RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is based on and claims benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/932,333 filed November 7, 2019, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

[0002] It is increasingly common for individuals to wear athletic and sportswear for athletic pursuits as well as social and professional occasions. In the apparel industry, many garments such as sweatshirts and shorts have traditionally only had one use case. There is no dynamic nature to the product that correlates to the mobile economy we live in nowadays, mobile referring to both mobile devices and an on-the-go lifestyle which has been expedited by ride sharing services, coworking spaces, social networking apps, and so forth. Thus, given these changes to lifestyle, one sees the need for conventional designs to be evolved to be more versatile in both form and function. It would be desirable to provide athletic and sportswear with features that improve performance during athletic pursuits as well as improve the appearance and function for social and professional occasions.

SUMMARY

[0003] This summary is not intended to identify only key or essential features of the described subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of the described subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to appropriate portions of the entire specification of this patent, any or all drawings, and each claim.

[0004] Pursuant to some embodiments, garments are provided which include an outer panel having a fastening mechanism formed therein, the outer panel providing a first viewable surface when the fastening mechanism is in a fastened position and an integrated panel attached to at least one of (i) at least a first major seam along an interior surface of the outer panel, and (ii) the interior surface of the outer panel, the integrated panel providing a second viewable surface when the fastening mechanism is not in a fastened position. Pursuant to some embodiments, the garment may be a jacket, shirt, hoodie, poncho or other upper body garment. In some embodiments, the garment may be short or long pants.

[0005] Pursuant to some embodiments, the outer panel is a rear panel of the garment and the fastening mechanism bisects the rear panel and extends from an upper edge of the rear panel to a bottom seam of the garment. In some embodiments, the rear panel of the garment is formed from a stretch material and the integrated panel is formed from a breathable material having a design thereon.

[0006] Pursuant to some embodiments, when the fastening mechanism is not in a fastened position, the interior of the garment receives improved air flow, and an exterior view of the garment reveals the integrated panel (which may have a decorative appearance, thereby changing the appearance and feel of the garment).

[0007] In some embodiments, the rear panel includes at least a first pair of fasteners allowing the rear panel to be held in a position when the fastening mechanism is not in a fastened position.

[0008] The result is a garment with improved versatility and function. By having an option on the back side (or front side) of the garment to hide or reveal an inner layer, the wearer now can change his style without changing clothes, and with the design of an integrated panel being on a breathable layer of fabric, revealing the integrated panel through one or more fastening mechanisms also increases air flow and improves heat dissipation for the wearer, allowing the wearer to adjust to multiple environments with varying temperatures easily.

[0009] The foregoing, together with other features and embodiments, will become more apparent upon referring to the following specification, claims, and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Features and advantages of the example embodiments, and the manner in which the same are accomplished, will become more readily apparent with reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0011] FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate an example of a jacket pursuant to some embodiments. [0012] FIGS. 2A-2F illustrate examples of views of apparel tops, according to some embodiments.

[0013] FIGS. 3 A and 3B illustrate examples of views of apparel bottoms using a series of buttons, according to some embodiments.

[0014] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate examples of views of apparel bottoms using one or more zippers, according to some embodiments.

[0015] FIGS. 5A through 5C illustrate examples of views of apparel bottoms that are shorts, according to some embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a pattern used to construct a graphic layer, according to some embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a view of an interior of an apparel top with an integrated panel, according to some embodiments.

[0018] Throughout the drawings and the detailed description, unless otherwise described, the same drawing reference numerals will be understood to refer to the same elements, features, and structures. The relative size and depiction of these elements may be exaggerated or adjusted for clarity, illustration, and/or convenience.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] In the following description, specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various example embodiments. It should be appreciated that various modifications to the embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Moreover, in the following description, numerous details are set forth for the purpose of explanation. However, one of ordinary skill in the art should understand that embodiments may be practiced without the use of these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and processes are not shown or described in order not to obscure the description with unnecessary detail. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0020] The present disclosure is directed to novel and inventive apparel (e.g., clothing) items. Some embodiments comprise a fastening mechanism to optionally present a previously hidden graphic or other element. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism comprises a vertical portion. Some embodiments are directed to a double layer apparel item where the first layer can be opened to reveal the second layer within the apparel item. In this respect, the second layer may be a graphic layer or other element which can be selectively displayed. In general, as used herein, the second layer (or graphic layer) may be referred to herein as an “integrated panel”, and generally refers to a layer or panel of material that lies between the outer layer of a garment (such as the portion of a garment that is typically viewable while it is worn) and the individual wearing the garment. While an “integrated panel” is generally described herein as being formed of a single layer of material, it can be formed of one or more layers of material.

[0021] With the boom of the athleisure and fitness industries in the past decade, apparel products may have improved in textile endurance, but overall bodily constructions still fail to capture the dynamic aspect of lifestyle offered by society. For instance, a running jacket will be described in conjunction with FIG. 1 below. Prior to the invention, running jacket designs have been treated as an isolated product when in fact it is the function of both the under garment (such as a t-shirt, thermal layer) and outer garment working together as one system during exercise. Applicant has recognized the need for a more advanced solution in which the integrated panel design eliminates the need for a separate t-shirt, thereby optimizing the running experience. Further, the use of the integrated panel together with a fastener system on the back side of the outer garment (illustrated in Fig 1C) allows a wearer the option to increase heat dissipation without removing any worn garments. Such an increase in air flow is essential to the cooldown period of an athlete and the integrated panel reveal may also function as a stylish embodiment.

[0022] This utility can be extended beyond the athletic industry to traditional streetwear garments where the integrated panel reveal adds a novel feeling to the wearer that can arouse inspiration and conversation. For example, with respect to a hoodie, having integrated panels on both the front and back sides eliminates the need to wear a garment under the hoodie, which traditionally is lined with fleece on the interior and is uncomfortable to the wearer's body if there is no separation layer from skin to hoodie. By having an option on the back side (or front side) of the top garment to hide or reveal an inner layer, the wearer now can change his style without changing clothes, and with the design of an integrated panel being on a breathable layer of fabric, revealing the integrated panel through one or more fastening mechanisms also increases air flow and improves heat dissipation for the wearer, allowing the wearer to adjust to multiple environments with varying temperatures easily.

[0023] Embodiments provide outstanding benefits to both the wearer and the designer, opening up limitless creative possibilities to previously one-dimension products in the apparel industry.

[0024] As used herein, the term “apparel” includes apparel tops (such as short- and long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, hoodies, jackets, ponchos, overcoats, and suits) as well as apparel bottoms (such as short or long pants). Such apparel items may include a fastening mechanism such as a zipper, buttons, or Velcro to assist a person to put on or take off the apparel item.

[0025] Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in some ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including," "comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled" and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, "connected" and "coupled" are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.

[0026] The following discussion is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the invention. Some modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from embodiments of the invention. Thus, embodiments of the invention are not intended to be limited to embodiments shown but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The following detailed description is to be read with reference to the figures, in which like elements in different figures have like reference numerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of embodiments of the invention. Skilled artisans will recognize the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of embodiments of the invention.

[0027] Features of some embodiments will now be described by reference to FIG. 1 where an example of an item of apparel pursuant to the present invention will be described. In particular, the item of apparel shown in FIG. 1 is a jacket such as a running jacket. FIG. 1A shows a front view of a jacket 100 pursuant to some embodiments. As shown, the jacket 100 is formed of a number of panels including one or more sleeve upper panels 114, sleeve lower panels 116, upper body panels 110, front side panels 124 and front panel 102. Some or all of these panels may be formed of a durable material such as nylon. In some embodiments, some of the panels may be formed of a stretch material such as a two or four way stretch such as materials made of a blend of polyester and spandex. For example, in one currently preferred embodiment, the sleeve upper panels 114, the cuffs 118 and the collar 104 are formed of a ripstop nylon material and the sleeve lower panels 116, the front side panels 124 and the front panel 102 are formed of a two way stretch fabric. In some embodiments, all of the panels (including, for example, both the stretch fabric and the ripstop nylon) may be treated to provide some water resistance or waterproofing.

[0028] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 A, a front zipper 108 is provided that extends from the collar 104 to the top of the front panel 102. The front zipper 108 (and other zippers described herein) may be, for example, nylon zippers with rubberized taping both inside and out. In some embodiments, areas of ventilation may be provided to exhaust heat from the wearer’s body (in addition to the front zipper 108 and a rear zipper which will be described further below). For example, one or more small windows 112 may be formed near the underarm area. The windows 112 may be formed from mesh or other material allowing heat transfer from the interior of the jacket 100. [0029] In some embodiments, one or more pockets may be formed in the front panel 102. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 A, two front pockets 126 are formed in the front panel 102. The front pockets 126 are formed inside a double folded edge between tacks of the edge of the front panel 102. The front pockets 126 may be provided with zippers and front pocket zipper pulls 128.

[0030] Reference is now made to FIG. IB where a rear view of a jacket 130 is shown. As with the front view, the rear view shows the collar 104, the sleeve upper panels 114, the sleeve lower panels 116 and the cuffs 118. The rear view also shows rear body panels 132, rear side panels 134 and a rear fastening mechanism (shown for example purposes as a rear zipper 136, although other types of fastening mechanisms may be used with desirable results). When a zipper pull 138 is in the lower position (as is depicted in the view shown in FIG. IB), the rear body panels 132 are closed. When the zipper pull 138 is in the lower position, the item of apparel appears as an item of sportswear (a running jacket). Further, in the case where the item of apparel is worn in adverse weather conditions (such as in wind, rain, sleet or snow, for example), the closed rear body panels 132 may help to ensure the wearer is kept dry and warm. When the zipper pull 138 is in the lower position, the exterior of the rear of the jacket 100 shows a first viewable surface. The first viewable surface generally does not show much (if any) of the decorative and functional integrated panel 120.

[0031] The rear body panels 132 can be opened as shown in FIG. 1C to reveal an integrated panel 120 and to provide greater ventilation and heat reduction from the wearer’s body. When the rear body panels 132 are in an open position (which may be fully or partially open), the exterior of the rear of the jacket 100 shows a second viewable surface which shows some (or all) of the decorative and functional integrated panel 120. The integrated panel 120, in some embodiments, is a decorative panel that changes the overall appearance of the item of apparel. Further, the rear body panels 132 may be kept in an open position by engaging one or more snaps 140, 142 or other attachment mechanisms (such as, for example, Velcro tabs, buttons or rivets, hooks, ball and stem, magnets, adhesives or the like). In general, the attachment mechanism used is any mechanism that allows a wearer to easily position the rear body panels 132 in an orientation to provide a desired view of the integrated panel 120. While the snaps 140, 142 are shown along a botom edge of the jacket, the snaps 140, 142 or other attachment mechanism may be located in other positions. For example, a snap, button or other attachment mechanism may be located along a middle portion of the rear body panels 132 (and a corresponding snap, button or other attachment mechanism may be positioned along a middle portion of the rear side panels 134). Other positions may be selected to provide different views of the integrated panel 120.

[0032] As an illustrative example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1C, one or both of the rear male snaps 142 may be coupled to one or both of the rear female snaps 140 to hold the rear body panels 132 in an open position and to allow the decorative integrated panel 120 to be seen. Further, in some embodiments, the rear body panels 132 may be placed in an open position to provide improved heat management for the wearer. The integrated panel 120 may be formed of a breathable layer of fabric which eliminates the need for a shirt or separate layer under the jacket 120. For example, in some embodiments, the integrated panel 120 may be formed of several panels that are shaped to match the body panels such that the integrated panel 120 substantially surrounds the wearer’s torso. As an illustrative, but not limiting example, the integrated panel 120 may be formed of an integrated panel that generally matches the shape and size of the rear body panel, as well as integrated panels that correspond to the rear side panels 134, the front side panels 124 and the front panel 102. Further, pursuant to some embodiments, to improve manufacturing efficiency as well as wearer comfort, each panel of the integrated panel 120 may be formed such that the edges of each panel of the integrated panel 120 share a substantially identical silhouette to the corresponding outer panel.

In some embodiments, each panel of the integrated panel 120 may share a substantially identical silhouete to groups of corresponding outer panels. For example, in some embodiments, a panel of the integrated panel 120 may be shaped to match the silhouette of the front side panels 124 together with the front panel 102. In general, the panels of the integrated panel 120 may be shaped and sized to allow the integrated panel 120 to share one or more major seams with the outer panels, thereby reducing manufacturing time and expense and improving comfort and durability of the overall garment. In some embodiments, the integrated panel 120 (or panels thereof) is not attached at any seam, but instead is attached to the corresponding outer panel with one or more fasteners that allow the integrated panel 120 (or panels thereof) to be detached from the outer panel. As an illustrative example, an integrated panel 120 may be shaped to span from one side panel 134 to another side panel 134, and may be provided with Velcro or other attaching mechanisms that allow the integrated panel 120 to be removably attached to Velcro tabs (or other mechanisms) that are mounted on the side panels 134 such that when the integrated panel 120 is attached, it can be viewed when the rear zipper 136 is opened (as shown in FIG. 1C).

[0033] Pursuant to some embodiments, the integrated panel 120 is printed or otherwise formed with a decorative pattern. In the illustrative example shown in FIG. 1C (and FIG. 7), the decorative pattern is a leopard skin type pattern. In some embodiments, the pattern or style of the integrated panel 120 has an aesthetic or style that is different from the aesthetic or style of the outer panels of the item of apparel. This allows a wearer of the item of apparel to change the style of the item - switching between one aesthetic to another by simply revealing or hiding the integrated panel 120. When exposed, the integrated panel 120 can turn the item of apparel into an art piece and can elicit a different emotional response than when the integrated panel 120 is closed.

[0034] Applicant has discovered that the use of such an integrated panel 120 extends the utility of an item of apparel, providing an element of consumer surprise that is absent in the apparel industry. Brands and sponsors can offer a new emotional response to consumers with an element of discovery and surprise. Further, embodiments extend the utility of an item of apparel by enhancing both the functional utility of the item as well as the style of the item of apparel.

[0035] Pursuant to some embodiments, the integrated panel 120 may be one of several integrated panels that are placed in an interior of the item of apparel. For example, in the jacket 100, integrated panels may be placed in both the front and the rear of the jacket 100. In some embodiments, the integrated panel 120 spans the full back side of the outer body of the jacket 100 to maximize air flow when the rear zipper 136 is fully opened and secured in place by the snaps 140, 142 (or by other attachment means such as Velcro, or other elements configured to hold the rear body panels 132 in an open position as described variously herein). Applicant has found that if the integrated panel 120 is smaller than the exterior size of the back of the jacket 100 or does not fully line or cover the interior of the jacket 100 that discomfort from perspiration may occur and may further reduce ventilation (notwithstanding the foregoing, Applicant has found that, in some embodiments, a small offset from the bottom of the garment provides desirable benefits and does not cause discomfort). In some embodiments, one or more integrated panels 120 are formed to provide 360 degrees of fully lined and breathable material on the interior of the jacket 100. While the rear zipper 136 is shown as spanning from an upper part of the rear panels 132 to the bottom of the jacket 100, the rear zipper 136 may span a longer or a shorter distance (e.g., to reveal a different amount of the integrated panel 120 and to provide a different amount or type of air flow).

[0036] The integrated panel 120 (and any other integrated panels not shown in FIG. 1) may be attached to the jacket 100 at one or more of the primary seams of the main body of fabric to maximize comfort and production efficiencies. For example, production efficiencies are improved because no additional fastening items are used or needed. The main seams or points of attachment on the back of the jacket 100 may include the shoulder seams 148 (of FIG. IB) as well as any main seams on the body of the jacket 100. In some embodiments, the integrated panels 120 are sized such that they have a small offset from the outer body. For example, referring to FIG. 1A, the integrated panel 120 is shown as having an offset 122 from the jacket body. This small offset may be, for example, 0.5 to 1.0 cm or an amount selected such that the integrated panel 120 remains invisible from the exterior of the jacket 100 when the rear zipper 136 is in a closed position.

[0037] In another embodiment (not shown in FIG. 1), the integrated panel 120 may extend below the body of the jacket 100. For example, in some embodiments, a portion of the integrated panel 120 may extend several inches below the body of the jacket 100 to provide additional protection from wind or cold. For example, a wearer may tuck the extended portion of the integrated panel 120 into the wearer’s pants or shorts to provide improved warmth.

[0038] In some embodiments, rather than attaching the integrated panel 120 at a major seam of the main body of fabric, the integrated panel 120 may be attached to a minor seam of the main body of fabric or to a portion of the outer panel of the garment. In some embodiments, the integrated panel 120 may be formed of multiple panels which are shaped and sized to cover different portions of the wearer’s body. For example, in the jacket 100 of FIG. 1, a portion of the integrated panel 120 may be sized to cover the wearer’s back (e.g., to span the width of rear body panels 132), but it may further be sized to span the rear side panels 134 as well as the front side panels 124 and the front panel 102 (e.g., generally creating a tubular integrated panel 120 that circles the wearer’s torso). The integrated panel 120 may be attached to the outer panels at one or more seams (or at other locations as described herein).

[0039] In some embodiments, the integrated panel 120 is not attached at a seam and is smaller than the surface area of the corresponding outer panel. In such embodiments, the integrated panel 120 may be shaped as a stripe and affixed to the outer panel using single or double stitch embroidery, positioned along any horizontal axis of the outer panel. One or more of such stripes may be provided, each along the horizontal axis. Further, the integrated panel 120 may be revealed through one or more diagonal stripes or openings of any width.

[0040] In some embodiments, rather than using the depicted fastening mechanism, the left and right rear body panels 132 may be fastened at the top (in the middle of the jacket) using a button and hole (or other fastener) and fastened at the bottom of the jacket using another button and hole (or other fastener), creating the effect of both left and right rear body panels 132 opening from the middle and being secured through other fasteners positioned elsewhere on the garment, thereby creating both symmetric and asymmetric visuals revealed by the integrated panel 120. In some embodiments, the rear body panels 132 may be removable from the garment to reveal substantially the entire integrated panel 120.

[0041] While some embodiments have been described in conjunction with a jacket, embodiments may be used with other items of apparel. For example, FIG. 2 A illustrates an example of a front view of an apparel top, according to some embodiments. An apparel top may be a shirt, sweater, hoodie, jacket, overcoat, suit, or other clothing worn on at least a portion of the upper half of a person. The example of FIG. 2A shows an apparel top 200 embodied as a pull-over hoodie. The front view depicts how a person wearing the apparel top is perceived face- to-face. The apparel top 200 includes a front panel 202, which may be made up of textile, fabric, or the like. The apparel top 200 may be made up of cotton such as, for example, cotton French Terry. The apparel top 200 may include a gel print chest logo (not shown) or other decorative item(s). The apparel top 200 may also include a hoodie portion having periphery 205 around the hoodie opening. The hoodie portion may include graphics or text (not shown) arranged around the periphery 205.

[0042] FIG. 2B illustrates another example of a front view of an apparel tops, according to some embodiments. The example of FIG. 2B shows an apparel top 212 embodied as a zip-up hoodie. The apparel top 212 includes a fastening mechanism 224, such as, for example, a zipper, a series of buttons, or Velcro. By positioning the fastening mechanism 224 on the front panel 202, the person can easily access it to open and close it to help wear or take off the apparel top. For example, the fastening mechanism 224 may be open to allow a person access to the interior of the apparel top 212 for purposes of putting the apparel top 212. To remove the apparel top 212, a user may manipulate or configure the fastening mechanism 224 (e.g., zipping/unzipping, snapping/opening buttons, opening/closing Velcro, etc.), thereby opening it for easy removal.

[0043] FIG. 2C illustrates an example of a back view of an apparel top 200, according to some embodiments. The apparel top 200 may be a pull-over hoodie (e.g., FIG. 2A), a zip-up hoodie (e.g., FIG. 2B), or any other apparel top. The back view depicts how a person wearing the apparel top 200 is perceived from behind. The apparel top 200 includes a back panel 232, which may be made up of textile, fabric, plastic, or other materials suitable for such items of apparel. The back panel 232 may be formed from the same material as the front panel 202 (FIGS. 2A and 2B) such that the back panel 232 and front panel 202 are different sections of the same layer.

[0044] In some embodiments, the back panel 232 includes an exterior surface and an interior surface. The exterior surface is visible on the outside and faces away from the person wearing the apparel top 200 while the interior surface faces towards the person wearing the apparel top 200.

[0045] In some embodiments, the back panel 232 of the apparel top 200 includes a backside fastening mechanism 205. In the embodiment depicted, the fastening mechanism 205 extends vertically, although any desired orientation other than vertical can also be used. For example, the fastening mechanism could be positioned horizontally, diagonally or in a circular or oval arrangement. Further, although a single fastening mechanism 205 is shown, multiple fastening mechanisms may be provided. The backside fastening mechanism 205 on the back panel 232 is separate from any fastening mechanism 224 on the front panel 202. The backside fastening mechanism 205 extends from a lower portion of the apparel top 200 to an upper portion of the apparel top 200. The backside fastening mechanism 205 may be hidden under a flap that covers the backside fastening mechanism 205.

[0046] The backside fastening mechanism 205 depicted in FIG. 2C shows a closed view (where the backside fastening mechanism 205 has been placed in a position to close the back panel 232). In this respect, the interior surface of the back panel 232 is not accessible from the outside. In an embodiment where the backside fastening mechanism 205 is implemented using a zipper, the zipper is in the closed position according to FIG. 2C. According to an embodiment, the zipper is located at the bottom of the apparel top 200 in the closed position. In other words, the zipper zips downwards to close the back panel 232, thereby preventing direct access to the inside surface of the back panel 232. In another embodiment, the zipper is located at the top of the apparel top 200 in the closed position. In this case, the zipper zips upwards to close the back panel 232, thereby preventing direct access to the inside surface of the back panel 232.

[0047] In some embodiments, the apparel top 200 may include a bottom portion made up of a ribbing section 208 that offsets it from the remainder of the back panel 232. The ribbing section 208 may have a greater elasticity than the back panel 232. When the backside fastening mechanism 205 is in the closed position, the ribbing section 208 may stretch beyond its resting state.

[0048] FIG. 2D illustrates an example of a back view of an apparel top 200, according to some embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 2D depicts the apparel top 200 in an open view configuration.

In this configuration, the backside fastening mechanism 205 is manipulated to be in an open position so that at least a portion of an integrated panel 220 is accessible from the outside. When configured in the open position, at least a portion of the integrated panel 220 is in view.

[0049] The integrated panel 220 may be a textile or some fabric-based or composite material. According to some embodiments, the integrated panel 220 is intended to visually offset from the apparel in which it is incorporated to achieve a visual effect. The integrated panel 220 may be made of solid fabric so as to provide protection from the environment. In this respect, the integrated panel 220 may serve to insulate and protect the person wearing the apparel top 200 even when the backside fastening mechanism 205 is in an open position and while the integrated panel 220 is exposed.

[0050] As described above in conjunction with FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the integrated panel 220 is attached to an interior of the back panel 232. For example, the top of back panel 232 may be stitched into a shoulder seam 241 using a single needle stitch. According to an embodiment, both the back panel 232 and the integrated panel 220 attach to the front panel 202 at a common seam. The sides of the integrated panel 220 may be stitched into blind side seams on an interior surface of the back panel 232.

[0051] According to some embodiments, when the backside fastening mechanism 205 is positioned in the open configuration, the ribbing section 208 may contract to its resting state, thereby revealing the integrated panel 220. Although not shown in FIG. 2D, but as discussed above in conjunction with FIG. 1, one or more snaps or other attaching devices may be used to hold the back panels 232 away from the integrated panel 220 to improve the visibility of the integrated panel 220.

[0052] FIG. 2E illustrates an example of a back view of an apparel top, according to some embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 2E depicts the apparel top 200 in a partially open view (where the back panels 232 are in an open position). Here, the backside fastening mechanism 205 is manipulated to be in a partially open position. FIG. 2E shows the exterior surface of the back panels 232 and an interior surface 206 of the back panels 232. In response to opening up the back of the apparel top 200, each of the back panels 232 form a flap that at least partially reveals the integrated panel 220. Here, the back panel forms an unattached section of material that is loose to the body except for the areas where the integrated panel 220 is attached to the apparel top 200. For example, the integrated panel 220 may be attached at the shoulder and side seams of the apparel top 200.

[0053] FIG. 2F illustrates an example of a back view of an apparel top, according to some embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 2F depicts the apparel top 200 in a fully open view. Here, the backside fastening mechanism 205 is manipulated to be in a completely open position and the back panels 232 are separated revealing the graphic of the integrated panel 220. The result is a stark difference between the apparel top 200 of FIG. 2B (where the integrated panel 220 is hidden) and the apparel top 200 of FIG. 2F (where the integrated panel 220 is exposed). The item of apparel has been transformed from a standard hoodie to a hoodie that displays a creative and unique graphic and feel.

[0054] Thus far, the invention has been described in reference to upper body garments, but the same innovative ideas can be applied to shorts and pants. In the example of basketball shorts, an athlete can transform his image off the court immediately by unzipping one or both front zippers (illustrated in FIG. 5A). This ability to alter one's image instantly allows people of entertainment associations to remain hip and stylish to both their fans in real life and on social media, maintaining one's identity as a purveyor of cool. The cooldown feature is also achieved with the same unzipping of the front zipper(s) and when in a sitting position the increased surface area of the integrated panel(s) exposed improves air flow and heat dissipation.

[0055] FIG. 3 A illustrates a view of an apparel bottom using a series of buttons, according to some embodiments. The apparel bottom 300 may be a pair of pants such as, for example, sweatpants, track pants, jeans or any other variation of pants. Shown is a front view that depicts how a person wearing the apparel bottom 300 is perceived from the front. The apparel bottom 300 includes an outer layer 302, which may be made up of textile, fabric, or the like.

[0056] In some embodiments, the outer layer 302 includes a fastening mechanism, although any orientation other than vertical can also be used. As shown in FIG. 3 A, the fastening mechanism is a series of buttons 306. Specifically, FIG. 3A shows a closed view of the series of buttons 306 such that they are snapped closed. The series of buttons may range from a lower portion of the apparel bottom 300 to an upper portion of the apparel bottom 300. In addition, there may be more than one series of buttons. For example, a first series of buttons and a second series of buttons may be symmetrically positioned on lateral portions of the apparel bottom 300. In some embodiments, other fasteners are used. In some embodiments, the outer layer 302 may comprise an elastic band 309 that has a greater elasticity than the material that makes up the remainder of the outer layer 302.

[0057] FIG. 3B illustrates a view of an apparel bottom 300 using a series of buttons, according to some embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 3B shows an open view of the series of buttons 306 such that they are unbuttoned or otherwise open. The series of buttons 306 may include a series of button pairs, each button pair comprising a button and a buttonhole. When a series of buttons 306 are in the open position, an integrated panel 320 is revealed. The integrated panel 320 is sewn, stitched, hemmed, or otherwise attached to an interior surface of the outer layer 302. Thus, when the series of buttons 306 are in the closed position, as shown in FIG. 3A, the integrated panel 320 is hidden.

[0058] FIG. 4A illustrates a view of an apparel bottom using one or more zippers, according to some embodiments. The apparel bottom 400 may be a pair of pants such as, for example, sweatpants, track pants, jeans or any other variation of pants. Shown is a front view that depicts how a person wearing the apparel bottom 400 is perceived from the front. The apparel bottom 400 includes an outer layer 402, which may be made up of textile, fabric, or the like.

[0059] In some embodiments, the outer layer 402 includes a vertical or otherwise oriented fastening mechanism. As shown in FIG. 4A, the fastening mechanism includes one or more zipper systems. A zipper system includes zipper tracks 406 and at least one zipper 407 to zip or unzip the zipper tracks 406. The zipper tracks 406 are positioned on an opening in the outer layer 402 so that the opening may be closed or opened. While the embodiment is depicted as having zipper tracks on both pant legs, in some embodiments, only one leg may have the zipper tracks and an integrated panel revealed by opening the zipper. Further, the zippers do not need to be on both legs (a different fastening mechanism may be on one leg, for example), nor do the opposing zipper systems need to be symmetrical

[0060] FIG. 4A shows a closed view of the series of multiple zipper systems according to some embodiments. For example, a first zipper system and a second zipper system may be symmetrically positioned on lateral portions of the apparel bottom 400. Each zipper system shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4 A includes two zippers 407 so that one zipper may move upwards while the other moves downwards to enter a fully open position.

[0061] The outer layer 402 may comprise an elastic band 409 that has a greater elasticity than the material that makes up the remainder of the outer layer 402.

[0062] FIG. 4B illustrates a view of an apparel bottom 400 using one or more zippers, according to some embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 4B shows an open view of the zipper systems such that they are unzipped or otherwise open. A zipper 407 may be moved upwards to the top of the apparel bottom 400 and/or a zipper 407 may be moved downwards to the bottom of the apparel bottom 400. By unzipping the apparel bottom 400, the zipper tracks 406 are separated, thereby revealing the integrated panel 420. The integrated panel 420 is sewn, stitched, hemmed, or otherwise attached to an interior surface of the outer layer 502. In some embodiments, for example, the integrated panel 420 may be attached at a major seam (such as at the waist band) or using other attachment approaches as described elsewhere herein (e.g., the integrated panel 420 could be attached below a seam such as the waistband, etc.). Thus, when the zipper system is in the closed position, as shown in FIG. 4A, the integrated panel 420 is hidden.

[0063] FIGS. 5A through 5C illustrate examples of views of apparel bottoms that are shorts, according to some embodiments. FIG. 5A depicts an apparel bottom 500 that comprises a pair of shorts. The shorts are configured in an open position revealing the underlying integrated panel 520. FIG. 5A depicts a front facing view of the shorts. The shorts include a vertical or otherwise oriented fastening mechanism 507 that may be positioned in a symmetrical or asymetrical manner on both leg regions that extend from a bottom portion to a top portion of the shorts.

When in the open position an interior surface of the panels 509 of the outer section is exposed and accessible to allow the integrated panel 520 to be visible, at least partially.

[0064] FIG. 5B shows the shorts of FIG. 5 A in a closed position, thereby hiding the integrated panel 520 from visible sight. In this respect, the fastening mechanism 507 is in the closed position. FIG. 5C shows the shorts of FIG. 5 A from a backside view. The fastening mechanism 507 are not located on the backside of the shorts as shown in FIG. 5C, although in some embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more fastening mechanisms 507 may be positioned on the backside of the apparel bottom 500. While an attachment mechanism (such as a snap or button) is not shown in the embodiment of FIG. 5, any of the attachment mechanisms described herein may be used to hold panels 509 in a desired open position.

[0065] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a pattern 600 used to construct an integrated panel according to some embodiments. The pattern may be any pattern 600 and can serve as a layer which can be selectively hidden using fastening mechanisms and approaches as described elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, the pattern 600 may be printed or otherwise placed on an item of fabric that is selected to provide insulation, heat dissipation, comfort or other benefits to the person wearing an article of clothing incorporating the integrated panel. In some embodiments, the pattern 600 may be weaved or embroidered or otherwise placed on an item of fabric for use as an integrated panel pursuant to the present invention. Integrated panels may be formed with designs that are manufactured using any of a number of different processes such as, for example, via printing with a screen print, printing with a digital machine, heat transfer with vinyl, heat transfer of embellishments such as rhinestones and crystals, jacquard or weaved into the fabric, embroidery, sublimation, washes of any kind including tie-dye, rubbing of different textures to create a distressed appearance. In some embodiments, the design of the integrated panel may be selected to provide contrast or other visual distinction from the outer panel.

[0066] As illustrative, but not limiting examples, the integrated panel may be a non-solid color while the outer panel may be a solid color (or other combinations thereof). In some embodiments, the integrated panel may be a design in a color other than a fabric’s natural color (e.g., such as a fabric that has been prepared for dyeing). The integrated panel may be or include a design formed of a texture achieved by a different fabric from the outer panel; a letter; a word or multiple words; a line or lines; a pattern in both black and white or in color; an image from a camera in its natural or altered state; any combination of the aforementioned elements that is distinctly different from the outer layer in terms of color, weight, and material.

[0067] Reference is now made to FIG. 7 where an interior view of a garment is shown. More particularly, the interior view is a view of a jacket 150 such as the jacket described in conjunction with FIG. 1. While the interior view is described in conjunction with a specific example of a jacket, the view may be similar in other garments described herein, and the other garments may include a similar configuration of an integrated panel. In FIG. 7, an integrated panel 120 with a decorative pattern is shown. The integrated panel 120 is sized and shaped to match the silhouette of the rear panels of the jacket 150 (not shown in FIG. 7, but which may generally correspond to items 132 and 134 of FIG. IB as well as the area extending from the collar 104 to those items). In some embodiments, the integrated panel 120 is shaped to allow it to be attached to the body of the garment at one or more major seams, thereby increasing manufacturing efficiencies and improving the comfort and wearability of the garment. [0068] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 7, the integrated panel 120 is sewn or attached to the garment at seams including vertical seams 168 and seams along the shoulders and upper back 162, 164. The result is an integrated panel 120 that fits the wearer properly and that does not bunch up or otherwise move relative to the outer panels of the garment. When the wearer wishes to display the integrated panel 120, the fastening mechanism (not shown in FIG. 7 but shown in FIG. 1 and elsewhere herein) is unfastened to reveal the decorative integrated panel 120. The result is a garment with multiple purposes and looks. A garment such as the jacket 150 (or other garments described herein) may have more than one integrated panel 120 and other integrated panels may be positioned along other sides of the garment.

[0069] It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure are merely possible examples of implementations set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above- described embodiment s) without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims.