The present invention relates to a bra which is preferably backless.

The primary function of a bra is to provide necessary support for the weight of the breasts as well as at least partly immobilise the breasts. The support enables the wearer to go about their day and conduct physical activities which may otherwise be more challenging.

Traditional bras have a band that extends from one cup, spans the width of the back and connects to the other cup. For clarity, the band may be referred to as a back-spanning band or a back band. The back-spanning band may comprise or may even consist of two portions which are connectably engageable with each other. These two portions are referred to as wings. The two cups are connected by a central gore at the front. If any shoulder straps are provided, each shoulder strap extends from a cup, over the shoulder and connects to the back-spanning band, in a spaced-apart position relative to the cups. In traditional bras, the band provides all or a majority of the support to the breasts, whilst the straps provide a minority or no support.

An in-use bra is not intended to be visible to the general public. On occasions where wearing a backless garment is called for, the visible back-spanning band across the back is generally considered unsightly. On such occasions, the user may omit to wear a bra entirely. However, the user may therefore have no bust support. Additionally, a secondary function of a bra may be to provide the user with a more attractive cleavage, for example, by repositioning, reshaping and/or pushing up the breasts. The reshaping of the breasts may even be necessary to maintain the garment in place, preventing the garment from sliding down the waist.

One solution is a first type of “backless” bra in which the bra band spanning the back is less visible due to being made of transparent plastic. However, the back-spanning band is still visible, particular as it is usually shiny. Additionally, as the transparent plastic ages, it often yellows, thereby becoming unsightlier. Stretching due to material fatigue is also a problem.A second solution is a second type of “backless” bra which has a standard bra band, but the back-spanning band is positioned very low across the back, so as to be hidden by the fabric of a garment worn over the bra. Such bras do not tend to provide good support because the back-spanning band is not able to support some of the weight of the breasts. A third solution is a third type of “backless bra” which is a strapless and backless stick-on bra. However, such a bra provides minimal to no support whilst the ability to reshape and/or push up the breasts is limited or absent. The strength of the adhesive may weaken with time and washes such that the stick-on bra may have a more limited lifespan compared to the first and second types of backless bras.

A further issue with all bras provided with straps is that the shoulder strap slides off the shoulder more easily and fails to provide any support if it is too long. On the other hand, a shoulder strap that is too short is uncomfortable. There is also a risk of pulling up the cups up and over the breasts. To adjust the length of the shoulder strap, the user slides a slider along the length of the strap to a selected position. In theory, the slider remains in the desired position due to the friction between the slider and the strap. However, in practice, the weight of the breasts acting on the sliders may result in the sliders moving away from the selected position and the length of the strap involuntarily increasing. Undesirable lengthening of the strap is also caused by material fatigue of the elastically deformable strap over time.

The present invention seeks to provide a solution to these problems.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a backless bra devoid of at least part of a back-spanning band, the backless bra comprising: a left cup for receiving the left breast of a user; a right cup for receiving the right breast of the user; a flexible elongate left shoulder strap extending from an upper part of the left cup and connecting to a lower part of the same cup; a flexible elongate right shoulder strap extending from an upper part of the right cup and connecting to a lower part of the same cup; each shoulder strap having: a first strap part, a second strap part, and a releasable fastener for releasably fastening the first strap part and the second strap part, the fastener having a first fastener element and a second fastener element detachably engageable with the first fastener element.

The length of the straps of the bra is adjustable via selectable engagement of a multi-part fastener associated with the strap parts. The fastener preferably provides an engagement at a discrete position such that the risk of relative translation causing lengthening is reduced or prevented. The strap parts and/or fastener elements may be replaceable for customisability and/or increasing the lifespan of the bra. The bra is additionally aesthetically pleasing due to not having a visible band extending across the back when the user is wearing a backless dress or other backless garment. Preferably, at least one said shoulder strap may comprise a plurality of said second fastener elements with which the first fastener element may be selectably engageable. Furthermore, the plurality of second fastener elements may extend along, be provided on or along, or distributed along a longitudinal extent of the shoulder strap for enabling shortening or lengthening of the shoulder strap via the engagement of the first fastener element with a selected second fastener element. Additionally or alternatively, the fastener may comprise a plurality of first fastener elements. A plurality of first and/or second fastener elements provides a choice for the user in terms of which fastener elements to utilise. Redundancy of fastener elements may enable the bra to be usable for longer, even when one of the fastener elements breaks, thereby increasing the lifespan of the bra. Engaging multiple first and/or second fastener elements simultaneously reduces the risk of the fastener accidentally disengaging. Additionally, the same force is spread across a greater number of fastener elements. As such, the risk of structural failure of any particular fastener element is reduced. The size of each fastener element of the plurality may also be reduced. Preferably, at least one of the fastener elements may include a loop, and more preferably a loop of fabric. The fabric may be more comfortable to wear. Fabric may be easy to wash. Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the fastener elements may include a buckle. Beneficially, the buckle may include a spike. The spike, which is preferably movable, is preferably receivable through the strap, such as through an eye or buttonhole in the strap. However, it may easily be envisioned that, instead of extending through the strap, the buckle spike may be engageable with another feature, such as an eyelet that is non-movable relative to the strap part. The spike, being received in the eye, buttonhole, eyelet or in engagement with any other non-movable element provides a physical block or abutment which prevents or inhibits the buckle sliding along the length of the strap. A buckle may also be aesthetically pleasing.

Optionally, at least one of the fastener elements may include a hook or hook element. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the fastener elements may include a button. Furthermore, at least one of the fastener elements may include an eye. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the fastener elements may include a buttonhole. Optionally, at least two of the fastener elements may include complementarily engageable popper portions. Advantageously, the fastener may include hook and loop portions. Hooks, eyes, eyelets, buttonholes, press studs, hook and loop portions such as Velcro (RTM), and any other suitable fastener, are all possible fastener elements that may be employed instead of or in addition to a buckle. A plurality of such fastener elements may be provided on the same bra. The same strap may even have multiple fasteners.

Preferably, at least part of the left shoulder strap and/or at least part of the right shoulder strap may be formed of a non-stretchable material for inhibiting or preventing stretching and thereby elongation of the shoulder strap due to material fatigue. The elongation of the strap due to material fatigue over time is prevented or inhibited.

Preferably, the bra may further comprise a front band extending from at or adjacent to at least one of: a lower portion of the left cup, a lower portion of the right cup, and if provided, a central gore connecting the left cup to the right cup. Beneficially, the front band may be formed at least in part from an elastically deformable material. The front band may provide additional support by preventing or inhibiting the cups moving away from each other. The front band may also support the central gore by reducing the forces acting on the central gore.

Beneficially, the front band may include a friction-enhancing element. Preferably, the frictionenhancing element may be provided on an inwardly-facing surface of the front band. Beneficially, a friction-enhancing element provided on the inwardly-facing surface of the front band in-use prevents or inhibits the front band, and thus the bra from moving along the user’s body due to the increased friction with the skin. In other words, the friction-enhancing element may in-use provide an immobilising effect. As such, the need for the adhesive support to prevent or inhibit movement of the bra along the body, in other words, longitudinally and/or circumferentially, is reduced or eliminated. Instead, the adhesive support needs to prevent or inhibit the displacement of the bra in primarily or even only one direction in one direction: away from the user’s torso, rather than needing to oppose movement of the bra in a plurality of directions. This may beneficially also reduce the amount of adhesion required to be provided by the adhesive support, such that a weaker and/or smaller adhesive element can be used, in turn reducing the discomfort when removing the adhesive support from the skin and/or reduce the amount of adhesive chemicals the skin is in contact with.

Furthermore, the friction-enhancing element may include silicone. Silicone provides friction against the skin whilst simultaneously being comfortable. Silicone is waterproof, easily washable and hygienic.

Advantageously, the friction-enhancing element may extend in at least two different directions. Optionally, the friction-enhancing element may comprise an elongate element, such as a stripe. Optionally, the friction-enhancing element may include a sinusoidal elongate element. The friction-enhancing element may be more effective at preventing or inhibiting accidental displacement in a plurality of directions, at least compared to a friction-enhancing element extending only or substantially only in one direction.

Advantageously, the bra may further comprise an adhesive element. The adhesive element may prevent or inhibit movement of the in-use bra relative to the user’s body. For example, if provided on a strap, the adhesive may prevent or inhibit the strap moving relative to the shoulder. If provided at or or adjacent a cup, the risk of a breast escaping from a cup is reduced. The adhesive may be provided on the front band to prevent or inhibit the bra sliding upwards.

Preferably, the bra may further include an adhesive support for receiving the said adhesive element. Adhesive, such as glue, may cause discolouration and/or damage to the material or materials of the bra, such as the fabric, metal parts, and/or plastic parts. Thus, a dedicated adhesive support may provide a protective barrier between the material or materials of the bra and the adhesive. Additionally, a dedicated adhesive support may be less permeable or non- permeable to adhesive, compared to fabric. No adhesive or less adhesive is likely to penetrate into the support such that less adhesive may be required overall to achieve a given level of adherence.

Preferably, the adhesive support for receiving the said adhesive element may be tape. Tape can be stored in a rolled configuration for ease of storage. The length of tape may be selected as required. The adhesive support and adhesive element on the adhesive support may be referred to as adhesive tape.

Additionally, the adhesive support may be separably engageable with the front band and/or with at least one of: the left cup, the right cup, and a central gore connecting the left cup to the right cup. The adhesive may be provided separately to the bra, for example on a strip. This may increase the longevity of the adhesive, for example, due to the adhesive not being subjected to soap when the bra is washed.

Beneficially, the bra may further comprise a barrier element connected or connectable with at least one of the shoulder straps, the barrier element being positionable to overlie at least one of: the or at least one said first fastener element, and the or at least one said second fastener element. The barrier element can increase the comfort of the user if the barrier element is positioned between the fastener or part thereof and the skin. Additionally or alternatively, the barrier element can act as a barrier or shield to obscure the fastener from view, thereby providing a more aesthetic bra.

Furthermore, the barrier element may include a sleeve and/or a flap. A flap is simple, comfortable and easy to position. A sleeve can be positioned or positionable to enclose the fastener or at least part thereof. The sleeve can both obscure the fastener or part thereof from view as well as provide comfort to the user.

Optionally, the bra, and more preferably at least one shoulder strap thereof, comprises a frictionenhancing element for preventing or inhibiting accidental displacement of at least one said shoulder strap relative to the shoulder of the user. A friction-enhancing element or grip-enhancing element can prevent or inhibit undesirable movement, such as sliding, to the in-use bra relative to the user’s body. If a shoulder strap is provided with such a friction-enhancing element, the shoulder strap has a reduced risk of sliding over and/or off the shoulder.

Preferably, the friction-enhancing element may include at least one silicone portion. Silicone provides friction whilst being comfortable against the user’s skin. Silicone is also easy to clean.

Optionally, the bra may comprise a garment-engaging portion for securing a garment in a position relative to the user and/or relative to the bra. The bra may have a part or element which engages with a garment worn over the bra. By engaging with the garment, the garment engaging part may reducing the risk of the garment accidentally moving and/or the bra becoming visible.

Furthermore, the bra may comprise a strap-retainer for enclosing at least one of the strap parts. The strap-retainer may retain the first strap part and/or a free end thereof against the second strap part and/or a free end thereof. The risk of the fastener disengaging is reduced. The aesthetics of the bra may also be increased.

Backless bra may be provided as a kit of parts. The backless bra is provided as separate components, for ease of manufacture and/or transport.

Optionally, the kit of parts may comprise a further adhesive support such that the kit of parts may include at least two adhesive supports for enabling a user to select an adhesive support from the at least two adhesive supports. A plurality of adhesive supports provides a choice for the user. The adhesive supports may have different aesthetics. For example, the adhesive supports may have different colours. The different colours may reflect different skin tones. Different colours may be provided to match different coloured bras and/or different coloured garments. The user may select a specific coloured adhesive support to reduce the risk of the adhesive support being visible through the garment.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a backless bra devoid of at least part of a back-spanning band, the bra comprising: a left breast-receiving element; a right breastreceiving element; a flexible elongate left shoulder strap extending from and connecting to the left breast-receiving element; a flexible elongate right shoulder strap extending from and connecting to the right breast-receiving element; each shoulder strap having: a first strap part, a second strap part, and fastening means for fastening the first strap part and the second strap part, the fastening means having a first fastener element and a second fastener element engageable with the first fastener element. The bra has straps that are adjustable and/or replaceable in length by virtue of having a multi-part fastener. The bra may or may not have defined cups, thereby catering for smaller breasts.

The invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a perspective representation of a first embodiment of a backless bra in accordance with the first and second aspects of the invention, with fastening means of shoulder straps disengaged and with an adhesive support coated with an adhesive element shown disengaged from the front band;

Figure 2 illustrates a front view of the backless bra of Figure 1 , with the fastening means engaged and obscured from view by barrier elements;

Figure 3 is a back view of the backless bra of Figure 2;

Figure 4 shows part of a second embodiment of a backless bra in accordance with the first and second aspects of the invention;

Figure 5 illustrates a front view of a third embodiment of a backless bra, in accordance with the first and second aspects of the invention, with an adhesive support spaced apart from a front band of the backless bra for clarity;

Figure 6 shows a back view of the backless bra of Figure 5, with fastener elements disengaged from each other;

Figure 7 illustrates a close-up view of rectangle A shown in Figure 6; and

Figure 8 is a side view of the backless bra of Figure 5, with the adhesive support connected to the front band and fastener elements engaged with each other. Referring firstly to Figure 1 , there is shown a bra indicated generally at 10. The bra 10 in-use provides support for a user’s breasts. As shown, the bra 10 is preferably devoid of at least a portion of the back-spanning band. Thus, there is no portion of the bra 10 that spans or extends across a whole width of a user’s back in use. The bra 10 is therefore a backless bra. Even more preferably, the back-spanning band is completely omitted. It could easily be envisioned, however, that the bra may have a back- spanning band, for instance, to provide additional support.

The bra 10 preferably comprises a left breast-receiving element 12L, a right breast-receiving element 12R, a left shoulder strap 14L and a right shoulder strap 14R, but any of the above features may be omitted and/or a plurality of any of the above may be provided. The bra 10, and more preferably, each of the above features also comprises an outwardly-facing surface 16 and an inwardly-facing surface 18.

The left breast-receiving element or left breast-receiver 12L in-use receives the left breast. More preferably the left breast-receiving element 12L comprises a left cup 20L but this is optional.

The left cup 20L preferably has an upper region or upper part 22L and a lower region or part 24L. The upper part 22L and the lower part 24L are indicated in Figure 2. The left cup 20L may further comprise a left neckline 26L and a left lower perimeter 28L. The left neckline 26L and the left lower perimeter 28L are the edges of the left cup 20L. The neckline 26L or part thereof may optionally be considered to be a part of the upper region 22L. The upper region 22L may optionally comprise an apex 30L. The apex 30L is considered to be the highest area, zone or point of the cup 20L. The lower perimeter 28L or part thereof may be considered to be part of the lower part 24L.

The left cup 20L may be a soft cup or non-soft cup. A cup may be a shaped cup, but a non-shaped cup may be an option. In other words, it may have the shape of a breast. The cup, whether shaped or non-shaped, may be foldable or pliable, but non-foldable or non-pliable may be an option. The left cup 20L may optional have an underwire. If the bra 10 has cups, the bra 10 preferably also comprises a central gore 32 connecting the cups 20, but this feature may be omitted and/or a plurality of gores may be provided, for example, for extra strength. The cups 20 are preferably non-separably connected to each other, but separably connectable may be an option. For example, a fastener may be provided between the cups.

Similarly, the right breast-receiving element or right breast receiver 12R in-use receives the right breast. The right breast-receiving element 12R is similar to the left breast-receiving element 12L and is preferably the mirror image of the left breast-receiving element 12L. Thus, the right breastreceiving element 12R comprises an optional similar right cup 20R. Detailed description of the common features and caveats is omitted for brevity. Features that are the same as the left breastreceiving element 12L have similar reference numerals with the suffix “R” replacing the suffix “L”. If referring to either or both of the left and right corresponding features of the bra 10, the suffixes “L” and “R” can be omitted entirely.

The left shoulder strap 14L in-use is received around the user’s left shoulder. The left shoulder strap 14L extends from and connects to the left breast-receiving element 12L. More preferably, the left shoulder strap 14L extends from and connects to the left cup 20L. The left shoulder strap 14L is preferably flexible, pliable, or foldable. Preferably, all or at least part of the left shoulder strap 14L is formed of a non-stretchable or substantially non-stretchable material but this may be optional. In other words, the material may be non-elastically deformable. Non-stretchable or non-elastically deformable material may inhibit, prevent, or reduce stretching and thereby the elongation of the shoulder strap due to material fatigue and/or due to the weight of the breasts in-use. Any non-stretchable material may be used. Non-stretchable materials may include, for example, cotton, wool, bamboo fibres, or other natural fibres. Additionally or alternatively, the left shoulder strap 14L may be formed at least in part of a stretchable or elastically-deformable material, such as an elastomer. This may provide some comfort.

The left shoulder strap 14L is preferably elongate. The left shoulder strap 14L has a left first end 34L, a left second end 36L, a length, a width 38L and a thickness.

The left second end 36L connects to the left breast-receiving element 12L at a spaced-apart position relative to the left first end 34L, although the left first end and left second end may easily connect to the same or substantially the same location of the left breast-receiving element. More preferably, the left second end 36L connects to a lower position relative to the position of the left first end 34L, but the opposite may be envisioned. In the preferred embodiment, the left first end 34L connects at or adjacent to any of: the neckline 26L, the apex 30L, and the upper region 22L. The left second end 36L connects to or adjacent to the lower perimeter 28L and/or lower region 24L. In other words, the left shoulder strap 14L preferably extends from an upper part of the left cup 20L and connects to a lower part of the same cup. For clarity, the right shoulder strap 14R preferably extends from and connects to the right breast-receiving element 12R. More preferably, the right shoulder strap 14R preferably extends from an upper part of the right cup 20R and preferably connects to a lower part of the right cup 20R.

The left first end 34L and/or the left second end 36L are integrally formed with or connected to the left breast-receiving element 12L. Preferably, the left first end 34L and/or the left second end 36L are non-separably connectable to the left breast-receiving element 12L. It may easily be envisioned, however, that the first end and/or second end of either or both straps may be connected or connectable to the relevant breast-receiving element. The first end and/or second end of either or both straps may even be separably connectable to the relevant breast-receiving element. For example, one or both ends of a strap may have a hook and the breast receiving element may have a loop or eyelet for receiving the hook.

The length is considered to be the longitudinal extent extending from the left first end 34L to the left second end 36L.

The width or lateral extent 38L is illustrated in dashed lines in Figure 2. The strap 14L may have a constant width and/or a constant thickness. However, either or both the width 38L and the thickness may be variable. The width 38L may be a maximum, average, median, or minimum width. Preferably, the width 38L, and more preferably the average width 38L, is greater than a standard strap width but this may be omitted. The width 38L may be at least 1 centimetre (cm), although less than 1 cm may be an option. More preferably, the width 38L may be at least 2 cm, and even more preferably at least 3 cm. The width 38L may even be at least 4 cm. A greater width may improve the comfort to the user in-use as each strap may distribute the force due to the weight of the breasts over a greater area of the shoulder.

The left shoulder strap 14L preferably further comprises a left first strap part 40L, a left second strap part 42L and fastening means 44L for fastening the first strap part 40L and the second strap part 42L, although any of the above may be omitted and/or a plurality of any of the features may be provided.

The first strap part 40L and the second strap part 42L together form the length of the left shoulder strap 14L. If one or more further strap parts are provided, the first strap part, the second strap part and any number of the further strap parts may together form the length of the shoulder strap. The left first strap part 40L preferably includes the said left first end 34L. The second strap part 42L preferably includes the said left second end 36L. Additionally, the first strap part 40L further has a third end region 46L which includes a third end 48L. The second strap part 42L further has a fourth end region 50L which includes a fourth end 52L. The third end region 46L is preferably overlappable with the fourth end 52L, but non-overlappable is an option.

The fastening means or fastener 44L in-use enables fastening and more preferably releasable fastening of at least two said strap parts. Preferably, the at least two said strap parts are or include a said first strap part and a said second strap part, and even more preferably, the first strap part and the second strap part of a same shoulder strap.

The fastening means 44L has a first fastener element or part 54L and a second fastener element or part 56L, although either feature may be omitted and/or a plurality of either feature may be provided. The second fastener element or part 56L is engageable, and more preferably detachably or releasably engageable with the first fastener element 54L. The first fastener element 54L is preferably associated with the first strap part 40L and the second fastener element 56L is associated with the second strap part 42L. The first fastener element 54L is preferably provided at or adjacent to the third end region 46L, but away therefrom may be an option.

At least one of the left shoulder strap 14L and the right shoulder strap 14R comprises at least one and more preferably a plurality of first fastener elements 54L. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the left shoulder strap 14L and the right shoulder strap 14R comprises at least one and more preferably a plurality of second fastener elements 56L.

The plurality of first and/or second fastener elements may be distributed along the width and/or the length of a shoulder strap or a shoulder strap part thereof. Distribution along the width and/or length may enable redundancy of engagement points between the strap parts. This may be beneficial for several reasons. The bra 10 remains usable in the event of structural failure of a fastener element, thereby increasing the lifespan of the bra 10. Accidental disengagement of the strap parts due to multiple engagement points may be prevented or inhibited. Furthermore, the same force due to the weight of the breasts may be distributed such that the size of each individual fastener element may be reduced. The fastening means 44L may therefore be more comfortable and/or more discreet.

Distribution of fastening elements along the length of a said shoulder strap and/or a shoulder strap part thereof enables the user to choose the length of the shoulder strap by selecting which fastener elements are to be engaged with each other. In other words, the user can shorten or lengthen a said shoulder strap via the engagement of the or a selected second fastener element 56L with the or a selected said first fastener element 54L.

In the preferred embodiment, the fastening means 44L includes a buckle and an eye, although either feature may be omitted and/or a plurality of either feature may be provided. As shown, the or a said first fastener element 54L is the said buckle whilst the or a said second fastener element 56L is the said eye. The buckle preferably includes a, spike, tab or toggle, but this may be optional. The spike, tab or toggle is preferably movable, but non-movable may be an option. The spike, tab or toggle is preferably insertable into the or a said second fastener element 56L. This engagement prevents or inhibits the fastening means 44L sliding down the length of the shoulder strap.

In an alternative embodiment, it may easily be envisioned however that the or a said first fastener element may additionally or alternatively include an eye. The or a said second fastener element may additionally or alternatively include a buckle.

The left shoulder strap 14L is described in detail above. However, the person skilled in the art will understand that the right shoulder strap 14R is similar to the left shoulder strap 14L, have the same or similar right first end 34R, a right second end 36R, a length, a width 38R, a thickness, first strap part40R, a second strap part42R and fastening means 44R, third end region 46R, third end 48R, fourth end region 50R, fourth end 52R, first fastener element or part 54R, and second fastener element or part 56R. Detailed description of the common features is omitted for brevity. The caveats of the left shoulder strap 14L also apply to the right shoulder strap 14R. Features which are the same as the left shoulder strap 14L have similar reference numerals with the suffix “R” replacing the suffix “L”. Preferably, the left shoulder strap 14L is similar or identical to the right shoulder strap 14R but non-identical and/or dissimilar may be an option.

The bra 10 further includes an adhesive element 58, an adhesive support 60, a front band 62, at least one barrier element 64, at least one friction-enhancing element 66, at least one garmentengaging portion 68, and a strap retainer 70 but any of the above features may be omitted and/or a plurality of any of the above features may be provided. The adhesive element 58 is also referred to as an adhesive or adhesive portion. The adhesive element 58 prevents or inhibits accidental movement of the bra 10 relative to the user in use. The adhesive element 58 may include glue for example. The adhesive element 58 is preferably provided on the adhesive support 60 but this may be optional.

The adhesive support 60 in-use receives the said adhesive element 58. In other words, the adhesive support 60 provides a support or base on which the adhesive element 58 may be applied. The adhesive support 60 may be permeable, part permeable or non-permeable to fluid. The fluid may be any or any combination of adhesive, water, and air. A permeable or part permeable adhesive support 60 may enable sweat removal, thereby increasing the comfort of the user and/or enhancing the engagement with the skin.

The adhesive support 60 may be non-permeable. A non-permeable adhesive support 60 may be liquid-proof and/or air-tight. More preferably, the adhesive support 60 may be less permeable or non-permeable to the adhesive element 58. The adhesive support may provide a protective barrier between the material or materials of the bra 10 and the adhesive element 58. No adhesive or less adhesive element 58 is likely to penetrate the adhesive support 60 such that less adhesive element 58 may be required overall to achieve a given level of adherence.

The adhesive support 60 may comprise plastics, latex, metal, cellulose film, wax, fabric, any other suitable material, or any combination thereof. The wax may be any or any combination of: beeswax, paraffin, and any other wax or wax-like element. The adhesive support 60 preferably has a surface on which the adhesive element 58 is or may be applied. Adhesive element 58 may be provided on at least a majority of the surface, but a minority of the surface may be an option. The distribution of the adhesive element 58 is preferably a continuous strip, as best shown in Figure 1. However, any alternative to a continuous strip or rectangle may be provided. For example a discontinuous strip may be provided. The distribution of the adhesive element may be a non-strip. For example, the adhesive element may be applied in any shape, such as a curved shape, non-curved shape, part-curved shape, a polygonal shape, a circle, an oval, a line, or an abstract shape. The adhesive element may be applied in a plurality of spaced-apart shapes.

In the shown embodiment, the adhesive support 60 is separably engageable with the other parts of the bra 10, but non-separably engageable may be an option. More preferably, the adhesive support 60 is separably engageable with at least one of: the front band 62, the left breast-receiving element 12L, the right breast-receiving element 12R, the left strap 14L, the right strap 14R, and, if provided, the central gore 32. In the preferred embodiment, the adhesive support 60 and adhesive element 58 are provided as a strip or band of plastics material, to which glue is applied, preferably on one surface only of the adhesive support 60. An example of a suitable adhesive support 60 and adhesive element 58 may be an adhesive tape, such as Sellotape or adhesive tape such as that used for wounds. Optionally, an adhesive element 58 may be provided on one or a plurality of surfaces of the adhesive support 60. In other words, if the adhesive support 60 is tape, the tape may be double-sided adhesive tape. The bra 10 may be provided as a kit of parts. The front band, strip, or portion 62 is or includes a, preferably flexible, elongate element, although a non-flexible elongate element may be an option. The front band 62 is preferably elastically deformable, but non-elastically deformable may be an option. Preferably, the front band 62 comprises a polymeric and/or elastomeric material, but non-polymeric and/or non-elastomeric materials may be envisioned. An example of an alternative material may include natural fabrics or materials, such as cotton, wool, or bamboo fibres.

The front band 62 extends from at or adjacent at least one of: a lower portion of the left cup 20L or left breast-receiving element 12L, a lower portion of the right cup 20R or right breast-receiving element 12R, and, if provided, a central gore 32. Furthermore, the front band 62 may optionally extend from a said outwardly-facing surface 16 and/or a said inwardly-facing surface 18.

The front band 62 may optionally extend beyond either or both breast receiving elements, such as towards the back of the user in use.

The front band 62 is preferably connected or integrally formed with the breast-receiving elements 12 and/or central gore 32 but connectable, optionally separably connectable therewith may be an option. The front band 62 is formed at least in part from an elastically deformable material, also referred to as a stretchable material, but non-elastically deformable material may be an option. The front band 62 is preferably continuous, but discontinuous may be an option.

The front band 62 may have any or all of the following functions. A first function of the front band 62 may be to support the bust and prevent or inhibit the breasts from slipping out from below the breast-receiving elements 12. A second function may be to provide a support to the central gore 32 by reducing the force acting on the central gore 32. A third function may be to provide additional comfort. For example, if the bra 10 comprises an underwire, the front band 62 may provide padding between the underwire and the user’s torso. Additionally or alternatively the front band 62 may improve the user’s comfort by improving the fit of the bra 10. For example, the front band 62 may maintain and/or alter the relative distance, positioning and/or orientation of the cups 20 relative to each other. The front band 62 may even have a length that may be selectable and/or modifiable. A fourth function may be to provide an engagement surface 72 to which the adhesive support 60 coated with the adhesive element 58 may be at least partly engaged. The outwardly- facing surface of the front band 62 may be or may include said engagement surface 72. Additionally or alternatively, the inwardly-facing surface of the front band 62 may be or may include said engagement surface 72. The area covered by the adhesive element 58 on the adhesive support preferably partly overlaps with the front band 62. If the front band or part thereof is removable, the front band may be sacrificial. Although the terms “first”, “second”, “third” and “fourth” are used above, it is understood that these terms are only used to distinguish the functions, for clarity. All functions may be of equal importance to each other. Equally, any one of the functions may be of greater importance than any of the other functions.

At least one, and more preferably a plurality of barrier elements or barriers 64 may be provided. Each shoulder strap may have at least one barrier element 64. The, each or at least one barrier element 64 may have one or more of the following functions. A first function of the barrier element 64 is to increase the comfort and/or safety to the user by providing a barrier between the fastener or part thereof, and the user’s skin. For example, in the absence of a barrier element 64, hard parts such as a buckle and/or a hook may dig into the user’s body. If the fastener breaks the skin, the fastener can wound the user. In the case of metallic parts, the part may be cold which is uncomfortable to the user. A second function is to provide a barrier or shield to obscure the fastener or part thereof from view and/or to provide a barrier between the fastener 44L and a garment in-use. In the absence of the barrier element 64, the fastener 44L or part thereof may catch and/or rub a garment worn over the bra 10 and damage the garment. If no garment is worn by the user, the fastener 44L may be visible. If the fastener 44L is unsightly, the user may want to hide the fastener from view. Although the functions are referred to as first and second, this is merely notional. The importance of the functions of the barrier element 64 may be equal or unequal. The second function may be more important than the first function or vice-versa.

The barrier element 64 may be connected or connectable with at least one of the shoulder straps 14. The barrier element 64 may extend from or connect to a said outwardly-facing surface 16 and/or a said inwardly-facing surface 18. The barrier element 64 is positioned or positionable to overlie or overlap with at least part of the fastening means. More preferably, the barrier element 64 is positioned or positionable to overlie or overlap with at least one of: the or at least one said first fastener element 54L, and the or at least one said second fastener element 56L. The barrier element 64 includes a sleeve as shown but may include a flap or tab in addition to or instead of the sleeve. The barrier element 64 preferably comprises fabric. The barrier element 64 may be padded.

The friction-enhancing element 66, also referred to as a friction-enhancing part or a gripenhancing portion, in-use prevents or inhibits accidental movement of the bra 10 relative to the user. A plurality of friction-enhancing elements may be provided. More preferably, at least one friction-enhancing element 66 is provided on at least one, and more preferably each shoulder strap. Each, or at least one of the strap parts may comprise at least one friction-enhancing element 66. Thus, the shoulder strap is less likely to slide over the shoulder and/or up or down the user’s back in use. The shoulder strap is also less likely to slide off the user’s shoulder in use. In addition to or instead of the shoulder strap, any other part of the bra 10 may comprise at least one friction-enhancing element 66. For example, at least one friction-enhancing element 66 may be provided on one or both breast-receiving elements 12, as shown.

The, each or at least one friction-enhancing element 66, also referred to as a friction-enhancer, is connected or integrally formed with the relevant bra part. However, connectable and more preferably separably connectable may be an option for at least one friction-enhancing element. This alternative may enable a user to select any of: the number, shape, and position of the frictionenhancing element. The friction-enhancing element may be repositionable and/or replaceable. More preferably, the element 66 is provided on a said inwardly-facing surface 18, but this is optional. Preferably, the friction-enhancing element 66 includes a friction-enhancing material having a coefficient of friction of at least 0.38, although below 0.38 may be an option. More preferably, the coefficient of friction may be at least 0.45 and more preferably yet, the coefficient of friction may be at least 0.50.

In the preferred embodiment, the friction-enhancing element 66 includes silicone but any nonsilicone material may be envisioned in addition or instead, such as rubber, latex, or plastics.

In the shown embodiment, each friction-enhancing element 66 is provided in the form of a strip extending along at least part of the length of a shoulder strap. However, any alternative shape, size, position and distribution of the friction-enhancing material may be envisioned. For example, an alternative friction-enhancing element may include a plurality of spaced-apart circles of frictionenhancing material.

The garment-engaging portion 68 in-use helps to secure a garment or clothing worn over the bra 10 by the user. In other words, the garment-engaging portion 68 prevents or inhibits the garment from accidentally moving relative to the user’s body. Preventing or inhibiting accidental movement of clothing reduces the risk of accidentally revealing a private body part. Additionally or alternatively, the garment-engaging portion 68 prevents or inhibits the garment from accidentally moving relative to the bra 10. The risk of the bra 10 becoming visible in use may thereby be reduced. The garment-engaging portion or element 68 may be similar or identical to the frictionenhancing element, in that the garment-engaging portion 68 may increase the friction between the bra 10 and the garment. Such a garment-engaging portion 68 may comprise a frictionenhancing material, such as silicone.

The garment-engaging portion 68 may alternatively or additionally include at least one fastener portion. Optionally, the garment may comprise at least one further fastener portion which is complementarily engageable with the or a said fastener portion of the bra 10. For example, the fastener portion and further fastener portion may include hook and loop portions or Velcro (RTM). The garment-engaging portion 68 may preferably be positioned on an outwardly-facing or garment-facing surface of the bra 10, but this is optional. For example, the garment-engaging portion 68 may be positioned on an inwardly-facing or skin-facing surface of the bra 10. Preferably, at least one garment-engaging portion 68 is provided on at least one said shoulder strap and/or on at least one breast-receiving element 12. In the preferred embodiment, there is at least one garment-engaging portion 68 on each breast-receiving element 12. There is preferably also at least one garment-engaging portion 68 on each shoulder strap.

The strap retainer 70 is adapted or configured to in-use enclose or receive at least one of the strap parts. More preferably, the strap retainer 70 is connected or connectable to one of the strap parts and receives the other strap part or a further said strap parts of the, preferably same, shoulder strap. The strap retainer 70 thereby retains at least two strap parts in close proximity. This may reduce the risk of the fastener 44L accidentally disengaging. The strap retainer or element 70 may be positioned anywhere along the shoulder strap. Preferably, the strap retainer 70 is positioned so as to receive the third end region 46L and/or the fourth end region.

In use, the user obtains a bra 10 and fastens the strap parts of a same shoulder strap together if not already fastened together. If a multi-part fastener is provided, the user fastens the strap parts of the fastener elements together if not already fastened together.

If a plurality of first fastener elements 54L and/or second fastener elements 56L are provided, the user selects the or a said first fastener element 54L to connect with the or a said second fastener element 56L. The user is therefore able to select the length of each shoulder strap. If the length of the shoulder strap is not suitable, as the or each fastener element is preferably releasably engageable from a complementary fastener element, the user can alter the length of the shoulder strap by disengaging the engaged fastener elements and engaging a different pair of fastener elements. Preferably, the third end region 46 and the fourth end region 50 of each shoulder strap overlap or overlie each other, as shown.

The user may adjust the length of a said shoulder strap via engaging the fastening elements either before donning the bra 10 or whilst wearing the bra 10. In the former case, the user then simply threads their arms through the apertures formed by the straps and the breast-receiving elements 12 whilst positioning their breasts in each breast-receiving element 12. In the latter case, depending on the position of the fastening elements along the strap, the user may require the assistance of a further person to adjust the length. For example, if the fastener 44L is in-use positioned on the back of the user, the user may not be able to reach the fastener 44L. Alternatively, the fastener 44L may be positioned in use on the user’s shoulder or chest, in which case, no additional assistance from a third party may be required.

Here, the fastening elements of each strap are preferably a buckle with an optional spike and an eye. The relevant strap part is threaded through the buckle. The spike is inserted into the eye. The spike received in the eye thereby provides a physical abutment that prevents or inhibits the buckle from sliding along the shoulder strap. This physical abutment prevents or inhibits undesirable elongation of the shoulder strap. At least one of the strap parts of a same shoulder strap may be inserted into the strap retainer 70 if a strap retainer is provided.

Undesirable elongation of the shoulder strap due to material fatigue may also be further prevented or inhibited due to having non-elasticated strap parts, although elasticated or part-elasticated strap parts may be an option.

If a removable barrier element 64 is provided, the barrier element 64 may be connected to or positioned around the or each shoulder strap and more preferably around the fastener 44L. In the case of a sleeve, the sleeve may need to be positioned around a strap part prior to the engagement of the strap parts.

The or each friction-enhancing element 66 engages with the user’s skin and increases the friction therewith. The risk of the or each strap sliding off the shoulder may be reduced. In turn, the risk of the breasts escaping from the bra 10 or the risk of the bra 10 riding up the breasts may be reduced. The risk of the bra 10 riding up the breasts and/or away from the torso may be further reduced by positioning and connecting the adhesive support 60 to the front band 62 and to the user. In particular, the adhesive support 60, here in the form of adhesive tape, overlaps with both the user’s skin and the outwardly-facing surface of front band 62.

The user may subsequently don a garment, and preferably a backless garment.

If a garment-engaging portion 68 is provided, the garment or article of clothing may be engaged therewith. In the simplest case, the friction between the garment-engaging portion 68 and the garment may be sufficient to prevent or inhibit movement of the garment. If the garment-engaging portion is more elaborate, such as by comprising one or more fastening portions, the user may need to actively engage the fastening portion or portions with the garment. In any case, the garment-engaging portion 68 reduces the risk of revealing the bra 10 and/or a private part of the user’s body.

Whilst there is preferably no band spanning the user’s back in use in the preferred embodiment, it may easily be envisioned that one or both wings may be provided. The wings may have a shorter extent such that they may not be connectable with each other in use. One or both shoulder straps may connect to the wings instead of or in addition to the breast-receiving elements.

An example of a bra having breast-receiving elements devoid of one or both cups may be a sports bra. Sports bras may have a front panel or panels. The or each panel may not be cup-shaped. Optionally, the or each panel may be deformable so as to accommodate one or both breasts. Referring now to Figure 4, there is shown part of a second embodiment of a bra 110. Features of the second embodiment which are similar or identical to those of the first embodiment have similar reference numerals with the prefix “1” added. The second embodiment of the bra 110 is similar to the first embodiment of the bra 10, having similar left breast-receiving element 112L, right breast-receiving element 112R, left shoulder strap, right shoulder strap 114R, right first end 134R, right second end 136R, a length, a width, a thickness, first strap part 140R, a second strap part 142R, fastening means 144R, third end region 146R, third end 148R, fourth end region 150R, fourth end 152R, first fastener element or part 154R, and second fastener element or part 156R, an adhesive element, an adhesive support, front band 162, at least one barrier element, at least one friction-enhancing element, at least one garment-engaging portion, and a strap retainer, but any of above features may be omitted and/or a plurality of any of the above features may be provided. Detailed description of the common features is omitted for brevity. The caveats of the first embodiment are also applicable to the second embodiment and vice-versa.

Whilst part of the left breast-receiving element 112L and all of the left shoulder strap are not visible in Figure 4, it is understood that the left breast-receiving element 112L and left shoulder strap are preferably mirror images of the right breast-receiving element 112R and right shoulder strap 114R, although non-mirror images may be an option. Preferably, the left shoulder strap 114L is similar or identical to the right shoulder strap 114R but non-identical and/or dissimilar may be an option. Thus, the left breast-receiving element 112L and/or left shoulder strap preferably have similar component parts as the right breast-receiving element 112R and right shoulder strap 114R.

Differences with the first embodiment are described herein.

Whilst the, each or at least one preferred fastening means of the first embodiment includes a buckle and an eye; the, each or at least one fastening means of the second embodiment preferably has at least one hook or hook element, as shown, but this may be omitted.

Furthermore, the, each or at least one fastening means of the second embodiment includes at least one loop. In the shown embodiment, there are seven loops, but any number of loops, such as none, one, or at least two loops may be provided.

Part of the or a hook may be receivable in the or a said loop. Preferably the, each or at least one loop is formed at least in part of a fabric material, but any non-fabric material may be an option. For example, the loop may be formed at least in part of metal or plastics, by way of example only. Optionally, all or at least two loops may be formed from a common strip or portion of material, and more preferably a common strip of fabric. Here, the loops are formed by connecting a strip of fabric to a strap or part thereof via at least one, and preferably a series of connections. The connections are preferably spaced-apart along the length of the strap and/or strap part. The connections are preferably sewn connections but any alternative to a connection via sewing may be envisioned, such as a clip or an adhesive, by way of example only.

Preferably, the second end 136 is connected or connected, optionally separably, to the breastreceiving element 112 via a connector but this feature may be omitted and/or connection via a connector for any or all ends of one or both strap parts may be provided. In the shown embodiment, the connector includes a loop, hoop or ring, but any alternative to a hoop or ring may be an option. The connector is preferably circular or oval in side view. However, any alternative shape may be envisioned in any or any combination of: a side view, a plan view, in lateral cross-section, and in longitudinal cross-section.

It may be easily envisioned that the adhesive element and/or adhesive support may be the same as in the first embodiment. The adhesive element and/or adhesive support may be omitted entirely. Preferably, however, in the second embodiment, the adhesive support is in the form of a strip of material or tape, but again, this is optional. The or a said adhesive element may be provided on one or, more preferably, both surfaces of the adhesive support. In other words, the or at least one adhesive support and the or at least one adhesive element are provided in the form of double-sided adhesive tape. The tape may be square or rectangular in shape, but any non-square or non-rectangular shape may be an option.

Additionally, the inwardly-facing surface of the front band 162 may be or may include the or a said engagement surface 172.

The uses of the second embodiment are similar to those of the first embodiment. Detailed description of the common steps, and of the caveats, is omitted for brevity. Instead of inserting part of a buckle into the or a said eyelet, the user engages the hook or a portion thereof with the or a said loop of, preferably, fabric.

Additionally, the user engages the adhesive element on one surface of the adhesive support with the front band 162, preferably the inwardly-facing surface and/or the engagement surface 172 thereof. The adhesive element on the other surface of the adhesive support is engaged with the user’s torso.

By being engageable, and more preferably detachably engageable, with the bra 110, the adhesive element and adhesive support may be removable. The removal of the adhesive support may result in the bra 110 being cleaner following being washed. If the adhesive support and adhesive element is re-usable, removal of the adhesive element prior to washing prolongs the adhesiveness of the adhesive element, as the adhesive element is not exposed to cleaning chemicals.

Referring now to Figures 5 to 8, there is shown part of a third embodiment of a, preferably backless, bra 210. Features of the third embodiment which are similar or identical to those of the first embodiment have similar reference numerals with the prefix “2” added. The second embodiment of the bra 210 is similar to the first embodiment of the bra 10, having similar left breast-receiving element 212L, right breast-receiving element 212R, left shoulder strap 214L, right shoulder strap 214R, left first end 234L; right first end 234R, left second end 236L; right second end 236R; a length a width; a thickness; first strap parts 240L.240R; second strap parts 242L.242R; fastening means 244L.244R; third end region 246L.246R; third end 248L.248R; fourth end region 250R; fourth end 252R; first fastener element or part 254L.254R; and second fastener element or part 256L.256R; an adhesive element 258, an adhesive support 260, a front band 262, at least one barrier element, at least one friction-enhancing element 266, at least one garment-engaging portion, and a strap retainer, but any of above features may be omitted and/or a plurality of any of the above features may be provided. Detailed description of the common features is omitted for brevity. The caveats of the first embodiment are also applicable to the third embodiment and vice-versa. The caveats of the second embodiment are also applicable to the third embodiment and vice-versa.

Preferably, in the third embodiment, only one first fastener element 254L and only one second fastener element 256L are provided on the left shoulder strap 214L. Similarly, preferably only one first fastener element 254R and only one second fastener element 256R are provided on the right shoulder strap 214R. However, it could easily be envisioned that a plurality of first and/or a second fastener elements are provided on either or both of the left and right shoulder straps. More preferably, one or, as shown, both second fastener elements 256L.256R are loops, and more preferably loops of fabric. More preferably, one or, as shown, both first fastener elements 254L.254R include a hook. The or each hook is beneficially received in the, preferably corresponding, loop of fabric, as illustrated in Figure 8.

Part or all of one or both shoulder straps 214 may comprise a non-stretchable or substantially non-stretchable material. This may reduce material fatigue over use. Additionally or alternatively, the, each, or at least one shoulder strap 214 may be at least in part formed from an elastically deformable material. As there is preferably no plurality of fastener elements in the third embodiment, a slider 274L.274R is provided on one or both straps 214. Instead of or in addition to a slider, elasticity may enable the shoulder strap 214 to be stretchable to accommodate the user’s shoulder, for instance in the absence of a slider, and/or enable fine-tuning of the strap length for comfort.

Preferably, the front band 262 transitions continuously into the left second strap part 242L and/or right second strap part 242R.

The or at least one friction-enhancing element 266 is preferably provided on the front band 262. More preferably, the friction-enhancing element 266 is provided on the inwardly-facing surface of the front band 262, but on the outwardly-facing surface of the front band may additionally or alternatively be considered. The friction-enhancing element 266 preferably includes silicone but non-silicone or part silicone may be an option.

The friction-enhancing element 266 includes at least one elongate element. The at least one elongate element may include a line or stripe. The friction-enhancing element 266, or at least one stripe thereof preferably extends along at least one direction, and more preferably, along at least two different directions. In other words, the friction-enhancing element 266, or at least one elongate element thereof is preferably at least two dimensional. In yet other words, the elongate element is preferably any alternative to a straight line, although this alternative may be an option. For instance, an elongate element may be sinusoidal. Figures 6 and 7 illustrate two sinusoidal elongate elements. Extending in two directions prevents or inhibits movement of the bra 210 in a plurality of directions. The friction-enhancing element 266, are preferably silicone.

If a friction-enhancing element 266 is provided on the outwardly-facing surface of the front band, the friction-enhancing element may help or enhance the adhesion of the adhesive support to the front band. Optionally, the kit of parts may comprise a plurality of adhesive supports 260, which are preferably adhesive tapes here. The adhesive supports 260 may be single-sided adhesive tapes. The tapes are preferably different from each other but may be identical. For example, the tapes may have different colours, such as to reflect different skin tones.

The uses of the third embodiment are the same or similar to those of the previous embodiments. Detailed description of the common steps and caveats is omitted for brevity.

As there is preferably no choice of fastener elements in the third embodiment, there is no selection of fastener element possible. The user simply engages the left fastener elements 254L.256L of the left strap 214L together, and the right fastener elements 254R.256R of the right strap 214R together. The length of each strap 214L may be adjusted via moving the or each slider 274, if provided, along at least part of the length of the bra 210.

If there is a choice of adhesive supports 260, the user may select a desired adhesive support 260, for example, based on their skin tone, or the colour of the garment.

In any of the above embodiments, whilst there are preferably two strap parts per shoulder strap, any number of further strap parts may optionally be provided. Such further strap parts may be numbered incrementally for clarity. One or more further strap parts may be connected or connectable to the bra in parallel with and/or in series with the first and/or second strap parts. A parallel arrangement provides redundancy of strap parts and/or shoulder straps. A series arrangement enables the length of the strap to be increased as required. The further strap part or parts may be considered as an extension or an intermediate strap. The third end of the first strap part may be connected or connectable to the or a said further strap part. The or a further strap part may be connected or connectable with the same further strap part and/or with a further strap part.

Whilst the third and fourth end regions of a same shoulder strap preferably overlap in use, in an alternative embodiment, the third and fourth end regions may be non-overlapping. Nonoverlapping may be due, for example, to the fastener elements being provided at the third and/or fourth ends of the straps. In a further modified embodiment wherein a shoulder strap comprises at least three strap parts connected or connectable in series, a said fastener element associated with the third and/or fourth end regions may be connectable or connected to a said fastener element associated with the or an intermediate strap part. Although in the above embodiments, the first end connects at or adjacent to the upper region and the second end connects at or adjacent to the lower perimeter, it may easily be envisioned that only one of the first end and the second end of the shoulder strap connects with a said breastreceiving element. The other of the first end and the second end may connect to the same shoulder strap.

In yet another modified embodiment, the other of the first end and the second end may not connect to anything. In other words, the first end and/or second end may be a free end. Such a shoulder strap may form a hook around the shoulder. The shoulder strap may be sufficiently rigid to maintain a hook shape whilst simultaneously providing support for the breast-receiving element to which it is connected.

Although the fastening means or fastener includes a plurality of fastener elements in the above embodiments, it may easily be envisioned that only one fastener element may be provided. The fastening means may be non-releasably engageable. An adhesive, such as glue, may be an alternative to a multi-part fastening means.

In a further embodiment, the bra may have fastening means for fastening strap parts in the form of an adhesive element as well as a secondary adhesive positioned so as to prevent or inhibit movement of the bra relative to the user in use.

Whilst the preferred fastening means in the first embodiment includes a buckle and an eye for receiving a spike of the buckle, any alternative fastening means may be envisioned for any of the above embodiments. Similarly, whilst the garment-engaging portion may include hook and loop portions in the preferred embodiments, any alternative may be envisioned for any of the above embodiments. At least one: one or more fastener elements, one or more fastener portions, and any other fastening means or fastener mentioned above, may include any or any combination of: a hook, a button, an eye, an eyelet, a buttonhole, complementarily engageable popper portions or press studs, hook and loop portions such as Velcro (RTM), one or more laces, string, a ratchet mechanism, a clip, a magnet, a bayonet arrangement, a screw-threaded arrangement, or any alternative fastener element or a plurality of any of the above.

An example of a non-flexible front band may include an elongate element which may be any of: rigid, substantially rigid, or part-rigid. Such a front band may optionally extend in use around at least half a torso of the user. The front band may therefore provide some support in addition to the shoulder straps.

The adhesive element is preferably provided on the adhesive support but may additionally or alternatively be provided on the bra itself. If provided on the bra, the adhesive element may be provided anywhere on the bra. For example, an adhesive element may be provided on the outwardly-facing surface and/or on the inwardly-facing surface of the front band. The adhesive support is also preferably separable from the rest of the bra but non-separable may be an option, such as connected or connectable to any part of the bra.

Similarly, at least one said friction-enhancing element is preferably provided on at least one shoulder strap, a friction-enhancing element may additionally or alternatively be provided anywhere on the bra. For example, any of: the adhesive element, the adhesive support, and a said friction-enhancing element may be provided on any of: a said left strap, a said right strap, a said strap part of a said strap, the said left cup, the said right cup, a said barrier element, a said strap-retainer, the or a said front band, the central gore, or any combination thereof. In any of the above cases, the adhesive element, adhesive support or friction-enhancing element may be preferably provided on a said inwardly-facing surface or skin-facing or skin-engaging surface of the relevant bra part.

Whilst a preferred shape may have been specified for any of the above-described features, any alternative shape may be envisioned in any of lateral or cross-section, longitudinal cross-section, in side view, in plan view. The shape may be any or any combination of: curved, part curved, noncurved, linear, part linear, non-linear, a broken line, any polygon, whether regular or irregular, having one or more chamfered and/or rounded corners, a triangle, a quadrilateral, such as a square, a rectangle, a trapezium, a trapezoid, a pentagon, a hexagon, a heptagon, an octagon, or any other polygon, a cross, an ellipse, a circle, part circular, an oval, or any abstract shape.

Any of the above caveats may apply to any of the above embodiments. The features and caveats of any of the embodiments may be applicable to any of the other embodiments.

It is therefore possible to provide a bra, which is preferably backless due to being devoid of at least part of a back-spanning band. By having a releasable fastener, the strap parts can be releasably connected and disconnected. The strap parts may optionally be replaceable, thereby increasing the lifespan of the bra. Engageable fastener elements provide discrete engagement points which may reduce or prevent accidental elongation.

The words ‘comprises/comprising’ and the words ‘having/including’ when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof. It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. The embodiments described above are provided by way of examples only, and various other modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the field without departing from the scope of the invention as defined herein.