outer layer of fabric defines the outer surface of the second closure portion; wherein an inner layer of fabric defines an opposite inner surface of the second closure portion; wherein the eyes of the plurality of eyes are arranged with a first row of eyes adjacent to a second row of eyes, a third row of eyes adjacent to the second row of eyes, and a fourth row of eyes adjacent to the third row of eyes; wherein a first transverse spacing between the first and second rows of eyes is different than a second transverse spacing between the second and third rows of eyes; wherein the third and fourth rows of eyes are spaced apart by the first transverse spacing; wherein the eyes of the first, second, third, and fourth rows of eyes each have an anchoring end and a hook-receiving end opposite the anchoring end; wherein the anchoring ends of the eyes are covered by a respective one of the outer layers of fabric; wherein the hook-receiving ends of the eyes are located on an outer surface of another respective one of the outer layers of fabric; wherein the first transverse spacing between the first and second rows of eyes provides first and second circumference size options for the bra within a first numerical band size, the first and second circumference size options differing from each other by the first transverse spacing; wherein the first transverse spacing between the third and fourth rows of eyes provides third and fourth circumference size options for the bra within a second numerical band size, the second numerical band size being different than the first numerical band size, the third and fourth circumference size options differing from each other by the first transverse spacing; and wherein the second transverse spacing between the second and third rows of eyes allows for adjustment of a circumference size of the bra from the first numerical band size to the second numerical band size.

9. The bra of claim 8, further comprising: a first eyelet strip sandwiched between the inner layer fabric and the outer layer fabric; wherein the anchor ends of the eyes in at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth columns of eyes are connected to the first eyelet strip.

10. The bra of claim 9, further comprising a second eyelet strip sandwiched between the inner layer fabric and the outer layer fabric; wherein the anchor ends of the eyes in the first and second columns of eyes are connected to the first eyelet strip, and wherein the anchor ends of the eyes in the third and fourth columns of eyes are connected to the second eyelet strip; and wherein the first and second eyelet strips are positioned end-to-end in the transverse direction and are coupled together.

11. The bra of claim 8, wherein the second transverse spacing is greater than the first transverse spacing.

12. A bra, comprising: a front portion; a first wing portion extending from a first lateral side of the front portion and terminating at a first closure portion; a second wing portion extending from an opposite second lateral side of the front portion and terminating at a second closure portion; a plurality of hooks on an inner surface of the first closure portion, the inner surface configured to face a wearer's skin when the bra is worn; and a plurality of eyes on an outer surface of the second closure portion, the outer surface configured to face away from the wearer's skin when the bra is worn, the plurality of eyes configured to engage with the plurality of hooks to couple the first closure portion and the second closure portion together; wherein the eyes in the plurality of eyes are arranged: a first column of eyes adjacent to a second column of eyes, the first and second columns of eyes spaced apart by a first transverse spacing; a third column of eyes adjacent to the second column of eyes, the second and third columns of eyes spaced apart by a second transverse spacing, the second transverse spacing different from the first transverse spacing; and a fourth column of eyes adjacent to the third column of eyes, the third and fourth columns of eyes spaced apart by the first transverse spacing; wherein the second closure portion includes each of the first, second, third, and fourth columns of eyes on the second closure portion; wherein the eyes in the first, second, third, and fourth columns of eyes each have an anchor end and a hook-receiving end opposite the anchor end; wherein the anchor ends of the eyes are covered by a first outer layer fabric of a plurality of outer layer fabrics that define the outer surface of the second closure portion; wherein the hook-receiving ends of the eyes are on an outer surface of a second outer layer fabric of the plurality of outer layer fabrics that define the outer surface of the second closure portion; wherein the first transverse spacing between the first and second columns of eyes provides a first circumference size option and a second circumference size option of the bra within a first band size, the first and second circumference size options differing from each other by the first transverse spacing. wherein the first lateral spacing between the third column of eyes and the fourth column of eyes provides third and fourth circumference size options for the bra within a second numerical band size, the second numerical band size being different than the first numerical band size, the third and fourth circumference size options differing from each other by the first lateral spacing; and wherein the second lateral spacing between the second column of eyes and the third column of eyes allows for adjustment of a circumference of the bra from the first numerical band size to the second numerical band size.

13. The bra of claim 12, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth columns of eyes are attached to a single strap, the single strap forming a portion of the second closure.

14. The bra of claim 12, wherein the first and second columns of eyes are attached to a first strap, and the third and fourth columns of eyes are attached to a second strap; wherein the first and second straps are positioned end-to-end and form a portion of the second closure.

15. The bra of claim 12, wherein the second closure includes an inner surface configured to face a wearer’s skin when the bra is worn, the inner surface of the second closure including a continuous surface configured to be positioned between each of the first, second, third, and fourth columns of eyes and a wearer’s skin.

16. The bra of claim 15, wherein the inner surface of the second closure is defined by a single inner layer of fabric.

17. The bra of claim 12, wherein the second lateral spacing is greater than the first lateral spacing.

18. The bra of claim 12, wherein the second lateral spacing is greater than 1.5 times the first lateral spacing.

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