阅读说明：本技术 多层哺乳文胸及哺乳文胸系统 (Multilayer breast-feed brassiere and breast-feed brassiere system ) 是由 S.C.卡利诺 K.E.卡特 K.B.克鲁兹 于 2020-03-20 设计创作，主要内容包括：所提供的概念涉及由穿着者穿着的一种多层哺乳文胸(10)和一种哺乳文胸系统。多层哺乳文胸包括位于内层(104)之上的外层(106)。可以操纵外层的一个或多个边缘和内层的一个或多个边缘以形成用于母乳喂养的开口(700)。哺乳文胸系统由多层哺乳文胸和经配置以层叠在多层哺乳文胸上的上身服装(800)组成。上身服装包括位于上身服装的前面部分的哺乳开口,以在需要时提供通向在多层哺乳文胸中形成的开口的通路。(The provided concepts relate to a multi-layer nursing bra (10) and a nursing bra system worn by a wearer. A multi-layer nursing bra includes an outer layer (106) positioned over an inner layer (104). One or more edges of the outer layer and one or more edges of the inner layer may be manipulated to form an opening (700) for breastfeeding. A nursing bra system is comprised of a multi-layer nursing bra and an upper body garment (800) configured to be laminated to the multi-layer nursing bra. The upper body garment includes a nursing opening located at a front portion of the upper body garment to provide access to an opening formed in the multi-layer nursing bra, if desired.)

1. A multi-layer nursing bra comprising: a front portion, the front portion comprising: an inner layer having a right edge extending between a right upper portion and a lower central portion of the inner layer and a left edge extending between a left upper portion and the lower central portion of the inner layer, wherein the right edge and the left edge converge as they extend toward the lower central portion of the inner layer; and an outer layer adjacent to the inner layer, the outer layer having an upper edge and a lower edge, wherein the upper edge of the outer layer is movable relative to the inner layer along at least a midpoint of the right edge and along at least a midpoint of the left edge.

2. The multi-layer nursing bra of claim 1, wherein the multi-layer nursing bra is laminated with an upper body garment, wherein the upper body garment is configured to be worn on the multi-layer nursing bra, the upper body garment comprising: a front portion and a back portion that together define at least a neck opening and a torso opening; and a nursing opening extending from a right side of the front portion toward a left side of the front portion, wherein the nursing opening is located below the neck opening and above the torso opening.

3. The multi-layer nursing bra of claim 2, wherein the front portion of the upper body garment includes an upper flap and a lower flap, wherein the upper flap includes an upper perimeter edge, and wherein the lower flap includes a lower perimeter edge, and wherein the upper perimeter edge and the lower perimeter edge define the nursing opening.

4. The multi-layer nursing bra of claim 3, wherein the upper peripheral edge of the upper flap is substantially separated from the lower peripheral edge of the lower flap.

5. The multi-layer nursing bra of any one of claims 3-4, wherein the upper peripheral edge of the upper flap overlaps the lower peripheral edge of the lower flap when the nursing opening is in a closed state.

6. The multi-layer nursing bra of any of claims 1-5, wherein the outer layers of the multi-layer nursing bra include a right side outer layer and a left side outer layer, wherein a portion of the right side outer layer overlaps a portion of the left side outer layer at a central region of the front portion.

7. The multi-layer nursing bra of claim 6, wherein the right side outer layer includes a right side upper edge, wherein the left side outer layer includes a left side upper edge, and wherein the right side upper edge and the left side upper edge form the upper edge of the outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra.

8. The multi-layer nursing bra of claim 7, wherein the right upper edge is movable relative to the inner layer of the multi-layer nursing bra at least at the midpoint of the right edge of the inner layer, and wherein the left upper edge is movable relative to the inner layer of the multi-layer nursing bra at least at the midpoint of the left edge of the inner layer.

9. The multi-layer nursing bra of any of claims 7-8, wherein the right side upper edge and the left side upper edge are free of stitching on an outer surface of the multi-layer nursing bra.

10. The multi-layer nursing bra of any of claims 1-9, further comprising a back portion extending from the front portion.

11. The multi-layer nursing bra of claim 10, further comprising a pair of shoulder straps extending between the front portion and the back portion.

12. The multi-layer nursing bra of any of claims 1-11, further comprising a right wing band extending from a right side of the front portion and a left wing band extending from a left side of the front portion.

13. A multi-layer nursing bra having a front portion, the front portion comprising: an outer layer extending between the upper edge and the lower edge; a Y-shaped inner layer having an upper right portion, an upper left portion, and a lower central portion, wherein the Y-shaped inner layer is located below the outer layer; and a lower periphery extending from the lower edge of the outer layer, wherein the lower central portion of the Y-shaped inner layer is coupled to a central region of the lower periphery.

14. The multi-layer nursing bra of claim 13, further comprising: a back portion extending from the front portion; a first shoulder strap extending between the front portion and the back portion; and a second shoulder strap extending between the front portion and the back portion.

15. The multi-layer nursing bra of any of claims 13-14, wherein the outer layers of the multi-layer nursing bra include a right side outer layer and a left side outer layer, wherein a portion of the right side outer layer overlaps a portion of the left side outer layer at a central region of the front portion.

16. The multi-layer nursing bra of claim 15, wherein the right side outer layer includes a right side upper edge, wherein the left side outer layer includes a left side upper edge, and wherein the right side upper edge and the left side upper edge form the upper edge of the outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra.

17. The multi-layer nursing bra of any of claims 13-16, wherein the inner layer is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the outer layer is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, and wherein the modulus of elasticity of the first elastically resilient fabric material is substantially equal to the modulus of elasticity of the second elastically resilient fabric material.

18. The multi-layer nursing bra of any of claims 13-17, wherein the inner layer is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the outer layer is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, and wherein the first elastically resilient fabric material has a different modulus of elasticity than the second elastically resilient fabric material.

19. The multi-layer nursing bra of any of claims 13-18, wherein the inner layer is comprised of a single layer of material.

20. A method of making a multi-layer nursing bra, comprising: forming a front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra by positioning an outer layer on an inner layer, the outer layer extending between an upper edge and a lower edge, the inner layer having a right edge extending between a right upper portion and a lower central portion of the inner layer, and a left edge extending between a left upper portion and the lower central portion of the inner layer, wherein the right edge and the left edge converge as they extend toward the lower central portion of the inner layer; securing a lower skirt to the lower edge of the outer layer; and securing the lower central portion of the inner layer to a central region of the lower periphery.

Technical Field

Aspects herein relate to a multi-layer nursing bra and a nursing bra system.

Background

Traditionally, nursing brassieres include openable cup portions that are held closed by retaining rings. Nursing brassieres may be worn under upper body garments or other nursing garments, however, conventional nursing brassieres may be difficult to operate with one hand due to the buckle system, or the buckles may easily become stuck, or cause discomfort due to the creation of undesirable pressure points. In addition, the upper body garment worn on the nursing bra may need to be pulled up from its lower hem to expose the nursing bra, which may be unsightly.

Drawings

The invention is described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein:

fig. 1 illustrates a front view of a first example multi-layer nursing bra in a "closed" first state, in accordance with aspects herein;

FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of a front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra of FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects herein;

FIG. 3 illustrates an interior view of a front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra of FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects herein;

fig. 4A and 4B illustrate back portions of two example multilayer nursing brassieres, according to aspects herein;

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the multi-layer nursing bra shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects herein;

fig. 6 and 7 illustrate the multi-layer nursing bra shown in fig. 1 when it is transitioned to the "open" second state, in accordance with aspects herein;

fig. 8 illustrates a front view of an upper body garment in a "closed" first state, in accordance with aspects herein;

fig. 9 illustrates a rear view of the upper torso garment shown in fig. 8, in accordance with aspects herein;

fig. 10 illustrates the upper body garment shown in fig. 8 in an "open" second state, in accordance with aspects herein;

FIG. 11 illustrates a wearer wearing the multi-layer nursing bra of FIG. 1 and the upper body garment of FIG. 8, wherein each of the multi-layer nursing bra and the upper body garment are in a "closed" first state, in accordance with aspects herein;

FIG. 12 illustrates the multi-layer nursing bra of FIG. 1 and the upper body garment of FIG. 10 in an "open" second state, in accordance with aspects herein;

FIG. 13 illustrates various example nursing bra systems in accordance with aspects herein;

FIG. 14 illustrates a method for manufacturing a multi-layer nursing bra, in accordance with aspects herein;

fig. 15 illustrates a method for using a nursing bra system, in accordance with aspects herein;

fig. 16 illustrates a front view of a second example multilayer nursing bra in a "closed" state, in accordance with aspects herein;

fig. 17 illustrates a side view of the multi-layer nursing bra of fig. 16, in accordance with aspects herein;

fig. 18 illustrates an exploded view of a front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra of fig. 16, in accordance with aspects herein;

FIG. 19 illustrates the multi-layer nursing bra of FIG. 16 being positively transitioned to an "open" state in accordance with aspects herein;

FIG. 20 illustrates a wearer wearing the multi-layer nursing bra of FIG. 16 and the upper body garment of FIGS. 8 and 9, with each of the multi-layer nursing bra and the upper body garment in a "closed" state, in accordance with aspects herein;

FIG. 21 illustrates the multi-layer nursing bra and upper body garment shown in FIG. 20 in an "open" state, in accordance with aspects herein; and

fig. 22 illustrates a method for using a nursing bra system, in accordance with aspects herein.

Detailed Description

The subject matter of the present invention is described with specificity herein to meet statutory requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Rather, the inventors have contemplated that the claimed or disclosed subject matter might also be embodied in other ways, to include different steps or combinations of steps similar to the ones described in this document, in conjunction with other present or future technologies. Moreover, although the terms "step" and/or "block" may be used herein to connote different elements of methods employed, the terms should not be interpreted as implying any particular order among or between various steps herein disclosed unless and except when the order of individual steps is explicitly recited.

Nursing brassieres and garments, especially those used postpartum, tend to be complex and cumbersome, having bulky components that are difficult to use and uncomfortable for the wearer. Furthermore, nursing garments are not typically manufactured for active women, forcing active women to sacrifice functionality for comfort and vice versa. Due to the lack of functional and comfortable sportswear, some women choose to abandon exercise completely during and/or after pregnancy. The multi-layer nursing brassieres and multi-layer nursing bra systems disclosed herein allow a wearer to easily access one or more breasts while engaging in activities such as nursing and/or breast pumping, while also eliminating bulky components such as buckles and steel rings. Thus, the wearer can more easily transition from exercise and other daily activities to breastfeeding and/or breastpumping without sacrificing the comfort and overall functionality of the garment.

At a high level, aspects herein generally relate to a multi-layer nursing bra and a multi-layer nursing bra system having various elements that facilitate the operation of the multi-layer nursing bra and the multi-layer nursing bra system, both independently of one another and in combination with one another. For example, multi-layer nursing brassieres typically include an inner layer and an outer layer positioned over the inner layer. In some cases, one of the inner or outer layers may be substantially Y-shaped or substantially triangular, as described herein. Various aspects of the inner and outer layers of the multi-layer nursing bra may be moved relative to one another to facilitate exposure of one or more breasts and/or nipple areas of the wearer. A multi-layer nursing bra system generally includes a multi-layer nursing bra and an upper body garment laminated to the multi-layer nursing bra. The upper body garment typically includes a nursing opening that is movable between a closed position and an open position to facilitate access to the multi-layer nursing bra and one or more breasts of the wearer.

In one example, a multi-layer nursing bra includes a front portion having an inner layer (also referred to as a first fabric layer) and an outer layer (also referred to as a Y-shaped outer layer or a second fabric layer). The inner layer extends between an upper edge (also referred to as a first upper edge) and a lower edge (also referred to as a first lower edge). The outer layer covers at least a portion of the inner layer and includes a right edge (also referred to as a first side edge) extending between a right upper portion (also referred to as a first upper terminal end) and a lower central portion (also referred to as a third lower terminal end), a left edge (also referred to as a second side edge) extending between a left upper portion (also referred to as a second upper terminal end) and the lower central portion, and an upper edge (also referred to as a second upper edge) extending between the right upper portion and the left upper portion. In some cases, the right and left edges converge as they extend toward the lower central portion of the outer layer. The right and left edges of the outer layer are each movable relative to the inner layer along at least a midpoint of the right and left edges of the outer layer. In some cases, the multi-layer nursing bra further includes a lower perimeter extending from a lower edge of the inner layer. The lower periphery may be integrally formed with or otherwise attached to the inner layer. Further, when the lower periphery is provided, the lower central portion of the outer layer is secured to a central region of the lower periphery (also referred to as a central region of the lower periphery).

In another example, a multi-layer nursing bra includes a front portion having an inner layer and an outer layer. The inner layer has a right edge extending between a right upper portion and a lower central portion of the inner layer, a left edge extending between a left upper portion and the lower central portion of the inner layer, and an upper edge extending between the right upper portion and the left upper portion. In some cases, the right and left edges converge as they extend toward the lower central portion of the inner layer. The outer layer is a cross or wrap-around layer having a right side outer layer and a left side outer layer, wherein a middle portion of the right side outer layer and a middle portion of the left side outer layer overlap in a central region of the front portion. The right outer layer has a right upper edge and a right lower edge, and the left outer layer has a left upper edge and a left lower edge. The right upper edge of the right outer layer and the left upper edge of the left outer layer are each movable relative to the inner layer along at least a midpoint of the right edge and at least a midpoint of the left edge of the inner layer.

Optionally, the multi-layer nursing bra may further include a back portion extending continuously from the front portion. Alternatively, in some cases, a multi-layer nursing bra may include a right wing band (also referred to as a first wing band) extending from a right side (also referred to as a first lateral side) of the front portion and a left wing band (also referred to as a second wing band) extending from a right side (also referred to as a second lateral side) of the front portion. In some examples, the right wing strap includes a first component of an adjustable closure mechanism and the left wing strap includes a second component of the adjustable closure mechanism. In operation, the first and second components of the adjustable closure mechanism may be releasably coupled to one another.

Aspects herein also relate to a method for manufacturing a multi-layer nursing bra. The method includes forming a front portion of a multi-layer nursing bra by positioning an outer layer on an inner layer, wherein an inner surface of the outer layer is positioned adjacent to or covers at least a portion of an outer surface of the inner layer. In some cases, this step is followed by, for example, securing the lower central portion of the outer layer to the lower central portion of the inner layer. In other cases, the lower central portion of the outer layer is secured to discrete regions of the lower periphery, optionally secured along the length of the lower edge of the inner layer. In other cases, the lower periphery may be integral with the inner layer. By "integral," it is understood that the lower periphery is formed with the inner layer in a single fabric forming event, such as knitting, weaving, braiding, etc. In other words, when the lower periphery is integral with the inner layer, the lower periphery seamlessly and continuously extends from the inner layer without being attached to the inner layer by sewing, bonding, or the like. Where the multi-layer nursing bra includes a back portion and/or wing bands, the lower band may also be integral with the back portion and/or wing bands.

In addition, aspects herein also relate to a multi-layer nursing bra system comprised of a multi-layer nursing bra and an upper body garment. The multi-layer nursing bra may be constructed as described above and may be configured to be worn under upper body garments. In some cases, the upper body garment includes a front portion and a back portion that define at least a neck opening and a torso opening. In an exemplary aspect, the anterior portion is measured from the first side seam to the second side seam. The first side seam generally extends from a lower edge of a right arm or cuff of the upper body garment to a torso opening of the upper body garment. The second side seam generally extends from a lower edge of the left arm or cuff of the upper body garment to the torso opening of the upper body garment. When the upper body garment includes a seamless construction (i.e., no side seams, or seams to secure or attach the front portion to the back portion), the front portion is measured from a first position adjacent the lower edge of the right arm or cuff to a second position adjacent the lower edge of the left arm or cuff.

As described above, in some cases, the upper body garment includes nursing openings. The nursing opening is located on a front portion of the upper body garment below a front edge defining the neck opening. The nursing opening extends substantially across the width of the front portion between a first side edge of the front portion at or near the first side seam and a second side edge of the front portion at or near the second side seam. According to aspects herein, the term "substantially," when used to describe the nursing opening, means that the nursing opening extends horizontally (i.e., orthogonal to the wearer's head-to-toe axis) for at least about 65% of the front face width, at least about 70% of the front face width, at least about 75% of the front face width, at least about 80% of the front face width, at least about 85% of the front face width, at least about 90% of the front face, or at least about 95% of the front face. As used herein, the term "about" means within ± 5% of the specified value. A nursing opening according to aspects herein may also be defined by an upper perimeter edge and a lower perimeter edge, which may overlap when the nursing opening is in a closed or first state.

In addition, aspects herein also relate to a method of using the above-described multi-layer nursing bra system. For example, the wearer may first wear the multi-layer nursing bra on the upper torso region of the wearer such that the front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra is positioned over the circumference of the wearer's chest to provide support, as will become more apparent in the drawings. The upper body garment may then be worn on the multi-layer nursing bra such that the nursing opening of the upper body garment is radially aligned with the front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra.

As briefly described above, the positioning of a multi-layer nursing bra and upper body garment is advantageous because it provides easy access to the wearer's chest area and may provide a more modesty than many conventional maternal and/or nursing garments. For example, the wearer does not have to pull up the hem of the upper body garment to contact the opening in the multi-layer nursing bra, but rather the wearer can utilize the nursing opening of the upper body garment. This not only can be more comfortable, but also can provide the wearer with a more moderate breastfeeding experience. Accordingly, the multi-layer nursing bra system described herein provides a functional and comfortable multi-layer nursing bra and upper body garment for the wearer.

Unless otherwise noted, all measurements provided herein are taken while the bra and/or garment is at standard ambient temperature and pressure (298.15K and 100kPa) and the bra and/or garment is in a resting state (e.g., unstretched state).

Fig. 1 is a front view 10 of an example multi-layer nursing bra 100 in a closed state. As shown, multi-layer nursing brassiere 100 includes a front portion 102 that includes an inner layer 104 and an outer layer 106. As shown, the outer layer 106 overlies the inner layer 104 or is positioned adjacent to the inner layer 104, as will become more apparent in fig. 2. As shown in FIG. 1, inner layer 104 has an upper edge 112, a lower edge 114, a right side edge 210, and a left side edge 212. The outer layer 106 has an upper right portion 120, an upper left portion 122, and a lower central portion 124, the upper right portion 120, the upper left portion 122, and the lower central portion 124 being positioned such that the outer layer 106 forms a substantially upright "Y-shape" or triangle, and in particular an inverted triangle (i.e., a triangle with its base above the apex), with the upper right portion 120 and the upper left portion 122 above the lower central portion 124. As used herein, the term substantially upright Y-shape refers to a shape generally corresponding to the letter "Y" and having two upright arms and a post. This is not meant to imply any particular feature of the edge extending between the upright arm and the lever. The outer layer 106 has an upper edge 128 extending between the upper right portion 120 and the upper left portion 122, a right edge 125 having a midpoint 131 extending between the upper right portion 120 and the lower central portion 124, and a left edge 126 having a midpoint 133 extending between the upper left portion 122 and the lower central portion 124. The upper edge 128 of the outer layer 106 is generally above the upper edge 112 of the inner layer 104. According to aspects herein, the right edge 125, the left edge 126, and/or the upper edge 128 of the outer layer 106 are curved inward relative to the central region 230 of the outer layer 106. In other aspects, however, one or more of the right edge 125, left edge 126, and/or upper edge 128 of the outer layer 106 can be curved outward relative to the central region 230 and/or can be substantially straight.

Further, in some cases, right edge 125, left edge 126, and/or upper edge 128 of outer layer 106 are substantially separated from inner layer 104 or are not stitched to inner layer 104. According to aspects herein, "substantially" describes that at least about 70% of right edge 125, left edge 126, and/or upper edge 128 of outer layer 106 is separated or "free" from inner layer 104, at least about 75% of right edge 125, left edge 126, and/or upper edge 128 of outer layer 106 is separated or "free" from inner layer 104, at least about 80% of right edge 125, left edge 126, and/or upper edge 128 of outer layer 106 is separated or "free" from inner layer 104, at least about 85% of right edge 125, left edge 126, and/or upper edge 128 of outer layer is separated or "free" from inner layer 104, or at least about 90% of right edge 125, left edge 126, and/or upper edge 128 of outer layer 106 is separated or "free" from inner layer 104. As used herein, the term "about" means within ± 10% of the reference value. Because at least right edge 125 and left edge 126 of outer layer 106 are substantially separated from inner layer 104, at least midpoint 131 of right edge 125 and at least midpoint 133 of left edge 126 may be independently manipulated or moved relative to inner layer 104. In some cases, the upper edge 112 of the inner layer 104 is also substantially separated from the outer layer 106, and thus may also be independently manipulated or moved relative to the outer layer 106. This, in turn, allows the wearer to easily expose one or more breasts by manipulating the inner and outer layers 104, 106.

Due to the dynamic nature of multi-layer nursing brassiere 100, it is contemplated that inner layer 104 and outer layer 106 of multi-layer nursing brassiere 100 may each be comprised of an elastically resilient fabric material that may be knitted, braided, or otherwise formed, such as double knit, warp knit, flat knit, and the like. The base material forming the elastically resilient fabric may include, for example, recycled polyester, elastic yarns (e.g., elastane), and the like. According to some aspects, outer layer 106 and inner layer 104 of multi-layer nursing bra 100 may be composed of the same fabric material. According to other aspects, outer layer 106 and inner layer 104 of multi-layer nursing bra 100 may be composed of different fabric materials having substantially the same elasticity, or in other words, inner layer 104 and outer layer 106 may have equal modulus of elasticity. In other aspects, outer layer 106 and inner layer 104 of multi-layer nursing bra 100 may be composed of different fabric materials having different elastic properties, or in other words, the modulus of elasticity of inner layer 104 may be different than the modulus of elasticity of outer layer 106. Likewise, the inner layer 104 or both the inner layer 104 and the outer layer 106 may have moisture management properties, antimicrobial properties, odor control properties, and the like. As for the moisture management properties, these properties can be imparted by, for example, utilizing a denier differential mechanism, chemical treatment, or the like.

The multi-layer nursing bra may be in a closed position as shown in fig. 1 or in an open position as shown in fig. 7. In the closed position as shown in fig. 1, the right and left edges 125, 126 of the outer layer 106 are below the upper edge 112 of the inner layer 104, as shown in phantom, to indicate that it is generally hidden in the closed position.

In some cases, multi-layer nursing bra 100 further includes a lower periphery 108 having an upper edge 130 and a lower edge 132. Thus, when assembled, the outer layer 106 may be secured to the inner layer 104 by stitching, adhesive, or other securing techniques by securing the upper right portion 120 of the outer layer 106 to the portion 220 of the right side edge 210 of the inner layer 104 and securing the upper left portion 122 of the outer layer 106 to the portion 222 of the left side edge 212 of the inner layer 104. Similarly, the upper edge 130 of the lower periphery 108 may be secured to the lower edge 114 of the inner layer 104 along the length of the lower edge 114 of the inner layer 104. In some cases, the lower periphery 108 extends at least along a lower edge 114 of the front portion 102. For example, where the back portion 410 extends continuously from the inner layer 104 of the front portion 102, as shown in fig. 4A, the lower periphery 108 extends continuously along the lower edge of the back portion 410. Alternatively, if the rear portion is comprised of a right wing strap 422 and a left wing strap 420, as shown, for example, in fig. 4B, the lower skirt 108 extends continuously from the front portion 102 to a first end of the right wing strap 422 along the lower edge of the right wing strap 422 and continuously from the front portion 102 to a second end of the left wing strap 420 along the lower edge of the left wing strap 420. In other words, the lower periphery 108 may extend circumferentially around the lower edges of the front and back portions 102, 410 and/or the right and left wing straps 422, 420.

The lower central portion 124 of the outer layer 106 may also be secured to the upper edge 130 of the lower periphery 108 at a middle region 224 of the lower periphery 108. The lower central portion 124 of the outer layer 106 is approximately equidistant along the horizontal axis between the right upper portion 120 and the left upper portion 122. Thus, the middle region 224 of the lower periphery 108 to which the inner layer 106 is secured by the lower central portion 124 is approximately equidistant along the horizontal axis between the upper right portion 120 and the upper left portion 122. In other words, the middle region 224 is approximately equidistant from the portion 220 of the right side edge 210 and the portion 222 of the left side edge 212 of the inner layer 104. As shown in FIG. 1, distance 127 measured from portion 220 to a vertical line extending from a middle region 224 of lower periphery 108 is substantially equal to distance 129 measured from portion 222 to a vertical line extending from middle region 224. The term "substantially equal" when used in accordance with aspects herein to describe distances and/or lengths means that at least two measured distances and/or lengths are at least about 90% identical, or distances and/or lengths are at least about 95% identical, or distances and/or lengths are at least about 98% identical.

As shown in FIG. 1, multi-layer nursing brassiere 100 may also optionally include a first shoulder strap 110a and a second shoulder strap 110 b. Although first and second shoulder straps 110a, 110b are depicted as having a cross-over configuration on the back of the multi-layer nursing bra 100, it is contemplated that first and second shoulder straps 110a, 110b may have other configurations, such as parallel or T-shaped. In other instances, the multi-layer nursing brassiere 100 may include only one band, such as a neckband configuration, or may not include a band, such as a strapless configuration, without departing from aspects disclosed herein.

Fig. 2 shows an exploded view 20 of front portion 102 of multi-layer nursing brassiere 100. As shown in fig. 2, inner layer 104 has a first or outer surface 202 and a second or inner surface 204 opposite outer surface 202. Similarly, the outer layer 106 has a first or outer surface 206 and a second or inner surface 208 opposite the outer surface 206. When outer layer 106 is covered or positioned on top of inner layer 104, inner surface 208 of outer layer 106 is positioned adjacent to outer surface 202 of inner layer 104. As shown in fig. 1, when outer layer 106 is laminated on top of inner layer 104, portions 140a and 140b of outer surface 202 of inner layer 104 are not covered by outer layer 106.

FIG. 3 illustrates an interior view 30 of a multi-layer nursing brassiere 100. As shown, inner surface 204 of inner layer 104 and a portion of inner surface 208 of outer layer 106 are configured to face toward the wearer when multi-layer nursing bra 100 is worn. A seamless surface that is in direct contact with the wearer's skin, such as the inner surface 204 of the inner layer 104, may improve comfort by eliminating pressure points that may be caused by seams or buckles. The seamless surface may also provide support to the wearer's chest area when the multi-layer nursing brassiere 100 is worn, as can be seen in the side view 50 of the multi-layer nursing brassiere 100 shown in fig. 5. In some cases, such as when additional protection is desired, inner layer 104 may include one or more liner pockets configured to align with the wearer's breast area when the multi-layer nursing brassiere 100 is worn by the wearer. Each of the one or more liner pockets is configured to receive a nursing liner or mild liner, breast enhancement pad, or the like, for example, for covering the nipple and/or absorbing any dropped breasts of the wearer. Alternatively or additionally, inner layer 104 may include a spacer material positioned to align with, for example, a portion of a wearer's breast surrounding a nipple to provide a modesty, breast enlargement, and/or to absorb moisture generated by motion sweating and/or milk leakage during lactation.

Fig. 4A and 4B depict rear views 40 and 42, respectively, of two example multi-layer nursing bra configurations. For example, fig. 4A depicts a rear view 40 of a multi-layer nursing bra 400 having a single-piece rear portion 410 extending from the front portion 102 or the inner layer 104 of the front portion 102. Fig. 4B depicts a rear view 42 of a multi-layer nursing bra 402 having a left wing band 420 extending from the left side of the front portion 102 or the left side of the inner layer 104 of the front portion 102 and a right wing band 422 extending from the right side of the front portion 102 or the right side of the inner layer 104 of the front portion 102.

It is contemplated that in any multi-layer nursing bra configuration, front portion 102 of multi-layer nursing brassieres 400 and 402 will cooperate with back portion 410 or left and right wing bands 420 and 422, respectively, to define right and left side edges 210 and 212. Right side edge 210 and left side edge 212 define an underarm perimeter portion configured to extend along an underarm portion of a wearer when the multi-layer nursing brassiere 100, 400, or 402 is in its as-worn configuration, as shown in fig. 1 and 5. Further, as shown in fig. 4A, the lower periphery 108 may extend from the front portion 102 to the back portion 410 and may be attached at a lower peripheral edge 440 of the back portion 410. Alternatively, as shown in fig. 4B, the lower periphery 108 may extend from the left side of the front portion 102 to the first end 430 of the left wing band 420 and attach to the left wing band 420 at a lower periphery edge 442. Similarly, the lower skirt 108 may extend from the right side of the forward portion 102 to the second end 432 of the right wing strap 422 and attach to the right wing strap 422 at a lower skirt edge 444 of the right wing strap 422.

In some cases, each of left wing band 420 and right wing band 422 of multi-layer nursing bra 402 may include a respective component of adjustable closure mechanism 424. For example, the first end 430 of the left wing strap 420 may include a first component 426 of the adjustable closure mechanism 424, and the second end 432 of the right wing strap 422 may include a second component 428 of the adjustable closure mechanism 424, wherein the first component 426 is adapted to be releasably coupled to the second component 428. Further, as shown, each of the first and second shoulder straps 110a, 110b may include a first end 116a and 116b, respectively, with the first ends 116a and 116b coupled to or extending from the front portion 102 of the multi-layer nursing bra 100, 400, and 402, as described above. Each of first and second shoulder straps 110a and 110B also includes a second end 118a and 118B, respectively, second ends 118a and 118B being coupled to or extending from back portion 410 of multi-layer nursing bra 400, as shown in fig. 4A, or coupled to or extending from respective left and right wing straps 420 and 422 of multi-layer nursing bra 402, as shown in fig. 4B.

In some cases, multi-layer nursing brassiere 400 may be worn by pulling multi-layer nursing brassiere 400 down over the upper torso area of the wearer from the shoulders, as in conventional athletic brassieres. In another aspect, multi-layer nursing brassiere 402 may be donned by positioning front portion 102 of multi-layer nursing brassiere 402 over a bust area of a wearer by opening adjustable closure mechanism 424, wrapping left wing band 420 and right wing band 422 around an upper torso of the wearer, and securing first end 430 and second end 432 of left wing band 420 and right wing band 422 to one another by releasably engaging first component 426 and second component 428 of adjustable closure mechanism 424.

As shown in fig. 5, first and second shoulder straps 110a, 110b, in combination with right and left side edges 210, 212 of inner layer 104, may partially form arm openings 510 through which a wearer may reach her arms when wearing one of the multi-layer nursing brassieres 100, 400, or 402 in accordance with aspects herein. Further, it is contemplated that, whether the back portion 410 is provided as a single piece as shown in fig. 4A or as left and right wing straps 420, 422 as shown in fig. 4B, the back portion 410 or the left and right wing straps 420, 422 may be coupled to the inner layer 104 by attachment means such as stitching, adhesive, or the like. Alternatively, the back portion 410 or the left and right wing straps 420, 422 may extend seamlessly and continuously as a single piece from the inner layer 104. As shown in fig. 5, the lower periphery 108 may be continuously secured/attached to the lower peripheral edge 213 of the back portion 410, as shown in fig. 4A, or to the left and right wing straps 420, 422, as shown in fig. 4B. According to aspects herein, "extending seamlessly and continuously" means that there is no attachment means (i.e., no seam line) because the inner layer 104 and the back portion 410 or the left and right wing straps 420, 422 are formed from a single piece of material.

In another example, according to aspects herein, inner layer 104 extends seamlessly and continuously between right and left side edges 210 and 212, and outer layer 106 extends seamlessly and continuously between right and left edges 125 and 126. To describe this differently, the inner layer 104 and the outer layer 106 can each be formed from a single piece of material without any seams or attachments that join two or more pieces of material together. The term "seamlessly and continuously extending" also includes situations where one or more of the inner layer 104, outer layer 106, back portion 410, or left and right wing bands 420, 422 may optionally be provided with slits, holes, perforations, etc., to provide, for example, increased breathability and/or aesthetics to the garment. In some cases, the inner layer 104, the outer layer 106, the back portion 410, and/or the left and right wing straps 420, 422 may be composed of a mesh material and/or may include moisture management properties to enhance comfort. This may be particularly useful when the wearer is exercising or performing other tasks that increase the physical demands of the wearer's body temperature.

Fig. 6 and 7 depict a multi-layer nursing brassiere 100 that transitions from a closed state to an open state. Initially, as shown in FIG. 6, to open the right side of multi-layer nursing bra 100, an upward force is applied at least at midpoint 131 of right edge 125 of outer layer 106, thereby exposing at least a portion of upper edge 112 of inner layer 104. Once the upper edge 112 of the inner layer 104 is exposed, a downward force is applied to at least the exposed portion of the upper edge 112 of the inner layer 104 to form the opening 700. When opening 700 is formed, at least a portion of right edge 125 of outer layer 106 is positioned over at least a portion of upper edge 112 of inner layer 104. In other words, the opening 700 is located between at least one of the right edge 125 or the left edge 126 of the outer layer 106 and the upper edge 112 of the inner layer 104. The opening 700 provides access to the nipple area of the wearer for breastfeeding or breast pumping, for example. This arrangement provides several advantages, for example, eliminating the need for difficult to manipulate buckles and uncomfortable pressure points caused by buckles, and allowing easy manipulation, particularly one-handed manipulation of multi-layer nursing brassiere 100.

Upon completion of breastfeeding or breastpumping, multi-layer nursing bra 100 may be returned to the closed position by exerting an upward force on upper edge 112 of inner layer 104 and a downward force on right edge 125 of outer layer 106, wherein right edge 125 of outer layer 106 is below upper edge 112 of inner layer 104 when opening 700 is closed. Similarly, for the left side, an upward force may be applied to at least midpoint 133 of left edge 126 of outer layer 106, thereby exposing at least a portion of upper edge 112 of inner layer 104 to form an opening, and closing the opening in a manner similar to the right side described above.

Fig. 8 and 9 show front and back views 80, 90 of an upper body garment 800 illustrated in accordance with aspects herein. Upper body garment 800 is configured to be worn on multi-layer nursing bra 100 as nursing bra system 1100, as will become more apparent in fig. 11. As shown, the upper body garment 800 includes a front portion 810 including an upper flap 808, a separate lower flap 806, and a back portion 812. The front portion 810 and the back portion 812 define a neck opening 818, a torso opening 820, a first armhole opening 830a, and a second armhole opening 830b defined by a back collar edge 824 along the back portion 812 and a front collar edge 822 along the front portion 810. As shown, the upper panel 808 of the upper body garment 800 includes an upper peripheral edge 814 and the lower panel 806 includes a lower peripheral edge 816. In the closed state of the upper body garment 800, the lower perimeter edge 816 and the upper perimeter edge 814 overlap each other. In an exemplary aspect, the lower peripheral edge 816 may be positioned outside of the upper peripheral edge 814. In other aspects, the lower peripheral edge 816 can be positioned inward of the upper peripheral edge 814. Upper peripheral edge 814 and lower peripheral edge 816 are substantially separated from one another and define a nursing opening 840, as will become more apparent in fig. 10. As can be seen, the nursing opening 840 is located a predetermined distance below the front collar edge 822 defining the neck opening 818 (e.g., within about 10cm to about 20cm of the neck opening 818) and above the torso opening 820. Further, as shown in fig. 9, in an exemplary aspect, the back portion 812 can include a smaller surface area than the front portion 810. This is possible because the back portion 812 is formed of a pattern piece narrower in the width direction than the pattern piece for forming the front portion 810. This allows the front of the upper body garment 800 to be more spacious than the back without the need for folds as in conventional maternal garments. Similar to the multi-layer nursing brassiere 100, the upper body garment 800 may be composed of an elastically resilient fabric material. The elastically resilient fabric material forming upper body garment 800 may be similar to or different from the fabric material used in the multi-layer nursing brassiere 100, depending on the type of fit desired for upper body garment 800.

As shown in FIG. 10, the upper body garment 800 is in an open state by applying an upward force on the upper peripheral edge 814 of the upper flap 808 and a downward force on the lower peripheral edge 816 of the lower flap 806 to open the nursing opening 840 and form the opening 1000.

Fig. 11 illustrates a wearer 1110 wearing a multi-layer nursing brassiere 100 and an upper body garment 800 as nursing brassiere system 1100, wherein multi-layer nursing brassiere 100 is worn under upper body garment 800 and upper body garment 800 is laminated over multi-layer nursing brassiere 100. In fig. 11, multi-layer nursing brassiere 100 and upper body garment 800 are in a closed position. As shown, the nursing opening 840 of the upper body garment 800 is configured to be generally radially aligned with a bust area of the wearer 1110 that also coincides with the outer layer 106 of the inner layer 104 that overlaps the front portion 102, and more particularly coincides with the right and left edges 125, 126 of the outer layer 106 that overlap the upper edge 112 of the inner layer 104.

Fig. 12 depicts nursing bra system 1100 in an open configuration to form opening 1210 when multi-layer nursing bra 100 and upper body garment 800 are transitioned to the open configuration. As described above, to transition from the closed state shown in FIG. 11, the wearer will first transition the nursing opening 840 of the upper body garment 800 by applying an upward force on the upper peripheral edge 814 and a downward force on the lower peripheral edge 816. Then, upon exposing multi-layer nursing brassiere 100, multi-layer nursing brassiere 100 is transitioned to an open state by applying an upward force on one or both of right edge 125 and left edge 126 of outer layer 106 (in FIG. 12, only right edge 125 is transitioned to the open state). Then, once at least a portion of upper edge 112 of inner layer 104 is exposed, a downward force is applied to upper edge 112 to form an opening 1210 extending through upper body garment 800 and multi-layer nursing brassiere 100 to provide access to the nipple area of the wearer. Finally, to transition nursing bra system 1100 back to its closed state, an upward force is applied to upper edge 112 of inner layer 104 and a downward force is applied to the corresponding right edge 125 and/or left edge 126 of outer layer 106 of the multi-layer nursing bra 100, followed by an upward force on lower perimeter edge 816 and a downward force on upper perimeter edge 814 of upper body garment 800.

While the example upper body garment 800 is shown as a vest-style garment, it is contemplated that many other types of garments may be provided with a nursing bra system 1100 in accordance with aspects herein. For example, as shown in fig. 13, the upper torso garment may be a short-sleeved shirt 1300 having a nursing opening 1310. In other cases, the upper torso garment may include a dress, shirt, sweater, jersey, cap shirt, blouse, etc., configured to cover the upper torso area of the wearer. Further, it is also contemplated that the multi-layer nursing bra 100 or upper body garment 800 may be worn separately (i.e., independent of the multi-layer nursing bra 100) without departing from aspects herein.

Fig. 14 depicts a series of steps summarizing one method 1400 for manufacturing a multi-layer nursing bra, such as multi-layer nursing bra 100, according to aspects herein. As shown, in a first step 1410, method 1400 begins by forming a front portion of a multi-layer nursing bra by positioning an inner surface of an outer layer adjacent to an outer surface of an inner layer. The lower edge of the inner layer is then secured to the lower periphery, as shown in step 1420, and the lower central portion of the outer layer is then secured to discrete regions of the lower periphery, as shown in step 1430. It is contemplated that the order of performing the steps may be changed, meaning that the order is arbitrary. Likewise, it is also contemplated that additional steps may be performed in the manufacture of a multi-layer nursing bra in accordance with aspects herein.

Fig. 15 depicts a series of steps that outline a method 1500 for using a nursing bra system, such as nursing bra system 1100, in accordance with aspects herein. For example, as shown in step 1510, the wearer may wear a multi-layer nursing brassiere (e.g., multi-layer nursing brassiere 100, multi-layer nursing brassiere 400, or multi-layer nursing brassiere 402) on the upper torso of the wearer. Step 1510 is followed by step 1520 which comprises threading an upper body garment (e.g., upper body garment 800 or 1300) on the multi-layer nursing bra such that the nursing opening of the upper body garment is radially aligned with a front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra, wherein the multi-layer nursing bra and the upper body garment are both in a closed position, as shown in step 1530. When the wearer desires to breast milk or breast milk, the multi-layer nursing bra system is transitioned to an open state by first applying an upward force on the upper perimeter edge defining the nursing opening of the upper body garment and a downward force on the lower perimeter edge defining the nursing opening of the upper body garment to open the nursing opening and expose the front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra, as shown in step 1540. This allows the wearer to exert an upward force on one or both of the right edge and/or the left edge of the outer layer to expose at least a portion of the upper edge of the inner layer forming the front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra, as shown in step 1550. Next, a downward force is applied to the upper edge of the inner layer to form an opening in the front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra, thereby exposing the nipple area of the wearer, as shown in step 1560. Once the wearer has completed breastfeeding or breastpumping, as shown in step 1570, the wearer may first return the multi-layer nursing bra to a closed state by applying an upward force on the upper edge of the inner layer and a downward force on one or both of the right and/or left edges of the outer layer to close the opening of the front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra. Finally, the wearer can also return the upper body garment to the closed state by applying an upward force on the lower peripheral edge defining the nursing opening and a downward force on the upper peripheral edge defining the nursing opening of the upper body garment, as shown in step 1580.

Fig. 16 depicts a front view 16 of another example multi-layer nursing bra 1600 in a closed state, in accordance with aspects herein. Multilayer nursing brassiere 1600 may also be in one of a closed state or an open state when worn. As shown, multi-layer nursing brassiere 1600 includes a front portion 1602 having an inner layer 1604, which inner layer 1604 may have a substantially upright "Y-shape" or a triangular shape with its base located above the apex. The front portion 1602 also includes an outer layer formed by a right outer layer 1616 and a left outer layer 1618. As shown, the middle portion 1622 of the right outer layer 1616 overlaps the middle portion 1620 of the left outer layer 1618 at the central area 1624 of the front portion 1602. In addition, right outer layer 1616 and left outer layer 1618 overlie inner layer 1604 or are positioned adjacent to inner layer 1604 as will become more apparent in fig. 18, which shows an exploded view 18 of front portion 1602 of multi-layer nursing bra 1600. As further shown in fig. 16, when the right and left outer layers 1616, 1618 are layered on top of the inner layer 1604, a portion 1638 of the inner layer 1604 is not covered by either the right or left outer layers 1616, 1618. Multilayer nursing brassiere 1600 may optionally include a pair of shoulder straps 1630a and 1630 b.

Inner layer 1604 of multi-layer nursing brassiere 1600 has an upper edge 1808 extending between right upper portion 1610 and left upper portion 1614, a right edge 1606 having a midpoint 1840 extending between right upper portion 1610 and lower central portion 1612, and a left edge 1608 having a midpoint 1842 extending between left upper portion 1614 and lower central portion 1612. In some aspects, the inner layer 1604 may be composed of multiple layers of material, while in other aspects, the inner layer 1604 may be composed of a single layer of material. The upper right portion 1610, the lower center portion 1612, and the upper left portion 1614 are positioned such that the inner layer 1604 forms a substantially upright "Y-shape". According to aspects herein, the right edge 1606, left edge 1608, and/or upper edge 1808 of the inner layer 1604 are curved inward relative to a central region 1806 (shown in fig. 18) of the inner layer 1604, although the right edge 1606, left edge 1608, and/or upper edge 1808 can be curved outward or substantially straight.

The right outer layer 1616 has a right upper edge 1626, a right lower edge, and a right side edge 1636 a. The left outer layer 1618 has a left upper edge 1628, a left lower edge, and a left edge 1636 b. The right side upper edge 1626 and the left side upper edge 1628 may be completed with a stretch seam such as a zig-zag stitch, a double needle stitch, a chain stitch, a lock stitch, a cover stitch, an overlock stitch (and bone stitch), and the like. Alternatively, right side upper edge 1626 and left side upper edge 1628 may be completed with seams having "hidden" stitches that are single, raised interlocking stitches that are sewn when the brassiere is sewn from inside to outside. When the bra is turned rightwards, the sewing lines are hidden. In other words, right upper edge 1626 and left upper edge 1628 are free of stitching on the outer surface of multi-layer nursing bra 1600. Such hidden sutures may provide improved comfort and greater stretch along the right and left upper edges 1626, 1628, thereby making it easier for the right and/or left outer layers 116, 1618 to be pulled down for nursing and/or breast pumping (as shown in fig. 19). The right edge 1606 and left edge 1608 of the inner layer 1604 are substantially separated from the right outer layer 1616 and left outer layer 1618. As shown in fig. 16, when multilayer nursing bra 1600 is in a closed position, at least a portion of right edge 1606 and at least a portion of left edge 1608 of inner layer 1604 is positioned below (shown in phantom to indicate that it is generally hidden in the closed position) right side upper edge 1626 of right side outer layer 1616 and left side upper edge 1628 of left side outer layer 1618. In other words, the right upper edge 1626 of the right outer layer 1616 and the left upper edge 1628 of the left outer layer 1618 are positioned above the right edge 1606 and the left edge 1608 of the inner layer 1604 in the closed position.

FIG. 17 depicts a side view of FIG. 17, in which shoulder straps 1630a joined to right side edge 1636a of right outer layer 1616 and shoulder straps 1630b joined to left side edge 1636b of left outer layer 1618 partially form arm openings 1634 through which a wearer may reach her arms when multi-layer nursing bra 1600 is worn. Additionally, while shoulder straps 1630a and 1630b are depicted as having a cross-over configuration at the back of multi-layer nursing bra 1600, it is contemplated that shoulder straps 1630a and 1630b may have other configurations, such as parallel or T-shaped. Likewise, multilayer nursing brassiere 1600 may include a strapless configuration or a necklet configuration without departing from aspects disclosed herein.

As shown in fig. 18, the inner layer 1604 has a first or outer surface 1810 and a second or inner surface 1812 opposite the outer surface 1810. Similarly, the right outer layer 1616 has a first or outer surface 1816 and a second or inner surface 1814 opposite the outer surface 1816. Likewise, the left outer layer 1618 has a first or outer surface 1818 and a second or inner surface 1820. The outer surface 1810 of the inner layer 1604 is positioned adjacent to the inner surface 1814 of the right outer layer 1616 and is further positioned adjacent to the inner surface 1820 of the left outer layer 1618.

Fig. 18 also depicts a lower periphery 1632 having an upper edge 1832 and a lower edge 1834. Thus, when multi-layer nursing brassiere 1600 is assembled, right lower edge 1802 of right outer layer 1616 and left lower edge 1804 of left outer layer 1618 are secured to upper edge 1832 of lower periphery 1632 by stitching, adhesive, or other fastening technique. Likewise, a lower central portion 1612 of inner layer 1604 is secured to a central portion 1830 of lower periphery 1632. In addition, the upper right portion 1610 of the inner layer 1604 is secured to a portion of the right side edge 1636a of the right outer layer 1616 and the upper left portion 1614 of the inner layer 1604 is secured to a portion of the left side edge 1636b of the left outer layer 1618. It is contemplated that the lower periphery 1632 may extend along at least the right lower edge 1802 of the right outer layer 1616 of the front portion 1602 and at least along the left lower edge 1804 of the left outer layer 1618. When multilayer nursing brassiere 1600 includes a back portion or right and left wing bands, lower periphery 1632 may extend from lower edges of the back portion or right and left wing bands as described with reference to fig. 4A and 4B.

Fig. 19 depicts a front view 19 of a multi-layer nursing bra 1600 in an open position. While only the opening 1902 is shown on the right side, the right and left sides may be transitioned to the open state at or near the same time or one at a time, as shown. Initially, to open the right side of multi-layer nursing brassiere 1600, a downward force is applied to at least a portion of right upper edge 1626 of right outer layer 1616, thereby exposing at least midpoint 1840 of right edge 1606 of inner layer 1604. In other words, the right upper edge 1626 is pulled at least below the midpoint 1840 of the right edge 1606 of the inner layer 1604. In an exemplary aspect, right edge 1606 of inner layer 1604 is positioned above a nipple area of a wearer when multi-layer nursing brassiere 1600 is worn. Once the right upper edge 1626 of the right outer layer 1616 is pulled downward, an opening 1902 is formed to provide access to the nipple area of the wearer for breastfeeding or breast pumping. In other words, in the open state, at least a portion of the right upper edge 1626 of the right outer layer 1616 and/or the left upper edge 1628 of the left outer layer 1618 is positioned below the right edge 1606 and/or the left edge 1608 of the inner layer 1604 to form the opening 1902. Upon completion of breastfeeding or breastpumping, multi-layer nursing bra 1600 may be returned to the closed state by applying an upward force on right upper edge 1626 of right outer layer 1616 to return multi-layer nursing bra 1600 to its closed state, as shown in fig. 16. Similar to the arrangement in multilayer nursing brassiere 100, this arrangement of multilayer nursing brassiere 1600 also provides several advantages by eliminating the need for difficult to maneuver buckles, uncomfortable pressure points caused by buckles, and ease of maneuvering (especially one-handed maneuvering).

Similar to multilayer nursing brassieres 100, 400, and 402 of fig. 1-7, multilayer nursing brassiere 1600 may also be worn alone or as a system with upper body garment 800 or 1300, as described above. For example, as shown in fig. 20 and 21, upper body garment 800 may be worn over multi-layer nursing brassiere 1600 such that wearer 2002 may wear multi-layer nursing brassiere 1600 and upper body garment 800 as nursing brassiere system 2000. In fig. 20, multi-layer nursing bra 1600 and upper body garment 800 are in a closed position. As shown, the nursing opening 840 of the upper body garment 800 is configured to be generally radially aligned with a bust area of the wearer 2002, which may also be at least generally coincident with a midpoint 1840 of the right edge 1606 and a midpoint 1842 of the left edge 1608 of the inner layer 1604 of the front portion 1602.

Fig. 21 depicts nursing brassiere system 2000 in an open configuration to form opening 2100 when multi-layer nursing brassiere 1600 and upper body garment 800 are transitioned to the open configuration. As described above, to transition from the closed state shown in FIG. 20, the wearer will first transition the nursing opening 840 of the upper body garment 800 by applying an upward force on the upper peripheral edge 814 and a downward force on the lower peripheral edge 816. Then, once multi-layer nursing brassiere 1600 is exposed, multi-layer nursing brassiere 1600 may also be transitioned to an open state by applying a downward force on at least a portion of right upper edge 1626 of right outer layer 1616, thereby exposing at least a portion of right edge 1606 of inner layer 1604 to form opening 2100, opening 2100 extending through upper body garment 800 and multi-layer nursing brassiere 1600 to provide breast feeding or pumping into the nipple area of the wearer. More specifically, the opening 1000 is radially aligned with an opening 1902 formed between at least one of a right upper edge 1626 of the right outer layer 1616 or a left upper edge 1628 of the left outer layer 1618 and a right edge 1606 or a left edge 1608 of the inner layer 1604. While multi-layer nursing bra 1600 is shown in use with upper body garment 800, it is also contemplated that multi-layer nursing bra 1600 may also be used with upper body garments having a stretchable neckline that may be pulled down to expose multi-layer nursing bra 1600 for nursing and/or breast pumping.

Upon completion of breastfeeding or breastpumping, to transition nursing bra system 2000 back to its closed state, an upward force is applied to right upper edge 1626 of right outer layer 1616 to return multi-layer nursing bra 1600 to its closed state, followed by an upward force on lower peripheral edge 816 and a downward force on upper peripheral edge 814 of upper body garment 800.

Fig. 22 depicts a series of steps that outline a method 2200 for using a nursing bra system, such as nursing bra system 2000, in accordance with aspects herein. For example, as shown in step 2210, the wearer wears a multi-layer nursing brassiere (e.g., multi-layer nursing brassiere 1600) on the upper torso of the wearer. Step 2210 is followed by step 2220, which includes threading an upper body garment (e.g., upper body garment 800 or 1300) on the multi-layer nursing bra such that the nursing opening of the upper body garment is radially aligned with a front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra, wherein both the multi-layer nursing bra and the upper body garment are in a closed state, as shown in step 2230. When the wearer desires to breast milk or breast milk, the multi-layer nursing bra system may be transitioned to the open state by first applying an upward force on the upper perimeter edge defining the nursing opening of the upper body garment and a downward force on the lower perimeter edge defining the nursing opening of the upper body garment to open the nursing opening and expose the front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra, as depicted at step 2240. This allows the wearer to exert a downward force on one or both of the right side upper edge of the right side outer layer and/or the left side upper edge of the left side outer layer to expose the nipple area of the wearer, as shown in step 2250. Once the wearer has completed breastfeeding or breastpumping, as shown in step 2260, the wearer may first return the multi-layer nursing bra to the closed state by applying an upward force on one or both of the right and/or left upper edges. Finally, the wearer can also return the upper body garment to the closed position by applying an upward force on the lower peripheral edge defining the nursing opening and a downward force on the upper peripheral edge defining the nursing opening of the upper body garment, as shown in step 2270.

Clause 1. a multi-layer nursing bra having a front portion, the front portion comprising: an inner layer extending between an upper edge and a lower edge; a Y-shaped outer layer having a right upper portion, a left upper portion, and a lower central portion, wherein the Y-shaped outer layer is positioned over the inner layer; and a lower periphery extending from the lower edge of the inner layer, wherein the lower central portion of the Y-shaped outer layer is coupled to a central region of the lower periphery.

Clause 2. the multi-layer nursing bra of clause 1, wherein the inner layer is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the Y-shaped outer layer is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, and wherein the modulus of elasticity of the first elastically resilient fabric material is substantially equal to the modulus of elasticity of the second elastically resilient fabric material.

Clause 3. the multi-layer nursing bra of clause 1, wherein the inner layer is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the Y-shaped outer layer is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, wherein the first elastically resilient fabric material has a different modulus of elasticity than the second elastically resilient fabric material.

Clause 4. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 1-3, further comprising a back portion extending from the front portion, wherein the lower perimeter further extends from a lower edge of the back portion.

Clause 5. the multi-layer nursing bra of clause 4, further comprising a pair of shoulder straps extending between the front portion and the back portion.

Clause 6. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 1-5, wherein the Y-shaped outer layer further includes a right edge extending between the right upper portion and the lower central portion, a left edge extending between the left upper portion and the lower central portion, and wherein the Y-shaped outer layer extends seamlessly and continuously between the right edge and the left edge.

Clause 7. the multi-layer nursing bra of clause 6, wherein the Y-shaped outer layer is movable relative to the inner layer along at least a midpoint of the right edge and along at least a midpoint of the left edge.

Clause 8. the multi-layer nursing bra of any of clauses 6 and 7, wherein the right edge and the left edge of the Y-shaped outer layer are curved edges.

Clause 9. the multi-layer nursing bra of clauses 6-8, wherein the right and left edges of the Y-shaped outer layer are curved inward relative to a central region of the Y-shaped outer layer.

Clause 10 the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 6-9, wherein the right edge and the left edge of the Y-shaped outer layer are located below the upper edge of the inner layer when the multilayer nursing bra is in the closed state, and wherein at least a portion of the upper edge of the inner layer is located below one or more of a midpoint of the right edge and a midpoint of the left edge of the Y-shaped outer layer when the multilayer nursing bra is in the open state.

Clause 11. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 1-10, wherein the Y-shaped outer layer further includes an upper edge extending between the right upper portion and the left upper portion, and wherein the upper edge of the inner layer is located below the upper edge of the Y-shaped outer layer.

Clause 12. the multi-layer nursing bra of clause 11, wherein the right edge, the left edge, and the upper edge of the Y-shaped outer layer are substantially separate from the inner layer.

Clause 13. the multi-layer nursing bra of any of clauses 1-12, wherein one or more portions of the inner layer are not covered by the Y-shaped outer layer.

Clause 14. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 1-3 and 6-13, further comprising a right wing band extending from the right side of the front portion and a left wing band extending from the left side of the front portion.

Clause 15. the multilayer nursing bra of clause 14, further comprising a first component of a closure mechanism coupled to a terminal end of the right wing band, and a second component of the closure mechanism coupled to a terminal end of the left wing band, wherein the first component of the closure mechanism is releasably coupled to the second component of the closure mechanism.

Clause 16. the multi-ply nursing bra of any of clauses 14 and 15, further comprising a first shoulder strap extending between the front portion and the right wing strap, and a second shoulder strap extending between the front portion and the left wing strap.

Clause 17. a multi-layer nursing bra having a front portion, the front portion comprising: an inner layer; and an outer layer adjacent to the inner layer, the outer layer having a right edge extending between a right upper portion and a lower central portion of the outer layer, and a left edge extending between a left upper portion and the lower central portion of the outer layer, wherein the right edge and the left edge converge as they extend toward the lower central portion of the outer layer, and wherein the outer layer is movable relative to the inner layer along at least a midpoint of the right edge and along at least a midpoint of the left edge.

Clause 18. the multilayer nursing bra of clause 17, wherein the outer layer is substantially Y-shaped.

Clause 19. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 17-18, wherein the right edge and the left edge of the outer layer are curved.

Clause 20. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 17-19, wherein the inner layer is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the outer layer is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, wherein the modulus of elasticity of the first elastically resilient fabric material is substantially equal to the modulus of elasticity of the second elastically resilient fabric material.

Clause 21. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 17-19, wherein the inner layer is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the outer layer is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, wherein the modulus of elasticity of the first elastically resilient fabric material is different than the modulus of elasticity of the second elastically resilient fabric material.

Clause 22. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 17-21, further comprising a back portion extending from the front portion.

Clause 23. the multi-layer nursing bra of clause 22, further comprising a pair of shoulder straps extending between the front portion and the back portion.

Clause 24. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 17-23, wherein the outer layer extends seamlessly and continuously between the right edge and the left edge.

Clause 25. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 17-24, wherein the upper edge of the inner layer is movable relative to the outer layer.

Clause 26. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 17-25, wherein one or more portions of the inner layer are not covered by the outer layer.

Clause 27. a method of making a multi-layer nursing bra, comprising: forming a front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra by positioning an outer layer on an inner layer, the outer layer having a right edge extending between a right upper portion and a lower central portion of the outer layer, and a left edge extending between a left upper portion and the lower central portion of the outer layer, wherein the right edge and the left edge converge as they extend toward the lower central portion of the outer layer; and securing the lower central portion of the outer layer to the lower central portion of the inner layer.

Clause 28. the method of making a multilayer nursing bra of clause 27, further comprising coupling a back portion of the multilayer nursing bra to the front portion.

Clause 29. the method of making a multilayer nursing bra of clause 28, further comprising: coupling a first strap end of a pair of shoulder straps to the front portion; and coupling the second strap ends of the pair of shoulder straps to the back portion.

Clause 30. the method of making a multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 27-29, wherein the right edge and the left edge of the outer layer are substantially separate from the inner layer, and wherein the outer layer is movable relative to the inner layer along at least a midpoint of the right edge and along at least a midpoint of the left edge.

Clause 31. the method of making a multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 27-30, wherein the right edge and the left edge of the outer layer are curved.

Clause 32. the method of making a multilayer nursing bra according to any of clauses 27, 30, and 31, further comprising: coupling a right wing band to a right side of the forward portion; and coupling a left wing strap to a left side of the front portion, wherein the right wing strap and the left wing strap include a closure mechanism that releasably secures the right wing strap to the left wing strap.

Clause 33. the method of making a multilayer nursing bra of clause 32, further comprising: coupling a first strap end of a pair of shoulder straps to the front portion; and coupling second strap ends of the pair of shoulder straps to the right wing strap and the left wing strap, respectively.

Clause 34. a multi-layer nursing bra, comprising: a front portion having a first fabric layer having a first upper edge, a first lower edge, a first inner surface and a first outer surface, and a second fabric layer having a second inner surface positioned adjacent to the first outer surface of the first fabric layer, a second outer surface, a first upper terminal end, a second upper terminal end, a third lower terminal end, and a second upper edge extending between the first upper terminal end and the second upper terminal end; and a lower perimeter extending continuously along the first lower edge of the first fabric layer, wherein the third lower terminal end of the second fabric layer is secured to a middle region of the lower perimeter at a location approximately equidistant between the first upper terminal end and the second upper terminal end of the second fabric layer.

Clause 35. the multilayer nursing bra of clause 34, further comprising a back portion coupled to the first fabric layer of the front portion.

Clause 36. the multi-layer nursing bra of clause 35, further comprising a pair of shoulder straps coupled to the front portion and the back portion.

Clause 37 the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 34-36, wherein the second fabric layer includes a first side edge extending between the first upper terminal end and the third lower terminal end, and a second side edge extending between the second upper terminal end and the third lower terminal end, and wherein the second fabric layer extends seamlessly and continuously between the first side edge and the second side edge.

Clause 38. the multilayer nursing bra of clause 37, wherein the second upper edge, the first side edge, and the second side edge of the second fabric layer are substantially separate from the first fabric layer.

Clause 39. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 37-38, wherein in a first state, the first side edge or the second side edge of the second fabric layer is positioned below the first upper edge of the first fabric layer.

Clause 40 the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 37-39, wherein in a second state, at least a portion of the first side edge or the second side edge of the second fabric layer is positioned above the first upper edge of the first fabric layer to form an opening.

The multilayer nursing bra of clause 40, wherein the second upper edge of the second fabric layer is positioned above the first upper edge of the first fabric layer in both the first state and the second state.

Clause 42 the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 34-41, wherein the first upper terminal end of the second fabric layer is secured to a portion of a first lateral side edge of the first fabric layer, and wherein the second upper terminal end of the second fabric layer is secured to a portion of a second lateral side edge of the first fabric layer.

Clause 43. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 34-42, wherein one or more portions of the first outer surface of the first fabric layer are not covered by the second fabric layer.

Clause 44. a method for making a multilayer nursing bra: forming a front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra by positioning an inner surface of a second fabric layer adjacent to an outer surface of a first fabric layer, wherein the second fabric layer includes a first upper terminal end, a second upper terminal end, a third lower terminal end, and a second upper edge extending between the first upper terminal end and the second upper terminal end, and wherein the first fabric layer includes a first upper edge and a lower edge; securing a lower perimeter along a length of the lower edge of the first fabric layer; and

securing the third lower terminal end of the second fabric layer to a discrete region of the lower periphery.

Clause 45. the method for making a multilayer nursing bra of clause 44, further comprising: securing the first upper terminal end of the second fabric layer to a portion of a first lateral side edge of the first fabric layer; and securing the second upper terminal end of the second fabric layer to a portion of a second lateral side edge of the first fabric layer.

Clause 46. the method for making a multilayer nursing bra according to any of clauses 44-45, further comprising: securing a third fabric layer to the first fabric layer to form a back portion of the nursing garment.

Clause 47. the method for making a multilayer nursing bra of clause 46, further comprising: securing a first strap end of a pair of shoulder straps to the front portion; and fixing the second band ends of the pair of shoulder bands to the back portion.

Clause 48. the method for making a multi-layer nursing bra of any of clauses 44-47, wherein the discrete region of the lower periphery to which the third lower terminal end of the second fabric layer is secured corresponds to a location that is substantially equidistant between the first upper terminal end and the second upper terminal end of the second fabric layer.

Clause 49 the method for making a multi-layer nursing bra of any of clauses 44-48, wherein the second fabric layer further includes a first side edge extending between the first upper terminal end and the third lower terminal end, and a second side edge extending between the second upper terminal end and the third lower terminal end.

Clause 50. the method for making a multi-layer nursing bra of clause 49, wherein the second upper edge, the first side edge, and the second side edge of the second fabric layer are substantially separate from the first fabric layer.

Clause 51. the method for making a multi-layer nursing bra of any of clauses 44-50, wherein one or more portions of the outer surface of the first fabric layer are not covered by the second fabric layer.

Clause 52. a multi-layer nursing bra, comprising: a front portion comprising a first fabric layer having a first upper edge, a first lower edge, a first inner surface, and a first outer surface, and a second fabric layer having a second inner surface positioned adjacent to the first outer surface of the first fabric layer, a second outer surface, a first upper terminal end, a second upper terminal end, a third lower terminal end, and a second upper edge extending between the first upper terminal end and the second upper terminal end; a first wing strip extending from a first lateral side of the first fabric layer, the first wing strip including a first lateral side edge and a first lower peripheral edge defining a first underarm perimeter portion of the first wing strip; a second wing band extending from a second lateral side of the first fabric layer, the second wing band including a second lateral side edge and a second lower peripheral edge defining a second underarm perimeter portion of the second wing band; and a lower band extending continuously along the first lower edge, the first lower peripheral edge, and the second lower peripheral edge of the first fabric layer, wherein the third lower terminal end of the second fabric layer is secured to the lower band at a mid-region of the first lower edge of the front portion.

Clause 53. the multilayer nursing bra of clause 52, further comprising a first component of a closure mechanism secured to the first wing band and a second component of the closure mechanism secured to a terminal end of the second wing band, wherein the first component of the closure mechanism is adapted to be releasably coupled to the second component of the closure mechanism.

Clause 54. the multilayer nursing bra of clause 53, wherein the closure mechanism is adjustable.

Clause 55. the multi-layer nursing bra of any of clauses 52-54, further comprising a first shoulder strap extending from the front portion and the first wing strap, and a second shoulder strap extending from the front portion and the second wing strap.

Clause 56. a nursing bra system, comprising: a multi-layer nursing bra having a front portion, the front portion comprising: an inner layer extending between an upper edge and a lower edge; a Y-shaped outer layer having an upper right portion, an upper left portion, and a lower central portion, wherein the Y-shaped outer layer is positioned over the inner layer; and a lower periphery extending from the lower edge of the inner layer, wherein the lower central portion of the Y-shaped outer layer is coupled to a central region of the lower periphery; and an upper body garment configured to be worn on the multi-layer nursing bra, the upper body garment comprising: a front portion and a back portion that together define at least a neck opening and a torso opening; and a nursing opening extending from a right side of the front portion to a left side of the front portion, wherein the nursing opening is located below the neck opening and above the torso opening.

Clause 57-the nursing bra system of clause 56, wherein the inner layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the Y-shaped outer layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, wherein the modulus of elasticity of the first elastically resilient fabric material is substantially equal to the modulus of elasticity of the second elastically resilient fabric material.

Clause 58. the nursing bra system of clause 56, wherein the inner layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the Y-shaped outer layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, wherein the first elastically resilient fabric material has a different modulus of elasticity than the second elastically resilient fabric material.

Clause 59. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 56-58, the multi-layer nursing bra further comprising a back portion extending from the front portion, wherein the lower perimeter further extends from a lower edge of the back portion.

Clause 60. the nursing bra system of clause 59, the multi-layer nursing bra further comprising a pair of shoulder straps extending between the front portion and the back portion.

Clause 61. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 56-60, wherein the Y-shaped outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra further comprises a right edge extending between the right upper portion and the lower central portion, a left edge extending between the left upper portion and the lower central portion, and wherein the Y-shaped outer layer extends seamlessly and continuously between the right edge and the left edge of the Y-shaped outer layer.

Clause 62. the nursing bra system of clauses 56-61, wherein when the nursing bra system is in a closed state: the right and left edges of the Y-shaped outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra are positioned below the upper edge of the inner layer of the multi-layer nursing bra and the nursing opening of the upper body garment is closed; and wherein when the nursing bra system is in an open state: at least a portion of the upper edge of the inner layer of the multi-layer nursing bra is positioned below one or more of a midpoint of the right edge and a midpoint of the left edge of the Y-shaped outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra and the nursing opening of the upper body garment is open.

Clause 63. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 56-62: wherein the right edge and the left edge of the Y-shaped outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra are substantially separate from the inner layer of the multi-layer nursing bra, and wherein the Y-shaped outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra is movable relative to the inner layer of the multi-layer nursing bra along at least a midpoint of the right edge and along at least a midpoint of the left edge.

Clause 64, a nursing bra system, comprising: a multi-layer nursing bra having a front portion, the front portion comprising: an inner layer; and an outer layer adjacent to the inner layer, the outer layer having a right edge extending between a right upper portion and a lower central portion of the outer layer, and a left edge extending between a left upper portion and the lower central portion of the outer layer, wherein the right edge and the left edge converge as they extend toward the lower central portion of the outer layer, and wherein the outer layer is movable relative to the inner layer along at least a midpoint of the right edge and along at least a midpoint of the left edge; and an upper body garment configured to be worn on the multi-layer nursing bra, the upper body garment comprising: a front portion and a back portion that together define at least a neck opening and a torso opening; and a nursing opening extending from a right side of the front portion to a left side of the front portion, wherein the nursing opening is located below the neck opening and above the torso opening.

Clause 65. the nursing bra system of clause 64, the multi-layer nursing bra further comprising a right wing band extending from the right side of the front portion and a left wing band extending from the left side of the front portion.

Clause 66. the nursing bra system of clause 65, the multi-layer nursing bra further comprising a first component of a closure mechanism coupled to a terminal end of the right wing band, and a second component of the closure mechanism coupled to a terminal end of the left wing band, wherein the first component of the closure mechanism is releasably coupled to the second component of the closure mechanism.

Clause 67. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 65-66, the multi-layer nursing bra further comprising a first shoulder strap extending between the front portion and the right wing strap, and a second shoulder strap extending between the front portion and the left wing strap.

Clause 68. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 64-67, wherein the outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra is substantially Y-shaped.

Clause 69. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 64-68, wherein the right edge and the left edge of the outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra are curved.

Clause 70 the nursing bra system of any of clauses 64-69, wherein the inner layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the outer layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, and wherein the modulus of elasticity of the first elastically resilient fabric material is substantially equal to the modulus of elasticity of the second elastically resilient fabric material.

Clause 71. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 64-69, wherein the inner layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the outer layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, and wherein the first elastically resilient fabric material has a different modulus of elasticity than the second elastically resilient fabric material.

Clause 72. a method for using a nursing bra system, the method comprising: wearing the multilayer nursing bra of clauses 64-71; and wearing the upper body garment of clauses 64-71 on the multilayer nursing bra, wherein the nursing opening of the upper body garment is radially aligned with the front portion of the multilayer nursing bra.

Clause 73. a nursing bra system, comprising: a multi-layer nursing brassiere, said multi-layer nursing brassiere having: a front portion comprising a first fabric layer having a first upper edge, a first lower edge, a first inner surface and a first outer surface, and a second fabric layer having a second inner surface and a second outer surface, a first upper terminal end, a second upper terminal end, a third lower terminal end and a second upper edge extending between the first terminal end and the second terminal end, wherein the second inner surface of the second fabric layer faces the first outer surface of the first fabric layer; and a lower perimeter extending continuously along the first lower edge of the first fabric layer, wherein the third lower terminal end of the second fabric layer is secured to a middle region of the lower perimeter; and an upper body garment configured to be layered over the multi-layer nursing bra, the upper body garment comprising: a front face and a back face, the front face and the back face defining at least a neck opening, a waist opening, and a nursing opening extending from a first lateral side of the front face to a second lateral side of the front face, wherein the nursing opening is located below the neck opening.

Clause 74 the nursing bra system of clause 73, wherein the second fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra includes a first side edge extending between the first upper terminal end and the third lower terminal end, and a second side edge extending between the second upper terminal end and the third lower terminal end.

Clause 75. the nursing bra system of clause 74, wherein the first side edge, the second side edge, and the second upper edge of the second fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra are substantially separate from the first fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra.

Clause 76 the nursing bra system of any of clauses 73-75, wherein in a first state of the nursing bra system, the first side edge or the second side edge of the second fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra is positioned below the first upper edge of the first fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra, and wherein in the first state, the nursing opening of the upper body garment is in a closed configuration.

Clause 77 the nursing bra system of any of clauses 74-75, wherein in a second state of the nursing bra system, at least a portion of the first side edge or the second side edge of the second fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra is positioned above the first upper edge of the first fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra to form an opening, and wherein in the second state, the nursing opening of the upper body garment is in an open configuration.

Clause 78 the nursing bra system of clause 77, wherein the nursing opening of the upper body garment is radially aligned with the opening of the multi-layer nursing bra when the nursing bra system is in the second state.

Clause 79 the nursing bra system of any of clauses 73-78, wherein the multi-layer nursing bra further comprises a back portion extending from the first fabric layer.

Clause 80 the nursing bra system of clause 79, wherein the back portion seamlessly extends from the first fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra.

Clause 81. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 79 and 80, wherein the multi-layer nursing bra further comprises a pair of shoulder straps extending between the front portion and the back portion.

Clause 82. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 73-78, wherein the multi-layer nursing bra further includes a first wing band extending from a first lateral side of the first fabric layer, and a second wing band extending from a second lateral side of the first fabric layer.

Clause 83. the nursing bra system of clause 82, wherein the first wing band comprises a first element of a closure mechanism, and wherein the second wing band comprises a second element of the closure mechanism, wherein the first element of the closure mechanism is adapted to be releasably coupled to the second element of the closure mechanism.

Clause 84. a nursing bra system, comprising: a multi-layer nursing brassiere including a front portion having a first fabric layer and a second fabric layer, the first fabric layer having a first upper edge, a first inner surface, and a first outer surface, the second fabric layer having a second inner surface positioned adjacent the first outer surface of the first fabric layer, a first upper terminal end, a second upper terminal end, and a third lower terminal end, a second upper edge extending between the first upper terminal end and the second upper terminal end, a first side edge extending between the first upper terminal end and the third lower terminal end, and a second side edge extending between the second upper terminal end and the third lower terminal end, wherein the second upper edge of the second fabric layer is positioned above the first upper edge of the first fabric layer, and wherein in a first state of the nursing brassiere system, the first and second side edges of the second fabric layer are located below the first upper edge of the first fabric layer, and wherein the first, second, and second upper edges of the second fabric layer are substantially separated from the first fabric layer; and an upper body garment configured to be laminated over the multi-layer nursing bra, the upper body garment including a front face and a back face, the front face and the back face defining at least a neck opening and a waist opening, and a nursing opening extending from a first lateral side of the front face to a second lateral side of the front face, wherein the nursing opening is located below the neck opening, and wherein the nursing opening is in a closed configuration in the first state of the nursing bra system.

Clause 85. the nursing bra system of clause 84, the multi-layer nursing bra further comprising a back portion extending from the first fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra.

Clause 86. the nursing bra system of clause 85, wherein the back portion seamlessly extends from the front portion of the multi-layer nursing bra.

Clause 87. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 85-86, further comprising a pair of shoulder straps for the multi-layer nursing bra, each shoulder strap of the pair of shoulder straps including a first strap end and a second strap end, wherein the first strap end of each shoulder strap is secured to the front portion, and wherein the second strap end of each shoulder strap is secured to the back portion.

Clause 88 the nursing bra system of any of clauses 84-87, wherein one or more portions of the first outer surface of the first fabric layer in the multi-layer nursing bra are not covered by the second fabric layer.

Clause 89 the nursing bra system of clause 84, wherein the multi-layer nursing bra further includes a first wing band extending from a first lateral side of the first fabric layer, and a second wing band extending from a second lateral side of the first fabric layer.

Clause 90. the nursing bra system of clause 89, wherein the first wing band comprises a first element of a closure mechanism, and wherein the second wing band comprises a second element of the closure mechanism, wherein the first element of the closure mechanism is adapted to be releasably coupled to the second element of the closure mechanism.

Clause 91. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 84-90, wherein in the second state of the nursing bra system, the nursing opening of the upper body garment is in an open configuration.

Clause 92 the nursing bra system of clause 91, wherein in the second state of the nursing bra system, at least a portion of the first side edge or the second side edge of the second fabric layer is positioned above the first upper edge of the first fabric layer.

Clause 93. a method for using a nursing bra system, the method comprising: wearing the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 84-92; and wearing the upper torso garment of any of clauses 84-92 on the multi-layer nursing bra.

Clause 94. a method for using a nursing bra system, comprising: donning a multi-layer nursing bra, the multi-layer nursing bra comprising: a front portion comprising a first fabric layer having a first upper edge, a first lower edge, a first inner surface, a first outer surface, and a second fabric layer having a second inner surface, a second outer surface, a first upper terminal end, a second upper terminal end, a third lower terminal end, and a second upper edge extending between the first upper terminal end and the second upper terminal end, wherein the second inner surface of the second fabric layer faces the first outer surface of the first fabric layer; and a lower perimeter extending continuously along the first lower edge of the first fabric layer, wherein the third lower terminal end of the second fabric layer is secured to a middle region of the lower perimeter; and wearing an upper body garment over the multi-layer nursing bra, the upper body garment comprising: a front face and a back face, the front face and the back face defining at least a neck opening, a waist opening, and a nursing opening extending from a first lateral side of the front face to a second lateral side of the front face, wherein the nursing opening is located below the neck opening.

Clause 95. the method for using a nursing bra system of clause 94, wherein the second fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra includes a first side edge extending between the first upper terminal end and the third lower terminal end, and a second side edge extending between the second upper terminal end and the third lower terminal end.

Clause 96. the method for using a nursing bra system of clause 95, wherein the first side edge, the second side edge, and the second upper edge of the second fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra are separate from the first fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra.

Clause 97. the method for using a nursing bra system of any of clauses 95-96, wherein in a first state of the nursing bra system, the first side edge or the second side edge of the second fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra is positioned below the first upper edge of the first fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra, and wherein in the first state, the nursing opening of the upper body garment is in a closed configuration.

Clause 98. the method for using a nursing bra system of any of clauses 93-96, further comprising: opening the nursing opening of the upper body garment by applying an upward force on an upper peripheral edge defining the nursing opening; and applying a downward force on a lower peripheral edge defining the nursing opening to transition to the second state of the nursing bra system.

Clause 99. the method for using the nursing bra system of clause 97, further comprising: applying an upward force on at least a portion of the first side edge or the second side edge of the second fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra to expose the first upper edge of the first fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra; and in the second state of the nursing bra system, applying a downward force on the first upper edge of the first fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra to form a multi-layer nursing bra opening.

Clause 100. the method for using the nursing bra system of clause 98, further comprising: restoring the nursing bra system to the first state by applying an upward force on the first upper edge of the first fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra; and applying a downward force on the first side edge or the portion of the second side edge of the second fabric layer of the multi-layer nursing bra to close the multi-layer nursing bra opening.

Clause 101. the method for using the nursing bra system of clause 99, further comprising: closing the nursing opening of the upper body garment by applying a downward force on the upper peripheral edge defining the nursing opening; and applying an upward force on the lower perimeter edge defining the nursing opening to return the nursing bra system to the first state.

Clause 102, a nursing bra system, comprising: a multi-layer nursing bra having a front portion, the front portion comprising: an inner layer having a right edge extending between a right upper portion and a lower central portion of the inner layer, and a left edge extending between a left upper portion and the lower central portion of the inner layer, wherein the right edge and the left edge converge as they extend toward the lower central portion of the inner layer; and an outer layer adjacent to the inner layer, the outer layer having an upper edge and a lower edge, wherein the upper edge of the outer layer is movable relative to the inner layer along at least a midpoint of the right edge and along at least a midpoint of the left edge; and an upper body garment configured to be worn on the multi-layer nursing bra, the upper body garment comprising: a front portion and a back portion that together define at least a neck opening and a torso opening; and a nursing opening extending from a right side of the front portion toward a left side of the front portion, wherein the nursing opening is located below the neck opening and above the torso opening.

Clause 103. the nursing bra system of clause 102, the outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra includes a right side outer layer and a left side outer layer, wherein a portion of the right side outer layer overlaps a portion of the left side outer layer at a central region of the front portion.

Clause 104 the nursing bra system of clause 103, wherein the right side outer layer includes a right side upper edge, wherein the left side outer layer includes a left side upper edge, and wherein the right side upper edge and the left side upper edge form the upper edge of the outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra.

Clause 105. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 103 and 104, wherein the right upper edge is movable relative to the inner layer of the multi-layer nursing bra at least at the midpoint of the right edge of the inner layer, and wherein the left upper edge is movable relative to the inner layer of the multi-layer nursing bra at least at the midpoint of the left edge of the inner layer.

Clause 106. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 102-105, the multi-layer nursing bra further comprising a back portion extending from the front portion.

Clause 107. the nursing bra system of clauses 102-106, further comprising a pair of shoulder straps extending between the front portion and the back portion.

Clause 108. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 102-107, the multi-layer nursing bra further comprising a right wing band extending from the right side of the front portion and a left wing band extending from the left side of the front portion.

Clause 109. the nursing bra system of clause 108, the multi-layer nursing bra further comprising a first component of a closure mechanism coupled to a terminal end of the right wing band, and a second component of the closure mechanism coupled to a terminal end of the left wing band, wherein the first component of the closure mechanism is releasably coupled to the second component of the closure mechanism.

Clause 110. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 108 and 109, the multi-layer nursing bra further comprising a first shoulder strap extending between the front portion and the right wing strap, and a second shoulder strap extending between the front portion and the left wing strap.

Clause 111. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 102-110, wherein the inner layer of the multi-layer nursing bra is substantially Y-shaped.

Clause 112. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 102-111, wherein the right edge and the left edge of the inner layer of the multi-layer nursing bra are curved.

Clause 113. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 102-112, wherein the inner layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the outer layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, and wherein the modulus of elasticity of the first elastically resilient fabric material is substantially equal to the modulus of elasticity of the second elastically resilient fabric material.

Clause 114. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 102-113, wherein the inner layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the outer layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, and wherein the first elastically resilient fabric material has a different modulus of elasticity than the second elastically resilient fabric material.

Clause 115 the nursing bra system of any of clauses 102-114, wherein the front portion of the upper body garment includes an upper flap and a lower flap.

Clause 116 the nursing bra system of clause 115, wherein the upper flap of the upper body garment includes an upper peripheral edge, and wherein the lower flap of the upper body garment includes a lower peripheral edge, and wherein the upper peripheral edge and the lower peripheral edge define the nursing opening.

Clause 117. the nursing bra system of clause 116, wherein the upper peripheral edge of the upper flap is substantially separated from the lower peripheral edge of the lower flap.

Clause 118 the nursing bra system of any of clauses 116-117, wherein the upper peripheral edge of the upper flap overlaps the lower peripheral edge of the lower flap when the nursing opening is in a closed state.

Clause 119. a nursing bra system, comprising: a multi-layer nursing bra having a front portion, the front portion comprising: a Y-shaped inner layer having an upper right portion, an upper left portion, and a lower central portion; an outer layer extending between an upper edge and a lower edge, wherein the outer layer is positioned over the Y-shaped inner layer; and a lower periphery extending from the lower edge of the outer layer, wherein the lower central portion of the Y-shaped inner layer is coupled to a central region of the lower periphery; and an upper body garment configured to be worn on the multi-layer nursing bra, the upper body garment comprising: a front portion and a back portion that together define at least a neck opening and a torso opening; and a nursing opening extending from a right side of the front portion toward a left side of the front portion, wherein the nursing opening is located below the neck opening and above the torso opening.

Clause 120 the nursing bra system of clause 119, wherein the Y-shaped inner layer of the multi-layer nursing bra further comprises a right edge extending between the right upper portion and the lower central portion, a left edge extending between the left upper portion and the lower central portion, and wherein the Y-shaped inner layer extends seamlessly and continuously between the right edge and the left edge of the Y-shaped inner layer.

Clause 121. the nursing bra system of clause 120, wherein the nursing opening of the upper body garment is radially aligned with at least a midpoint of the right edge and a midpoint of the left edge of the Y-shaped inner layer.

Clause 122. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 120-121, wherein when the nursing bra system is in a closed state: the right and left edges of the Y-shaped inner layer are located below the upper edge of the outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra and the nursing opening of the upper body garment is closed; and wherein when the nursing bra system is in an open state: at least a portion of the upper edge of the outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra is positioned below one or more of a midpoint of the right edge and a midpoint of the left edge of the Y-shaped inner layer of the multi-layer nursing bra and the nursing opening of the upper body garment is open.

Clause 123. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 120-122, wherein the outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra is substantially separate from the right edge and the left edge of the Y-shaped inner layer.

Clause 124. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 120-123, the outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra including a right side outer layer and a left side outer layer, wherein a portion of the right side outer layer overlaps a portion of the left side outer layer at a central region of the front portion.

Clause 125. the nursing bra system of clause 124, wherein the right side outer layer includes a right side upper edge, wherein the left side outer layer includes a left side upper edge, and wherein the right side upper edge and the left side upper edge form the upper edge of the outer layer of the multi-layer nursing bra.

Clause 126. the nursing bra system of clause 125, wherein the right upper edge is movable relative to the Y-shaped inner layer of the multi-layer nursing bra at least at a midpoint of the right edge of the Y-shaped inner layer, and wherein the left upper edge is movable relative to the Y-shaped inner layer of the multi-layer nursing bra at least at a midpoint of the left edge of the Y-shaped inner layer.

Clause 127. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 119-126, wherein the Y-shaped inner layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the outer layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, wherein the modulus of elasticity of the first elastically resilient fabric material is substantially equal to the modulus of elasticity of the second elastically resilient fabric material.

Clause 128. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 119-127, wherein the Y-shaped inner layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the outer layer of the multilayer nursing bra is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, wherein the first elastically resilient fabric material has a different modulus of elasticity than the second elastically resilient fabric material.

Clause 129 the nursing bra system of any of clauses 119-128, wherein the multilayer nursing bra further comprises a back portion extending from the front portion.

Clause 130 the nursing bra system of clause 129, wherein the multi-layer nursing bra further includes a pair of shoulder straps extending between the front portion and the back portion.

Clause 131 the nursing bra system of any of clauses 119-130, wherein the front portion of the upper body garment includes an upper flap and a lower flap.

Clause 132. the nursing bra system of clause 131, wherein the upper flap of the upper body garment includes an upper peripheral edge, and wherein the lower flap of the upper body garment includes a lower peripheral edge, and wherein the upper peripheral edge and the lower peripheral edge define the nursing opening.

Clause 133 the nursing bra system of clause 132, wherein the upper peripheral edge of the upper flap is substantially separated from the lower peripheral edge of the lower flap.

Clause 134. the nursing bra system of any of clauses 132 and 133, wherein the upper peripheral edge of the upper flap overlaps the lower peripheral edge of the lower flap when the nursing opening is in a closed state.

Clause 135. a method for using a nursing bra system, the method comprising: donning the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 102-134; and putting on the upper torso garment of any of clauses 102-134.

Clause 136. a multi-layer nursing bra, comprising: a front portion, the front portion comprising: an inner layer having a right edge extending between a right upper portion and a lower central portion of the inner layer and a left edge extending between a left upper portion and the lower central portion of the inner layer, wherein the right edge and the left edge converge as they extend toward the lower central portion of the inner layer; and an outer layer adjacent to the inner layer, the outer layer having an upper edge and a lower edge, wherein the upper edge of the outer layer is movable relative to the inner layer along at least a midpoint of the right edge and along at least a midpoint of the left edge.

Item 137 the multi-layer nursing bra of item 136, wherein the multi-layer nursing bra is layered with an upper body garment, wherein the upper body garment is configured to be worn on the multi-layer nursing bra, the upper body garment comprising: a front portion and a back portion that together define at least a neck opening and a torso opening; and a nursing opening extending from a right side of the front portion toward a left side of the front portion, wherein the nursing opening is located below the neck opening and above the torso opening.

Clause 138. the multi-layer nursing bra of clause 137, wherein the front portion of the upper body garment comprises an upper flap and a lower flap, wherein the upper flap comprises an upper perimeter edge and wherein the lower flap comprises a lower perimeter edge, and wherein the upper perimeter edge and the lower perimeter edge define the nursing opening.

Clause 139. the multilayer nursing bra of clause 138, wherein the upper peripheral edge of the upper flap is substantially separated from the lower peripheral edge of the lower flap.

Clause 140. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 138 and 139, wherein the upper peripheral edge of the upper flap overlaps the lower peripheral edge of the lower flap when the nursing opening is in a closed state.

Clause 141. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 136-140, wherein the outer layers of the multilayer nursing bra include a right side outer layer and a left side outer layer, wherein a portion of the right side outer layer overlaps a portion of the left side outer layer at a central region of the front portion.

Clause 142 the multilayer nursing bra of clause 141, wherein the right side outer layer includes a right side upper edge, wherein the left side outer layer includes a left side upper edge, and wherein the right side upper edge and the left side upper edge form the upper edge of the outer layer of the multilayer nursing bra.

Clause 143. the multilayer nursing bra of clause 142, wherein the right upper edge is movable relative to the inner layer of the multilayer nursing bra at least at the midpoint of the right edge of the inner layer, and wherein the left upper edge is movable relative to the inner layer of the multilayer nursing bra at least at the midpoint of the left edge of the inner layer.

Clause 144. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 142 and 143, wherein the right side upper edge and the left side upper edge are free of stitching on an outer surface of the multilayer nursing bra.

Clause 145. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 136-144, further comprising a back portion extending from the front portion.

Clause 146. the multi-layer nursing bra of clause 154, further comprising a pair of shoulder straps extending between the front portion and the back portion.

Clause 147. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 136-144, further comprising a right wing band extending from the right side of the front portion, and a left wing band extending from the left side of the front portion.

Clause 148. the multilayer nursing bra of clause 147, further comprising a first component of a closure mechanism coupled to a terminal end of the right wing band, and a second component of the closure mechanism coupled to a terminal end of the left wing band, wherein the first component of the closure mechanism is releasably coupled to the second component of the closure mechanism.

Clause 149. the multi-layer nursing bra of any of clauses 147 and 148, further comprising a first shoulder strap extending between the front portion and the right wing strap, and a second shoulder strap extending between the front portion and the left wing strap.

Clause 150 the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 136-149, wherein the inner layer is substantially Y-shaped.

Clause 151. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 136-150, wherein the right edge and the left edge are curved.

Clause 152 the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 136-151, wherein the inner layer is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the outer layer is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, and wherein the modulus of elasticity of the first elastically resilient fabric material is substantially equal to the modulus of elasticity of the second elastically resilient fabric material.

Item 153 the multilayer nursing bra of any of items 136-152, wherein the inner layer is comprised of a first elastically resilient fabric material and the outer layer is comprised of a second elastically resilient fabric material, and wherein the first elastically resilient fabric material has a different modulus of elasticity than the second elastically resilient fabric material.

Clause 154. the multilayer nursing bra of any of clauses 136-153, wherein the inner layer is comprised of a single layer of material.

Clause 155. a multi-layer nursing bra, comprising: a front portion having: a Y-shaped inner layer having an upper right portion, an upper left portion, and a lower central portion; an outer layer extending between an upper edge and a lower edge, wherein the outer layer is positioned over the Y-shaped inner layer; and a lower periphery extending from the lower edge of the outer layer, wherein the lower central portion of the Y-shaped inner layer is coupled to a central region of the lower periphery.

Aspects of the present disclosure have been described as illustrative and not restrictive. Alternative aspects will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope thereof. Alternative means of accomplishing the above improvements may be developed by skilled artisans without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations and are contemplated within the scope of the claims. Not all steps listed in the various figures need be performed in the particular order described.