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MODULAR CLOTHING SYSTEM

20240341378 · 2024-10-17

    Inventors

    Cpc classification

    International classification

    Abstract

    There is provided a modular clothing system comprising a plurality of clothing parts, wherein the plurality of clothing parts includes: a plurality of front clothing parts and a plurality of rear clothing parts; or a front clothing part and a plurality of rear clothing parts; or a plurality of front clothing parts and a rear clothing part, wherein the or each front clothing part is shaped to cover in use at least part of a front part of a body of a wearer, and wherein the or each rear clothing part is shaped to cover in use at least part of a rear part of a body of a wearer, wherein each of the plurality of clothing parts includes at least one fastener element, the or each fastener element of the or each front clothing part linkable to the or each fastener element of the or each rear clothing part, the fastener elements operable to assemble different modular clothings through different combinations of the front and rear clothing parts, the fastener elements operable to disassemble an assembled modular clothing by completely detaching the front and rear clothing parts of the assembled modular clothing.

    Claims

    1. A modular clothing system comprising a plurality of clothing parts, wherein the plurality of clothing parts includes: a plurality of front clothing parts and a plurality of rear clothing parts; or a front clothing part and a plurality of rear clothing parts; or a plurality of front clothing parts and a rear clothing part, wherein the or each front clothing part is shaped to cover in use at least part of a front part of a body of a wearer, and wherein the or each rear clothing part is shaped to cover in use at least part of a rear part of a body of a wearer, wherein each of the plurality of clothing parts includes at least one fastener element, the or each fastener element of the or each front clothing part linkable to the or each fastener element of the or each rear clothing part, the fastener elements operable to assemble different modular clothings through different combinations of the front and rear clothing parts, the fastener elements operable to disassemble an assembled modular clothing by completely detaching the front and rear clothing parts of the assembled modular clothing.

    2. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the or each front clothing part is shaped to cover in use at least part of a front part of a body of a wearer by extending from one side of the front of the body to the other side of the front of the body.

    3. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the or each rear clothing part is shaped to cover in use at least part of a rear part of a body of a wearer by extending from one side of the rear of the body to the other side of the rear of the body.

    4. (canceled)

    5. (canceled)

    6. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the plurality of clothing parts further includes at least one sleeve clothing part for linking to a front clothing part and/or a rear clothing part.

    7. (canceled)

    8. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the plurality of clothing parts further includes at least one shoulder clothing part for linking to a front clothing part and/or a rear clothing part.

    9. (canceled)

    10. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the front clothing part or at least one of the front clothing parts has a same body length as the rear clothing part or at least one of the rear clothing parts.

    11. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the front clothing part or at least one of the front clothing parts has a different body length from the rear clothing part or at least one of the rear clothing parts.

    12. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein at least two of the front clothing parts have different body lengths and/or wherein at least two of the rear clothing parts have different body lengths.

    13. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the front clothing part or at least one of the front clothing parts has a same body width as the rear clothing part or at least one of the rear clothing parts.

    14. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the front clothing part or at least one of the front clothing parts has a different body width from the rear clothing part or at least one of the rear clothing parts.

    15. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein at least two of the front clothing parts have different body widths and/or wherein at least two of the rear clothing parts have different body widths.

    16. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the front clothing part or at least one of the front clothing parts has a same clothing size as the rear clothing part or at least one of the rear clothing parts.

    17. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the front clothing part or at least one of the front clothing parts has a different clothing size from the rear clothing part or at least one of the rear clothing parts.

    18. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein at least two of the front clothing parts have different clothing sizes and/or wherein at least two of the rear clothing parts have different clothing sizes.

    19. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the front clothing part or at least one of the front clothing parts includes two fastener elements, the two fastener elements having different lengths and extending along a side of the corresponding front clothing part, one of the two fastener elements linkable to a first fastener element of one of the rear clothing parts, the other of the two fastener elements linkable to a second fastener element of another one of the rear clothing parts, the first and second fastener elements having different lengths.

    20. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the rear clothing part or at least one of the rear clothing parts includes two fastener elements, the two fastener elements having different lengths and extending along a side of the corresponding rear clothing part, one of the two fastener elements linkable to a first fastener element of one of the front clothing parts, the other of the two fastener elements linkable to a second fastener element of another one of the front clothing parts, the first and second fastener elements having different lengths.

    21. (canceled)

    22. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the plurality of clothing parts includes a front clothing part that is a harness or is formed from a piece of rope.

    23. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein at least one fastener element is or includes a quick release fitting or a closure or a zip element.

    24. (canceled)

    25. (canceled)

    26. A modular clothing system according to claim 1 wherein at least one of the fastener elements includes a ring, at least one other of the fastener elements includes a retention element, and the retention element is receivable by the ring to assemble a modular clothing from the corresponding front and rear clothing parts.

    27. (canceled)

    28. (canceled)

    29. (canceled)

    30. (canceled)

    31. (canceled)

    32. (canceled)

    33. A method of using a modular clothing system according to claim 1, wherein the method includes the steps of: operating the fastener elements to assemble different modular clothings through different combinations of the front and rear clothing parts; and operating the fastener elements to disassemble an assembled modular clothing by completely detaching the front and rear clothing parts of the assembled modular clothing.

    Description

    [0065] The invention will now be illustrated with reference to the following Figures of the accompanying drawings which are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention:

    [0066] FIG. 1 shows a schematic plan view of a first embodiment of a kit of modular clothing according to the invention which is suitable for use by a wheelchair user where the kit comprises first and second embodiments of a front clothing part according to the invention, first and second embodiments of a rear clothing part according to the invention, and first and second embodiments of a pair of sleeves according to the invention;

    [0067] FIG. 2 shows a schematic plan view of a second embodiment of a kit of modular clothing according to the invention which is suitable for use with a first or second person with a physical disfigurement where the kit comprises third and fourth embodiments of a front clothing part according to the invention, a third embodiment of a rear clothing part according to the invention, and the first and second embodiments of a pair of sleeves according to the invention;

    [0068] FIG. 3 shows a schematic plan view of a fifth embodiment of a front clothing part according to the invention;

    [0069] FIG. 4 shows a schematic plan view of a sixth embodiment of a front clothing part according to the invention;

    [0070] FIG. 5 shows a schematic plan view of a seventh embodiment of a front clothing part according to the invention;

    [0071] FIG. 6 shows a schematic plan view of an eighth embodiment of a front clothing part according to the invention;

    [0072] FIG. 7 shows a schematic plan view of a ninth embodiment of a front clothing part according to the invention;

    [0073] FIG. 8 shows a schematic plan view of a fourth embodiment of a rear clothing part according to the invention;

    [0074] FIG. 9 shows a schematic plan view of a fifth embodiment of a rear clothing part according to the invention;

    [0075] FIG. 10 shows a schematic plan view of a sixth embodiment of a rear clothing part according to the invention;

    [0076] FIG. 11 shows a schematic plan view of a seventh embodiment of a rear clothing part according to the invention;

    [0077] FIG. 12 shows a schematic plan view of a third embodiment of a pair of sleeves according to the invention;

    [0078] FIG. 13 shows a schematic plan view of a fourth embodiment of a pair of sleeves according to the invention;

    [0079] FIG. 14 shows a schematic plan view of a first embodiment of a kit of modular clothing according to the invention which is suitable for play use with a normal person, a wheelchair user, or a person with a physical disfigurement where the kit comprises tenth, eleventh, and twelfth embodiments of a front clothing part according to the invention, and eighth, ninth, and tenth embodiments of a rear clothing part according to the invention;

    [0080] FIG. 15 shows a schematic side view of a first embodiment of modular clothing according to the invention;

    [0081] FIG. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a wheelchair user wearing the first embodiment of modular clothing in a wheelchair;

    [0082] FIG. 17 shows a schematic front view of a first person with a physical disfigurement wearing a second embodiment of modular clothing;

    [0083] FIG. 18 shows a schematic rear view of a first person with a physical disfigurement wearing the second embodiment of modular clothing;

    [0084] FIG. 19 shows a schematic side view of the second embodiment of modular clothing according to the invention;

    [0085] FIG. 20 shows a schematic partial front view of a normal play user wearing the eleventh embodiment of a front clothing part according to the invention;

    [0086] FIG. 21 shows a schematic partial rear view of the play user wearing the tenth embodiment of a rear clothing part according to the invention;

    [0087] FIG. 22 shows a schematic side view of a third embodiment of modular clothing according to the invention;

    [0088] FIG. 23 shows a schematic partial rear view of the play user wearing the eighth embodiment of a rear clothing part according to the invention;

    [0089] FIG. 24 shows a schematic partial front view of the play user wearing a tenth embodiment of a rear clothing part according to the invention;

    [0090] FIG. 25 shows a schematic partial front view of a play user wearing the twelfth embodiment of a front clothing part according to the invention;

    [0091] FIG. 26 shows a schematic partial rear view of the play user wearing the tenth embodiment of a rear clothing part according to the invention;

    [0092] FIG. 27 shows a schematic side view of a fourth embodiment of modular clothing according to the invention;

    [0093] FIG. 28 shows a schematic partial plan view of the shoulder fittings on the shoulder portions of the front and rear clothing parts according to the second embodiment of the invention where the shoulder fittings are spaced apart;

    [0094] FIG. 29 shows a schematic partial plan view of the shoulder fittings on the shoulder portions of the front and rear clothing parts according to the second embodiment of the invention where the shoulder fittings are connected;

    [0095] FIG. 30 shows a schematic partial side view of the side fittings on the front and rear clothing parts according to the second embodiment of the invention where the side fittings are spaced apart;

    [0096] FIG. 31 shows a schematic partial side view of the side fittings on the front and rear clothing parts according to the second embodiment of the invention where the side fittings are connected;

    [0097] FIG. 32 shows a schematic side view of the front and rear clothing parts according to the second embodiment of the invention where the shoulder and side fittings are spaced apart;

    [0098] FIG. 33 shows a schematic side plan view of the front and rear clothing parts according to the second embodiment of the invention where the shoulder and side fittings are connected;

    [0099] FIG. 34 shows a schematic partial plan view of the shoulder fitting of the front clothing part of the eleventh embodiment of the invention linked to the shoulder fitting of the rear clothing part of the ninth embodiment of the invention;

    [0100] FIG. 35 shows schematic partial plan view of an alternative embodiment of the shoulder fitting of the front clothing part of the eleventh embodiment of the invention linked to the shoulder fitting of the rear clothing part of the ninth embodiment of the invention;

    [0101] FIG. 36 shows a schematic partial plan view of an alternative embodiment of the shoulder fittings on the shoulder portions of the front and rear clothing parts according to the second embodiment of the invention where the shoulder fittings are spaced apart;

    [0102] FIG. 37 shows a schematic partial plan view of an alternative embodiment of the shoulder fittings on the shoulder portions of the front and rear clothing parts according to the second embodiment of the invention where the shoulder fittings are connected;

    [0103] FIG. 38 shows a schematic partial plan view of the shoulder or side fitting of the front clothing part of the twelfth embodiment of the invention linked to the shoulder or side fitting of the rear clothing part of the ninth embodiment of the invention;

    [0104] FIG. 39 shows a schematic partial plan view of the front clothing part of the tenth embodiment of the invention linked to the shoulder or side fitting of the rear clothing part of the eighth embodiment of the invention;

    [0105] FIG. 40 shows a schematic partial plan view of a front clothing part and its shoulder sleeve fitting with a sleeve and its sleeve fitting;

    [0106] FIG. 41 shows a schematic partial side view of an alternative embodiment of the side fittings for the front and rear clothing parts of the first embodiment of the invention;

    [0107] FIG. 42 shows a schematic front view of a second person with a physical disfigurement such as achondroplasia or dwarfism wearing a second embodiment of modular clothing;

    [0108] FIG. 43 shows a schematic rear view of a second person with a physical disfigurement such as achondroplasia or dwarfism wearing the second embodiment of modular clothing;

    [0109] FIG. 44 shows a schematic side view of the second embodiment of modular clothing according to the invention; and

    [0110] FIG. 45 shows a further embodiment of modular clothing according to the invention.

    [0111] The figures are not necessarily to scale, and certain features and certain views of the figures may be shown exaggerated in scale or in schematic form in the interests of clarity and conciseness.

    [0112] Non-limiting embodiments of the modular clothing system according to the invention are described as follows. For the purposes of this specification, it is disclosed that each of the plurality of clothing parts of the modular clothing system of the invention may be selected from any one of the clothing parts described in the following embodiments. Each fitting may be replaced by a different type of fastener element, examples of which are described throughout the specification.

    [0113] A first embodiment of a modular clothing system, in the form of a kit of modular clothing, according to the invention is indicated generally at 10 on FIG. 1. Kit 10 is of modular clothing which is suitable for use by a wheelchair user 60A. Kit 10 comprises a front clothing part 20A according to a first embodiment of the invention, a front clothing part 20B according to a second embodiment of the invention, a rear clothing part 30A according to a first embodiment of the invention, a rear clothing part 30B according to a second embodiment of the invention, a pair of sleeves 40A according to a first embodiment of the invention, and a pair of sleeves 40B according to a second embodiment of the invention.

    [0114] Each front clothing part 20A,20B has an upper edge or neckline 28, a lower edge or hem 29, side fittings 22A,22B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a rear clothing part 30A,30B, and shoulder portions 24A,24B which each have on their outer ends a shoulder fitting 26A,26B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a rear clothing part 30A,30B. The shoulder portions 24A,24B may also have sleeve fittings 27A,27B on their sides for attachment to corresponding fittings on a sleeve 45A,45B. Sleeve fitting 27A is illustrated in FIG. 40. Sleeve fitting 27B corresponds to sleeve fitting 27A.

    [0115] Front clothing part 20A has a long length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable to form the front part of a dress. Front clothing part 20A is a V-necked shift dress front part. Front clothing part 20B has a medium length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable to form the front part of a wrap-style top.

    [0116] In an alternative embodiment, the kit 10 may also include one or more additional front parts 20C,20D,20E,20G,20H,20I,20J,20K,20L,20M according to a different embodiment of the invention. In an alternative embodiment, the front parts 20A,20B of kit 10 may be replaced or by one more front parts 20C,20D,20E,20G,20H,20I,20J,20K,20L,20M according to a different embodiment of the invention. Front part 20H may be included in the kit 10 if accompanied by a corresponding shaped rear clothing part 30J. Front parts 20K,20L,20M may be included in the kit 10 if the side and shoulder fittings 32A,32B,36A,36B of the rear clothing parts 30A,30B are replaced by side and shoulder fittings 132A,132B,136A,136B or if the side and shoulder fittings of front parts 20L,20M are replaced by side and shoulder fittings 22A,22B,26A,26B.

    [0117] Each rear clothing part 30A,30B has an upper edge or neckline 38, a lower edge or hem 39, side fittings 32A,32B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a front clothing part 20A,20B, and shoulder portions 34A,34B which each have on their outer ends a shoulder fitting 36A,36B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a front clothing part 20A,20B. The shoulder portions 34A,34B may also have sleeve fittings 27A,27B on their sides for attachment to corresponding fittings on a sleeve 45A,45B. Sleeve fitting 27A is illustrated in FIG. 40. Sleeve fitting 27B corresponds to sleeve fitting 27A.

    [0118] Rear clothing part 30A has a long length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is a long rear clothing part suitable for forming the rear part of a dress for use with front clothing part 20A. Rear clothing part 30B has a medium length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is a rear clothing part suitable for forming the rear part of a top, e.g. for use with front clothing part 20B.

    [0119] In an alternative embodiment, the kit 10 may also include one or more additional rear parts 30D,30E according to a different embodiment of the invention. In an alternative embodiment, the front parts 20A,20B of kit 10 may be replaced by one or more rear parts 30D,30E according to a different embodiment of the invention.

    [0120] Each pair of sleeves 40A,40B comprises two sleeves 45A,45B which each have a sleeve fitting 42A,42B for attachment to corresponding sleeve fittings 27A,27B on the front clothing part 20A,20B and/or the rear clothing part 30A,30B respectively.

    [0121] The pair of sleeves 40A are bell-style or draped sleeves. The pair of sleeves 40B are three-quarter length sleeves 40B. In an alternative embodiment, the kit 10 may also include one or more additional pairs of sleeves 40C,40D according to a third and/or fourth embodiment of the invention. In an alternative embodiment, the pairs of sleeves 40A,40B of kit 10 may be replaced by one or more pairs of sleeves 40C,40D according to a third and/or fourth embodiment of the invention.

    [0122] Side fittings 228,32B each comprise a corresponding hook or loop strip and a plurality of evenly spaced magnets as illustrated in detail on FIGS. 30 and 31. Side fittings 22A,32A correspond. In an alternative embodiment, each pair of side fittings 22A,32A and 22B,32B may comprise a zip 80 as illustrated in FIG. 41. Optionally the zip 80 may be covered by a flap 84 which may be secured by corresponding hook and loop strips 72A,72B as also illustrated in FIG. 41.

    [0123] Shoulder fittings 26B,36B each comprise a corresponding hook or loop strip and two magnets as illustrated in detail on FIGS. 28 and 29. Shoulder fittings 26A,36A correspond. In an alternative embodiment, the shoulder fittings 26A,36A,26B,36B may be replaced by shoulder fittings 526B,336B illustrated on FIGS. 36 and 37 (shoulder fittings 526A,336A correspond to shoulder fittings 526B,336B). Shoulder fittings 526A,336A,526B,336B have a press-fit stud closure.

    [0124] In use, modular clothing may be formed from a rear clothing part 30A,30B and a front clothing part 20A,20B as follows. A rear clothing part 30A,30B may be placed on a wheelchair before the wheelchair user 60A sits on it. A front clothing part 20A,20B may be draped over a wheelchair user 60A and the corresponding quick release fittings 22A,22B,32A,32B,26A,26B,36A,36B may be linked together to form the modular clothing. Whilst a wheelchair user 60A is seated in their wheelchair, the front part 20B of their top or the front part 20A of their dress may be interchanged to suit a different social or work occasion by releasing the linked quick release fittings 22A,22B,32A,32B,26A,26B,36A,36B so that the existing front part 20A,20B may be swapped for a different front part 20A,20B. The different front part 20A,20B may then be linked to the rear part 30A,30B to form new modular clothing.

    [0125] A second embodiment of a kit of modular clothing according to the invention is indicated generally at 110 on FIG. 2. Like features of kit 110 to kit 10 according to the first embodiment of the invention are identified by like reference numerals. Kit 110 is of modular clothing which is suitable for use by a first or second person 60B,60D with a physical disfigurement. Kit 110 comprises a front clothing part 20C according to a third embodiment of the invention, a front clothing part 20D according to a fourth embodiment of the invention, a rear clothing part 30C according to a third embodiment of the invention, a pair of sleeves 40A according to a first embodiment of the invention, and a pair of sleeves 40B according to a second embodiment of the invention. In an alternative embodiment, the kit 110 may also include one or more additional pairs of sleeves 40C,40D according to a third and/or fourth embodiment of the invention. In an alternative embodiment, the pairs of sleeves 40A,40B of kit 110 may be replaced by one or more pairs of sleeves 40C,40D according to a third and/or fourth embodiment of the invention.

    [0126] Each front clothing part 20C,20D has an upper edge or neckline 28, a lower edge or hem 29, side fittings 22A,22B for attachment to corresponding fittings 32A,32B on a rear clothing part 30C, and shoulder portions 24A,24B which each have on their outer ends a shoulder fitting 26A,26B for attachment to corresponding fittings 36A,36B on the rear clothing part 30C. The shoulder portions 24A,24B may also have sleeve fittings 27A,27B on their sides for attachment to corresponding fittings on a sleeve 45A,45B. Sleeve fitting 27A is illustrated in FIG. 40. Sleeve fitting 27B corresponds to sleeve fitting 27A.

    [0127] Front clothing part 20C has a medium length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable to form a tank top. Front clothing part 20D has a medium length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable to form a gathered neck top. In an alternative embodiment, the kit 110 may also include one or more additional front parts 20A,20B,20E,20G,20H,20I,20J,20K,20L,20M according to a different embodiment of the invention. In an alternative embodiment, the front parts 20C,20D of kit 110 may be replaced by one or more front parts 20A,20B,20E,20G,20H,20I,20J,20K,20L,20M according to a different embodiment of the invention. Front part 20H may be included in the kit 110 if accompanied by a corresponding shaped rear clothing part 30J. Front parts 20K,20L,20M may be included in the kit 110 if the side and shoulder fittings 32A,32B,36A,36B of the rear clothing parts 30C are replaced by side and shoulder fittings 132A,132B,136A,136B or if the side and shoulder fittings of front parts 20L,20M are replaced by side and shoulder fittings 22A,22B,26A,26B.

    [0128] Rear clothing part 30C has an upper edge or neckline 38, a lower edge or hem 39, side fittings 32A,32B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a front clothing part 20C,20D, and shoulder portions 34A,34B which each have on their outer ends a shoulder fitting 36A,36B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a front clothing part 20C,20D. The shoulder portions 34A,34B may also have sleeve fittings 27A,27B on their sides for attachment to corresponding fittings on a sleeve 45A,45B. Sleeve fitting 27A is illustrated in FIG. 40. Sleeve fitting 27B corresponds to sleeve fitting 27A.

    [0129] Rear clothing part 30C has a medium length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable for forming the rear part of a top. Rear clothing part 30C has a greater width between side fitting 32A and side fitting 32B, in comparison to the width between the side fittings 32A,32B for the front clothing parts 20C,20D such that rear clothing part 30C has a larger size than the front clothing parts 20C,20D. Larger rear clothing part 30C is sized to accommodate a physical disfigurement such as a scoliosis, hunched back, achondroplasia, or dwarfism. In an alternative embodiment, rear clothing part 30C may also have a greater length between its neckline 38 and hem 39 such that it is sized to accommodate a physical disfigurement such as a scoliosis, hunched back, achondroplasia, or dwarfism.

    [0130] Side fittings 22B,32B each comprise a corresponding hook or loop strip and a plurality of evenly spaced magnets as illustrated in detail on FIGS. 30 and 31. Side fittings 22A,32A correspond. In an alternative embodiment, each pair of side fittings 22A,32A and 22B,32B may comprise a zip 80 as illustrated in FIG. 41. Optionally the zip 80 may be covered by a flap 84 which may be secured by corresponding hook and loop strips 72A,72B as also illustrated in FIG. 41.

    [0131] Shoulder fittings 26B,36B each comprise a corresponding hook or loop strip and two magnets as illustrated in detail on FIGS. 28 and 29. Shoulder fittings 26A,36A correspond. In an alternative embodiment, the shoulder fittings 26A,36A,26B,36B may be replaced by shoulder fittings 526B,336B illustrated on FIGS. 36 and 37 (shoulder fittings 526A,336A correspond to shoulder fittings 5268,336B). Shoulder fittings 526A,3236A,526B,336B have a press-fit stud closure.

    [0132] A fifth embodiment of a front clothing part 20E is shown in FIG. 3. Like features of front clothing part 20E to front clothing parts 20A,20B,20C,20D according to the first to fourth embodiments of the invention are identified by like reference numerals. Front clothing part 20E has a neckline 28, a hem 29, side fittings 22A,22B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a rear clothing part 30A,30B, and narrow shoulder portions 124A,124B which each have on their outer ends a shoulder fitting 126A,126B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a rear clothing part 30A,30B. Fifth front clothing part 20E has a medium length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable to form a vest-style top. Shoulder fitting 126A,126B each have a single magnet 70 as the shoulder portions 124A,124B are narrow.

    [0133] A sixth embodiment of a front clothing part 20G is shown in FIG. 4. Like features of front clothing part 20G to front clothing parts 20A,20B,20C,20D,20E according to the first to fifth embodiments of the invention are identified by like reference numerals. Front clothing part 20G has a neckline 28, a hem 29, side fittings 22A,22B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a rear clothing part 30A,30B, and shoulder portions 24A,24B which each have on their outer ends a shoulder fitting 26A,26B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a rear clothing part 30A,30B,30C. Sixth front clothing part 20G has a medium length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable to form a sleeveless round neck top.

    [0134] A seventh embodiment of a front clothing part 20H is shown in FIG. 5. Like features of front clothing part 20H to front clothing parts 20A,208,20C,20D,20E,20G according to the first to sixth embodiments of the invention are identified by like reference numerals. Front clothing part 20H has an upper edge 28, a lower edge 29, and side fittings 22A,22B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a rear clothing part. Seventh front clothing part 20H has a very short length from its upper edge 28 to its lower edge 29 such that it is suitable to form a bandeau top, e.g. for covering a woman's chest. In an alternate embodiment, seventh front clothing part 20H may have a short length from its upper edge 28 to its lower edge 29 such that it is suitable to form a cropped top which lacks shoulder parts. The cropped top may extend from above the chest to below the rib cage or above the belly button. In an alternate embodiment, seventh front clothing part 20H may have a medium length from its upper edge 28 to its lower edge 29 such that it is suitable to form a top which lacks shoulder parts. A top may extend from above the chest to the waist. In an alternate embodiment, seventh front clothing part 20H may have a long length from its upper edge 28 to its lower edge 29 such that it is suitable to form a mini-dress or tunic top which lacks shoulder parts. A mini-dress or tunic top may extend from above the chest to below the buttocks. In an alternate embodiment, seventh front clothing part 20H may have a very long length from its upper edge 28 to its lower edge 29 such that it is suitable to form a dress which lacks shoulder parts. A dress may extend from above the chest to the thighs, knees, or ankles or to any point in between.

    [0135] An eighth embodiment of a front clothing part 20I is shown in FIG. 6. Like features of front clothing part 20I to front clothing parts 20A,20B,20C,20D,20E,20G,20H according to the first to seventh embodiments of the invention are identified by like reference numerals. Front clothing part 20I has a neckline 28, a hem 29, side fittings 22A,22B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a rear clothing part 30A,30B, and shoulder portions 24A,24B which each have on their outer ends a shoulder fitting 26A,26B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a rear clothing part 30A,30B,30C. Eighth front clothing part 20I has a short length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable to form a cropped tank top.

    [0136] A ninth embodiment of a front clothing part 20J is shown in FIG. 7. Like features of front clothing part 20J to front clothing parts 20A,20B,20C,20D,20E,20G,20H,20I according to the first to eighth embodiments of the invention are identified by like reference numerals. Front clothing part 20J has a neckline 28, a hem 29, side fittings 22A,22B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a rear clothing part 30A,30B,30C, and shoulder portions 24A,24B which each have on their outer ends a shoulder fitting 26A,26B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a rear clothing part 30A,30B,30C. Ninth front clothing part 20J has a medium length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable to form a ruffled neck top.

    [0137] Side fittings 22A of front clothing parts 20A,20B,20C,20D,20E,20G,20H,20I,20J each comprise a corresponding hook or loop strip and a plurality of evenly spaced magnets as illustrated in detail on FIGS. 30 and 31. Side fittings 22B correspond. In an alternative embodiment, each side fitting 22A,22B may comprise a zip 80 as illustrated in FIG. 41. Optionally the zip 80 may be covered by a flap 84 which may be secured by corresponding hook and loop strips 72A,72B as also illustrated in FIG. 41.

    [0138] Shoulder fitting 26B of front clothing parts 20G,20I,20J each comprises a corresponding hook or loop strip and one or more evenly spaced magnets as illustrated in detail on FIGS. 28 and 29. Shoulder fitting 26A correspond. In an alternative embodiment, the shoulder fitting 26B may be replaced by shoulder fitting 526B illustrated on FIGS. 36 and 37 (shoulder fitting 526A correspond to shoulder fitting 526B). Shoulder fittings 526A,526B have a press-fit stud closure.

    [0139] The shoulder portions 24A,24B of front clothing parts 20G,20I,20J may also have sleeve fittings 27A,27B on their sides for attachment to corresponding fittings on a sleeve 45A,45B. Sleeve fitting 27A is illustrated in FIG. 40. Sleeve fitting 27B corresponds to sleeve fitting 27A.

    [0140] A fourth embodiment of a rear clothing part 30D is shown in FIG. 8. Like features of rear clothing part 30D to rear clothing parts 30A,30B,30C according to the first to third embodiments of the invention are identified by like reference numerals. Fourth rear clothing part 30D has a neckline 38, a hem 39, side fittings 32A,32B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a front clothing part 20A,20B, and shoulder portions 34A,34B which each have on their outer ends a shoulder fitting 36A,36B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a front clothing part 20A,20B. The shoulder portions 34A,34B may also have sleeve fittings 27A,27B on their sides for attachment to corresponding fittings on a sleeve 45A,45B. Fourth rear clothing part 30D has a medium length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable for forming the rear part of a top.

    [0141] A fifth embodiment of a rear clothing part 30E is shown in FIG. 9. Like features of rear clothing part 30E to rear clothing parts 30A,30B,30C,30D according to the first to fourth embodiments of the invention are identified by like reference numerals. Fifth rear clothing part 30E has a neckline 38, a hem 39, side fittings 32A,32B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a front clothing part 20A,20B, and shoulder portions 34A,34B which each have on their outer ends a shoulder fitting 36A,36B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a front clothing part 20A,20B. The shoulder portions 34A,34B may also have sleeve fittings 27A,27B on their sides for attachment to corresponding fittings on a sleeve 45A,45B. Fifth rear clothing part 30E has a long length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable for forming the rear part of a shift dress or a tunic top.

    [0142] A sixth embodiment of a rear clothing part 30F is shown in FIG. 10. Like features of rear clothing part 30F to rear clothing parts 30A,30B,30C,30D,30E according to the first to fifth embodiments of the invention are identified by like reference numerals. Sixth rear clothing part 30F has a neckline 28, a hem 29, side fittings 32A,32B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a front clothing part 20A,20B, and shoulder portions 34A,34B which each have on their outer ends a shoulder fitting 36A,36B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a front clothing part 20A,20B. The shoulder portions 34A,34B may also have sleeve fittings 27A,27B on their sides for attachment to corresponding fittings on a sleeve 45A,45B. Sixth rear clothing part 30F has a short length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable for forming the rear part of a cropped top, e.g. the cropped tank top-style front part 20I shown in FIG. 7.

    [0143] A seventh embodiment of a rear clothing part 30J is shown in FIG. 11. Like features of rear clothing part 30J to rear clothing parts 30A,30B,30C,30D,30E,30F according to the first to sixth embodiments of the invention are identified by like reference numerals. Seventh rear clothing part 30J has a neckline 38, a hem 39, and side fittings 32A,32B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a front clothing part 20H. Seventh rear clothing part 30J has a very short length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable for forming the rear part of a bandeau top 20H. In an alternate embodiment, seventh rear clothing part 30J may have a short length from its upper edge 28 to its lower edge 29 such that it is suitable to form a rear part for a cropped top which lacks shoulder parts. In an alternate embodiment, seventh rear clothing part 30J may have a medium length from its upper edge 28 to its lower edge 29 such that it is suitable to form a rear part for a top which lacks shoulder parts. In an alternate embodiment, seventh rear clothing part 30J may have a long length from its upper edge 28 to its lower edge 29 such that it is suitable to form a rear part for a mini-dress or tunic top which lacks shoulder parts. In an alternate embodiment, seventh rear clothing part 30J may have a long length from its upper edge 28 to its lower edge 29 such that it is suitable to form a rear part for a mini-dress or tunic top which lacks shoulder parts. In an alternate embodiment, seventh rear clothing part 30J may have a very long length from its upper edge 28 to its lower edge 29 such that it is suitable to form a rear part for a dress which lacks shoulder parts, for example a wedding dress.

    [0144] Side fitting 32A of rear clothing parts 30D,30E,30F,30J each comprise a corresponding hook or loop strip and a plurality of evenly spaced magnets as illustrated in detail on FIGS. 30 and 31. Side fittings 32B correspond. In an alternative embodiment, side fittings 32A,32B may each comprise a zip 80 as illustrated in FIG. 41. Optionally the zip 80 may be covered by a flap 84 which may be secured by corresponding hook and loop strips 72A,72B as also illustrated in FIG. 41.

    [0145] Shoulder fittings 36B of rear clothing parts 30D,30E,30F each comprise a corresponding hook or loop strip and one or more evenly spaced magnets as illustrated in detail on FIGS. 28 and 29. Shoulder fitting 36A corresponds. In an alternative embodiment, the shoulder fitting 36B may be replaced by shoulder fittings 336B illustrated on FIGS. 36 and 37 (shoulder fittings 336A correspond to shoulder fittings 336B). Shoulder fittings 336A,336B have a press-fit stud closure.

    [0146] The shoulder portions 34A,34B of rear clothing parts 30D,30E,30F may also have sleeve fittings 27A,27B on their sides for attachment to corresponding fittings on a sleeve 45A,45B. Sleeve fitting 27A is illustrated in FIG. 40. Sleeve fitting 27B corresponds to sleeve fitting 27A.

    [0147] A third embodiment of a pair of sleeves 40C is shown in FIG. 12. Like features of pair of sleeves 40C to pairs of sleeves 40A,40B according to the first and second embodiments of the invention are identified by like reference numerals. Pair of sleeves 40C comprises two sleeves 45A,45B which each have a sleeve fitting 42A,42B for attachment to corresponding sleeve fittings 27A,27B on the front clothing part 20A,20B and/or the rear clothing part 30A,30B. The third pair of sleeves 40C are half-length sleeves.

    [0148] A fourth embodiment of a pair of sleeves 40D is shown in FIG. 13. Like features of pair of sleeves 40D to pairs of sleeves 40A,40B,40C according to the first, second, and third embodiments of the invention are identified by like reference numerals. Pair of sleeves 40D comprises two sleeves 45A,45B which each have a sleeve fitting 42A,42B for attachment to corresponding sleeve fittings 27A,27B on the front clothing part 20A,20B and/or the rear clothing part 30A,30B respectively. The fourth pair of sleeves 40D are epaulettes. Sleeve fittings 42A,42B are each in the form of a single magnet which is mounted on the inner side of the centre of each sleeve 45A,45B.

    [0149] A third embodiment of a kit of modular clothing according to the invention is indicated generally at 210 on FIG. 14. Like features of kit 210 to kits 10,110 according to the first and second embodiments of the invention are identified by like reference numerals. Kit 210 is of modular clothing which is suitable for play use by a normal user, a wheelchair user, or a first or second person with a physical disfigurement. Kit 210 comprises a front clothing part 20K according to a tenth embodiment of the invention which is in the form of a rope and can be tied according to the tastes of the user, a front clothing part 20L according to an eleventh embodiment of the invention, a front clothing part 20M according to a twelfth embodiment of the invention, a rear clothing part 30G according to an eighth embodiment of the invention, a rear clothing part 30H according to a ninth embodiment of the invention, and a rear clothing part 30I according to a tenth embodiment of the invention.

    [0150] Each front clothing part 20L,20M has a neckline 28, a hem 29, side fittings 122A,122B,222A,222B,322A,322B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a rear clothing part 30G,30H,30I, and shoulder portions 24A,24B which each have on their outer ends a shoulder fitting 226A,226B,326A,326B,426A,426B for attachment to corresponding fittings on a rear clothing part 30G,30H,30I. Front clothing part 20K is formed from rope which is looped and knotted to form the neckline 28, hem 29, side fittings 322A,322B, shoulder portions 24A,24B, and shoulder fittings 426A,426B. Front clothing part 20L has a short length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable to form a bondage harness style top formed from straps which form a geometric pattern. Front clothing part 20M has a short length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable to form the front part of a diamante harness style top formed from loops of chain with a diamante decoration.

    [0151] Rear clothing parts 30G,30H each have a neckline 38, a hem 39, D-ring side fittings 132A,132B for attachment to corresponding fittings 122A,122B,222A,222B,322A,322B on a front clothing part 20K,20L, and shoulder portions 34A,34B which each have on their outer ends a D-ring shoulder fitting 136A,136B for attachment to corresponding fittings 226A,226B,326A,326B,426A,426B on a front clothing part 20K,20L. Rear clothing part 30G has a long length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable for forming the rear part of a top suitable for use with a front clothing part 20K which is in the form of a rope. Rear clothing part 30H has a short length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable for forming the rear part of a harness top 20L.

    [0152] Rear clothing part 30I has a neckline 38, a hem 39, side fittings 132A,132B for attachment to corresponding fittings 222A,222B on a front clothing part 20M, and shoulder portions 34A,34B which each have on their outer ends a shoulder fitting 136A,136B for attachment to corresponding fittings 326A,326B on a front clothing part 20M. Rear clothing parts 30I has a short length from neckline 28 to hem 29 such that it is suitable for forming the rear part of a harness top 20M.

    [0153] Side and shoulder fittings 122B,126B,226B,132B,136B,236B each comprise a D-ring 74 and a releasable clip 76 as illustrated in detail on FIG. 35 or FIG. 38. Side and shoulder fittings 122A,126A,226A,132A,136A,236A correspond. In an alternative embodiment as illustrated on FIG. 34, the clip 76 may have a button 78. Each side and shoulder fitting 122A,122B,132A,132B,136A,136B may be releasably attached to the D-ring 74 by a strap having a hook and loop system, magnet, and/or press-fit stud closure. In an alternative embodiment, each side and shoulder fitting 122A,122B,132A,132B,136A,136B may be fixed on the D-ring 74. In a further alternative embodiment, where the front clothing part 20K is formed from a rope, the rope may be threaded through the D-ring 74 as shown on FIG. 39 to form side and shoulder fittings 122A,122B,132A,132B,132A,132B,136A,136B.

    [0154] FIG. 15 illustrates modular clothing 50A according to a first embodiment of the invention which is formed from the rear clothing part 30A according to the first embodiment of the invention and front clothing part 20A according to the first embodiment of the invention. FIG. 16 illustrates a wheelchair user 60A wearing modular clothing 50A whilst seated in a wheelchair 62. The wheelchair user 60A may switch between different front clothing parts depending on whether they are sitting or standing. For example, at an event such as a wedding, the wheelchair user 60A may choose to wear a full-length front clothing part when standing (e.g. dancing) and switch to a shorter front clothing part when sitting in the wheelchair 62.

    [0155] FIG. 19 illustrates modular clothing 50B according to a second embodiment of the invention which is formed from the rear clothing part 30C according to the third embodiment of the invention and front clothing part 20C according to the third embodiment of the invention. FIG. 17 illustrates a front view of a first person 60B with a physical disfigurement in the form of a scoliosis wearing modular clothing 50B. FIG. 18 illustrates a rear view of the first person 60B with the physical disfigurement in the form of a scoliosis wearing modular clothing 50B.

    [0156] FIG. 22 illustrates modular clothing 50C according to a third embodiment of the invention which is formed from the rear clothing part 30I according to the tenth embodiment of the invention and front clothing part 20L according to the eleventh embodiment of the invention. FIG. 20 illustrates a partial front view of a normal person 60C wearing the front part 20L of modular clothing 50C. FIG. 21 illustrates a partial rear view of a normal person 60C wearing the rear part 30I of modular clothing 50B.

    [0157] FIG. 23 illustrates a partial rear view of a normal person 60C wearing the rear part 30G according to the eighth embodiment of the invention. FIG. 24 illustrates a partial front view of a normal person 60C wearing the front part 20K according to the tenth embodiment of the invention.

    [0158] FIG. 27 illustrates modular clothing 50D according to a fourth embodiment of the invention which is formed from the rear clothing part 30I according to the tenth embodiment of the invention and front clothing part 20M according to the twelfth embodiment of the invention. FIG. 25 illustrates a partial front view of a normal person 60C wearing the front part 20M of modular clothing 50D. FIG. 21 illustrates a rear view of a normal person 60C wearing the rear part 30I of modular clothing 50B.

    [0159] FIG. 28 illustrates in detail the shoulder fitting 26B of a front shoulder part 24B and the shoulder fitting 36B of a rear shoulder part 34B. Each shoulder fitting 26B,36B comprises a pair of magnets 70 and a hook and loop system 72 where front shoulder fitting 26B has a hook strip 72A and the rear shoulder fitting 36B has a loop strip 72B (or alternatively front shoulder fitting 26B may have a loop strip 72A and the rear shoulder fitting 36B may have a hook strip 72B). FIG. 29 illustrates in detail the front shoulder part 24B and the rear shoulder part 34B linked together by the joining of their respective fittings 26B,36B. In an alternative embodiment, the magnets 70 may be replaced by press-fit stud closures 171.

    [0160] FIG. 30 illustrates in detail the side fitting 22B of a second clothing part 120 and the side fitting 32B of a second rear clothing part 130. Each side fitting 22B,32B comprises a series of magnets 70 where each pair of magnets is spaced by the same predetermined gap and a hook and loop system 72 where front side fitting 22B has a hook strip 72A and the rear side fitting 32B has a loop strip 72B (or alternatively front side fitting 22B may have a loop strip 72A and the rear side fitting 32B may have a hook strip 72B). FIG. 31 illustrates in detail the front clothing part 120 and the rear clothing part 130 linked together by the joining of their respective fittings 228,32B. In an alternative embodiment, the magnets 70 may be replaced by press-fit stud closures 171.

    [0161] FIG. 32 illustrates a side view of separate front clothing part 120 and rear clothing part 130. FIG. 33 illustrates a side view of front clothing part 120 and rear clothing part 130 linked together by the joining of their respective fittings 22A,32B,26B,36B to form modular clothing 50E according to a fifth embodiment of the invention.

    [0162] FIG. 34 illustrates front clothing part 20L which is a harness according to the eleventh embodiment of the invention linked to rear clothing part 30H according to the ninth embodiment of the invention by their respective shoulder fittings 226B,136B. Shoulder fitting 226B of front clothing part 20L is in the form of a strap which may be secured to itself by means of a hook and loop system (not shown). Shoulder fitting 136B of rear clothing part 30H comprises a D-ring 74 which is mounted on the shoulder part 34B by a releasable clip 76 having a button 78. In use, the strap of shoulder fitting 126B is wrapped around D-ring 74 and secured to itself by the hook and loop system. Clip 76 is releasable for safety reasons. The link between shoulder fittings 226A,136A corresponds to the link shown in FIG. 34. In an alternative embodiment, shoulder fitting 226B may be secured to itself using a magnetic button, and/or a press-fit stud closure, optionally in combination with the hook and loop system. In an alternative embodiment, the rear clothing part 30H may be replaced by rear clothing part 30I according to the tenth embodiment of the invention. The link shown in FIG. 34 may also be used to form the link between the side fittings 122B,122A of front clothing part 20L and the side fittings 132A,132B of rear clothing parts 30H,30I.

    [0163] FIG. 35 illustrates front clothing part 20L which is a harness according to the eleventh embodiment of the invention linked in an alternative manner to rear clothing part 30H according to the ninth embodiment of the invention by their respective shoulder fittings 226B,236B. Shoulder fitting 226B of front clothing part 20L is in the form of a strap which may be secured to itself by means of a hook and loop system (not shown). Shoulder fitting 236B of rear clothing part 30H comprises a D-ring 74 which is mounted on the shoulder part 346 by a releasable clip 76. In use, the strap of shoulder fitting 126B is wrapped around D-ring 74 and secured to itself by the hook and loop system. Clip 76 is releasable for safety reasons. The link between shoulder fittings 226A,136A corresponds to the link shown in FIG. 34. In an alternative embodiment, shoulder fitting 226B may be secured to itself using a magnetic button, and/or a press-fit stud closure, optionally in combination with the hook and loop system. In an alternative embodiment, the rear clothing part 30H may be replaced by rear clothing part 30I according to the tenth embodiment of the invention. The link shown in FIG. 34 may also be used to form the link between the side fittings 122B,122A of front clothing part 20L and the side fittings 132A,132B of rear clothing parts 30H,30I.

    [0164] FIGS. 36 and 37 illustrate in detail an alternative embodiment of the shoulder fitting 526B of a front shoulder part 24B and of the shoulder fitting 336B of a rear shoulder part 34B. Each shoulder fitting 526B,336B comprises a pair of press-fit stud closures 171 where front shoulder fitting 26B has a pair of press-fit stud closures 171A having a male member and the rear shoulder fitting 36B has a pair of press-fit stud closures 171B forming a female recess for receiving the male member (or alternatively front shoulder fitting 26B may have a pair of press-fit stud closures 171A forming a female recess for receiving the male member and the rear shoulder fitting 36B may have a pair of press-fit stud closures 171B having a male member) and a hook and loop system 72 where front shoulder fitting 526B has a hook strip 72A and the rear shoulder fitting 336B has a loop strip 72B (or alternatively front shoulder fitting 526B may have a loop strip 72A and the rear shoulder fitting 236B may have a hook strip 72B). FIG. 37 illustrates in detail the front shoulder part 24B and the rear shoulder part 34B linked together by the joining of their respective fittings 526B,336B.

    [0165] FIG. 38 illustrates front clothing part 20M which is a harness according to the twelfth embodiment of the invention linked to rear clothing part 30H according to the ninth embodiment of the invention by their respective side fittings 122B,132B. Side fitting 122B of front clothing part 20M is in the form of a chain which has a D-ring 74 at its end. Side fitting 132B of rear clothing part 30I comprises a releasable clip 76 having a button 78. In use, the releasable clip 76 of shoulder fitting 136B is wrapped around D-ring 74 of shoulder fitting 126B. Clip 76 is releasable for safety reasons. The link between side fittings 122A,132A corresponds to the link shown in FIG. 38. The link shown in FIG. 38 may also be used to form the link between the shoulder fittings 326A,326B of front clothing part 20M and the shoulder fittings 136A,136B of rear clothing parts 30I.

    [0166] FIG. 39 illustrates front clothing part 20K which is a rope harness according to the tenth embodiment of the invention linked to rear clothing part 30G according to the eighth embodiment of the invention. Its side fitting 322B is formed by threading the rope through side fitting 132B of rear clothing part 30G according to the eighth embodiment of the invention. Side fitting 132B of rear clothing part 30G comprises a D-ring 74 which is mounted on the rear clothing part 30G by a releasable clip 76. In use, the rope is threaded through D-ring 74. Clip 76 is releasable for safety reasons. The link between side fittings 322A,132A corresponds to the link shown in FIG. 39. The link shown in FIG. 39 may also be used to form the link between the shoulder fittings 426A,426B of front clothing part 20K and the shoulder fittings 136A,136B of rear clothing part 30G.

    [0167] FIG. 40 illustrates how a sleeve 45A may be attached to a shoulder part 24A. Shoulder part 24A has a shoulder sleeve fitting 27A which comprises 3 evenly spaced magnets 70. Sleeve fitting 42A of sleeve 45A comprises 3 evenly spaced magnets 70 for engaging the shoulder sleeve fitting 27A. The link between shoulder sleeve fitting 27B and sleeve fitting 42B corresponds to the link shown in FIG. 40. Shoulder fitting 27B corresponds to shoulder fitting 27A. In an alternative embodiment, shoulder sleeve fittings 27A,27B and sleeve fitting 42A,42B may comprise less than 3 magnets, for example 1 or 2 magnets, or more than 3 magnets, for example from 4 to 6. In an alternative embodiment, shoulder sleeve fittings 27A,27B and sleeve fitting 42A,42B may be linked to each other using a press-fit stud closure and/or a hook and loop system, optionally in combination with the magnet.

    [0168] FIG. 41 illustrates an alternative embodiment of front and rear side fittings 422B,232B for use with front clothing parts 20A,20B,20C,20D,20E,20G,20H,20I,20J and rear parts 30A,30B,30C,30D,30E,30F,30J in an alternative embodiment. Front side fitting 422B comprises a first part of a zip 80 and a flap 84 for covering the zip 80 where the flap 84 has a strip 72B of a hook and loop system 72A,72B for securing to the rear side fitting 232B. Rear side fitting 232B comprises a second part of a zip 80 and a strip 72A of hook and loop system 72A,72B for securing the flap 84. Zip 80 has a slider 82. The zip 80 may be a magnetic zip.

    [0169] FIG. 44 illustrates modular clothing 50B according to a second embodiment of the invention which is formed from the rear clothing part 30C according to the third embodiment of the invention and front clothing part 20C according to the third embodiment of the invention. FIG. 42 illustrates a front view of a second person 60D with a physical disfigurement in the form of achondroplasia or dwarfism wearing modular clothing 50B. FIG. 43 illustrates a rear view of the second person 60D with the physical disfigurement in the form of achondroplasia or dwarfism wearing modular clothing 50B.

    [0170] FIG. 45 illustrates modular clothing 50F according to a further embodiment of the invention which is formed from a rear clothing part 30K and either one of two front clothing parts 20N,20O. The rear clothing part 30K is similar to the rear clothing part 30D of FIG. 8, except that the rear clothing part 30K includes two sets of zip elements 86,88 extending along the sides of the rear clothing part 30K. The zip elements 86 are longer than the zip elements 88. In the embodiment shown, the shorter zip elements 88 are further inward compared to the longer zip elements 86.

    [0171] The front clothing part 20N is similar to the front clothing part 20G of FIG. 4, except that the front clothing part 20N includes two zip elements 90 extending along the sides of the front clothing part 20N. The zip elements 90 each include a slider. The zip elements 90 have the same length as the zip elements 86. The rear clothing part 30K can be combined with the front clothing part 20N to form a blouse by combining the zip elements 86 with the zip elements 90.

    [0172] The front clothing part 20O is similar to the front clothing part 20I of FIG. 6, except that the front clothing part 20O includes two zip elements 92 extending along the sides of the front clothing part 20O. The zip elements 92 each include a slider. The zip elements 92 are shorter than the zip elements 90 and have the same length as the zip elements 88. The rear clothing part 30K can be combined with the front clothing part 20ON to form a shorter crop top front by combining the zip elements 88 with the zip elements 92.

    [0173] This embodiment offers a person the option to switch between a blouse front and a shorter crop top front to suit the weather or a specific fashion style. Also, a wheelchair user may choose to use the shorter crop top front when sitting in a wheel chair to avoid gathering and wrinkling, and use the longer blouse front when standing up.

    [0174] The shoulder fittings of the rear and front clothing parts 30K,20N,20O may vary in type as long as they are capable of attaching the shoulder portions of the rear and front clothing parts 30K,20N,20O. Non-limiting examples of shoulder fittings are described throughout the specification.

    [0175] It will be appreciated that each zip may be replaced by a different fastener element, non-limiting examples of which are described throughout the specification. It will also be appreciated that the fastener elements may be of the same type or may be of different types, which further enhances the modularity of the invention. For example, the modular clothing may use a combination of different types of fastener elements, such as a zip and a hook-and-loop system, preferably with different lengths to match the lengths of the different front clothing parts.

    [0176] It will be appreciated that the above-described principle of switching between front clothing parts of different lengths applies mutatis mutandis to front clothing parts of different widths and front clothing parts of different clothing sizes. It will be appreciated that the above-described principle of switching between front clothing parts of different lengths, widths and/or clothing sizes applies mutatis mutandis to switching between rear clothing parts of different lengths, widths and/or clothing sizes. For example, a front clothing part may have two sets of fastener elements of different lengths, and may be attached to either one of two or more rear clothing parts, each of which has a single set of fastener elements.

    [0177] The listing or discussion of an apparently prior published document or apparently prior published information in this specification should not necessarily be taken as an acknowledgement that the document or information is part of the state of the art or is common general knowledge.

    [0178] Preferences and options for a given aspect, feature or parameter of the invention should, unless the context indicates otherwise, be regarded as having been disclosed in combination with any and all preferences and options for all other aspects, features and parameters of the Invention.