GB2201579A - Improvements in or relating to brassieres - Google Patents

Abstract

A measurement and fitting harness set for determining one or more dimensions for an individual's brassiere, comprises a plurality of measurement and fitting harnesses, each harness including a pair of breast receiving cups (A1, A2) fastened to a band portion (E) carrying body support straps, at least one cup from each pair being different in size by a predetermined measurement unit or multiple or fraction thereof from other cups of other pairs, a pair of neck support straps (G1) being provided whereby each extends from an uppermost part of the cups whereby the pair can be releasable adjustably fastened behind the neck of an individual, at least one pair of body support straps each extending from and/or connected to a band portion whereby the or each pair can be releasably and adjustably fastened around the back of an individual, and a circumferential girth measuring tape (J) secured to a band portion capable of collinear alignment with the lowermost part of one or both cups. Eight harnesses may comprise the set for the purpose of determining at least breast cup size and optionally other sizes or fittings for a production line or made-to-order brassiere. <IMAGE>

Description

TITLE ImProvements in or relating to Brassieres This invention is concerned with improvements relating to brassieres, more particularly to a plurality of measurement and sizing harnesses to enable an individual to ascertain the required sizes of either production or made-to-order brassieres.

In my prior specification no. GB-A-1160147 I describe a brassiere and corresponding measurement garment which is directed to achieving proper spacing and fit between the breasts and behind the back of a wearer.

In my prior specification GB-A-1468762 I describe a measurement calculating harness for ascertaining required sizes of brassieres by means of a plurality of measuring tapes or measurement indicating straps for a similar purpose.

Neither specification is concerned with the problem of determining cup size for an individual and the present invention i. principally concerted with this different problem.

The present invention aims to provide a means whereby individual members of the public in private and on a do-it-yourself basis may determine the appropriate size of brassiere cup for their fitting and thereafter obtain a production garment or made-to-order garment without the need to try on production brassieres within a shop or rely upon an inadequate bust tape measurement.

The present invention is based on the provision of a number of individual measurement and sizing harnesses, each individual harness having breast receiving cups of the same or different size, the set preferably providing a series of breast-receiving cups of increasing maximum width which is directly proportional to a given measurement unit, being either multiples or fractions thereof.

According to this invention there is provided a measurement and fitting harness set for determining one or more dimensions for an individual's brassiere, the set comprising a plurality of measurement and fitting harnesses, each harness including a pair of breast receiving cups fastened to a band portion carrying body support straps, at least one cup from each pair being different in size by a predetermined measurement from othei cups of other pair, a pair of neck surport straps being provided whereby each on extends from an uppermost part of the cups whereby the pair can be releasable adjustably fastened behind th neck of an i.ndividlzal, at least one pair of body support straps each one extending from and/or connected to a band portion whereby the or each pair can be releasably and adjustably fastened around the back of an individual, and a circumferential girth measuring tape secured to a band portion capable of collinear alignment with the lowermost part of one or both cups.

It is most preferred that each harness within the set with the exception of one has two cups which differ in size (width) by a predetermined measurement. The exception is preferably for a harness having cup sizes 51/2 and 51/2. Furthermore it is preferred that a plurality of stations on the harnesses are based on the cup width, being a multiple and/or fraction of this dimension from a reference point.

All harnesses with the exception of one (preferably cup sizes 4 1/2 and 5) may have attached a second measurement tape depending from a band portion and comprising a series of vertically spaced and numbered slots and a third measurement tape which can pass through one of the said slots for determining the chosen depth frorr the lowermost part if the cup to the lower edge of the brassiere, and for measuring the lower edge girth.

Eac band portion may cry an upper and a lower body support strap whereby the harness carries to pairs of body support straps to improve location and fitting thereof around an individual.

For embodiments of the invention comprising two such pairs of body support straps the lower pair may substantially overlap with the circumferential girth measuring tape.

One harness within the set preferably includes means for adjustable spacing between the breast-receiving cups together with means for determining that spacing.

In such embodiments of the invention there may be provided a further pair or pairs of body support straps between the cups which can be adjustable and releasably fastened between the breasts of an individual.

It is preferred that the circumferential girth measuring tape is marked with a minimum unit or girth which comprises a multiple of the unit of maximum width of the smaller cup and marked with a maximum unit of girth which is a multiple of the unit of maximum width of the larger cup of the individual harness.

The set may comprise eight individual harnesses, the smallest cup in terr;s of its unit of maximum width) eing n unit. and each next larger cup s.ze comprising n plus 12 millimetres. Sush an arrangement of harnesses may cater for cup sizes referred to by means of the standard units of size 41/2 - 111/2.

The measurement and fitting harness set may cater not only for the general public with regard to cup size but also for the general public in relation to individual circumferential girth around the body and/or adjustable spacing (where applicable) between the breasts of an individual.

In order that the invention may be illustrated and readily carried into effect, an embodiment thereof will now be presented by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a front view of one harness as worn by an individual, Figure 2 shows front side and rear portions of a harness corresponding to Figure 1 but with unfastened body support straps, Figure 3 is a front view of an alternative harness for specified cup sizes 41/2 and 5, Figure 4 shows centre front to centre back of a brassiere, in the size range 7 to 111/2, similar features applying to brassieres in the sze range 41A to 61,2, Figure 5 shows an arrangemen for cup size variation 41/2 and 5,.

Figure 6 is a rear view of Figure 5 identifying the centre back pleat severed stitching and back depth variation by arrows 1, 2 and 3 respectively, and Figure 7 shows the front, rear and side parts of the Figure 5 arrangement with alternative centre back extension, in which a strap T and self locking buckle S serve the same purpose as the centre back pleat of Figure 6, being a permanent, balanced extension.

Reference Kev: indicating direct relationship of all stations (referenced locations) in the brassieres as multiples and/or fractions of the maximum cup width indicated by reference 3A.

From key line Dl to all stations to left, right, up and down.

Referring to Figure 4 from D1 to the right: D1 = 0 E = 1/2 cup width less 12 mm.

F = 1/2 cup width.

G1 = Cup width.

H1 = 11/4 cup width plus 6 mm.

i = 11/2 cup width.

J1 = 11/2 cup width.

K2 = 11/2 cup width prior to seaming.

L = cup width N1 = cup width S1 = 11/2 cup width for strapless brassiere.

Referring to Figure 4, from D1 to the left: D1 = 0 B2 (inner edge across cup surround) = 3 /4 cup width minus seam allowance.

B2 (centre eam between cups) = 20 mm in line with 3A, the widest part of cup for numbers 6 to 111/2 The reference station D1 is used for all brassieres having cup numbers 7 to 111/2, the reference station D2 is used for all brasierres having cup numbers 41/2 to 61/2. Thus in the above and subsequent key, substitute D2 for D1, for these smaller sizes. As described subsequently 3A (or A3) is the widest part of the cup, B2 is the space between cups and B3 represents various heights from C1, C2 prior to mounting the cup.

Referring to Figure 4, from D1 upwards and to the right: D3 = 1/4 cup width F on D3 = 3/4 cup width to the right, 1/4 cup width above D1, G1 on D3 = cup width to the right, H1 on D3 = 1/8 cup width plus 12 mm to the right, i = 11/2 cup width to the right, N1 = cup width above.

Referring to Figure 4, from D1 down: D1 = 0 C1 and C2 = 3/4 cup width 3ess 12 mm, J1 = 1,8 cup width less the seam, J2 = 3 j4 cup width less 24 mm, K: = 3/4 cup width less 12 mm, 133 to level C1 and C2 = 1/2 cup width being maximum height centre front, Q1 = 1/2 cup width less 12 mm Q2 = 7/8 cup width S = 1/4 cup width down at J1 for strapless brassiere.

It should be noted that 1B.3, 2B3 and 3B3 show variations in styles.

Referring to Figures 5, 6 and 7, the multiples and/or fractions of cup widths for sizes 41/2 to 61/2 will be as for sizes 7 to 111/2 guided by Key D2 given above and starting at station D2. All measurements for constructing the harnesses (and for subsequent made-toorder brassieres) will be as for Figure 4 sizes 7 to 111/2. The space between D1 and D2 on the insert for brassieres having cup sizes 41/2 to 61/2 is also determined by the cup width. Thus D1 to D2 = 1/2 cup width for size 41/2; 3/s cup width for size 5, 1/4 cup width for size 51/2, 1/8 cup width for size 6 and size 61/2.

With reference to the drawings, in order to cater for the public at large whereby cup sizes from 41/2 111/2 having half unit increase, in maximum width n.sy be required, the set according to the invention preferably consists of eight individual harnesses. The cups on such harnesses within this preferred set may have sizes based on maximum width of: 41/2 plus 5, 5 plus 51/2, 6 plus 61/2, 7 plus 71/2, 8 plus 81/2 9 plus 91/2, 10 plus 101/2, 11 plus 111/2. Cups of equal size are on set 51/2 plus 51/2. This caters for its individual centre front spacing which is less than that of set 5.

For harnesses having cup sizes 51/2 and greater it is preferred to construct them according to the arrangements of Figures 1 and 2. For cup sizes 41/2 plus 5 it is preferred to construct that harness according to Figure 3. The harness of Figure 3 is principally intended for young persons having small or less fully developed breasts whereby correct spacing therebetween is usually important for fit and comfort.

Referring in particular to Figures 1 and 2 of the drawings, the individual harness shown comprises two conventionally styled breast-receiving cups of different size Al and A2, whereby Al represents size 7 and A2 represents size 71/2.

The unit sizes are based upon the units of maximum width at the widest part of the breast-receiving cup.

Hoth cu! > s are secured to a 1)and portion E wliich are secured together at the cen-re front by stitching or other suitable means along the line indicated B1 Each bad portion E carries an upper body support strap I which is conveniently elasticated for securing around the back of a wearer. In certain embodiments the body support band I is optional and may be omitted.

When present it may be connected to or capable of collinear alignment with the outermost position of each breast-receiving cup D1. At the uppermost part G2 of each cup there extends a neck support strap G1 which straps may be secured together (by means of a bow or the like) around the neck of an individual. For simplicity and reduced costs the straps G1 may be simple straps embodying no other fastening means whereby they may simply be tied together at a comfortable position behind the neck of a wearer and so help support the harness.

The lower part of each band portion E is provided with a body support strap E which straps may be secured together by means of a bow or the like to fit the different girths of different individuals. The neck support strap, and body support straps I and E together serve to releasably and adjustably fasten the harness to the individual whereupon appropriate size and measurements can be noted. (The person selects first the most obvious harness then may have to use a size above or below that size to obtain a smcoth fitting breast cup).

tJnless there is a severe discrepancy between the sizes of an individual's breasts, only one of the individual cups will be found to fit correctly. Once that harness is selected the neck and body support straps will be appropriately fitted around the individual.

A circumferential strap J is secured to band portion E. Point J is collinear with C1 on cup Al and squared with point D1 of cup Al. The space across the front of a person from C2 cup A2 to C1 cup Al is governed by 3A. This space is accounted for on strap J.

Appropriate numerals are printed on the free end of J and its inside surface. The strap J can be manoeuvred from right to left. The free end of J extends through retaining loop 01 around the back of the person and through retainer 02 on the left E. J is connected at K1 on E at its left. Connection K1 is aligned with locating points C2 and D1 of cup A2. The appropriate unit of measurement on strap J may be read off at its junction with K1. Suitable connectors are provided on the inside of J at 12 mm apart.

In this manner a suitable circumferential girth measurement is obtained by or for the individual. The appropriate cup size has been previously determined by selection, finding the specific cup s.ze which affords a smooth, undistorted fit.

Depending from band portion E is a second measuring tape L comprising a series of vertically spaced and numbered slots on its inner surface indicated on Figure 2. Through one of these slots a third measuring tape m is located and the said second and third tapes may be used for determining the desired depth for the lowermost part from cup C, C2 to the lower edge of the brassiere.

The use of such tapes L and M is to obtain particular dimensions to subsequently make a brassiere to order.

It will be appreciated that the second tape L and the third tape M are optional items and may be omitted.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2 the circumferential girth measuring tape J is arranged to be substantially in registry with the lower body support straps E when fitted. The line of maximum width of each cup is designated 3A. Cup A2 is 12 millimetres wider at this line than cup Al. As an alternative to single band I there may be provided two corresponding bands in the identical position but which are capable of being secured together in similar fashion to band E.

In the primary procedure of ascertaining correct cup size it is recommended that the person fully adjusts harness straps G1, E and i where i is applicable. Full adjustment oi harness supports tie cup, provides con1.ol.lr and particularly shows the cup appropriate to a wearer.

As previously noted, a person may have to switch to a different size harness set in order to select a harness which has one cup appropriate to the size of her breasts.

The appropriate harness having been applied to the person in this way - 1st single band i or tied bands 1 are placed over the head and shoulders to the back (not shown), neck straps Gi are tied at the nape of the neck (not shown). Support straps E are then tied low at the back of wearer, with assistance if necessary.

The measuring tape J is fed through the retaining strap 01 to be in line with point C1 of cup Al and the appropriate unit of measurement read-off at K (Figures 1 to 3) in line with point C2 and D1 above. The units of measurement appearing on the inside of tape J (not shown) range from a minimum circumference based upon multiples or fractions of cup widths 3A of the smaller cup Al to a maximum circumference based on multiples or fractions of the cup width 3A of the larger cup A2.

If an underbust band is required then measuring tapes L and M are deployed to ascertain the chosen depth and girth for that part of a made-to-order brassiere.

For example, tape L may extend to 120 millimetres and be provided with slots at 24 millimetre spaces apart. The tape- M may have a means of connection of one end to a part of its numbered range and, for example, the measurements may extend from 640 - 1270 millimetres.

Referring to Figure 3 of the drawings, this illustra4 s a harness from the set preferably intended for the younger person, having cup Al of size 41/2 and cup A2 of size 5 together with means for varying the spacing between the breast-receiving cups. Cups Al and A2 are each connected to a band portion E integrally connected to a body support strap E. The band portion E tapers sharply into the narrower width body strap E. Iii this embodiment the straps E are provided with no supplementary connecting or supporting means but are intended to be tied together, for example into the bow, to accommodate the different girths of different individuals. The straps may be tied together low at the back of the wearer to improve fitting.From the uppermost part G2 of each cup there extends a neck support strap H1 as described with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

A circumferential girth measuring tape J is secured on El right in line with D1 through a retaining strap 0 and the free end of tape J can be collinearly aligned with lowermost point C2 of cup A2 and K1 for determining appropriate circumferential girth.

From each cup there furthermore extends to breastspacing straps B2 which are releasable and adjustably fastened between the breasts of an individual by using complementary straps and tying together as shown.

In order to determine the centre front spacing for an individual it is necessary to see where the respective tapes N B2A coincide and multiply the number provided by two. This calculation step will only be done when the harness has been secured around the body of a wearer in similar fashion to that described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. In this case, however, there are the additional body support straps B2 to tie across the front to maintain a precise and comfortable fit around the individual. In order to check for smooth cup fitting for any harness of the set it may be advisable to transfer the right cup to the left by reversing the harness material. It may be advisable also to reverse the harness for a person having a single mastectomy. The harnesses may be suitable for obtaining measurements suitable for a person having a double mastectomy.The correct cup size for any harness may be decided with precision according to the connection point K1 shown in the drawings. The cup size may be reflected by the connection made at point K1, a smaller cup on the harness should be selected if the numeral at K1 is on or below the maximum for the smaller cup of the harness the individual should select a larger cup size. Ideally, one should obtain the maximum reading on tape J at connection point Kl.

Figure 4 illustrate construction of the brassieres based on the cup width 3A. The system for brassieres applies to all cups 41/2 to 111/2. The given or inserted D1 to D2 is applicable to brassieres having cup sizes 41/2 to 61/2 only, being omitted on sizes 7 to 111/2. The amount of given or inserted material D1 to D2 decreases as cup width increases. D1 to 1st arrow is for cup 61/2, D1 to last arrow is for cup 41/2. All brassieres can have a closed back at K2 and a tie front as in Figures 4, 5 and 6.

The brassieres for cup sizes 7 to 111/2 have particular advantages for fuller figures. Stations D1 and E lie at the correct line of anatomy, they prevent excess material at this area. Station F on D2 and D3 eliminates flesh overflow. Station G is in direct alignment with station G2 of the cup at the front.

Station H is in direct alignment with station H2 of the cup at the front. The positioning of G1 and H1 ensure that straps stay on a wearer's shoulders. Stations F1, G1 and H1, in combination support the cup at the front.

This provinces a snugness of fist. which alleviates strain on a wearers shoulder by. tran ferring wei.ght to twat area on the back of a wearer. These latter two points have previously been a problem to the public.

Referring to Figure 5, disproportionate circumferences for 41/2 and 5 are provided at locations D1 and D2. Instead of a fixed front spacing, variable spacing between breasts is provided by ties B2 Nos. 1,2 and 3. In unison with these ties nos. 1,2 and 3, the releasable centre back pleat as shown in Figure 6 gives balance and adequate circumference according to an indivual's needs. Tie B2 No.3 is required when the cup centre front B2 is at maximum height. Shoulder straps as shown on Figures 4 to 6 are a continuation of the brassiere back material. F diminishes at junction of cup width up from D1 in line with G1 at N1. G1 at this point becomes outer edge of shoulder strap. H1 remains inner shoulder strap edge.

G1 and H1 are positioned in alignment with G2 and H2 of cup, G2 being aligned with highest and fullest part of cup. H2 lies 12 mm to the inside of fullest and highest part of cup. H1, H2, G1 and G2 are joined correspondingly. The alignment and positioning of the shoulder straps can follow the natural lines of the anatomv. The shoulder straps in conjunction with the rest or the brassiere serv to give a brassiere balance and a nugness of fit to tie appropriate weary .

A made to measure brassiere for a person having a cup fitting from 41/2 - 5 may correspond to the arrangement of Figures 4, 5 and 6. The centre front spacing between breast cups may be provided by a plurality of releasably and adjustably fastened straps.

The cup size will correspond with that selected by the individual when fitted with the individual measurement and fitting harness (Figure 3). Other calculations for various points of the made-to-order brassiere may be based on multiples or fractions of the maximum cup width as described above.

Referring to Figure 7 of the drauings, the arrangement of brassiere employs sockets at K2 left and right centre back and a strap T with self locking buckle S attached. This may be fitted and fastened by (1) sliding the strap tough the right slot to the inside of brassiere, (2) sliding the strap through the left slot to the outside of the brassiere and then (3) locking the strap in the buckle on the outside of the brassiere.

Strap T is an alternative to a pleat at the centre back as shown in Figure 6. In the first instance the strap T is versatile moving in its own sockets. The strap T is used to give a balanced circumferential extension in relation to the centre front ard according to the circumferential njeds of a wearer. On final adjustme;It buckle S is permanently locked. The intention: is to alleviate fizzing difficulties which are faced by younger persons. The arrangements of Figures 5 and 6 always carry ties B2 nos 1 and 2 for a low centre front. These ties B2 at the front allow for extension and using the two areas for extending or altering circumferential girth prevents distortion of fitting.

Figures 5, 6 and 7 have special features. Stations D1 and E are as for sizes 7 to 111/2. Station F may decrease towards D1 as shown in Figure 6. G1 and H1 are as described with reference to Figure 4. - Station i represents centre back. The advantage is in the adjustability of circumferential girth at two areas being centre front and centre back. This affords a balanced extension for persons requiring the same cup size but different circumferential girths. The arrangements of Figures 4 to 7 are principally intended for non-elasticated material other than a substitute insert of 30 mm on Figure 4 for cup sizes 61/2 to 111/2.

All seams can be allowed for, within the draft measurements for brassieres.

Measurement and fitting harness sets according to the invention may assist in attaining uniform cup si..es for both production and made-to- 'rder brassieres, cal avoid the ne-.d to try on production garments prior to purchase and may improve health, hygiene, economy and privacy for members of the public. It is desirable that harness sets be made up in a non-absorbant hygienic material. A set of eight harnesses may cater for virtually all individuals in terms of required cup size, circumferential girth and centre front (between breasts) spacing. This is principally achieved by employing harnesses all except one having breastreceiving cups of different size.It is preferred that harness sets will comprise a series of cups commencing at a minimum unit size and thereby increasing, in terms of its maximum width, by 12 millimetres up to a maximum conventional unit size. Each harness provides a means of adjustment for, on and around the individual. The correct cup size can be determined through a process of elimination whereby the correctly fitting brassiere may be ordered. The harness sets may cater for people with physical problems or for people who choose to wear brassieres having larger cup sizes than would be required normally. The harness sets enable precise and comfortable brassieres to be fabricated to order or selected from production garments.

Each harness set can be associated with two production line brassieres. The brassiere cup widths at 3A and the circumference at K2 of brassieres reflects that of harness sets (at 3A of cup and K1 connection with J). Cups Al and A2 on each brassiere are of equal size, harness sets and brassieres identify with each other by equal cup widths. The cup is classified by number.

Production line and made-to-order brassieres are termed by number only.

The aim is to minimise difficulties encountered by the general public in purchasing original or repeat comfortable brassieres.

Production line brassieres in association with fitting harness incorporate uniform cup widths at 3A.

All stations incorporated in the circumference of the brassiere are preferably governed by cup widths at 3A.

Using the set of harnesses, brassieres of various styles can be constructed without prior measurement or modelling. Measurement tables can be included with any fitting instructions which show how measurements are derived and used for production garments or madeto-order brassieres. The present set is sufficiently versatile to provide individual fitting for the public at large. The correct brassiere harness set in the first instance will show the public individually and personally their correct cup number for a brassiere. The sets for production line and made-to-order brassieres catl be identical, zither than at Cl, C2 to lower edge. Here a choice of depth and circumferen(e at lower edge can be provided on a made-to-order basis. Standard production line brassieres have two depths, the first is level with C1 and C2 on Ql, 12 mm down from C and C2 on Q2; the second is 7/8 cup width down from D1 on Q2. Production line garments at L may have a releasable dart carrying two rows of stitching at a minimum circumference directly proportional to the cup width 3A. The dart when fully released gives a maximum circumference which is also directly proportional to the cup width.

For handicapped persons who are able to tie bows, a small knot on the extreme end of the tape no. 3 B2 signifies the upper ties of the front fastening brassiere Ties 1B2 and 3B2 are distinguishable by their different lengths.

The aim with production line brassieres is to provide individual but comfortable fitting for the public, to avoid distortion of the garment and discomfort to the wearer. By using the harness the public would come to know their correct cup size. One fitting of the harness set could in the majority of cases, last a lifetime.

Fifteen brassiere sizes can be catered for by the resent set. It is hoped that trade or retail outlets in consultation with each other would each stock certain sizes of brassieres. In this way the public would know where to go to meet their requirements. This too could substantially reduce return of brassieres to shops.

Claims (18)

1. A measurement and fitting harness set for determining one or more dimensions for an individual's brassiere, the set comprising a plurality of measurement and fitting harnesses, each harness including a pair of breast receiving cups fastened to a band portion carrying body support straps, at least one cup from each pair being different in size by a predetermined measurement thereof from other cups of other pairs, a pair of neck support straps being provided whereby each one extends from an uppermost part of the cups whereby the pair can be releasable adjustably fastened behind the neck of an individual, at least one pair of body support straps each one extending from and/or connected to a band portion whereby the or each pair can be releasably and adjustably fastened around the back of an individual, and a circumferential girth measuring tape secured to a band portion capable of collinear alignment with the lowermost part of one oP both cups.

2. A set as claimed in claim 1 wherein all harnesses within the set with the exception of one has attached second and third measurement tapes.

3. A set as claimed-in either preceding claim wherein each harness within the set except one has two cups which differ in size by a predetermined measurement.

4. A set as claimed in claim 3 wherein a harness has cups of size 51/2 plus 51/2, the predetermined measurement difference between cups in other pairs being approximately 12 mm.

5. A set as claimed in any preceding claim wherein a plurality of stations on the harnesses are based on the cup width measurement, being a multiple and/or fraction of this dimension from a reference point.

6. A set as claimed in any preceding claim wherein each band portion carries an upper and lower body strap.

7. A set as claimed in any preceding claim wherein one or each harness has two or more pairs of body support straps

8. h set as claimed in claim 7, there being upper and lower body support straps, the lower such pair substantially overlapping with the circumferential girth measuring tape.

9. A set as claimed in any preceding claim wherein one harness includes means for adjustable spacing between the cups, and means for determining spacing appropriate to a wearer.

10. A set as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the circumferential girth measuring tape is marked with maximum and minimum measurement units which are multiples or fractions of the cup width across its widest part.

11. A set as claimed in any preceding claim comprising eight individual harnesses accounting for fifteen different cup widths, the cup widths increasing by a predetermined measurement of approximately 12 mm.

12. A set as claimed in claim 11 wherein the smallest cup has a maximum width of approximately 115 mm.

13. A set es claimed in claim 8 having cup sizes ir tern-s of pairs of 41/2 and 5, 51/2 and 51/2, 6 and (:l/2, 7 and 71/2, 8 and 81/2 9 and 91/2, 1) and 101/2, 11 and 111/2.

14. A harness set substantially as herein described.

15. A harness set substantially as herein illustrated in any one of Figures 1 to 7 of the accompanying drawings.

16. Use of a harness set as claimed in any preceding claim for initial determination of breast cup size for subsequent brassiere selection or ordering.

17. A production line brassiere or a made-to-order brassiere which has been constructed on the basis of breast cup size determination through use of a harness set as claimed in claim 16.

18. A brassiere as claimed in claim 17 which has a plurality of stations determined as defined in claim 5.