GUSSET FOR A GARMENT

Abstract

According to an aspect, there is provided a gusset for a body covering garment for a wearer. The gusset is configured for a crotch covering portion of the garment. The gusset includes a width and a length. The width and the length are formed by the combination of a front portion and a back portion. The front portion has a first front lateral side portion and a second front lateral side portion. The back portion has a first back lateral side portion and a second back lateral side portion. The first front lateral side portion and second front lateral side portion together form a substantially convex region of at least a portion of the outer edge. The first back lateral side portion and second back lateral side portion each form a substantially concave region of at least a portion of the outer edge.

Claims

1. A gusset for a body covering garment for a wearer, wherein the gusset is configured for a crotch covering portion of the body covering garment, the crotch covering portion covering a region where a wearer's legs join a wearer's torso when the body covering garment is worn by the wearer, the gusset comprising: a width and a length, wherein the width and the length are formed by the combination of a front portion and a back portion; the front portion having a first front lateral side portion and a second front lateral side portion, wherein the first front lateral side portion and the second front lateral side portion are substantially symmetrical; the back portion having a first back lateral side portion and a second back lateral side portion, wherein the first back lateral side portion and the second back lateral side portion are substantially symmetrical; wherein the first front lateral side portion, second front lateral side portion, first back lateral side portion, and second back lateral side portion each form at least a portion of a gusset outer peripheral edge; wherein the first front lateral side portion and second front lateral side portion together form a substantially convex region of at least a portion of the gusset outer peripheral edge; and wherein the first back lateral side portion and second back lateral side portion each form a substantially concave region of at least a portion of the gusset outer peripheral edge.

2. The gusset of claim 1, further comprising: a first side edge that extends between an edge of the first front lateral side portion and an edge of the first back lateral side portion to form a first wing; and a second side edge that extends between an edge of the second front lateral side portion and an edge of the second back lateral side to form a second wing.

3. The gusset of claim 2, wherein the first wing and the second wing are substantially symmetrical.

4. The gusset of claim 2, wherein the first side edge and the second side edge are configured to define a portion of a bottom hem of the garment.

5. The gusset of claim 1, wherein: an edge of the first front lateral side portion meets an edge of the first back lateral side portion at a first lateral point; and an edge of the second front lateral side portion meets an edge of the second back lateral side portion at a second lateral point.

6. The gusset of claim 5, wherein the edge of the first front lateral side portion, the edge of the first back lateral side portion, the edge of the second front lateral side portion, and the edge of the second back lateral side portion together form the gusset outer peripheral edge.

7. The gusset of claim 1, wherein the gusset is fabricated from materials that provide at least one of breathability, absorbency, stretch, weight/thickness, opacity, odor resistance, and moisture wicking.

8. The gusset of claim 1, wherein the gusset is fabricated with two or more layers.

9. The gusset of claim 8, wherein the two or more layers comprises an inner layer and an outer layer that differ in at least one of breathability, absorbency, stretch, stretch direction, weight/thickness, opacity, odor resistance, and moisture wicking.

10. The gusset of claim 8, wherein at least two of the two or more layers are at least partially attached.

11. A body covering garment having a gusset, wherein the gusset is configured for a crotch covering portion of the body covering garment, the crotch covering portion covering a region where a wearer's legs join a wearer's torso when the body covering garment is worn by the wearer, the gusset comprising: a width and a length, wherein the width and the length are formed by the combination of a front portion and a back portion; the front portion having a first front lateral side portion and a second front lateral side portion, wherein the first front lateral side portion and the second front lateral side portion are substantially symmetrical; the back portion having a first back lateral side portion and a second back lateral side portion, wherein the first back lateral side portion and the second back lateral side portion are substantially symmetrical; wherein the first front lateral side portion, second front lateral side portion, first back lateral side portion, and second back lateral side portion each form at least a portion of a gusset outer peripheral edge; wherein the first front lateral side portion and second front lateral side portion together form a substantially convex region of at least a portion of the gusset outer peripheral edge; and wherein the first back lateral side portion and second back lateral side portion each form a substantially concave region of at least a portion of the gusset outer peripheral edge.

12. The garment of claim 11, wherein the garment comprises at least one of pants, tights, leggings, shorts, a bodysuit, a jumpsuit, trousers, capris, leggings under a dress/skort undershort/legging construction, dress/skirt undershorts, underwear, a shaping garment, and swimwear.

13. The garment of claim 11, wherein the garment comprises a front panel covering a front pelvic area of the wearer and at least a portion of front side of wearer's legs, and at least one back panel covering a lower back area and a buttock area, wherein the front panel does not include a medial front seam.

14. The garment of claim 11, wherein the gusset is fabricated from different material than at least some material of a remainder of the garment.

15. A body covering garment having a gusset, wherein the gusset is configured for a crotch covering portion of the body covering garment, the crotch covering portion covering a region where a wearer's legs join a wearer's torso when the body covering garment is worn by the wearer, the gusset comprising: a width and a length, wherein the width and the length are formed by the combination of a front portion and a back portion; the front portion having a first front lateral side portion and a second front lateral side portion, wherein the first front lateral side portion and the second front lateral side portion are substantially symmetrical; the back portion having a first back lateral side portion and a second back lateral side portion, wherein the first back lateral side portion and the second back lateral side portion are substantially symmetrical; wherein the first front lateral side portion, second front lateral side portion, first back lateral side portion, and second back lateral side portion each form at least a portion of a gusset outer peripheral edge; wherein the first front lateral side portion and second front lateral side portion together form a substantially convex region of at least a portion of the gusset outer peripheral edge; and wherein the first back lateral side portion and second back lateral side portion each form a substantially concave region of at least a portion of the gusset outer peripheral edge; wherein a first side edge extends between an edge of the first front lateral side portion and an edge of the first back lateral side portion to form a first wing; wherein a second side edge extends between an edge of the second front lateral side portion and an edge of the second back lateral side portion to form a second wing; and wherein the first side edge defines a first portion of a first hem of the garment and the second side edge defines a second portion of a second hem of the garment.

16. The garment of claim 15, wherein the garment comprises at least one of pants, tights, leggings, shorts, a bodysuit, a jumpsuit, trousers, capris, leggings under a dress/skort undershort/legging construction, dress/skirt undershorts, underwear, a shaping garment, and swimwear.

17. A gusset for a body covering garment for a wearer, wherein the gusset is configured for a crotch covering portion of the body covering garment, the crotch covering portion covering a region where a wearer's legs join a wearer's torso when the body covering garment is worn by the wearer, the gusset comprising: a width and a length, wherein the width and the length are formed by the combination of a front portion and a back strip; the front portion having a first front lateral side portion and a second front lateral side portion, wherein the first front lateral side portion and the second front lateral side portion are substantially symmetrical; the back strip having a first back strip lateral side portion, a second back strip lateral side portion, and a back edge, wherein the first back strip lateral side portion and the second back strip lateral side portion are substantially symmetrical; wherein the first front lateral side portion, second front lateral side portion, first back strip lateral side portion, second back strip lateral side portion, and the back edge each form at least a portion of a gusset outer peripheral edge; wherein the first front lateral side portion and second front lateral side portion together form a substantially convex region of at least a portion of the gusset outer peripheral edge; wherein the back strip is configured to extend up to a waistband or top edge of the garment; and wherein the first back strip lateral side portion and second back strip lateral side portion each form a substantially concave region of at least a portion of the outer edge.

18. The gusset of claim 17, further comprising: a first side edge that extends between an edge of the first front lateral side portion and an edge of the first back strip lateral side portion to form a first wing; and a second side edge that extends between an edge of the second front lateral side portion and an edge of the second back strip lateral side portion to form a second wing.

19. The gusset of claim 17, wherein: an edge of the first front lateral side portion meets an edge of the first back strip lateral side portion at a first lateral point; and an edge of the second front lateral side portion meets an edge of the second back strip lateral side portion at a second lateral point.

20. The gusset of claim 19, wherein the edge of the first front lateral side portion, the edge of the first back strip lateral side portion, the edge of the second front lateral side portion, the edge of the second back strip lateral side portion, and the back edge together form the gusset outer edge.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0041] In the figures, embodiments are illustrated by way of example. It is to be expressly understood that the description and figures are only for the purpose of illustration and as an aid to understanding.

[0042] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the attached figures, wherein in the figures:

[0043] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a gusset, according to some embodiments.

[0044] FIG. 2A-FIG. 2C are plan views of alternative gussets, according to some embodiments.

[0045] FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are front and rear views of example tights fabricated with the gusset described herein, according to some embodiments.

[0046] FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B are front and rear views of example shorts fabricated with the gusset described herein, according to some embodiments.

[0047] FIG. 5A shows tights using a conventional gusset.

[0048] FIG. 5B shows tights using a gusset described herein, according to some embodiments.

[0049] FIG. 6 is a plan view of a gusset with wings, according to some embodiments.

[0050] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B are plan views of alternative gussets with wings, according to some embodiments.

[0051] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are front and rear views of example shorts fabricated with the gusset with wings described herein, according to some embodiments.

[0052] FIG. 9 shows an interior view of shorts fabricated with the gusset with wings described herein, according to some embodiments.

[0053] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a gusset with a front strip, according to some embodiments.

[0054] FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B are a front and rear views of example tights fabricated with the gusset with a front strip, according to some embodiments.

[0055] FIG. 12A is a plan view of a gusset with a back strip, according to some embodiments.

[0056] FIG. 12B is a plan view of a gusset with a back strip and wings, according to some embodiments.

[0057] FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B are a front and rear views of example tights fabricated with the gusset with a back strip, according to some embodiments.

[0058] FIG. 14 is a plan view of a gusset with a front strip and a back strip, according to some embodiments.

[0059] FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B are a front and rear view of example tights fabricated with the gusset with a front strip and a back strip, according to some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] A gusset is a separate piece of fabric sewn or bonded to an edge or seam. Gussets can be implemented in underarm regions and/or on the crotch regions of a garment. Gussets can improve the range of motion for the garment. Some gussets are triangular, rectangular, or diamond shaped.

[0061] Seamless garments (e.g., tights, leggings, shorts, pants, etc.) may still include seams, but generally include fewer seams (or edges more generally) than other garments. In particular, seamless garments that cover the lower region of a wearer generally include no medial front seam and/or medial back seam. Absent these seams, the gusset can be advantageous for shaping the seamless construction. For example, in constructions with no medial front seam, the gusset shaping contributes to the garment staying up on the wearer's body, better front rise fit, and keeping the waistband in place during movement.

[0062] Embodiments described herein involve apparel gussets for use in a crotch region of lower body covering apparel. The crotch region of body covering apparel can include a region that generally covers the crotch and/or groin in a wearer and can generally extend front and back laterally to do so. The gussets described herein generally include a convex front peripheral edge and/or two concave back regions coming to a point to define the back peripheral edge. The convex front peripheral edge may improve the front fit and may reduce the appearance of an outline of genitalia (e.g. a camel toe). The two concave regions may improve the fit on and appearance of the buttocks. Some embodiments are particularly suited to form fitting and/or technical apparel.

[0063] The gusset described herein can blend with a contour fit to create a flattering and enhanced silhouette, particularly accentuating and/or lifting the buttocks when tights implementing the gusset are worn. It can incorporate a unique back rise and gusset design, offering seamless benefits in the front and a lifting effect on the buttocks at the back.

[0064] Some embodiments of the apparel gussets described herein include enhancing/shaping a user's buttocks appearance for improved appearance of the user, enhanced range of motion, comfort, accurate apparel positioning, reduction in slipping due to activity and/or the duration of wear. Some embodiments may also be effective in reducing the appearance of an outline of genitalia (e.g. a camel toe or moose knuckle).

[0065] The gussets described herein can be implemented in seamless or non-seamless garments. They can work in garments with seams to add additional shaping. For example, the concave shaped back portion may, in effect, define the shape from the gusset to the waistband or partially to the waistband to function similarly to how a back seam would function.

[0066] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a gusset 100, according to some embodiments.

[0067] The gusset 100 can be a fabric gusset for a body covering garment for a wearer. The gusset 100 can be designed to be placed in a crotch covering portion of the body covering garment (e.g., covering a region where a wearer's legs join the torso when the body covering garment is worn by the wearer). The gusset 100 has a width 102 and a length 104 that can be formed by the combination of a front potion 106 and a back portion 108.

[0068] The front portion 106 may include a first front lateral side portion 106A and a second front lateral side portion 106B. The first front lateral side portion 106A and the second front lateral side portion 106B may be substantially symmetrical. At least a portion of the front portion 106 may be substantially convex. In some embodiments there may be two convex regions, one on each of the first front lateral side portion 106A and the second front lateral side portion 106B. In some embodiments, the convex region may span both the first front lateral side portion 106A and the second front lateral side portion 106B (as illustrated in FIG. 1). In some embodiments the front portion 106 provides a generally continuous peripheral edge with one or more convex regions throughout (e.g., edges 101A and 101B of first front lateral side portion 106A and second front lateral side portion 106B respectively). In particular, such a construction may interoperate well with a garment that includes no medial front seam to provide shape to the front portion of the garment. Such a construction may mitigate the appearance of an outline of genitalia (e.g. a camel toe).

[0069] The back portion 108 may include a first back lateral side portion 108A and a second back lateral side portion 108B. The first back lateral side portion 108A and second back lateral side portion 108B may be substantially symmetric. Each of the first back lateral side portion 108A and the second back lateral side portion 108B may include a concave portion. The back lateral side portions 108A and 108B may come to a point 109 (e.g., edges 103A and 103B of the first back lateral side portion 108A and second back lateral side portion 108B respectively may come to a point 109). In some embodiments, the back portion 108 and point 109 can provide a lifting effect to enhance the appearance of the buttocks. The concave portions may support the bottom of the buttocks which the point may shape a medial line of the user. Such a construction may be suitable for garments with or without a medial back seam. In some embodiments, the point 109 may come to the waistband of the garment.

[0070] The dimensions of the gusset 100 may vary depending on the size of the garment, its intended use, and the fabric used. As such, the dimensions of gusset 100 can be scaled as needed. For example, garments with fabrics with a high stretch or garments intended for a smaller size may use a smaller gusset 100 than garments with fabrics with a low stretch or garments intended for a larger size.

[0071] Furthermore, the dimensions of the gusset 100 may be changed relative to each other to produce a gusset of a different shape.

[0072] In some embodiments the gusset 100 has more than one layer. For example, a gusset 100 may include an inner wicking layer, an absorption layer, a leakproof layer, and an outer layer. These layers may be bonded, laminated, sewn, or otherwise attached such that the layers are fully or partially joined. An internal layer in the gusset 100 construction may have the same or a different shape than the overall gusset 100. For example, an internal layer may be applied to a specific subset portion of the length 104 and width 102 of the gusset 100.

[0073] According to an aspect, there is provided a gusset 100 for a body covering garment for a wearer. The gusset 100 is configured for a crotch covering portion of the body covering garment. The crotch covering portion covers a region where a wearer's legs join a wearer's torso when the body covering garment is worn by the wearer. The gusset 100 includes a width 102 and a length 104. The width 102 and the length 104 are formed by the combination of a front portion 106 and a back portion 108. The front portion 106 has a first front lateral side portion 106A and a second front lateral side portion 106B. The first front lateral side portion 106A and the second front lateral side portion 106B are substantially symmetrical. The back portion 108 has a first back lateral side portion 108A and a second back lateral side portion 108B. The first back lateral side portion 108A and the second back lateral side portion 108B are substantially symmetrical. The first front lateral side portion 106A, second front lateral side portion 106B, first back lateral side portion 108A, and second back lateral side portion 108B each form at least a portion of a gusset 100 outer peripheral edge. The first front lateral side portion 106A and second front lateral side portion 106B together form a substantially convex region of at least a portion of the gusset 100 outer peripheral edge. The first back lateral side portion 108A and second back lateral side portion 108B each form a substantially concave region of at least a portion of the gusset 100 outer peripheral edge.

[0074] In some embodiments, an edge 101A of the first front lateral side portion 106A meets an edge 103A of the first back lateral side portion 108A at a first lateral point 19A, and an edge 101B of the second front lateral side portion 106B meets an edge 103B of the second back lateral side portion 108B at a second lateral point 19B.

[0075] In some embodiments, the edge of the first front lateral side portion 106A, the edge of the first back lateral side portion 108A, the edge of the second front lateral side portion 106B, and the edge of the second back lateral side portion 108B together form the gusset outer peripheral edge.

[0076] In some embodiments, the gusset 100 is fabricated from materials that provide at least one of breathability, absorbency, stretch, weight/thickness, opacity, odor resistance, and moisture wicking.

[0077] In some embodiments, the gusset 100 is fabricated with two or more layers.

[0078] In some embodiments, the two or more layers comprises an inner layer and an outer layer that differ in at least one of breathability, absorbency, stretch, stretch direction, weight/thickness, opacity, odor resistance, and moisture wicking.

[0079] In some embodiments, the gusset 100 includes an inner moisture wicking layer, an absorption layer, a leakproof layer, and an outer layer.

[0080] In some embodiments, at least two of the two or more layers are at least partially attached.

[0081] FIG. 2A is a plan view of a gusset 200, according to some embodiments.

[0082] The gusset 200 can include a width 202 and a length 204 that can be formed by the combination of a front potion 206 and a back portion 208. The front portion 206 has length 204A and may include a first front lateral side portion 206A with width 202A and a second front lateral side portion 206B with width 202B. The back portion 208 has length 204B and may include a first back lateral side portion 208A and a second back lateral side portion 208B. The back lateral side portions 208A and 208B may come to a point 209. The gusset 200 may generally share the same description and alternatives as described above for the gusset 100 of FIG. 1. Each of the components of the gusset 200 may share the same description and alternatives as the similarly named components of gusset 100 of FIG. 1 other than the differences described here.

[0083] As described above, the gusset 100 may have its internal dimensions altered relative to one another to produce a gusset 200. As can be seen in FIG. 2A, the gusset 200 has a longer relative length 204 than the length 104 of gusset 100 of FIG. 1. In some embodiments, this results in a gusset 200 with more length to the front portion 206 and the back portion 208 (as illustrated). This can result in a sharper point 209 and a deeper convex region in the front portion 206. In some embodiments, the length 204A may be added only to the front portion 206 to provide a deeper convex region. In some embodiments, the length 204B may be added only to the back portion 208 to provide a sharper point 209.

[0084] FIG. 2B is a plan view of a gusset 210, according to some embodiments.

[0085] The gusset 210 can include a width 212 and a length 214 that can be formed by the combination of a front potion 216 with length 214A and a back portion 218 with length 214B. The front portion 216 may include a first front lateral side portion 216A with width 212A and a second front lateral side portion 216B with width 212B. The back portion 218 may include a first back lateral side portion 218A and a second back lateral side portion 218B. The back lateral side portions 218A and 218B may come to a point 219. The gusset 210 may generally share the same description and alternatives as described above for the gusset 100 of FIG. 1. Each of the components of the gusset 210 may share the same description and alternatives as the similarly named components of gusset 100 of FIG. 1 other than the differences described here.

[0086] As described above, the gusset 100 may have its internal dimensions altered relative to one another to produce a gusset 210. As can be seen in FIG. 2B, the gusset 210 has a longer relative width 212 than the width 102 of gusset 100 of FIG. 1. For example, the length 214A of the front portion 216 and/or length 214B of the back portion 218 can be shorter than lengths 204A/204B and/or widths 212A, 212B can be longer than widths 202A, 202B. In some embodiments, this results in a gusset 210 with a deeper concavity curve than the curve of the gusset in FIG. 2A (as illustrated). This can result in a blunter point 219 and a shallower convex region in the front portion 216. Persons skilled in the art would understand that front portion 206, 216, 226 of the gusset can have convex curve portion with different degrees of convexness (decreasing or increasing), and the back portion 208, 218, 228 can have concave curve portion with different degrees of concaveness (increasing or decreasing) without departing from the scope of invention.

[0087] FIG. 2C is a plan view of a gusset 220, according to some embodiments.

[0088] The gusset 220 can include a width 222 and a length 224 that can be formed by the combination of a front potion 226 with length 224A and a back portion 228 with length 224B. The front portion 226 may include a first front lateral side portion 226A with width 222A and a second front lateral side portion 226B with width 222B. The back portion 228 may include a first back lateral side portion 228A and a second back lateral side portion 228B. The back lateral side portions 228A and 228B may come to a point 229. The gusset 220 may generally share the same description and alternatives as described above for the gusset 100 of FIG. 1. Each of the components of the gusset 220 may share the same description and alternatives as the similarly named components of gusset 100 of FIG. 1 other than the differences described here.

[0089] As illustrated the center of the width 222 and the length 224 can be moved relative to each other to generate a different gusset shape. For example, the width 222A, 222B (which, in this gusset 220, also defines the line along which the front portion 226 meets the back portion 228) can be shifted towards the back of the gusset 220. This may deepen the convex region along the front portion 226 while blunting the peak 229.

[0090] As can readily be understood, other dimensions may also be altered to generate further different gusset shapes. For example, the depth of the concave regions along the back portion 228 or the convex region along the front portion 226 may be altered. Modifying the concavity of the concave regions may alter how the gusset 228 supports the bottom of a wearer's buttocks. As a further example, the curvature of any of the concave or convex regions may be broken up with substantially straight regions to define the outline of the gusset 228 and to control the angle at which the first front lateral side portion 226A meets the second front lateral side portion 226B, the second front lateral side portion 226B meets the second back lateral side portion 228B, the second back lateral side portion 228B meets the first back lateral side portion 228A, and the first back lateral side portion 228A meets the first front lateral side portion 226A. Such modifications may be beneficial depending on the type of garment that is being fabricated, the elasticity of the materials, the size of the garment, and the desired shaping.

[0091] FIG. 3A is a front view of an example garment 300 fabricated with the gusset 301 described herein, according to some embodiments. FIG. 3B is a rear view of an example garment 300 fabricated with the gusset 301 described herein, according to some embodiments.

[0092] In FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B, the garment 300 includes tights. Other lower body covering garments are possible. In the figures, the gusset 301 shows the front portion 306 and the back portion 308. The front portion 306 forms a convex surface that helps the gusset 301 bond to the rest of the garment 300 in a manner that may reduce the appearance of an outline of genitalia (e.g. a camel toe). The back portion 308 includes two concave regions that meet at a point. The concave regions can help define the bottom of the buttocks of the wearer while the point may help define the medial line between the buttocks to potentially enhance the appearance of the wearer's rear. As can be seen in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B, there is no medial front seam and the point of the gusset 301 meets the medial back seam 314 which extends up to the waistband 316. In some embodiments, there may be no medial back seam 314. In some further embodiments, there may be no medial back seam 314 and the point of the gusset 301 may be configured to extend up to the waistband 316.

[0093] FIG. 4A is a front view of an example garment 400 fabricated with the gusset 401 described herein, according to some embodiments. FIG. 4B is a rear view of an example garment 400 fabricated with the gusset 401 described herein, according to some embodiments.

[0094] In FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the garment 400 includes shorts. Other lower body covering garments are possible. In the figures, the gusset 401 shows the front portion 406 and the back portion 408. The point of the gusset 401 meets the medial back seam 414 which extends up to the waistband 416. The gusset 401, front portion 406, and back portion 408 generally share the same characteristics as are described above with reference to FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B. The gusset 401 can be implemented in garments 400 such as shorts as well as garments 300 such as pants.

[0095] According to an aspect, there is provided a body covering garment 300, 400 having a gusset 301, 401. The gusset 301, 401 is configured for a crotch covering portion of the body covering garment 300, 400. The crotch covering portion covers a region where a wearer's legs join a wearer's torso when the body covering garment 300, 400 is worn by the wearer. The gusset 301, 401 includes a width and a length. The width and the length are formed by the combination of a front portion 306, 406 and a back portion 308, 408. The front portion 306, 406 has a first front lateral side portion and a second front lateral side portion. The first front lateral side portion and the second front lateral side portion are substantially symmetrical. The back portion 308, 408 has a first back lateral side portion and a second back lateral side portion. The first back lateral side portion and the second back lateral side portion are substantially symmetrical. The first front lateral side portion, second front lateral side portion, first back lateral side portion, and second back lateral side portion each form at least a portion of a gusset 301, 401 outer peripheral edge. The first front lateral side portion and second front lateral side portion together form a substantially convex region of at least a portion of the gusset 301, 401 outer peripheral edge. The first back lateral side portion and second back lateral side portion each form a substantially concave region of at least a portion of the gusset 301, 401 outer peripheral edge.

[0096] In some embodiments, the garment 300, 400 comprises at least one of pants, tights, leggings, shorts, a bodysuit, a jumpsuit, trousers, capris, leggings under a dress/skort undershort/legging construction, dress/skirt undershorts, underwear, a shaping garment, and swimwear. In some embodiments, the garment 300, 400 comprises a garment for the lower portion of the body.

[0097] In some embodiments, the garment 300, 400 does not include a medial front seam.

[0098] In some embodiments, the gusset 301, 401 is fabricated from different material than at least some material of a remainder of the garment 300, 400.

[0099] In some embodiments, the material of the gusset 301, 401 differs from the material of the remainder of the garment 300, 400 in at least one of breathability, absorbency, stretch, stretch direction, weight/thickness, opacity, odor resistance, and moisture wicking.

[0100] FIG. 5A shows tights using a conventional gusset. FIG. 5B shows tights using a gusset described herein, according to some embodiments.

[0101] As can be seen, the tights implementing the gusset described herein lifts the buttocks and better defines the rear of the wearer. This may aid in keeping the tights in place during activities or over the course of wear.

[0102] Other possible garments can include pants, leggings, trousers, tights, shorts, capris, leggings under dress/skort undershort/legging constructions, (tennis) dress/skirt undershort, underwear, shaping undergarments, garments, one piece jumpsuits/bodysuits, and/or swim wear.

[0103] The gussets described herein may be most applicable to form-fitting garments that cover the lower body. The gussets described herein may be implemented in other garments as well.

[0104] The fabrics used for the garments and the gussets may include woven and non-woven fabrics. Fabrics may include cloth. In general, the fabrics may include any thin, flexible materials made from yarn, directly from fibers, polymeric film, foam, or any combination of these techniques. Fabrics may also include meshes and lace materials.

[0105] In some embodiments, the gussets described herein may be made of the same material as the rest of the garment. In some embodiments, the gussets described herein may be made of different materials as the rest of the garment. These materials may differ based on at least one of breathability, absorbency, stretch, stretch direction, weight/thickness, opacity, odor resistance, and moisture wicking. In some embodiments, the gusset described herein may include a coating or lining.

[0106] While the foregoing focussed on a gusset including both a convex front region and two concave back regions, some embodiments of the gusset may implement those features in isolation. For example, a gusset may comprise a convex front region with two straight edges to define the back. Such a gusset may be suitable to reduce the appearance of an outline of genitalia (e.g. a camel toe). As another example, a gusset may comprise two concave back regions with one or more straight edges defining the front. Such a gusset may be suitable to shape the rear of the user. As a further example, a gusset may comprise two concave back regions to shape the rear of the user with a front configured to accommodate different anatomical bodies. In some embodiments a front portion may be longer and/or wider and/or use one or more specific gusset materials to provide additional support or stretch designed to accommodate different human forms. In some embodiments, the front portion may further include an opening, vent, fly, or hidden fly opening.

[0107] In some further embodiments, the gusset may include a front strip, a back strip, wings as each is described in greater detail below, or any combination thereof. For example, the gusset may include a front strip and a back strip, a front strip and wings, a back strip and wings, or a front strip, a back strip, and wings.

Gusset With Wings

[0108] FIG. 6 is a plan view of a gusset 600 with wings 610A and 610B, according to some embodiments.

[0109] The gusset 600 can be a fabric gusset for a body covering garment for a wearer. The gusset 600 can be designed to be placed in a crotch covering portion of the body covering garment (e.g., covering a region where a wearer's legs join the torso when the body covering garment is worn by the wearer). The gusset 600 has a width 602 and a length 604 that can be formed by the combination of a front portion 606, a back portion 608, and wings 610A and 610B. The front portion 606 and the back portion 608 are joined by side edges 612A and 612B instead at lateral points as illustrated in respect to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.

[0110] As used herein, the term wing refers to a lateral part or side portion of the gusset that provides a side edge. The term wing as used herein does not necessarily denote a projection from a central portion of the gusset. In some embodiments as illustrated in FIG. 6, the wing (e.g., wings 610A and 610B) may project from a central portion of the gusset to the side edge (e.g., side edges 612A and 612B). In some embodiments, the wing may refer to a lateral part or side portion of the gusset that provides the side edge. For example, the gusset 600 in FIG. 6 may terminate at lines 613A and 613B (which may then provide the side edges 613A and 613B without the portions of the gusset 600 lateral the side edges 613A and 613B). In such an embodiment, the wing (e.g., wings 610A and 610B) may refer to the lateral part or side portion that provides the side edge (e.g., the portions that provide the side edges 613A and 613B).

[0111] The front portion 606 may include a first front lateral side portion 606A (with an edge 601A) and a second front lateral side portion 606B (with an edge 601B). The first front lateral side portion 606A and the second front lateral side portion 606B may be substantially symmetrical. At least a portion of the front portion 606 may be substantially convex (e.g., edges 601A and 601B). In some embodiments there may be two convex regions, one on each of the first front lateral side portion 606A and the second front lateral side portion 606B. In some embodiments, the convex region may span both the first front lateral side portion 606A and the second front lateral side portion 606B (as illustrated in FIG. 6). In some embodiments, an edge 601A the first front lateral side portion 606A and an edge 601B of the second front lateral side portion 606B provides a generally continuous edge made up of one or more convex regions throughout. In particular, such a construction may interoperate well with a garment that includes no medial front seam to provide shape to the front portion of the garment. Such a construction may mitigate the appearance of an outline of genitalia or a camel toe.

[0112] The back portion 608 may include a first back lateral side portion 608A (with an edge 603A) and a second back lateral side portion 608B (with an edge 603B). The first back lateral side portion 608A and second back lateral side portion 608B may be substantially symmetric. Each of the first back lateral side portion 608A and the second back lateral side portion 608B may include a concave portion (e.g., edges 603A and 603B). The back side portions 608A and 608B may come to a point 609 (e.g., edges 603A and 603B of the first back lateral side portion 608A and second back lateral side portion 608B respectively may come to a point 609). In some embodiments, the back portion 608 and point 609 can provide a lifting effect to enhance the appearance of the buttocks. The concave portions may support the bottom of the buttocks which the point may shape a medial line of the user. Such a construction may be suitable for garments with or without a medial back seam. In some embodiments, the point 609 may come to the waistband of the garment.

[0113] In some embodiments, the front portion 606 and the back portion 608 may extend to side edges 612A and 612B to provide wings 610A and 610B. The wings 610A and 610B can extend off the crotch region. These wings 610A and 610B can extend down the inseam of the garment. In some embodiments, the side edges 612A and 612B can act as a portion of the bottom edge of the garment (e.g., the hem). The gusset 600 may be of particular utility in garments with shorter inseams (e.g., shorts, skorts, etc.) however the gusset 600 can be implemented in garments of any inseam length. In some embodiments, the side edges 612A and 612B may be bonded to the garment. For example, the side edges 612A and 612B may be bonded to the side panels in pants. In some embodiments, the front portion 606 and the back portion 608 may come to a side edge 613A and 613B to provide wings 610A and 610B that do not project away from the crotch region. In some embodiments, the side edges 613A and 613B may be bonded to the garment. For example, the side edges 613A and 613B may be bonded to the side panels in pants.

[0114] The dimensions of the gusset 600 may vary depending on the size of the garment, its intended use, and the fabric used. As such, the dimensions of gusset 600 can be scaled as needed. For example, garments with fabrics with a high stretch or garments intended for a smaller size may use a smaller gusset 600 than garments with fabrics with a low stretch or garments intended for a larger size.

[0115] Furthermore, the dimensions of the gusset 600 may be changed relative to each other to produce a gusset of a different shape.

[0116] In some embodiments, the first side edge 612A extends between the edge 601A of the first front lateral side portion 606A and the edge 603A of the first back lateral side portion 608A to form a first wing 610A and the second side edge 612B extends between the edge 601B of the second front lateral side portion 606B and the edge 603B of the second back lateral side portion 608B to form a second wing 610B.

[0117] In some embodiments, the first wing 610A and the second wing 610B are substantially symmetrical.

[0118] In some embodiments, the first side edge 612A and the second side edge 612B are configured to define a bottom hem of the garment.

[0119] FIG. 7A is a plan view of a gusset 700 with wings 710A and 710B, according to some embodiments.

[0120] The gusset 700 can include a width 702 and a length 704 that can be formed by the combination of a front potion 706, a back portion 708, and wings 710A and 710B. The front portion 706 may include a first front lateral side portion 706A (with an edge 701A) and a second front lateral side portion 706B (with an edge 701B). At least a portion of the front portion 706 may be substantially convex (e.g., edges 701A and 701B). The back portion 708 may include a first back lateral side portion 708A (with an edge 703A) and a second back lateral side portion 708B (with an edge 703B). Each of the first back lateral side portion 708A and the second back lateral side portion 708B may include a concave portion (e.g., edges 703A and 703B). The back lateral side portions 708A and 708B may come to a point 709 (e.g., edges 703A and 703B of the first back lateral side portion 708A and second back lateral side portion 708B respectively may come to a point 709). The front portion 706 and the back portion 708 are joined by side edges 712A and 712B providing wings 710A and 710B. The gusset 700 may generally share the same description and alternatives as described above for the gusset 600 of FIG. 6. Each of the components of the gusset 700 may share the same description and alternatives as the similarly named components of gusset 600 of FIG. 6 other than the differences described here.

[0121] As described above, the gusset 600 may have its internal dimensions altered relative to one another to produce a gusset 700. As can be seen in FIG. 7A, the gusset 700 has a shorter relative length 704 than the length 604 of gusset 600 of FIG. 6. In some embodiments, this results in a gusset 700 less length between the front portion 706 and the back portion 708 (as illustrated). This can result in a blunter point 709, a deeper convex region in the front portion 706, and/or narrower wings 710A and 710B. In some embodiments, the length may be taken only from the front portion 706 in such a manner so as to provide a shallower convex region. In some embodiments, the length may be taken only from to the back portion 708 in such a manner so as to provide a blunter point 709. In some embodiments, the length may be taken from the side edges 712A and 712B in such a manner so as to provide narrower wings 710A and 710B. In some embodiments, the width of the wings 710A and 710B can decrease gradually towards respective side edges 712A and 712B. The width of the wings 710A and 710B as defined herein is the distance between the edges 701A and 701B of the front portion 706 and the edges 703A and 703B of the back portion 708.

[0122] FIG. 7B is a plan view of a gusset 720 with wings 730A and 730B, according to some embodiments.

[0123] The gusset 720 can include a width 722 and a length 724 that can be formed by the combination of a front potion 726, a back portion 728, and wings 730A and 730B. The front portion 726 may include a first front lateral side portion 726A (with an edge 721A) and a second front lateral side portion 726B (with an edge 721B). At least a portion of the front portion 726 may be substantially convex (e.g., edges 721A and 721B). The back portion 728 may include a first back lateral side portion 728A (with an edge 723A) and a second back lateral side portion 728B (with an edge 723B). Each of the first back lateral side portion 728A and the second back lateral side portion 728B may include a concave portion (e.g., edges 723A and 723B). The back lateral side portions 728A and 728B may come to a point 729 (e.g., edges 723A and 723B of the first back lateral side portion 728A and second back lateral side portion 728B respectively may come to a point 729). The front portion 726 and the back portion 728 may be joined by side edges 732A and 732B to provide wings 730A and 730B. The gusset 720 may generally share the same description and alternatives as described above for the gusset 600 of FIG. 6. Each of the components of the gusset 720 may share the same description and alternatives as the similarly named components of gusset 600 of FIG. 6 other than the differences described here.

[0124] As described above, the gusset 600 may have its internal dimensions altered relative to one another to produce a gusset 720. As can be seen in FIG. 7B, the gusset 720 has a longer relative width 722 than the width 602 of gusset 600 of FIG. 6. In some embodiments, this results in longer wings 730A and 730B (as illustrated). In some embodiments, this results in a gusset 720 with a sharper angle between the front portion 726 and the back portion 728. In some embodiments, this can result in a blunter point 729 and a shallower convex region in the front portion 726.

[0125] FIG. 8A is a front view of an example garment 800 fabricated with the gusset 801 with wings 810A and 810B, according to some embodiments. FIG. 8B is a rear view of an example garment 800 fabricated with the gusset 801 with wings 810A and 810B, according to some embodiments.

[0126] In FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B, the garment 800 includes shorts. Other lower body covering garments are possible. In the figures, the gusset 801 shows the front portion 806, the back portion 808, and the wings 810A and 810B with side edges 812A and 812B. The front portion 806 forms a convex surface that helps the gusset 801 bond to the rest of the garment 800 in a manner that may reduce the appearance of a camel toe. The back portion 808 includes two concave regions that meet at a point. The concave regions can help define the bottom of the buttocks of the wearer while the point may help define the medial line between the buttocks to potentially enhance the appearance of the wearer's rear. As can be seen in the figures, there is no medial front seam and the point of the gusset 801 meets the medial back seam 814 which extends up to the waistband 816. In some embodiments, there may be no medial back seam 814. In some further embodiments, there may be no medial back seam 814 and the point of the gusset 801 may be configured to extend up to the waistband 816. The point of the gusset 801 meets the medial back seam 814 which extends up to the waistband 816. The gusset 801 can be implemented in garments 800 such as shorts as well as garments 800 such as pants.

[0127] FIG. 9 shows an interior view of shorts 90 fabricated with the gusset 900 with wings 910A and 910B described herein, according to some embodiments.

[0128] The gusset 900 can include a width 902 and a length 904 that can be formed by the combination of a front portion 906, a back portion 908, and wings 910A and 910B. The front portion 906 may include a first front lateral side portion 906A (with an edge 901A) and a second front lateral side portion 906B (with an edge 901B). At least a portion of the front portion 906 may be substantially convex (e.g., edges 901A and 901B). The back portion 908 may include a first back lateral side portion 908A (with an edge 903A) and a second back lateral side portion 908B (with an edge 903B). Each of the first back lateral side portion 908A and the second back lateral side portion 908B may include a concave portion (e.g., edges 903A and 903B). The back lateral side portions 908A and 908B may come to a point 909 (e.g., edges 903A and 903B of the first back lateral side portion 908A and second back lateral side portion 908B respectively may come to a point 909). The front portion 906 and the back portion 908 may be joined by side edges 912A and 912B to provide wings 910A and 910B. The gusset 900 may generally share the same description and alternatives as described above for the gusset 600 of FIG. 6. Each of the components of the gusset 900 may share the same description and alternatives as the similarly named components of gusset 600 of FIG. 6 other than the differences described here.

[0129] Other possible garments can include pants, leggings, trousers, tights, shorts, capris, leggings under dress/skort undershort/legging constructions, (tennis) dress/skirt undershorts, underwear, shaping undergarments, garments, one piece jumpsuits/bodysuits, and/or swim wear.

[0130] The gussets described herein may be most applicable to form-fitting garments that cover the lower body. The gussets described herein may be implemented in other garments as well.

[0131] The fabrics used for the garments and the gussets may include woven and non-woven fabrics. Fabrics may include cloth. In general, the fabrics may include any thin, flexible materials made from yarn, directly from fibers, polymeric film, foam, or any combination of these techniques. Fabrics may also include meshes and lace materials.

[0132] In some embodiments, the gussets described herein may be made of the same material as the rest of the garment. In some embodiments, the gussets described herein may be made of different materials as the rest of the garment. These materials may differ based on at least one of breathability, absorbency, stretch, stretch direction, weight/thickness, opacity, odor resistance, and moisture wicking. In some embodiments, the gusset described herein may include a coating or lining.

[0133] According to an aspect, there is provided a body covering garment 800, 90 having a gusset 801, 900. The gusset 801, 900 is configured for a crotch covering portion of the body covering garment 800, 90. The crotch covering portion covers a region where a wearer's legs join a wearer's torso when the body covering garment 800, 90 is worn by the wearer. The gusset 801, 900 includes a width 902 and a length 904. The width 902 and the length 904 are formed by the combination of a front portion 806, 906 and a back portion 808, 908. The front portion 806, 906 has a first front lateral side portion 906A and a second front lateral side portion 906B. The first front lateral side portion 906A and the second front lateral side portion 906B are substantially symmetrical. The back portion 808, 908 has a first back lateral side portion 908A and a second back lateral side portion 908B. The first back lateral side portion 908A and the second back lateral side portion 908B are substantially symmetrical. The first front lateral side portion 906A, second front lateral side portion 906B, first back lateral side portion 908A, and second back lateral side portion 908B each form at least a portion of a gusset 801, 900 outer peripheral edge. The first front lateral side portion 906A and second front lateral side portion 906B together form a substantially convex region of at least a portion of the gusset 801, 900 outer peripheral edge. The first back lateral side portion 908A and second back lateral side portion 908B each form a substantially concave region of at least a portion of the gusset 801, 900 outer peripheral edge. A first side edge 912A extends between an edge 901A of the first front lateral side portion 906A and an edge 903A of the first back lateral side portion 908A to form a first wing 810A, 910A. A second side edge 912B extends between an edge 901B of the second front lateral side portion 906B and an edge 903B of the second back lateral side portion 908B to form a second wing 810B, 910B.

[0134] In some embodiments, the garment 800, 90 comprises at least one of pants, tights, leggings, shorts, a bodysuit, a jumpsuit, trousers, capris, leggings under a dress/skort undershort/legging construction, dress/skirt undershorts, underwear, a shaping garment, and swimwear.

[0135] In some embodiments, the first side edge 812A, 912A defines a first portion of a first hem of one leg portion of the garment and the second side edge 812B, 912B, defines a second portion of a second hem of the other leg portion of the garment.

[0136] In some embodiments, the gusset 801, 900 is fabricated from different material than at least some material of a remainder of the garment.

[0137] In some embodiments, the material of the gusset 801, 900 differs from the material of the remainder of the garment 800, 90 in at least one of breathability, absorbency, stretch, stretch direction, weight/thickness, opacity, odor resistance, and moisture wicking.

Gusset With a Front Strip

[0138] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a gusset 1000 with a front strip 1012, according to some embodiments.

[0139] The gusset 1000 can include a width 1002 and a length 1004 that can be formed by the combination of a front strip 1012 and a back portion 1008. The front strip 1012 may include a first front strip lateral side portion 1006A (with an edge 1001A), a second front strip lateral side portion 1006B (with an edge 1001B), and a front edge 1013. The back portion 1008 may include a first back lateral side portion 1008A (with an edge 1003A) and a second back lateral side portion 1008B (with an edge 1003B). Each of the first back lateral side portion 1008A and the second back lateral side portion 1008B may include a concave portion (e.g., edges 1003A and 1003B). The back lateral side portions 1008A and 1008B may come to a point 1009 (e.g., edges 1003A and 1003B of the first back lateral side portion 1008A and second back lateral side portion 1008B respectively may come to a point 1009). The gusset 1000 may generally share the same description and alternatives as described above for the gusset 100 of FIG. 1. Each of the components of the gusset 1000 may share the same description and alternatives as the similarly named components of gusset 100 of FIG. 1 other than the differences described here.

[0140] The front strip 1012 can take the place of the front portion 106 of gusset 100 of FIG. 1. The front strip 1012 may include a first front strip lateral side portion 1006A (with an edge 1001A), a second front strip lateral side portion 1006B (with an edge 1001B), and a front edge 1013. In some embodiments, the edges 1001A and 1001B may be substantially concave. In some embodiments, the edges 1001A and 1001B may be substantially straight. In some embodiments, the edges 1001A and 1001B may be substantially convex. The front strip 1012 may be configured to meet a waistband or top edge of the garment into which the gusset 1000 is implemented. The front strip 1012 may be advantageous to provide further shaping to the front of the wearer or to keep the gusset 1000 in position when worn. For example, the gusset 1000 may be fabricated from a different material than the rest of the garment and in connecting the gusset 1000 to the top edge or waistband of the garment with front strip 1012, the gusset 1000 may be better able to maintain its position and prevent slippage during activity or duration of wear. Furthermore, the front strip 1012 may act as the front seam for some garments. The front strip 1012 hourglass shape may provide advantages for leg shaping, reduced bulk, targeted stretch (or other material characteristic) regions, and an improved visual aesthetic in the apparel. In some embodiments, an extended front portion provides advantages when used to provide a leakproof or a leak resistant gusset function.

[0141] According to an aspect, there is provided a gusset 1000 for a body covering garment for a wearer. The gusset 1000 is configured for a crotch covering portion of the body covering garment. The crotch covering portion covers a region where a wearer's legs join a wearer's torso when the body covering garment is worn by the wearer. The gusset 1000 includes a width 1002 and a length 1004. The width 1002 and the length 1004 are formed by the combination of a front strip 1012 and a back portion 1008. The front strip 1012 has a first front strip lateral side portion 1006A, a second front strip lateral side portion 1006B, and a front edge 1013. The first front strip lateral side portion 1006A and the second front strip lateral side portion 1006B are substantially symmetrical. The back portion 1008 has a first back lateral side portion 1008A and a second back lateral side portion 1008B. The first back lateral side portion 1008A and the second back lateral side portion 1008B are substantially symmetrical. The first front strip lateral side portion 1006A, second front strip lateral side portion 1006B, front edge 1013, first back lateral side portion 1008A, second back lateral side portion 1008B each form at least a portion of a gusset 1000 outer peripheral edge. The first front strip lateral side portion 1006A and second front strip lateral side portion 1006B each form a substantially concave region of at least a portion of the gusset 1000 outer peripheral edge. The first back lateral side portion 1008A and second back lateral side portion 1008B each form a substantially concave region of at least a portion of the gusset 100 outer peripheral edge.

[0142] FIG. 11A is a front view of an example garment 1100 fabricated with the gusset 1101 with a front strip 1112, according to some embodiments. FIG. 11B is a rear view of an example garment 1100 fabricated with the gusset 1101 with a front strip 1112, according to some embodiments.

[0143] In FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B, the garment 1100 includes tights. Other lower body covering garments are possible. In the figures, the gusset 1101 shows the front strip 1112 and the back portion 1108. The front strip 1112 can extend up to the waistband 1116. The front strip 1112 may take the place of a medial front seam. The back portion 1108 includes two concave regions that meet at a point. The concave regions can help define the bottom of the buttocks of the wearer while the point may help define the medial line between the buttocks to potentially enhance the appearance of the wearer's rear. As can be seen in the figures, the point of the gusset 1101 meets the medial back seam 1114 which extends up to the waistband 1116. In some embodiments, there may be no medial back seam 1114. In some further embodiments, there may be no medial back seam 1114 and the point of the gusset 1101 may be configured to extend up to the waistband 1116. The gusset 1101 can be implemented in garments 1100 such as shorts, pants, and other garments.

Gusset With a Back Strip

[0144] FIG. 12A is a plan view of a gusset 1200 with a back strip 1214, according to some embodiments.

[0145] The gusset 1200 can include a width 1202 and a length 1204 that can be formed by the combination of a front portion 1206 and a back strip 1214. The back strip 1214 may include a first back strip lateral side portion 1208A (with an edge 1203A), a second back strip lateral side portion 1208B (with an edge 1203B), and a back edge 1215. The front portion 1206 may include a first front lateral side portion 1206A (with an edge 1201A) and a second front lateral side portion 1206B (with an edge 1201B). At least a portion of the front portion 1206 may be substantially convex (e.g., edges 1201A and 1201B). The gusset 1200 may generally share the same description and alternatives as described above for the gusset 100 of FIG. 1. Each of the components of the gusset 1200 may share the same description and alternatives as the similarly named components of gusset 100 of FIG. 1 other than the differences described here.

[0146] The back strip 1214 can take the place of the back portion 108 of gusset 100 of FIG. 1. The back strip 1214 may include a first back strip lateral side portion 1208A (with an edge 1203A), a second back strip lateral side portion 1208B (with an edge 1203B), and a back edge 1215. The back strip 1214 may be configured to meet a waistband or top edge of the garment into which the gusset 1200 is implemented. The back strip 1214 may be advantageous to provide further shaping to the rear of the wearer or to keep the gusset 1200 in position when worn. In some embodiments, the concave edges 1203A and 1203B of the back strip lateral side portions 1208A and 1208B can further define the buttocks of the wearer which may improve the appearance. As a further example, the gusset 1200 may be fabricated from a different material than the rest of the garment and in connecting the gusset 1200 to the top edge or waistband of the garment with back edge 1215, the gusset 1200 may be better able to maintain its position and prevent slippage during activity or duration of wear.

[0147] According to an aspect, there is provided a gusset 1200 for a body covering garment for a wearer. The gusset 1200 is configured for a crotch covering portion of the body covering garment. The crotch covering portion covers a region where a wearer's legs join a wearer's torso when the body covering garment is worn by the wearer. The gusset 1200 includes a width 1202 and a length 1204. The width 1202 and the length 1204 are formed by the combination of a front portion 1206 and a back strip 1214. The front portion 1206 has a first front lateral side portion 1206A and a second front lateral side portion 1206B. The first front lateral side portion 1206A and the second front lateral side portion 1206B are substantially symmetrical. The back strip 1214 has a first back strip lateral side portion 1208A, a second back strip lateral side portion 1208B, and a back edge 1215. The first back strip lateral side portion 1208A and the second back strip lateral side portion 1208B are substantially symmetrical. The first front lateral side portion 1206A, second front lateral side portion 1206B, first back strip lateral side portion 1208A, second back strip lateral side portion 1208B, and the back edge 1215 each form at least a portion of a gusset 1200 outer peripheral edge. The first front lateral side portion 1206A and second front lateral side portion 1206B together form a substantially convex region of at least a portion of the gusset 1200 outer peripheral edge. The back strip 1214 is configured to extend up to a waistband or top edge of the garment. The first back strip lateral side portion 1208A and second back strip lateral side portion 1208B each form a substantially concave region of at least a portion of the gusset 1200 outer peripheral edge.

[0148] In some embodiments, an edge 1201A of the first front lateral side portion 1206A meets an edge 1203A of the first back strip lateral side portion 1208A at a first lateral side point and an edge 1201B of the second front lateral side portion 1206B meets an edge 1203B of the second back strip lateral side portion 1208B at a second lateral side point.

[0149] In some embodiments, the edge 1201A of the first front lateral side portion 1206A, the edge 1203A of the first back strip lateral side portion 1208A, the edge 1201B of the second front lateral side portion 1206B, the edge 1203B of the second back strip lateral side portion 1208B, and the back edge 1215 together form the gusset 1200 outer peripheral edge.

[0150] In some embodiments, illustrated in FIG. 12B, a gusset 1200B is shown with side edges 1212A and 1212B connecting front portion 1206 and back strip 1214. In some embodiments, a first side edge 1212A extends between an edge 1201A of the first front lateral side portion 1206A and an edge 1203A of the first back strip lateral side portion 1208A to form a first wing 1210A and a second side edge 1212B extends between an edge 1201B of the second front lateral side portion 1206B and an edge 1203B of the second back strip lateral side portion 1208B to form a second wing 1210B.

[0151] In some embodiments, the first wing 1210A and the second wing 1210B are substantially symmetrical.

[0152] In some embodiments, the first side edge 1212A and the second side edge 1212B are configured to define a bottom hem of the garment.

[0153] In some embodiments, the gusset 1200/1200B is fabricated from materials that provide at least one of breathability, absorbency, stretch, weight/thickness, opacity, odor resistance, and moisture wicking.

[0154] In some embodiments, the gusset 1200/1200B is fabricated with two or more layers.

[0155] In some embodiments, the two or more layers comprises an inner layer and an outer layer that differ in at least one of breathability, absorbency, stretch, stretch direction, weight/thickness, opacity, odor resistance, and moisture wicking.

[0156] In some embodiments, the gusset 1200/1200B includes an inner moisture wicking layer, an absorption layer, a leakproof layer, and an outer layer.

[0157] In some embodiments, at least two of the two or more layers are at least partially attached.

[0158] FIG. 13A is a front view of an example garment 1300 fabricated with the gusset 1301 with a back strip 1314, according to some embodiments. FIG. 13B is a rear view of an example garment 1300 fabricated with the gusset 1301 with a back strip 1314, according to some embodiments.

[0159] In FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B, the garment 1300 includes tights. Other lower body covering garments are possible. In the figures, the gusset 1301 shows the back strip 1314 and the front portion 1306. The back strip 1314 can extend up to the waistband 1316. The back strip 1314 may take the place of a medial back seam. The back strip 1314 includes two concave regions that extend up to the waistband 1316. The concave regions can help define the bottom, medial line between, and top of the buttocks to potentially enhance the appearance of the wearer's rear. The front portion 1306 includes a convex edge. The convex edge can help shape the front of the garment 1300. The gusset 1301 can be implemented in garments 1300 such as shorts, pants, and other garments.

Gusset With a Front Strip and Back Strip

[0160] FIG. 14 is a plan view of a gusset 1400 with a front strip 1412 and a back strip 1414, according to some embodiments.

[0161] The gusset 1400 can include a width 1402 and a length 1404 that can be formed by the combination of a front strip 1412 and a back strip 1414. The front strip 1412 may include a first front strip lateral side portion 1406A (with an edge 1401A), a second front strip lateral side portion 1406B (with an edge 1401B), and a front edge 1413. The back strip 1414 may include a first back strip lateral side portion 1408A (with an edge 1403A), a second back strip lateral side portion 1408B (with an edge 1403B), and a back edge 1415. The gusset 1400 may generally share the same description and alternatives as described above for the gusset 100 of FIG. 1. Each of the components of the gusset 1400 may share the same description and alternatives as the similarly named components of gusset 100 of FIG. 1 other than the differences described here. The gusset 1400 may further include a front strip 1412 that may include a first front strip lateral side portion 1406A (with an edge 1401A), a second front strip lateral side portion 1406B (with an edge 1401B), and a front edge 1413. Each of the components of the front strip 1412 may share the same description and alternatives as the similarly named components of front strip 1012 of FIG. 10. The gusset 1400 may further include a back strip 1414 that may include a first back strip lateral side portion 1408A (with an edge 1403A), a second back strip lateral side portion 1408B (with an edge 1403B), and a back edge 1415. Each of the components of the back strip 1414 may share the same description and alternatives as the similarly named components of back strip 1214 of FIG. 12.

[0162] FIG. 15A is a front view of an example garment 1500 fabricated with the gusset 1501 with a front strip 1512 and a back strip 1514, according to some embodiments. FIG. 15B is a rear view of an example garment 1500 fabricated with the gusset 1501 with a front strip 1512 and a back strip 1514, according to some embodiments.

[0163] In FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B, the garment 1500 includes tights. Other lower body covering garments are possible. In the figures, the gusset 1501 shows the front strip 1512 and the back strip 1514. The front strip 1512 and/or the back strip 1514 can extend up to the waistband 1516. The front strip 1512 can take the place of a front medial seam. The back strip 1514 may take the place of a back medial seam. The back strip 1514 includes two concave regions that extend up to the waistband 1516. The concave regions can help define the bottom, medial line between, and top of the buttocks to potentially enhance the appearance of the wearer's rear. The front strip 1512 may provide an improved visual aesthetic in the apparel. The gusset 1501 can be implemented in garments 1500 such as shorts, pants, and other garments.

[0164] Applicant notes that the described embodiments and examples are illustrative and non-limiting. Practical implementation of the features may incorporate a combination of some or all of the aspects, and features described herein should not be taken as indications of future or existing product plans. Applicant partakes in both foundational and applied research, and in some cases, the features described are developed on an exploratory basis.

[0165] The term substantially as used herein may be applied to modify any quantitative representation which could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related.

[0166] Although the embodiments have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the scope. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification.

[0167] As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed, that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.

[0168] As can be understood, the examples described above and illustrated are intended to be exemplary only.