CLOTHING ITEM PROVIDED WITH FRONT, CURVED CLOSING MEANS

Description

[0001] The scope of the present invention is a clothing item according to the precharacterizing part of the main claim.

[0002] Clothing items, for instance sweaters or sweatshirts, which include an upper element suitable for at least partially covering the trunk and comprising an upper part delimiting an opening for running the head therethrough are known for a long time. This opening generally has limited dimensions, consequently it often occurs that wearing the clothing item is not easy, especially in the case of hooded sweatshirts. In order to improve the wearability of the clothing item, a known practice is to provide a further opening in correspondence with a front part thereof, closable by means of a zip which departs from a front portion of the head opening and generally develops centrally and vertically along a section of the length of the front part of the sweater or sweatshirt.

[0003] However, this type of zipped clothing items only partially solves the clothing item wearability problem, especially in the case that the clothing item is to be worn in a short time, as for instance it occurs during sports activities, or in the case that the people who wears it has a special hairstyle and wishes not to damage it by wearing the clothing item itself.

[0004] Also it often occurs that it is necessary to be able to access whatever is present on the front part of the chest below a sweater or a sweatshirt, for instance an underwear or an instrument worn on the chest, for instance a heart rate monitor, this operation is also particularly uncomfortable in the known clothing items which include a zip of a limited length in their front part.

[0005] A further drawback of the known clothing items of the type described above is bound to the fact that they allow a limited heat exchange, especially if used during sports activities, or in situations wherein the user performs an activity whereby he/she profusely sweats, and there is a need for limiting the coverage of the worn clothing items as he/she goes on in his/her sports activity.

[0006] In order to solve the above problems it has been devised so far to equip the sweaters or sweatshirts with zips that extend all along the length of the front part of the clothing item. However, this solution also presents a number of drawbacks, as a matter of fact such an extended zip jeopardizes the integrity of the lower front part of the clothing item thus preventing the possibility of realizing waist kangaroo pockets and making the clothing item less resistant and protective.

[0007] Document WO03/070032 describes a cloth for aquatic use featuring, in that part of the cloth which covers the trunk, an opening and a zip which develop: along an upper section, centrally to said part that covers the trunk and rectilinearly, and a lower curved section which extends downwards up to that part of the cloth which is suitable for covering the hips. Aquatic clothes are difficult to wear, consequently the opening and its respective zip shall have an extension as big as possible, so as to allow to open the cloth as much widely as possible and to foster its wearability.

[0008] Therefore, document WO03/070032 describes to extend the curved terminal part of the opening and of the zip up to that part of the cloth which is suitable for covering the hips.

[0009] Documents US 5,628,064 and US 6,647,552 describe a cloth whose front part suitable for covering the trunk is formed of a plurality of components removably connected to each other; the cloth comprises an upper component suitable for covering the shoulders and an upper part of the trunk which includes a front central opening closed by buttons and two lower panels suitable for covering the abdomen connected to the lower edge of the first component via zips or connection members of the kook-and-loop fastener type. The openings provided in the front part of the cloth and their respective closing means always feature a rectilinear only development and they do not present any curved parts developing in such a way as to at least partially surround either breast; also, such connection members do not feature a continuous construction, but they are rather realized by means of parts separated from each other. Furthermore, the connection members that develop horizontally and connect the upper front part of the cloth to the two lower panels are positioned in a zone of the cloth that develops above the breasts. Document US 2014/0325734 describes a complete suit consisting of a part suitable for covering the trunk as well as a part suitable for covering the legs. These complete suits including, in one cloth, both the part suitable for covering the bust and that for covering the legs, are difficult to put on; in order to improve wearability, the previous patent describes to equip the suit with very extended zips which include, in their front central part, a long rectilinear zip and two lower zips, also rectilinear, which extend up to that part of the cloth which is suitable for covering hips and sides.

[0010] Document DE 297 05 527 U1 describes a suit for hospital use suitable for covering the bust which includes a first central opening that extends from the neck up to the lower edge of the cloth and is closed by buttons, and a second and different opening that extends upwards from a front central zone of the cloth, above a breast and up to a point in correspondence with a shoulder and then along a sleeve of the cloth, such second opening is closed by two separate zips, one rectilinear developing from the central zone, above a breast, up to a shoulder, and a second separate zip which develops from the shoulder along a sleeve of the cloth.

[0011] An object of the present invention is to provide a clothing item, for instance a sweater or a sweatshirt, that includes an upper element suitable for at least partially covering the trunk and comprising an upper part delimiting an opening for running the head through, fosters its wearability and the access to whatever is present on the front below said clothing item and/or to a pocket provided in the clothing item itself, and simultaneously also effectively protects the abdomen of that who wears the cloth.

[0012] A further object is to provide a clothing item that allows to improve the perspiration of that who wears the clothing item itself, particularly during sports activities.

[0013] A further object is to provide a clothing item that allows to get a vast front pocket, for instance a kangaroo pocket and/or front pockets provided inside the clothing item.

[0014] A further object is to provide a clothing item that, whilst having a long zip in its front part, is easy to wear even for sports activities and does not bother the private parts of the body of that who wears it, in particular the bosom.

[0015] These objects and others that will be apparent to those skilled in the sector are achieved by a clothing item according to the characterizing part of the attached claims.

[0016] For a better understanding of the present invention, drawings are attached for explanatory, but not limitative, purposes, wherein:

figure 1 shows a front schematic view of a first embodiment of a clothing item according to the invention,

figure 2 shows a view of an enlarged detail in figure 1,

figure 2A is identical to figure 2, but with an element of the clothing item omitted in order to better highlight some features of the clothing item itself,

figure 3 shows a schematic rear view thereof,

figure 4 shows a schematic perspective view of the clothing item worn,

figures 5 A-C show schematic perspective views of a feminine trunk,

figures 6A-B, 7A-B, 8A-B show schematic front and rear views of three further embodiments of a clothing item according to the invention,

figures 9-11 show schematic front views of three further embodiments of a clothing item according to the invention,

figure 12A shows a schematic front view of the clothing item when resting on a plane,

figure 12B shows a view like that in figure 12A, the clothing item being turned so as to make its internal conformation visible,

figure 12C shows a detail K in figure 12B, the opening member being partially opened below, and

figure 12D shows a view of a clothing item as in figure 12A, the front opening member being completely opened.

[0017] With reference to figures 1-4, they show a first embodiment of a clothing item according to the invention comprising an upper element 1 suitable for at least partially covering a trunk 2 (figure 5A). In this context, by trunk we mean that part of the human body which is comprised between the neck and the sides or hips. Figures 5A-C schematically show a feminine trunk identified by the reference numeral 2 as a whole, these figures also partially show the neck 3 and the sides or hips 4.

[0018] In the example illustrated in figures 1-4, the clothing item has the form of a hooped sweatshirt, and the upper element 1 completely covers the trunk as well as the arms. However, the invention also relates to hoodless clothing items and/or clothing items that do not cover or only partially cover the arms and/or to clothing items that cover the abdomen only partially.

[0019] Said upper element 1 comprises:

• a front part 5 (figure 1) suitable for at least partially covering the front part of the trunk (in the embodiment of figures 1-4 such front part 5 completely covers the trunk), which comprises in turn:
• a first region 6 suitable for covering an upper zone 6A of the front part of the trunk, comprised between the base of the neck 3 (figure 5) and the breasts 10 (the position of such breasts has also been indicated just as an example, by a broken line in figures 1 and 2 to make the invention more understandable), the latter also being covered by said first region 6,
• a second region 7 located below said first region 6 and suitable for at least partially covering a lower zone 7A of the front part of the trunk comprising the abdomen 9, and
• a third region 8 acting as a boundary between said first two regions 6 and 7 provided below the breasts 10.

[0020] In the present context, by breasts we mean breasts substantially having the shape shown in figures 5A-5C, i.e., in the case of breasts featuring a rigidity different from that shown in figures 5A-5D, in the present context by breasts we mean breasts pushed up by a bra, in particular a bra for sports use, which imparts to the breasts an arrangement substantially similar to that shown in figures 5A-C.

[0021] Preferably this third region extends along a section ranging from approximately 1 cm to 35 cm below said first region 6, or said third region 8 of the front part 5 of the upper element 1 starts immediately below a lower terminal portion 6A (figure 1) of said front part 5 suitable for covering the lower terminal part 10A of the breasts, and extends along a section ranging from approximately 1 cm to 35 cm below said lower terminal portion 6A, more preferably along a section ranging from approximately 5 cm to 25 cm, and even more preferably along a section ranging from approximately 1 cm to 15 cm or from 1 cm to 10 cm.

[0022] Said upper element 1 also comprises a rear part 11, of a conventional type, suitable for at least partially covering the rear part of the trunk 2 and, as shown in figures 1-4, suitable for completely covering, for instance, the trunk.

[0023] In the first embodiment illustrated in figures 1-4, the front part 1 and the rear part 11 are bound to each other along their side vertical edges by seams 12A (indicated by a broken line in figure 4) which consequently act as side connection elements 12 for said front part 1 and rear part 12. According to the first embodiment, these two parts are preferably formed of one properly shaped front portion of fabric and of one also properly shaped rear portion of fabric sewn to each other along their respective side vertical edges.

[0024] The upper element 1 of the clothing item also comprises an upper part 14 delimiting an opening 15 for running the head through, comprising at least one front portion 14A situated in the central front side in correspondence with the lower base of the neck. In the example illustrated in figures 1-4, this upper part that features the opening 15 for running the head through is shaped like a hood and consequently also includes a part 14B suitable for partially covering the head.

[0025] The upper part 14 can be of a low type, i.e. it can have an annular shape suitable for substantially covering the base of the neck only, with a height ranging from 0.5 cm to 3 cm, preferably approximately 1 cm, suitable for delimiting the opening 15 only, or, as described below, it can be of a high or medium to high type, i.e. it possibly has a tubular form suitable for also covering a part of the neck, with a height ranging from 3 cm to 20 cm, preferably approximately 8-15 cm and in any way suitable for delimiting the opening 15.

[0026] The upper element 1 of the clothing item also comprises a front opening 16 and means 17 for closing/opening said front opening, comprising a closing/opening member 17A of a curved zip type (these closing/opening means have been omitted in figure 2A in order to highlight in said figure the opening 16) bound, for instance by sewing or by heat seal, to the edges 16T (figure 2A) delimiting said front opening 16. The zip includes a central part comprising a plurality of teeth suitable for engaging to each other, bound to side button holes suitable for being bound, for instance sewn, to the edges of the closed opening of the zip itself.

[0027] According to the invention, the front opening 16 and the closing/opening means 17 associated therewith at least extend from said front portion 14A of the opening 15 for running the head into said first region 6 of the front part 1 of the clothing item up to said third region 8 of said front part 1, and comprise an initial section 16A (figure 2A) 17A (figure 2) and a final section 16B, 17B and at least one first and one second intermediate section 16C, 17C, 16D and 17D, wherein

• at least the second intermediate section 16D, 17D has a curved shape, and
• said initial section 16A, 17A and final section 16B, 17B are tilted with respect to each other in such a way as to form an angle B1 ranging from 160° to 20°, preferably from 130° to 60° and even more preferably ranging from 110° to 80°.

[0028] Furthermore, according to the invention the first intermediate section 16C, 17C is shaped and dimensioned in such a way as to position itself in the space 10B (figure 5A) of the trunk existing between the two breasts 10 and the second curved intermediate section 16D, 17D is shaped and dimensioned in such a way as to position itself immediately below the lower part 10A/D (figures 5A and B) of either breast (i.e. at a distance ranging, for instance, from 1 to 20 cm or from 1 to 10 cm below the lower terminal part 10A of the breast) and in such a way as to partially and more preferably completely externally surround a lower terminal section 10D (figure 5 A) of said one breast.

[0029] According to the invention, the angle B1 between the initial and final sections 16A, 17A, 16B, 17B of the opening 16 and of the closing/opening member 17 is measured by placing the clothing item on a plane and extending said sections up to making them intersect and form an angle (as shown in figures 2 and 2A).

[0030] According to the invention, said front opening 16 and said closing/opening means 17 of said opening extend below in said front part 1 of the upper element 1 of the clothing item only up to said third boundary region 8 of said front part whilst it does not in said second region 7 of the front part suitable for covering the abdomen so that the clothing item provides a lower region 7A wherein the closing/opening member, i.e. the zip 17, is not present and it is in any case possible to provide a vast continuous front zone, with no openings in the clothing item.

[0031] A front pocket 20 (represented by a broken line in figure 1), preferably of a kangaroo pocket type, can be derived in such front zone, comprising at least one, and preferably two, side openings 20A to access said pocket 20.

[0032] Alternatively, two pockets of smaller dimensions might be provided in such front zone, indicated by a broken line in figure 1 and identified by the reference characters 20C and D.

[0033] According to the invention, thanks to the presence of this lower front part suitable for covering the abdomen, which is continuous i.e. with no opening nor its respective zip, the abdomen is always better protected, even if the clothing item is easy to wear thanks to the big development of such opening and zip. Preferably in this zipless zone suitable for covering the abdomen the clothing item includes one continuous fabric panel. Preferably, the complete front part of the cloth suitable for covering the trunk is at least externally made of one panel of external fabric.

[0034] Preferably, the lower region 7A has a height (as measured from the front edge 5C (figure 1) of the clothing item) ranging from 10 cm to 40 cm and more preferably ranging from 20 cm to 30 cm. Obviously in the case of clothing items that leave the abdomen partially uncovered, this height shall be less, for instance ranging from 10 cm to 20 cm.

[0035] Preferably, according to the invention, the lower part of the clothing item, suitable for covering the abdomen and with no central opening 16 nor its respective closing/opening member 17, has a height H1 (figure 1) ranging from approximately one fourth to five thirds of the height H2 of the other parts comprising the central opening 16 and its respective closing/opening member 17, wherein the height H1 is measured, the clothing item being placed on a plane, from the lower front edge 5C of the element 5 that covers the trunk, up to the lower terminal portion 17E (figure 1) of the zip 17, and the height H2 is measured from said lower terminal portion 17E up to the upper terminal portion 17F (figure 1) of the zip 17. Preferably the height H1 approximately equals the height H2.

[0036] Advantageously the lower terminal part 17B of the closing member 17, i.e. preferably of the zip, extends in that part of the clothing item which is suitable for positioning between the sixth and twelfth ribs.

[0037] Advantageously the front opening 16 and its respective closing/opening member 17 extend in the front part 5 only of the clothing item, so that the lower terminal end 17E (figures 1, 4) of the closing/opening member 17 is positioned in correspondence with the side seam 12A that joins the front part 5 to the rear part 11 of the clothing item, or alternatively (as it will be discussed later) in such a way that the lower terminal end 17E (figures 1, 4) of the closing/opening member 17 is positioned slightly far away (for instance from 0.5 cm to 5 cm, and preferably approximately 2 cm) from the side seam 12A that joins the front part 5 to the rear part 11 of the clothing item and shifted towards the front central axis L of the clothing item. In this way it is possible to mask the end of the zip inside the clothing item and to impart a more pleasant appearance to the clothing item.

[0038] According to a variant schematically shown in a broken line in figure 3, the opening 16 and its respective closing/opening member 17 might include a section 17F thereof which also extends in the rear part 3 of the clothing item.

[0039] Thanks to the front opening 16 and to its respective closing/opening member 17, preferably a zip, the clothing item according to the invention features a front opening of big dimensions which substantially improves the wearability of the clothing item itself, in that it substantially widens the dimensions of the opening for running the head through, as illustrated in a figure that will be discussed below. At the same time, however, since the opening extends in an upper part only of the clothing item, this features an extended zipless lower part wherein it is possible, for instance, to derive a vast pocket and to properly protect the abdomen.

[0040] Also, the front opening 16 and its respective closing/opening member 17, being shaped and dimensioned in such a way as not to overlap the breasts of that who wears the clothing item itself, make the clothing item particularly comfortable and easy to wear.

[0041] The front opening 16 and its respective closing/opening member 17 also make it possible an easy and comfortable access to whatever is present on the front below said clothing item (for instance a device to measure the heartbeat or a bra) without being obliged to remove the complete clothing item.

[0042] In order to advantageously further improve accessibility, as discussed below in more details, the zip 17 is equipped with two cursors 17M and 17N (figure 1) one for each of its two ends.

[0043] The front opening 16 and its respective closing/opening member 17 also allow a greater perspiration (when the member 17 is open) hence a better thermal regulation for that who wears a clothing item according to the invention, especially during sports activities.

[0044] Preferably, as shown in figures 1-4, the clothing item also includes usual parts 13 suitable for covering the arms and usual parts 14B shaped as a hood. These parts might even not be provided or have dimensions different from those shown, for instance the parts 13 to cover the arms might cover the arms only partially and/or the hood 14B might not be provided or be replaced by a part suitable for covering at least a portion of the neck. It is worth noting that preferably, as illustrated in figures 1-4, the part 13 that covers the arms also includes a portion 13A suitable for also covering the shoulders and is bound, by way of front and rear seam 13B and 13C respectively, to the front part 2 and to the rear part 11 that cover the trunk.

[0045] Preferably is the clothing item fully made from a woven material, preferably from a kind of brushed fabric.

[0046] Preferably is the clothing item made from a knitted material, preferably a weft-knitted fabric, and more preferably a double jersey weft-knitted fabric, or a stocking stitch or jersey like fabric, or a pure stitch or ribbed stitch, or 1:1 ribbed stitch, or a crossed stitch or interlock or brushed fabric.

[0047] The clothing item might also be made from a shuttle fabric.

[0048] Preferably has the fabric a weight in the range from 200 to 300 gr/m² and more preferably in the range from 230 to 270 gr/m².

[0049] Preferably, the yarn of the fabric comprises a natural fiber, for instance cotton, and an elastomer, for instance Lycra, and the percentage of elastomer in the yarn is in the range from 20% to 30% and preferably equals approximately 25%, so as to make the fabric elastic.

[0050] The yarn of the fabric might consist of artificial fibers (for instance polyethers and/or elastomers) and/or natural fibers (for instance cotton) and mixes of said fibers.

[0051] The clothing item might even be made from usual materials, preferably coated textiles, of a type conventionally used to manufacture jackets for sports uses, for instance windcheaters, ski jackets or sail jackets, be they waterproof or not waterproof. The clothing item according to the invention might consequently even be an outdoor jacket for sports use.

[0052] The zip 17 that closes the front opening is a one and continuous zip with at least a curved section and is, for instance, manufactured by the company YKK. Preferably is the zip equipped with two cursors to make it possible for it to be opened in correspondence with its two ends.

[0053] Figures 6A-B show a second embodiment of a clothing item according to the invention, and for the sake of brevity the components of this second embodiment that are identical to those already described with reference to the first embodiment and to figures 1-4 will be identified by the same reference numerals as used in figures 1-4, but increased by 100. Substantially in this second embodiment the clothing item, as referred to that previously described, does not include a hood whereas it includes a part 130 suitable for covering a portion of the neck. The opening 116 and its respective closing/opening member (zip) 117 extend centrally and frontally also in the part 130 that partially covers the neck. Furthermore, on the sides, the front part 105 and the rear side 111 are connected to each other by side parts 131 (preferably additional to and separate from the front part 5 and the rear part 11) bound, for instance, by way of front seams 132A and rear seams 132B, to the side edges of said front part 105 and rear part 111.

[0054] Advantageously the front opening 116 and its respective closing/opening member 117 extend in the front part 105 only of the clothing item, not in the side parts 131, so that the lower terminal end 117E (figure 6 A) of the closing/opening member 117 is positioned in correspondence with the side seam 132A that joins the front part 115 to the side part 131 of the clothing item, or alternatively (as it will be discussed later) so that the lower terminal end 17E (figures 1, 4) of the closing/opening member 17 is positioned slightly far away (for instance from 0.5 cm to 5 cm, and preferably approximately 2 cm) from the side seam 132A.

[0055] In this way it is possible to mask the end of the zip inside the clothing item and to impart to the clothing item a more pleasant and compact appearance. The end 117E of the zip 117 is thus, in this variant, slightly shorter and shifted towards the center of the front part 105 of the clothing item.

[0056] The part 130 that partially covers the neck is provided with usual members 135 to adjust the extension of the opening 115 delimited by said part 130.

[0057] In correspondence with the front part 107 that covers the abdomen, a kangaroo pocket 120 or two separated smaller pockets 120C and D might be provided.

[0058] Figures 7A-B show a third embodiment of a clothing item according to the invention, and for the sake of brevity the components of this third embodiment that are identical to those already described with reference to the first embodiment and to figures 1-4 will be identified by the same reference numerals as used in figures 1-4, but increased by 200. Substantially this third embodiment of a clothing item, with respect to that previously described, includes a part 230 suitable for covering a portion of the neck and a hood 214B. The opening 216 and its respective closing/opening member (zip) 217 extend centrally and frontally also in the part 230 that partially covers the neck. On the sides, the front part 205 and the rear part 211 are connected to each other by vertical seams 212A of the type shown in figure 4 and identified by the reference characters 12A. Advantageously the front opening 216 and its respective closing/opening member 217 extend in the front part 5 only of the clothing item, so that the lower terminal end 217E (figure 7A) of the closing/opening member 217 is positioned in correspondence with the side seam that joins the front part 215 to the rear part 211. The hood is equipped with usual members 235 to adjust the extension of the opening 215 provided in the hood itself.

[0059] Figures 8A-B show a fourth embodiment of a clothing item according to the invention, and for the sake of brevity the components of this fourth embodiment that are identical to those already described with reference to the first embodiment and to figures 1-4 will be identified by the same reference numerals as used in figures 1-4, but increased by 300. Substantially this fourth embodiment includes the variant already present in the second and third embodiments, consequently it includes a part 330 suitable for covering a portion of the neck and a hood 314B. On the sides, the front part 305 and the rear part 311 are connected to each other by side parts 331 (preferably separated from and different with respect to the front part 5 and the rear part 11) bound for instance by way of front seams 332A and rear seams 332B, to the side edges of said front part 305 and rear part 311.

[0060] The opening 316 and its respective closing/opening member (zip) 317 extend centrally and frontally also in the part 330 that partially covers the neck.

[0061] Advantageously the front opening 316 and its respective closing/opening member 317 extend in the front part 305 only of the clothing item, not in the side part 331, so that the lower terminal end 317E (figure 8A) of the closing/opening member 317 is positioned in correspondence with the side seam 332A that joins the front part 305 to the side part 331 of the clothing item. In this way it is possible to mask the end of the zip inside the clothing item and to impart a more pleasant appearance to the clothing item.

[0062] The hood is equipped with usual members 335 to adjust the extension of the opening 315 provided in the hood itself.

[0063] Figure 9 shows a fifth embodiment of a clothing item according to the invention, and for the sake of brevity the components of this fifth embodiment that are identical to those already described with reference to the first embodiment and to figures 1-4 will be identified by the same reference numerals as used in figures 1-4, but increased by 400. Substantially in this fifth embodiment the clothing item, with respect to that previously described in figures 1-4, features a different conformation of some sections of the opening 416 and of its respective closing/opening member 417. The latter still include a section 417C suitable for being positioned between the breasts 10 and a section 417D suitable for externally surrounding a lower terminal portion of either breast; both these sections 417C and 417D or the section 417D only are curved. According to the invention, this conformation of the sections that are positioned between the breasts and surround a lower terminal portion thereof can also be adopted in the other embodiments described above and below.

[0064] Furthermore, preferably the initial upper section 417A does not depart from the center of the upper part 414 delimiting the opening 415 for running the head through, but it is shifted with respect to a central axis of front symmetry L of the clothing item, so as to form an angle B2 in the range from 10° and 80°, and more preferably in the range from 30° to 70°. Furthermore, immediately upstream of the upper initial section 417A there is provided another curved section 417F jointing to the subsequent section 417C provided between the breasts 10. The initial section 417A of the closing/opening member and the final section 417F form an angle B1 narrower than that formed by the arrangement of the closing/opening member shown in figures 1-4, for instance narrower than 90°.

[0065] The initial section 417A of the closing/opening member might have a straight rectilinear development or even a curved one. According to the invention this conformation of the initial section of the closing/opening member might also be adopted in the other embodiments described above and below.

[0066] According to this variant, the front opening 416 and its respective closing/opening member 417 might even extend according to a completely curved path with no parts featuring a straight rectilinear development.

[0067] The clothing item in figure 9 might include a hood (as shown in figures 1-4) and/or a polo neck (as shown in figure 6) and/or a hood and a polo neck (as shown in figures 7 and 8) and/or side parts connecting the front and rear parts to each other (as shown in figures 6, 8).

[0068] Advantageously the front opening 416 and its respective closing/opening member 417 extend in the front part 405 only of the clothing item.

[0069] The conformations of the front opening 416 and of its respective closing/opening member 417 as illustrated above make it possible an even more improved wearability of the clothing item.

[0070] Figure 10 shows a sixth embodiment of a clothing item according to the invention, and for the sake of brevity the components of this sixth embodiment that are identical to those already described with reference to the first embodiment and to figures 1-4 will be identified by the same reference numerals as used in figures 1-4, but increased by 500. Substantially in this sixth embodiment, the clothing item, with respect to that previously described in figures 1-4, features a different conformation of the lower terminal section of the opening 516 and of its respective lower terminal section 517B of the closing/opening member 517. Such lower terminal section is more tilted with respect to a central axis L of the front part 505 of the clothing item and forms an angle B3 therewith greater than 90° and more preferably greater than 100° and even more preferably greater than 110°. It is to be emphasized that, even though extending more downwards the extremal section 517B of the closing/opening member leaves a wide lower front band free from the member itself, wherein it is possible to realize a vast kangaroo pocket 520. According to the invention, this conformation of the lower terminal section of the closing/opening member can also be adopted in the other embodiments described above and below.

[0071] The conformations of the front opening 516 and of its respective closing/opening member 517 as described above make it possible an even more improved wearability of the clothing item.

[0072] The clothing item in figure 10 might include a hood (as shown in figures 1-4) and/or a polo neck (as shown in figure 6) and/or a hood and a polo neck (as shown in figures 7 and 8) and/or side parts connecting the front and rear parts to each other (as shown in figures 6, 8).

[0073] Figure 11 shows a seventh embodiment of a clothing item according to the invention, and for the sake of brevity the components of this seventh embodiment that are identical to those already described with reference to the first embodiment and to figures 1-4 will be identified by the same reference numerals as used in figures 1-4, but increased by 600. Substantially in this seventh embodiment the clothing item, with respect to that previously described in figures 1-4 features a different conformation of the opening 616 and of the closing/opening member 617. These include an upper initial section offset with respect to the central longitudinal axis L of the front part 605 of the clothing item, and tilted or parallel with respect to said central axis L, a section 617C suitable for positioning between the two breasts 10, and a curved section 617D suitable for externally surrounding below either breast and a lower final section 617B. Between the upper initial section 617A and the central one between the breasts 10 there is provided a advantageously curved jointing section 617F.

[0074] The conformations of the front opening 616 and of its respective closing/opening member 617 as described above make it possible an even more improved wearability of the clothing item.

[0075] The clothing item in figure 11 might include a hood (as shown in figures 1-4) and/or a polo neck (as shown in figure 6) and/or a hood and a polo neck (as shown in figures 7 and 8) and/or side parts connecting the front and rear parts to each other (as shown in figures 6, 8).

[0076] Finally let's point out that the embodiments described so far might include numerous variants, all of them falling within the one and the same inventive concept, in particular the front opening and its respective closing/opening member might include, in addition to a central section suitable for positioning between the breasts 10 and a curved section suitable for externally surrounding below either breast, upper and lower sections shaped like any of those described and illustrated in drawings 1-11. As to the clothing item, it might be of the polo neck type, be it hooded or not, as described in the previous explanatory embodiments of the invention.

[0077] Figures 12A-12D show a further embodiment of a clothing item according to the invention, and for the sake of brevity the components of this further embodiment that are identical to those already described with reference to the first embodiment and to figures 1-4 will be identified by the same reference numerals as used in figures 1-4, but increased by 700. Substantially in this further embodiment, the clothing item, with respect to that previously described, includes a part 730 suitable for covering a portion of the neck and a hood 714B.

[0078] Note that this part which covers the neck and/or the hood, as well as the parts 713 that cover the arms, are optional and might even not be provided or have dimensions and extensions different from those here illustrated.

[0079] The opening 716 and its respective closing/opening member (zip) 717 comprise: an upper extremal part 717A and a lower extremal part 717B, a first intermediate part 717C, and a second intermediate part 717D.

[0080] The first intermediate part 717C is shaped and dimensioned in such a way as to position itself in the space 10B of the trunk located between the two breasts 10. This first intermediate part can have a vertical rectilinear development (substantially coincident with the central axis L of the front part of the clothing item) or can have a curved development with respect to said axis L, as shown in figure 12A.

[0081] The second intermediate part 717D is dimensioned in such a way as to position itself below either breast (10) and in such a way as to partially externally surround a lower terminal portion (10D) of said one breast.

[0082] Preferably are the initial section 717A and final section 717B tilted with respect to each other so as to form an angle B1 in the range from 100° to 140°, preferably from 110° to 130°, and even more preferably in the range from 115° to 125° (the angle B1 is measured by placing the clothing item on a plane and extending it until the extremal sections 717A and 717B intersect).

[0083] The tilt of the final section 717B of the zip is suitable for causing a slenderizing effect onto the figure of that who wears the clothing item.

[0084] According to the invention, the terminal section 717B of the zip is shaped and dimensioned in such a way that, when the clothing item is worn, it is located below the lower bosom seam line 10A (figure 5B) and in the intercostal spaces defined by the sixth to twelfth ribs.

[0085] The opening 716 and its respective closing/opening member (zip) 717 centrally and frontally extend also in the part 730 that partially covers the neck, if any. On the sides, the front part 705 and the rear part 711 are connected to each other by vertical seams 712A of the type shown in figure 4 and identified by the reference characters 12A. Advantageously the front opening 716 and its respective closing/opening member 717 extend in the front part 705 only of the clothing item, so that the lower terminal end 717E (figure 12 A) of the closing/opening member 717 is positioned in correspondence with the side seam that joins the front part 715 to the rear part 711, or advantageously is spaced away from this side seam 712A by a section Z (figure 12 A) having, for instance, a length in the range from approximately 0.5 cm to 5 cm, and preferably equal to approximately 2-3 cm.

[0086] This spacing of the extremal section of the zip makes it unnecessary to thicken the side seam 712A too much, hence it makes the clothing item more comfortable and graceful.

[0087] As shown in figure 12B (which shows the inside of the front part of the clothing item, which is shown turned inside out in figure 12B), in order to strengthen the connection of the zip 717 closing the front opening of the clothing item, the clothing item includes internally, in correspondence with the two buttonholes of the zip (which the teeth of the zip are bound to) two ribbon-like elements 780 which cover the buttonholes of the zip. These ribbon-like elements are suitable for concealing the buttonholes of the zip, while substantially leaving only the teeth 717L (figure 12C) of the zip visible, thus rendering the clothing item more attractive, and they are simultaneously suitable for strengthening the connection of the zip to the fabric that makes up the clothing item.

[0088] It is to be emphasized that the presence of these ribbons 780 used to strengthen and partially conceal the zip can also be advantageously adopted for the other clothing items illustrated so far.

[0089] Furthermore, advantageously is the pocket 720D located below the lower terminal section 717B of the zip supplemented by a further pocket with smaller dimensions 720E which includes an opening 720F accessible from inside the clothing item. In this way, opening the zip in its lower section 717B only, by acting on the lower cursor 717N (figure 12 C), makes it possible to open the zip on the lower side only (figure 12C) and to access said additional pocket 720E to house, for instance, a mobile phone therein, without being obliged to take the complete clothing item off or to completely open the zip. Advantageously is the additional pocket 720E a flat pocket, i.e. a pocket comprising one fabric panel only bound to the face of the pocket 720D underneath along the edges, for instance by way of heat seals 720G. Figure 12D shows a front view of the clothing item when resting on a plane and when the zip 717 is completely open, this figure highlights that the opening that forms in the clothing item is particularly vast and makes it possible to easily wear the clothing item itself, makes also it possible to easily access whatever is worn or provided under the clothing item, and finally warranties a big perspirability.

[0090] This technical solution concerning the additional pocket 720 can also be advantageously provided in the other clothing items illustrated so far.

[0091] Advantageously, according to the invention, if one measures the distance H3 (figure 12A) from the lower end 717E of the zip 717 to the point P where the zip 717 intersects the part 714 of the clothing item that overlaps the base of the neck, and the distance H1 from the front edge 705C of the clothing item to said lower end 717E of the zip, said distances H3 and H1 are substantially equal to or differ from each other by some 30%, preferably 20%, and even more preferably 10%.

[0092] According to a further variant here not illustrated, the zip 17 includes an additional upper extremal part suitable for also completely or at least partially closing the edges 14T of the hood 14B, so as to be able to reduce the extension of the upper opening of the clothing item, in correspondence with the face of that who wears the clothing item.

Claims

1. A clothing item comprising an upper element (1) suitable for at least partially covering the trunk (2), said upper element (1) comprising:

- a front part (5) suitable for at least partially covering the front part of the trunk, said front part comprising:

- a first upper region (6) suitable for at least partially covering an upper zone (6A) of the front part of the trunk, comprised between the base of the neck (3) and the breasts (10), the latter being covered by said first region (6),

- a second lower region (7) provided below said first region (6) and suitable for at least partially covering a lower zone (7A) of the front part of the trunk comprising the abdomen (9) and/or the hips (4), and

- a third region (8) intermediate between said first region (6) and second region (7), provided below the breasts (10) and above the abdomen and the hips (4),

- a rear part (11) suitable for at least partially covering the rear part of the trunk (2),

- an upper part (14) delimiting an opening (15) for passing the head through,

- wherein said front part also comprises a front opening (16) and means (17) suitable for allowing the closing and opening of said front opening associated with the edges (16T) delimiting said front opening,

- wherein said front opening (16) and said closing/opening means (17) comprise:
an upper extremal section (16A; 17A) which departs from said opening (15) for passing the head through and extends in said front part (5) of the upper element (1), and a lower extremal section (16B; 17B);

- wherein said front opening (16) and said closing/opening means (17) comprise at least a first intermediate section (16C, 17C) and a second intermediate section (16D; 17D) between said upper and lower extremal sections (16A; 17A and 16B; 17B respectively),

- wherein said first intermediate section (16C; 17C) is shaped and dimensioned so as to position itself in the space (10B) of the trunk located between the two breasts (10),

characterized in that:

- said second intermediate section (16D; 17D) is curved and is shaped and dimensioned so as to position itself immediately below either breast (10) and so as to partially externally surround a lower terminal portion (10D) of said one breast,

- said lower extremal section (16B; 17B) of said front opening (16) and said closing/opening means (17) is rectilinear and is only provided in said third intermediate region (8) of the front part (5) of said upper element (1) of the clothing item, so that the front opening (16) and its respective opening/closing means (17) do not also extend in said second lower region (7) of the front part (5) of the clothing item suitable for covering the abdomen (9) and/or the hips (4), and so that said second lower region (7) of the clothing item suitable for covering the abdomen (9) and/or the hips (4) includes a continuous portion of cloth without said front opening (16) and its respective closing/opening means(17).

2. A clothing item according to claim 1, characterized in that the opening/closing means (17) consist of one continuous zip suitable for completely closing the front opening (16).

3. A clothing item according to claim 1, characterized in that at least the second intermediate section (17D) of the closing/opening means (17), shaped and dimensioned in such a way as to position itself immediately below either breast (10), has a curved development so as to at least partially externally follow the curved profile of the lower terminal portion (10D) of said one breast, without getting in contact with said lower terminal portion (10D) of the breast.

4. A clothing item according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the lower extremal section (17B) of the closing/opening means (17) is shaped and dimensioned so as to position itself below a lower breast joining (10A), in the intercostal space defined by the sixth and twelfth ribs and above the hips (4).

5. A clothing item according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the upper and lower extremal section (17A and 17B respectively) of the closing/opening means (17) are tilted with respect to each other so as to form an angle (B1) in the range from 160 to 20°, preferably in the range from 130° to 60°, and even more preferably in the range from 115° to 80°.

6. A clothing item according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the upper element (1) is made from at least one woven material.

7. A clothing item according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the third intermediate region (8) of the front part (5) of the upper element (1) begins immediately below a lower terminal portion of the first upper region (6) suitable for at least partially covering an upper zone (6A) of the front part of the trunk, comprised between the base of the neck (3) and the breasts (10), and extends along a section ranging from approximately 1 cm to 35 cm below said lower terminal portion of said front part, and preferably along a section ranging from approximately 20 cm to 30 cm, and even more preferably along a section ranging from approximately 1 cm to 15 cm, or from 1 cm to 10 cm.

8. A clothing item according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the front part (5) of the upper element (1) of the clothing item includes a lower region (7), suitable for covering the abdomen and/or the hips (4) and without closing/opening means (17), said lower region (7) featuring a height having a value ranging from approximately one fourth to approximately fifth thirds of the value of the height of the other regions of said front part comprising the closing/opening means (17), preferably ranging from approximately half said value of the height of the other regions to a value of approximately equal to the value the height of the other regions.

9. A clothing item according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the closing/opening means (17) are shaped so as to form one continuous rectilinear and curved line when closed.

10. A clothing item according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the closing/opening means (17) consist of a zip and in that said zip is provided with two cursors, so that it can be opened and closed starting from both end portions thereof.

11. A clothing item according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the clothing item internally comprises a first pocket (720) placed below with respect to the lower extremal section (717B) of the closing/opening means (717), and in that superimposed to said first pocket there is provided a second pocket (720E) which has an opening accessible from inside the clothing item, in particular said second pocket being a flat pocket, or a pocket comprising one fabric panel only bound to an internal face of said first pocket along the edges.

12. A clothing item according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the upper part delimiting an opening for passing the head through, is of a type selected from the following ones:

- a low type, i.e. a type featuring an annular shape suitable for substantially covering the base of the neck only, i.e. suitable for delimiting the opening for passing the head through only, or

- a high or medium to high type, i.e. a type featuring a tubular shape when the closing and opening means are closed, suitable for also covering a part of the neck, and in any way suitable for delimiting the opening 15 for passing the head through.

13. A clothing item according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the lower terminal end (17E) of the closing/opening means (17) departs from the side seam (12) that joins the front part to the rear part of the clothing item or is provided at a distance preferably ranging from 0.5 cm to 5 cm, from said seam.

14. A clothing item according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that it is shaped as a hooded or non-hooded sweatshirt, or as a sweater, or as a jacket.

Ansprüche

1. Bekleidungsstück umfassend ein zur mindestens teilweisen Abdeckung des Oberkörpers (2) geeignetes Oberteil (1), wobei das genannte Oberteil (1) das folgende umfasst:

- ein zur mindestens teilweisen Abdeckung des Vorderoberkörpers geeignetes Vorderteil (5), wobei das genannte Vorderteil umfasst:

- einen ersten, zur mindestens teilweisen Abdeckung einer oberen Zone (6A) des Vorderoberkörpers geeigneten, oberen Bereich (6) zwischen der Halsbasis (3) und den Brüsten (10), wobei diese durch den genannten ersten Bereich (6) abgedeckt sind,

- einen zweiten, unter dem genannten ersten Bereich (6) angeordneten und zur mindestens teilweisen Abdeckung einer unteren, das Abdomen (9) und/oder die Hüften (4) umfassenden Zone (7A) des Vorderoberkörpers geeigneten, unteren Bereich (7), und

- einen dritten, zwischen den genannten ersten Bereich (6) und zweiten Bereich (7) abgeordneten, unter den Brüsten (10) und über dem Abdomen und den Hüften (4) vorhandenen, mittleren Bereich (8),

- ein zur mindestens teilweisen Abdeckung des Hinteroberkörpers (2) geeignetes Hinterteil (11),

- ein eine Öffnung (15) zum Kopfdurchlaufen begrenzendes Oberteil (14),

- worin das genannte Vorderteil eine vordere Öffnung (16) sowie zum Schliessen und Öffnen der genannten vorderen Öffnung geeignete Mittel (17) auch umfasst, welche den die genannte vordere Öffnung begrenzenden Rändern (16T) zugeordnet sind,

- worin die genannte vordere Öffnung (16) und die genannten Schliess-/Öffnungsmittel (17) einen von der genannten Öffnung (15) zum Kopfdurchlaufen abweichenden und in dem genannten Vorderteil (5) des Oberteils (1) verlaufenden, oberen extremalen Abschnitt (16A; 17A), sowie einen unteren extremalen Abschnitt (16B; 17B) umfassen;

- worin die genannte vordere Öffnung (16) und die genannten Schliess-/Öffnungsmittel (17) mindestens einen ersten mittleren Abschnitt (16C, 17C) und einen zweiten mittleren Abschnitt (16D; 17D) zwischen den genannten oberen und unteren extremalen Abschnitten (16A; 17A beziehungsweise 16B; 17B) umfassen,

- worin der genannte erste mittlere Abschnitt (16C; 17C) so gestaltet und dimensioniert ist, dass er sich in dem Raum (10B) des Oberkörpers zwischen den beiden Brüsten (10) positioniert,

dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass:

- der genannte zweite mittlere Abschnitt (16D; 17D) gekrümmt ist und so gestaltet und dimensioniert ist, dass er sich unmittelbar unter einer der Brüste (10) positioniert, so dass er einen unteren Endabschnitt (10D) der genannten einen Brust teilweise von außen umgibt,

- der genannte untere extremale Abschnitt (16B; 17B) der genannten vorderen Öffnung (16) und der genannten Schliess-/Öffnungsmittel (17) geradlinig ist und nur in dem dritten mittleren Bereich (8) des Vorderteils (5) des genannten Oberteils (1) des Bekleidungsstück vorhanden ist, so dass die vordere Öffnung (16) und die entsprechende Schliess-/Öffnungsmittel (17) in dem genannten, zur Abdeckung des Abdomens (9) und/oder der Hüften (4) geeigneten, zweiten unteren Bereich (7) des Vorderteils (5) des Bekleidungsstücks nicht verlaufen und so dass der genannte, zur Abdeckung des Abdomens (9) und/oder der Hüften (4) geeignete, zweite untere Bereich (7) des Bekleidungsstücks ein durchgehendes Stoffstück ohne die genannte vordere Öffnung (16) und die entsprechende Schliess-/Öffnungsmittel (17) umfasst.

2. Bekleidungsstück nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Schliess-/Öffnungsmittel (17) aus einem durchgehenden, zur vollständigen Schließung der vorderen Öffnung (16) geeigneten Reißverschluss bestehen.

3. Bekleidungsstück nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass mindestens der zweite mittlere Abschnitt (17D) der Schliess-/Öffnungsmittel (17), der so gestaltet und dimensioniert ist, dass er sich unmittelbar unter einem der Brüste (10) positioniert, eine gekrümmte Entwicklung hat, so dass er der gekrümmten Kontur des unteren Endabschnitts (10D) der genannten einen Brust mindestens teilweise von außen folgt, ohne mit dem genannten unteren Endabschnitt (10D) der Brust in Berührung zu kommen.

4. Bekleidungsstück nach irgendeinem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der untere extremale Abschnitt (17B) der Schliess-/Öffnungsmittel (17) so gestaltet und dimensioniert ist, dass er sich unter einer unteren Brustverbindung (10A), in dem durch die sechste und die zwölfte Rippe über den Hüften (4) definierten interkostalen Raum, positioniert.

5. Bekleidungsstück nach irgendeinem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der obere extremale Abschnitt und der untere extremale Abschnitt (beziehungsweise 17A und 17B) der Schliess-/Öffnungsmittel (17) gegeneinander geneigt sind, so dass sie einen Winkel (B1) bilden, der zwischen 160 und 20°, vorzugsweise zwischen 130° und 60° und noch mehr vorzugsweise zwischen 115° und 80° liegt.

6. Bekleidungsstück nach irgendeinem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Oberteil (1) aus mindestens einem Gewebe ist.

7. Bekleidungsstück nach irgendeinem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der dritte mittlere Bereich (8) des Vorderteils (5) des Oberteils (1) unmittelbar unter einem unteren Endbereich des ersten, zur mindestens teilweisen Abdeckung einer oberen Zone (6A) des Vorderoberkörpers geeigneten, oberen Bereichs (6) zwischen der Halsbasis (3) und den Brüsten (10) beginnt und entlang eines Abschnitts zwischen etwa 1 cm und 35 cm unter dem genannten unteren Endbereich des genannten Vorderteils, vorzugsweise entlang eines Abschnitts zwischen etwa 20 cm und 30 cm und noch mehr vorzugsweise entlang eines Abschnitts zwischen etwa 1 cm und 15 cm, oder zwischen 1 cm und 10 cm, liegt.

8. Bekleidungsstück nach irgendeinem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Vorderteil (5) des Oberteils (1) des Bekleidungsstücks einen unteren, zur Abdeckung des Abdomens und/oder der Hüften (4) geeigneten und ohne Schliess-/Öffnungsmittel (17) Bereich (7) umfasst, wobei der genannte untere Bereich (7) eine Höhe hat, die zwischen etwa einem Viertel und etwa fünf Dritteln des Werts der Höhe der anderen, Schliess-Öffnungsmittel (17) umfassenden Bereiche des genannten Vorderteils, vorzugsweise zwischen etwa der Hälfte des genannten Werts der Höhe der anderen Bereiche und etwa demselben Wert der Höhe der anderen Bereiche, liegt.

9. Bekleidungsstück nach irgendeinem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Schliess-Öffnungsmittel (17) so gestaltet sind, dass sie eine durchgehende geradlinige und gekrümmte Linie beim Schliessen bilden.

10. Bekleidungsstück nach irgendeinem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Schliess-Öffnungsmittel (17) aus einem Reißverschluss bestehen und dass der genannte Reißverschluss mit zwei Cursors versehen ist, so dass er von jedem Ende geöffnet und geschlossen werden kann.

11. Bekleidungsstück nach irgendeinem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Bekleidungsstück eine erste, unterhalb des unteren extremalen Abschnitts (717B) der Schliess-/Öffnungsmittel (717) liegende Tasche (720) innenseitig umfasst, und dass oberhalb der genannten ersten Tasche eine zweite Tasche (720E) vorhanden ist, die eine von der Innenseite des Bekleidungsstücks zugängliche Öffnung hat, wobei die genannte zweite Tasche insbesondere eine flache Tasche ist oder eine Tasche mit einer Gewebeplatte, die nur mit einer Innenseite der genannten ersten Tasche entlang der Ränder verbunden ist.

12. Bekleidungsstück nach irgendeinem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das die Öffnung zum Kopfdurchlaufen begrenzendes Oberteil aus einer der folgenden Arten gewählt ist:

- eine niedrige Art, das heißt eine ringförmige Art zur wesentlichen Abdeckung nur der Halsbasis, das heißt eine zur Begrenzung nur der Öffnung zum Kopfdurchlaufen geeignete Art, oder

- eine hohe oder mittlere bis hohe Art, dass heißt eine Art mit einer rohrförmigen Gestalt im geschlossenen Zustand der Schliess- und Öffnungsmittel, die zur Abdeckung auch eines Teils des Hals geeignet ist und jedenfalls zur Begrenzung der Öffnung (15) zum Kopfdurchlaufen geeignet ist.

13. Bekleidungsstück nach irgendeinem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der untere Endbereich (17E) der Schliess-/Öffnungsmittel (17) von der das Vorderteil mit dem Hinterteil des Bekleidungsstücks verbindenden Seitennaht (12) abweicht oder in einem Abstand vorzugsweise zwischen 0,5 cm und 5 cm von der genannten Naht vorhanden ist.

14. Bekleidungsstück nach irgendeinem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass es als Kapuzensweatshirt, als Sweatshirt ohne Kapuze, als Pullover oder als Jacke ausgestaltet ist.

Revendications

1. Article de vêtement comprenant un élément supérieur (1) adapté pour couvrir au moins partiellement le torse (2), ledit élément supérieur (1) comprenant :

- une partie frontale (5) adaptée pour couvrir au moins partiellement la partie frontale du torse, ladite partie frontale comprenant :

- une première région supérieure (6) adaptée pour couvrir au moins partiellement une zone supérieure (6A) de la partie frontale du torse, comprise entre la base du cou (3) et les seins (10), ces derniers étant couverts par ladite première région (6),

- une seconde région inférieure (7) prévue au-dessous de ladite première région (6) et adaptée pour couvrir au moins partiellement une zone inférieure (7A) de la partie frontale du torse comprenant l'abdomen (9) et/ou les hanches (4), et

- une troisième région (8) intermédiaire entre lesdites première région (6) et seconde région (7), prévue au-dessous des seins (10) et au-dessus de l'abdomen et des hanches (4),

- une partie postérieure (11) adaptée pour couvrir au moins partiellement la partie postérieure du torse (2),

- une partie supérieure (14) délimitant une ouverture (15) pour le passage de la tête,

- où ladite partie frontale comprend aussi une ouverture frontale (16) et des moyens (17) adaptés pour permettre l'ouverture et la fermeture de ladite ouverture frontale associée aux bords (16T) délimitant ladite ouverture frontale,

- où ladite ouverture frontale (16) et lesdits moyens de fermeture/ouverture (17) comprennent : une section extrémale supérieure (16A ; 17A), qui s'écart de ladite ouverture (15) pour le passage de la tête et s'étend dans ladite partie frontale (5) de l'élément supérieur (1), et une section extrémale inférieure (16B ; 17B) ;

- où ladite ouverture frontale (16) et lesdits moyens de fermeture/ouverture (17) comprennent au moins une première section intermédiaire (16C, 17C) et une seconde section intermédiaire (16D ; 17D) entre lesdites sections extrémales supérieures et inférieures (respectivement 16A ; 17A et 16B ; 17B),

- où ladite première section intermédiaire (16C ; 17C) a une forme et une dimension telles qu'elle s'installe dans l'espace (10B) du torse entre les deux seins (10),

caractérisé en ce que :

- ladite seconde section intermédiaire (16D ; 17D) est incurvée et a une forme et une dimension telles qu'elle s'installe immédiatement au-dessous d'un des seins (10) et de sorte à entourer partiellement à l'extérieur une portion terminale inférieure (10D) dudit un sein,

- ladite section extrémale inférieure (16B ; 17B) de ladite ouverture frontale (16) et desdits moyens de fermeture/ouverture (17) est rectiligne et est prévue seulement dans ladite troisième région intermédiaire (8) de la partie frontale (5) dudit élément supérieur (1) de l'article de vêtement, de sorte que l'ouverture frontale (16) et les respectifs moyens d'ouverture/fermeture (17) ne s'étendent pas aussi dans ladite seconde région inférieure (7) de la partie postérieure (5) de l'article de vêtement adapté pour couvrir l'abdomen (9) et/ou les hanches (4), et de sorte que ladite seconde région inférieure (7) de l'article de vêtement adapté pour couvrir l'abdomen (9) et/ou les hanches (4) comprend une portion continue de tissu sans ladite ouverture frontale (16) et les respectifs moyens de fermeture/ouverture (17).

2. Article de vêtement selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les moyens d'ouverture/fermeture (17) sont constitués d'une fermeture éclair continue adaptée pour fermer complètement l'ouverture frontale (16).

3. Article de vêtement selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce qu'au moins la seconde section intermédiaire (17D) des moyens de fermeture/ouverture (17), ayant une forme et une dimension telles qu'elle s'installe immédiatement au-dessous d'un des seins (10), a un développement incurvé de sorte à suivre au moins partiellement à l'extérieur le profile incurvé de la portion terminale inférieure (10D) dudit un sein, sans entrer en contact avec ladite portion terminale inférieure (10D) du sein.

4. Article de vêtement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la section extrémale inférieure (17B) des moyens de fermeture/ouverture (17) a une forme et une dimension telles qu'elle s'installe au-dessous d'une jonction inférieure des seins (10A), dans l'espace intercostal défini par la sixième côte et par la douzième côte et au-dessus des hanches (4).

5. Article de vêtement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la section extrémale supérieure et la section extrémale inférieure (respectivement 17A et 17B) des moyens de fermeture/ouverture (17) sont inclinées par rapport l'une à l'autre de sorte à former un angle (B1) dans la plage comprise entre 160 et 20°, préférablement dans la plage comprise entre 130° et 60° et encore plus préférablement dans la plage entre 115° et 80°.

6. Article de vêtement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'élément supérieur (1) est constitué d'au moins un matériau tissé.

7. Article de vêtement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la troisième région intermédiaire (8) de la partie frontale (5) de l'élément supérieur (1) commence immédiatement au-dessous d'une portion terminale inférieure de la première région supérieure (6) adaptée pour couvrir au moins partiellement une zone supérieure (6A) de la partie frontale du torse, comprise entre la base du cou (3) et les seins (10), et elle s'étend le long d'une section comprise entre environ 1 cm et 35 cm au-dessous de ladite portion terminale inférieure de ladite partie frontale, préférablement le long d'une section comprise entre environ 20 cm et 30 cm, et encore plus préférablement le long d'une section comprise entre environ 1 cm et 15 cm, ou bien entre 1 cm et 10 cm.

8. Article de vêtement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la partie frontale (5) de l'élément supérieur (1) de l'article de vêtement comprend une région inférieure (7), adaptée pour couvrir l'abdomen et/ou les hanches (4) et sans des moyens de fermeture/ouverture (17), ladite région inférieure (7) ayant une hauteur avec une valeur compris entre approximativement un quart et approximativement cinq tiers de la valeur de la hauteur des autres régions de la dite partie frontale comprenant les moyens de fermeture/ouverture (17), préférablement comprise entre approximativement la moitié de ladite valeur de la hauteur des autres régions et un valeur approximativement égale à la valeur de la hauteur des autres régions.

9. Article de vêtement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de fermeture/ouverture (17) ont une forme telle qu'elle forme une ligne continue rectiligne et incurvée lorsqu'elle est fermée.

10. Article de vêtement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le moyens de fermeture/ouverture (17) sont constitués d'une fermeture éclair et en ce que ladite fermeture éclair est pourvue de deux curseurs, de sorte qu'elle peut être ouverte et fermée à partir de toutes les deux portions finales.

11. Article de vêtement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'article de vêtement comprend à l'intérieur une première poche (720) agencée au-dessous de la section extrémale inférieure (717B) des moyens de fermeture/ouverture (717), et en ce qu'une seconde poche (720E) est superposée à ladite première poche, ayant une ouverture accessible de l'intérieur de l'article de vêtement, en particulier la dite seconde poche étant une poche plate ou bien une poche comprenant un panneau en tissu lié seulement à une face intérieure de la dite première poche le long des bords.

12. Article de vêtement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la partie supérieure délimitant une ouverture pour le passage de la tête est d'un type sélectionné entre les suivants :

- un type bas, à savoir un type qui a une forme annulaire adaptée pour ne couvrir substantiellement que la base du cou, à savoir adaptée pour délimiter l'ouverture pour le passage seulement de la tête, ou bien

- un type haut ou de moyen à haut, à savoir un type ayant une forme tubulaire lorsque les moyens de fermeture et d'ouverture sont fermés, adaptée pour couvrir aussi une partie du cou et de toute façon adaptée pour délimiter l'ouverture 15 pour le passage de la tête.

13. Article de vêtement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'extrémité terminale inférieure (17E) des moyens de fermeture/ouverture (17) s'écarte de la couture latérale (12) qui réunit la partie frontale à la partie postérieure de l'article de vêtement ou est prévue à une distance préférablement comprise entre 0,5 cm et 5 cm de ladite couture.

14. Article de vêtement selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'il a la forme de sweat à capuche ou sweat sans capuche, ou bien de chandail ou bien de veste.

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