The scope of the present invention is a garment for outdoor use, according to the pre- characterizing part of the independent claim.

In the present context, by garments for outdoor use we mean garments that, once worn, are visible from the outside (and are called "outwear" garments), therefore this definition does not include the so called "underwear" garments.

Women outwear garments shaped in such a way as to cling to the wearer' s body are known for a long time. These garments can include, for instance, leggings or trousers for sports uses (for instance gym, running, or yoga trousers).

The fact that this type of garments clings to the wearer's body is a feature that is particularly appreciated by those who use them, in particular for sports activities, in that they provide an optimum freedom of movement and makes it possible to perform the exercises related to the sports activities without any special constraints.

However, a garment clinging to the body often creates a feeling of discomfort in those wo wear them, because some parts of the body, in particular the buttocks, are very visible and exposed.

On the other hand, those women who use garments, in particular those for sports uses, sometimes have a need for having garments that, whilst perfectly clinging to the body, are also seductive and can help in improving the overall look of those who wear them, in particular if such users have a generous figure.

Document US 5 068 920 describes a suit for water sports wherein the rear part of the trousers includes a patch 32 which is attached to the underneath trousers by way of an adhesive substance which is spread all over the surface of the patch itself and on the underneath surface of the trousers to which the patch is attached, such patch being further attached to the trousers by way of a seam which develops all along the whole perimeter of the patch itself. The complete surface of the patch is thus adhesively attached to the underneath portion of the trousers and forms one indivisible body with the trousers.

Document US 2001/145968 describes a garment for water activities protecting from sun radiations, which includes a pair of shorts and a skirt, wherein the skirt is attached to the shorts by way of lateral seams only and seams provided in correspondence with its upper edge. The skirt described in this document according to the prior art is of a conventional type and is suitable for fully covering the buttocks as well as the sides and the pelvis.

Document CN 202 211 173 describes a non-sewn pant skirt comprising a tubular upper part, a skirt, and a trousers part.

Document US 2007/0157367 describes a pair of trousers comprising a skirt which is attached to the trousers by way of a seam only that develops all along the waistband part of the trousers.

Document US 1 104 632 describes a riding garment with a pant skirt, wherein the skirt is attached on the front to the underneath trousers by way of buttons and respective button holes and is also attached to the waistband part of the trousers.

Document US 2007/0101481 describes a garment comprising a skirt which can be worn above a swimsuit or a pair of shorts, this skirt having wide lateral slits and means for attaching it to the underneath garment.

Document CN 204 032 412 describes a pair of trousers with a skirt wherein the trousers include a number of elastic bands in correspondence with the hips suitable for mating the sides.

An object of the present invention is to realize an outwear garment that, whilst allowing to realize a garment that perfectly clings to the wearer's body and consequently is particularly suitable for performing sports activities, makes it wearability easier also for people that, because, for instance, of their physical constitution, are not fully at their ease with this type of clinging garments.

This object and others that will be apparent to those skilled in this sector are achieved by a garment according to the characterizing part of the attached claims.

For a better understanding of the present invention, drawings are attached for merely explanatory, but not limitative, purposes, wherein:

figure 1 shows a schematic front perspective view of a garment according to the invention, figure 2 shows a rear schematic view thereof,

figures 3 A, 3B, 3C, 3E show schematic perspective views of the rear part only and when the garment is worn respectively,

figure 3D shows a view thereof like that of figure 3C but exploded, i.e. with the two components that make up the garment according to the invention separated from each other,

figure 4 shows a schematic view of the rear part only thereof, the garment lying in a plane and an external rear part thereof being partially raised from a more internal underneath rear part,

figures 5 A-C show a schematic front, rear, and side perspective views of a woman's pelvis,

figures 6A and 6B show a schematic front and rear perspective views respectively of a second embodiment of a garment according to the invention,

figure 7 shows a schematic front perspective view of the garment worn,

figures 8A, B show a rear schematic view of the pair of trousers only and of the half-skirt only when said two components that make up the garment according to the invention are separated from each other,

figures 9A and 9B show schematic front and rear perspective views respectively of a third embodiment of a garment according to the invention,

figures 10A and 10B show schematic front and rear perspective views respectively of a fourth embodiment of the garment according to the invention.

With reference to figures 1-4, they show a first embodiment of a garment according to the invention which, in these drawings, is of a type similar to the trousers of the leggings type, in particular for sports uses. The garment shown in figures 1-4 comprises a first trousers- shaped element 2, which includes:

- a front region 11 suitable for positioning in and covering at least the front zone 3 (figure 5A) of a pelvis 4,

- two lateral regions 5 A, B (figure 1) suitable for positioning in and covering each a zone S (figure 5C) of a trousers wearer's body, which substantially extends from a lateral part 6A, B (figure 5A) of the pelvis and a lateral terminal zone Zl, Z2

(figure 5B) of the buttocks,

- a rear region 7 suitable for positioning in and covering the buttocks 1,

- two lower regions 8A, B suitable for positioning in and separately covering each at least an upper zone 9 of the legs, and

- a crotch region 10 interconnecting at least said two lower regions 8A, 8B of the trousers.

This first trousers element consists of at least one first layer of material.

According to the invention, the garment includes a second half- skirt element 13, suitable for forming a rear half-skirt, above the first trousers element 2. This second half-skirt element is shaped and dimensioned:

- so as to transversally extend only from one of said two lateral regions 5A (figure 1) of the trousers element 2 to the other region 5B, and

- so as to cover at least a central part Fl of the buttocks, featuring a greater roundness, and a lower terminal part F2 of the buttocks 1, while leaving the front region 11 of the trousers element 2, 102, 202, 302, suitable for covering the front zone 3 of the pelvis, free and visible.

This second half- skirt element 13 is laterally delimited by lateral extremal edges 14 (figure 3E), by an upper edge 15A on the top, and by a lower edge 15 on the bottom; these lateral extremal edges 14 are rigidly attached each to part of the underneath lateral regions 5A, B of the trousers element, the lower extremal edge 15 being released from the underneath trousers element. Advantageously is the upper edge 15A also attached to the underneath trousers element, as discussed below in details.

The half-skirt element is thus open, at least on the lower side, and forms an open gap J

(figure 4) at least on the lower side between the rear region 7 (figure 3D) of the trousers element 2 and the half- skirt element 13.

The second half- skirt element 13 consists of at least one second layer of material, separate and different from the first layer of material of the first trousers element.

The first trousers element 2 has substantially a form of a conventional type for those who are skilled in this sector. In the example here illustrated the trousers element 2 is for instance of a seamless type and consequently its front region 11, laterals regions 5A, B, rear region 7, and leg regions 8A and 8B consist each of one layer of fabric, and only in correspondence with the crutch of the trousers there is provided, as conventional for this type of seamless garments, a part or "patch" 10 that is sewn to the adjacent parts of the garment, as shown in figure 4.

However, the trousers element 2 might also consist, as as much usual for those skilled in this sector, of a plurality of pieces of fabric, having identical or different textile characteristics, manufactured separately and subsequently attached to each other by way of usual seams, for instance flat-locked seams. For instance, a pair of trousers might have a front part and a rear part sewn to each other along vertical lateral sewing lines (as discussed below with reference to another embodiment of the invention).

The trousers element 2 also advantageously includes a waistband part 16, also of a conventional type for those skilled in this sector, consisting of one or several parts sewn to each other, and suitable for holding the trousers attached to the wearer's waist. The waistband part 16 is attached, for instance by way of a sewing line 16 A, to the regions (front region 11, rear region 7, and lateral regions 5A, B) of the trousers element 2 underneath. The trousers element, as usual for those skilled in this sector, might even have an opening on the front, closed by a zip and/or by one or several buttons.

This first trousers element 2 is made at least one first layer of material, for instance a knitted fabric, more preferably an elastic knitted fabric. The fabric might for instance consist of a yarn including a natural fiber, for instance cotton, and a synthetic fiber, for instance fibers of the type known under the brand names: Lycra or Emana.

According to the invention, externally, above the first trousers element 2, and in correspondence with the region 7 of said element 2 that covers the buttocks, the garment comprises a second half-skirt element 13, suitable for forming a rear half-skirt, so as to cover and make the shape of the buttocks or at least of a part thereof less visible.

In the embodiment illustrated in figures 1-4 this half-skirt element 13 is shaped and dimensioned so as to fully cover the complete rear part 7 of the trousers element 2, which in turn covers the buttocks, but, as discussed below, the half-skirt element might have smaller dimensions and be shaped and dimensioned so as to extend in width from one lateral part 6 A (figure 5 A) to the other lateral part 6B of the pelvis only, and in height so as to cover one central part Fl (figure 5B) of the buttocks only, that which features a greater roundness, and a lower terminal part F2 of the buttocks 1, and not also an upper part of the buttocks which remains covered by the trousers element. In any case the half-skirt element 13 never makes up a complete skirt nor does it also cover the front region 11 of the trousers element 2 suitable for covering the front part 3 of the pelvis.

Advantageously, the half-skirt element 13 develops along a section M of its own (figure 2) even below the rear crotch point P of the trousers element 2, so as also partly extend above the rear portion of the two regions 8A, 8B of the trousers element that cover the legs above.

This section M might have dimensions (as measured from the crotch point of the trousers element up to the lower edge 15 of the half- skirt element 13) ranging from 1 cm to 50 cm, more preferably from approximately 10 cm to 30 cm, so that the half-skirt element forms a rear half-skirt of the "mini" or "above the knee" type.

Advantageously is the half-skirt element 13 shaped and dimensioned so that its two extremal lateral regions 14A (figure 1) extend and also at least partially cover the lateral regions 5A, B of the trousers element 2, and certain lateral regions of the trousers that cover the hips 6A, B (figure 5A).

Figure 3D shows the trousers element 2, the half-skirt element 13 having not been attached yet thereto. As shown in figure 3D the trousers element 2, which in this embodiment is realized as a seamless garment, presents in correspondence with each of its lateral regions 5A, B, in particular with the lateral regions suitable for covering the hips, a cut 18 wherein the lateral free edge 14 (figure 3E) of the half-skirt element 13 is inserted, such cut is then closed by a seam 24 (figure 3B) whereby the edge 14 of the half-skirt element is attached inside the trousers element. Thanks to this solution the half-skirt element 13 is sewn laterally to the trousers element 3 in a particularly pleasant way aesthetically wise.

Advantageously is the half-skirt element 13 sewn laterally to the underneath trousers element 2 by way of seams 24 (figure 3B, 3C) which feature a curved pattern, the concavity facing the front part of the trousers; this configuration of the seams imparts a hips-slenderizing effect to the garment when worn.

Obviously the lateral edge 14 of the half-skirt element 13 might be sewn directly above a respective lateral region 5A, 5B of the trousers element 2 without any need for having a lateral cut 18, even though this solution is preferred.

Preferably, in the half-skirt element 13 its upper edge 15A (figure 3E) is sewn to the trousers element 13, advantageously is this upper edge associated with the trousers element 2 in correspondence with the sewing line 16A that joins the upper band 16 and the rear part 7 of the trousers element 2 to each other. The edge 15A of the half-skirt element 13 is also preferably sewn to the trousers element 2 so that, once sewn, it is located inside the trousers element 2.

According to the invention the half-skirt element 13 is attached to the underneath trousers element 2 in correspondence with its lateral edges 14 (figure 3E) only, and preferably also in correspondence with its upper edge 15A (as described above), not in correspondence with its lower edge 15 or with a central portion 15B thereof. Therefore, the half- skirt element 13 does not completely cling to the buttocks when the garment is worn, nor is it fit to emphasize the shape of the glutei, but on the contrary it is suitable for masking their shape, or for masking the shape of those parts of the buttocks which are more rounded. The fact that the half-skirt masks the shape of the glutei is also, specifically, a consequence of the fact that the half-skirt 13 does not have a central seam suitable for attaching it to the rear central line 7A of the trousers element 2. The half-skirt extending over at least one section M of its own (figure 2) below the rear crotch point P also concurs to further mask the shape of the buttocks and of the glutei, which develop and/or might present a shape that not always is perceived as a graceful one, even partially below the rear crotch point P of the trousers.

It is worth emphasizing that the overall width L (figure 2) of the half- skirt 13 might be equal to or greater than its corresponding width LI (figure 2) of the region immediately underneath of the trousers element. The difference between these two widths will determine a garment with an element 13 that forms a half-skirt more or less clinging to the underneath part 7 of the trousers element.

It is worth noting that the width L of the half-skirt element 13 might even be less than the width LI of the underneath trousers element 2 should, for instance, the half-skirt element 13 be made of a textile material having elasticity characteristics greater than those of the trousers element 2.

It is worth emphasizing that whenever the garment is worn, between the rear region 7 of the trousers element that covers the buttocks and the half-skirt element 13 a gap J is always present and, whenever the trousers are not worn, the half-skirt 13 might at least partially be raised with respect to the underneath region 7 of the trousers element (as shown in figure 4).

It is also worth emphasizing that the lateral terminal parts 14A (figure 3E) of the half-skirt element 13 might have a width N more or less marked, consequently the half-skirt element might end just in correspondence with the lateral terminal regions of the buttocks or extend up to also at least partially covering the hips as shown in figures 3A-C, and/or a front lateral portion of the pelvis, in any case the half-skirt element never extends into the front part 11 of the trousers, suitable for covering the central part 3 of the pelvis, so that this front part of the trousers element always remains visible; in this sense said half-skirt element is suitable for forming only a half-skirt above the trousers element, suitable for substantially covering the buttocks only or the buttocks and a portion of the hips, not a complete skirt.

Also, according to the invention the half-skirt element 13 has a height H (figure 2) that is preferably greater than or equal to the height HI of that region 7 of the trousers which covers the buttocks, and/or more preferably the overall height H2 (figure 5C) of the buttocks.

It is worth emphasizing the fact that the half- skirt element 13 being firmly attached to the underneath trousers element 2 warranties that, whenever the garment is worn, this half- skirt element 13 is always perfectly and correctly positioned, both with respect to the underneath trousers element and with respect to that part of the body, i.e. the buttocks, which should be covered and masked by such half-skirt. Therefore, the garment is easily and simply wearable and there is no need, once it is worn, for positioning and/or adjusting the elements that make up it.

The half- skirt element 13 consists of at least one layer of a second material, distinct from the knitted fabric that the trousers element 13 is made of, for instance a knitted fabric, more preferably an elastic knitted fabric. The fabric might consist, for instance, of a yarn comprising a natural fiber, for instance cotton, and a synthetic fiber, for instance fibers of the types known under the brand names: Lycra or Emana.

As previously described, the half-skirt element can be shaped and dimensioned so as to extend in width only from a lateral part 6 A (figure 5 A) to the other lateral part 6B of the pelvis, and in height so as to only cover a central part Fl (figure 5B) of the buttocks, that which features a greater roundness, and a lower terminal part F2 of the buttocks 1, not also an upper zone of the buttocks. In figure 3 A the broken line 16 A' shows the upper edge of the half-skirt 13' according to this variant and the reference numeral 7' shows that part of the trousers element which is suitable for covering the upper part of the buttocks that is not covered by the half-skirt. Still with reference to this figure, the reference H shows the total height of the buttocks, the reference H2 shows the maximum height of the half-skirt 13' according to the variant under consideration, and the reference H3 shows the height of the band 7' of the trousers element suitable for covering the upper terminal part of the buttocks.

Figures 6-8 illustrate a second embodiment of a garment according to the invention; the elements that are common to the first embodiment as illustrated in figures 1-4 will not be further described and will be referred to by the same reference numerals used for the garment according to figures 1-4, but increased by 100.

According to this variant, the garment still comprises a first trousers -shaped element 102, and, externally thereto, above the first trousers element 102 and in correspondence with the region 107 of said element 102 that covers the buttocks, a second half-skirt element 113, suitable for forming a rear half-skirt, so as to cover and make the shape of the central zone Fl (figure 5B) of the buttocks featuring a greater roundness and of the lower terminal zone F2 of the buttocks, less visible. According to this variant, the half-skirt element 113 does not cover the upper zone F3 (figure 5B) of the buttocks, which remains covered by the trousers element 102 only.

According this variant, preferably is the half- skirt element 113 dimensioned and/or shaped in such a way as to form a plurality of pleats G, hence in such a way as not to cling to the underneath part of the trousers element. These pleats G are realized in a way that is conventional for those skilled in the sector, for instance by dimensioning the element 113 so that its upper edge 115A (figure 8B) has a length greater than that of the lower edge 115, or by providing a plurality of seams 115C (broken line in figure 8B) in the half- skirt element, suitable for realizing said pleats.

The trousers element 102 according to this second embodiment might for instance be obtained by sewing a plurality of separate parts to each other, each formed of one or several pieces of fabric, so as to give a more close-fitting shape to the trousers and make it better cling to the various parts of the body.

The trousers element 102 comprises, for instance, a front region 111 capable of covering at least the front zone 3 (figure 5A) of the pelvis 4, a rear region 107 (figure 3D) suitable for covering the buttocks 1, two lateral regions 105 A, B suitable for positioning in and covering each a zone S substantially extending from a lateral part 6A, B of the pelvis to a lateral terminal zone Zl, Z2 of the buttocks, two lower regions 108 A, 108B suitable for separately covering each at least an upper zone 9 of the legs, and a crotch region 110 interconnecting said two lower regions 8 A, 8B.

In the example here illustrated, the trousers element 102 is for instance of a type comprising a plurality of pieces of fabric sewn to each other (for instance by way of flat- locket seams), but said trousers element 102 might also be obtained by using other construction techniques conventional for those skilled in the sector and be for instance realized with no seams as with the garment described in the previous embodiment.

Should the trousers element be formed of a plurality of pieces of fabric sewn to each other, then the crotch part of the trousers element might just be formed of a seam.

According to the invention a trousers element comprising the special seams described below makes it possible to model the figure of a wearer and to improve his/her look, even though the trousers element is used without a half-skirt element.

Therefore, a trousers element with no half-skirt and comprising the following component parts also falls into the scope of protection of the present invention:

- in the front region:

a front waistband part 116 (figure 6A) which extends to and covers an upper band of the front region 111 of the trousers that covers the pelvis and two portions C2 (figure 6B) of the upper rear region of the trousers that covers the terminal upper band of the buttocks,

two front parts 108A, B which extend to and cover the front region 111 of the trousers in correspondence with the pelvis, below the front waistband part 116, up to the crutch, and also cover the front parts of the legs, these two front parts also comprising the portions CI (figure 6B) that extend in the lateral rear part of the trousers in correspondence with the sides and of the most extremal lateral part S (figure 5C) of the buttocks

- wherein said front waistband part 116 and said two front parts 108A and B are sewn to each other by an arched front seam T6 whose concavity faces the upper edge of the trousers so as to flatten the look of this upper part of the pelvis, and

- said two front parts 108 A and B are sewn to each other by a seam T8 which centrally joins, in correspondence with the pelvis, the parts 108A and B to each other and departs from said front seam 116 and ends in the crutch point 110 (figure 8A), and

- in the rear part:

- an upper rear part Kl which extends to and covers a flapper upper part F3 (figure

5B) only of the buttocks and is preferably formed of a plurality of parts B 1-B4 sewn to each other, so as to better cling to said upper part of the buttocks, a lower part K2 which extends to and covers a more rounded central part Fl (figure 5B) only of the buttocks and a lower part F2 thereof, and then extends below with the parts 108A' and 108B' so as to cover a rear part of the legs, and

two lateral parts K3 (figures 6C and 8A) which extend to and cover each a more rounded lateral part of the buttocks, a rear lateral portion and a front lateral portion of the legs;

- wherein an arched transversal seam 179 (figure 8A) having a concavity facing the legs of the trousers is dimensioned and shaped so as to surround above the more rounded part F of the buttocks and to join the two rear parts Kl and K2 to each other as well as the rear terminal portions of the parts K3 (figure 8A),

- wherein the seams T1-T5 join to each other the plurality of elements B 1-B4 that form the rear upper part Kl of the trousers element,

- wherein a seam T3' joins the parts K2 and the parts K3 to each other behind.

The trousers element also preferably comprises seams 171C and T2' (figure 6 A) which join the zones that cover the legs of the parts 108B and 108A and 108B' and 108A' that cover these parts of the body; let's highlight that advantageously are the seams T2' that join the most external edges of the parts 108B and 108A and 108B' and 108A' shifted in the front part of the trousers element so as to slenderize the figure of the trousers wearer, and that, upon reaching the pelvis, these seams continue in the rear part of the trousers with their sections T2

The trousers element also comprises, in the rear part, lower seams T7 suitable for better making the trousers cling to in correspondence with the calves.

Preferably are the seams T3-T5 and T6' and T6 flat zig zag seams, so that the trousers better cling to the wearer's body in correspondence with these seams and thus not cause irritations.

Preferably are the seams 180 T2', T5 straight flat seams, which slenderize the figure and are suitable for making the trousers better cling to the wearer's body.

The remaining seams are preferably of a conventional type.

As described above, the rear part 107 of the trousers is for instance subdivided into two parts Kl and K2 (figure 8A), the upper part Kl is shaped and dimensioned so as to be suitable for covering a flatter upper portion F3 (figure 5B) of the buttocks, the lower part K2 is shaped and dimensioned so as to be suitable for covering a more rounded central part Fl (figure 5B) of the buttocks and a lower portion F2 of thereof.

The two parts Kl and K2 are joined to each other for instance by an arched transversal seam 179 (figure 8) having a concavity facing the legs of the trousers; such arched seam is dimensioned and shaped so as to surround the more rounded part F of the buttocks above. The upper part Kl of the rear part 107 is for instance formed of a plurality of elongated vertically-developing elements, preferably four elements 175 (figure 8) attached to each other by seams T3-T5, also featuring a vertical development. Advantageously are the most external elongated elements B l and B4 sewn to the offshoots CI and C2 of the front elements 116 and 108A and B that cover the pelvis so as to form an upper rear band Kl.

Thanks to this special configuration, the region Kl is suitable for following in an optimum manner the configuration of the flatter upper part of the buttocks and for slenderizing the external look of this upper part of the buttocks.

The lower region K2 of the rear part 107 of the trousers element also includes a central seam 178, which advantageously is an extension of the seam T4 of the upper rear part Kl. Advantageously, the seam T3' also connects to the seam T3 of the upper part K12 of the rear upper part of the trousers.

As already discussed, the trousers element 2 also advantageously includes a waistband part 116 also of a conventional type for those skilled in this matter, consisting of one or several parts sewn to each other and suitable for holding the trousers attached to the wearer's waist. Advantageously, this waistband part 116 develops in the front part only of the trousers element 102.

The trousers element, as usual for those skilled in this sector, might also have an opening on the front, closed by a zip and/or by one or several buttons.

The various parts that make up the trousers element 102 consist of at least one first layer of material, for instance a knitted fabric, more preferably an elastic knitted fabric. The fabric might for instance consist of a yarn comprising a natural fiber, for instance cotton, a synthetic fiber, for instance fibers of the type known under the brand names: Lycra or Emana.

Preferably the half-skirt element 113 has its own arched upper edge 115A (figure 8B) with a concavity facing the legs of the trousers; such arched edge is dimensioned and shaped in such a way as to surround the more rounded part F of the buttocks above.

Preferably the half-skirt element 113 has its own lower edge 115 (figure 8B) also arched but with a concavity opposed to that of the upper edge 115A.

Advantageously, the half-skirt element 113 also develops along a section M (figure 6B) thereof, below the crotch point P of the trousers element 102, so as to also extend above the rear portions of the two parts 108A, 108B of the trousers element that cover the legs above. Such section M might be dimensioned exactly as the section M of the previously described half-skirt element 13, wherein the dimensions of said section M, as measured from said crotch point P to the lower edge 115 of the half-skirt element 113, range from 1 cm to 60 cm, preferably from approximately 10 cm to 30 cm, and more preferably from approximately 5 cm to 20 cm.

Advantageously is the half-skirt element 113 shaped and dimensioned so that its two extremal lateral portions 114A (figure 6A) extend in and at least partially also cover the front lateral regions 105 of the trousers element 102, but not also the front central region 111 of the trousers element which remains consequently visible when the garment is worn. In the garment according this variant the half-skirt element 113, suitable for forming a rear half-skirt, has its own arched upper edge 115A (figure 8B) attached to the rear part 107 of the underneath trousers element 102, by way of an arched transversal seam 180 (figure 7) which substantially follows the shape of the edge 115A and consequently also features a concavity facing the legs of the trousers and is dimensioned and shaped so as to surround the more rounded part F of the buttocks above.

Preferably, as shown in figures 6-8, this arched seam 180 also coincides with the seam 179 (figure 8A) of the trousers element 102 which joins the upper region Kl and the lower region K2 of the rear part 107 of the trousers element, which covers the buttocks.

Advantageously, the half-skirt element 113 also has lateral edges 114 (figure 8B) that are attached to the trousers element, such edges being inserted in a section Y (figure 6A) of the lateral vertical seams T2' (figure 6A) of the trousers element 102.

Therefore, advantageously the half-skirt element 113 has portions 114A (figure 6A) of its own that at least partly develop into the lateral parts 105A, B of the trousers, but not also into its central front part 111, which consequently remains visible.

Such configuration of the half-skirt is suitable for modelling the trousers wearer's figure and for creating an improvement effect in the buttocks look.

Whenever the garment is worn, the half-skirt element 113 does not completely cling to the buttocks nor is it such as to emphasize the shape of the glutei, but on the contrary it is suitable for masking the shape, i.e. for masking the shape of the more rounded parts of the buttocks.

According to this variant, the half-skirt element being flared or pleated has a part U (figure 7) of its own suitable for remaining, when the garment is worn, spaced away from at least one lower region of the trousers element that covers the portion Fl of the buttocks having a greater roundness.

The fact that the half-skirt masks the shape of the glutei is also, in particular, a consequence of the fact that the half-skirt element 113 does not have a central seam suitable for attaching it to the underneath rear seam 178 (figure 8) of the trousers element 102. In addition, also the fact that the half-skirt extends along at least a section M (figure 6B) thereof below the crotch point P concurs to further mask the shape of the buttocks and of the glutei, which develop and/or might present a shape not always perceived as graceful, even partially below the rear crotch point P of the trousers.

It is worth emphasizing that, whenever the garment is worn, between the rear part 107 of the trousers element that covers the buttocks and the half-skirt element 113 there is always a gap similar to that referred to by the letter J in figure 4, and whenever the trousers are not worn the half- skirt element 113 can consequently be at least partially raised with respect to the underneath part 107 of the trousers element.

It is also worth emphasizing that the lateral terminal parts 114A (figure 8B) of the half- skirt element 113 might have a width N more or less marked, consequently the half- skirt element might end exactly in correspondence with the lateral terminal portions of the buttocks or extend up to also at least partially covering a lower portion of the hips as shown in figure 7, in any case the half-skirt element does not extend into the front central region 111 of the trousers, and in this sense said half-skirt element is suitable for forming just a half-skirt above the trousers element suitable for substantially covering the buttocks only or the buttocks and a portion of the hips.

It is worth emphasizing that the fact that the half-skirt element 113 being firmly attached to the underneath trousers element 102 warranties that, whenever the garment is worn, this half-skirt element 113 is always perfectly and correctly positioned, both with respect to the underneath trousers element and with respect to that part of the body, i.e. the buttocks, that such half-skirt shall cover and mask. Therefore, the garment is easily and simply wearable and does not need, once it is worn, to position and/or adjust the elements that make up it. The half-skirt element 113 consists of at least one layer of the second material, distinct from the knitted fabric that the underneath trousers element is made of, for instance a knitted fabric, more preferably an elastic knitted fabric. The fabric might for instance consist of a yarn comprising a natural fiber, for instance cotton, and a synthetic fiber, for instance a fiber of the types known under the brand names: Lycra or Emana.

Figures 9A and B show a third embodiment of a garment according to the invention; the elements common to the first embodiment as illustrated in figures 1-4 will not be further described and will be referred to by the same reference numerals as used for the garments illustrated in figures 1-4 but increased by 200.

According to this variant, the garment still includes a first trousers-shaped element 202 and, externally thereto, above the first trousers -shaped element 202 and in correspondence with the part 207 of said element 202 that covers the buttocks, a second half-skirt element 213, suitable for forming a rear half-skirt, so as to cover and render the shape of the buttocks less visible. However, according to this variant, the trousers element 202 also includes a singlet element 290, forming one piece with said trousers element, suitable for at least partially covering the chest and the back.

According to this variant, the half- skirt element 213 is shaped and dimensioned so as to fully cover the rear part 207 of the trousers element that covers the buttocks.

Preferably is the half-skirt element 213 dimensioned and shaped so as to realize a half-skirt that features a plurality of pleats G. Preferably is the half-skirt element 213 dimensioned and shaped so as to realize a "flared" half-skirt.

These pleats G are realized in a conventional manner for those skilled in this sector, for instance by dimensioning the element 213 so that the upper edge features a length greater than that of the lower edge, or by providing a plurality of seams 215C (shown in broken lines in figure 9B) in the half- skirt element, suitable for realizing such pleats.

Alternatively, the half-skirt element 213 might even be dimensioned and shaped so as to realize a half-skirt clinging to the underneath part 207 of the trousers element, i.e. a clinging half- skirt element of the type shown in figures 1-3.

The trousers element 202 and the singlet element 290 according to this embodiment might be realized in a conventional manner whatsoever for those skilled in this sector, for instance by sewing a plurality of pieces of fabric to each other, so as to shape the trousers and the singlet more and make it better cling to the various parts of the body. For this purpose, the trousers element 202 includes, for instance, a front part 211 suitable for at least covering the front part 3 (figure 1) of the pelvis 4, a rear part 207 (figure 3D) suitable for covering the buttocks 1, two lower parts 208 A, B suitable for separately covering each at least an upper part 9 of the legs, two lateral parts 205A, B suitable for positioning in and covering each a region S substantially extending from a lateral part 6A, B of the pelvis to a lateral terminal part Zl, Z2 of the buttocks, and a crotch part 210 interconnecting said two lower parts 208 A, B.

In the example here shown is the trousers element 202 for instance of a type including a plurality of pieces of fabric sewn to each other (for instance by way of flat-locked seams), but said trousers element 202 might also be realized according to other construction techniques that are conventional for those skilled in this sector and, for instance, be realized of a seamless type, in a way similar to what described with reference to the previous embodiment.

For merely explanatory, but not limitative, purposes, figures 9A-B highlight and identify with the reference numerals 271A-C and 272 A-D some of possible sewing lines of the various pieces of fabric that make up the trousers element 202 and the singlet element 290. The various parts that make up the trousers element 202 consist of at least one first layer of material, for instance a knitted fabric, more preferably an elastic knitted fabric. The fabric might for instance consist of a yarn comprising a natural fiber, for instance cotton, and a synthetic fiber, for instance fibers of the types known under the brand names: Lycra or Emana.

Preferably, the half- skirt element 213 has its own arched upper edge 215A (figure 9B) with a concavity facing the legs of the trousers; such arched edge is dimensioned and shaped so as to surround the upper terminal part V (figure 5B) of the buttocks above.

Preferably, the half- skirt element 213 has its own lower edge 215 (figure 9) also arched, but with a concavity opposite to that of the upper edge 215A and facing the center of the buttocks.

Advantageously, the half-skirt element 213 develops along a section M (figure 9B) of its own also below the rear crotch point P of the trousers element 202, so as to also partially extend above rear portions of the two parts 208A, 208B of the trousers element that cover the legs above.

This section M might be dimensioned exactly as the section M described with reference to the half- skirt element 13.

Also, according to the invention the half-skirt element 213 has a height H (figure 9B) that is preferably greater than or equal to the height HI of that part of the trousers that covers the buttocks and/or the overall height H2 (figure 5C) of the buttocks. As with the previous embodiments, also for this one it is worth emphasizing that the half-skirt element might also feature a height H6 (figure 9B) lower than the above mentioned height H and be consequently capable of covering a central part Fl (figure 5B) only of the buttocks, featuring a greater roundness, and a lower terminal part F2 of the buttocks 1, and not also an upper zone of the buttocks. According to this variant the trousers element includes a part suitable for covering the upper part of the buttocks that is not covered by the half- skirt. Advantageously is the half-skirt element 213 shaped and dimensioned so that its two extremal lateral parts 214A (figure 9 A) extend in and also at least partially cover the lateral parts 205A, B of the trousers element 202, and in particular the lateral parts that cover the hips 6.

In the garment according to this variant, the half-skirt element 213 suitable for forming a rear half-skirt has its own arched upper edge 215A (figure 9B) attached to the underneath rear part 207 of the trousers element 202, by way of an arched transversal seam 280 (figure 9B), which consequently also features a concavity facing the legs of the trousers and is dimensioned and shaped so as to surround the upper terminal part V of the buttocks above. Advantageously, the half-skirt element 213 also includes lateral edges 214 (figure 9B) which are attached to front lateral parts 205 of the trousers element, such edges being for instance inserted in a section of the lateral vertical seams 27 IB and 271 A (figure 9B) of the trousers element 202.

Consequently, advantageously the half-skirt element 213 has portions 214A of its own that at least partially develop into the front lateral parts 205 of the trousers, but without also covering the central front part 211 which remains covered by the trousers element only. When the garment is worn, the half-skirt element 213 does not completely cling to the buttocks, nor is it such as to emphasize the shape of the glutei, but on the contrary it is suitable for masking the shape of the buttocks. The fact that the half-skirt masks the shape of the glutei is also, in particular, a consequence of the fact that the half-skirt element 213 does not have a vertical central seam suitable for attaching it to an intergluteal rear central seam of the trousers element 202. Furthermore, also the fact that the half-skirt extends below the rear crotch point P along at least a section M (figure 9B) thereof concurs to further mask the shape of the buttocks and of the glutei, which develop and/or might present a shape not always perceived as graceful, even partially below the rear crutch point P of the trousers.

It is worth emphasizing that whenever the garment is worn, between the rear part 207 of the trousers element that covers the buttocks and the half-skirt element 213 there is always present a gap of the type referred to by the letter J in figure 4, and whenever the trousers are not worn the half-skirt element 213 might be at least partially raised with respect to the underneath part 207 of the trousers element.

It is also worth emphasizing that the lateral terminal parts 214A (figure 9B) of the half- skirt element 213 might have a width N more or less marked, consequently the half- skirt element might end exactly in correspondence with the lateral terminal portions of the buttocks or extend up to also at least partially covering a front lateral portion 205A, B of the trousers element, for instance a lateral portion provided in correspondence with the hips, as shown in figure 9A, in any case the half-skirt element does not extend into the central front part 211 of the trousers, and in this sense said half-skirt element is suitable for forming only a half-skirt above the trousers element, suitable for substantially covering the buttocks only or the buttocks and the portion of the hips, but not also the front part 211 of the trousers element which remains covered by the trousers element only.

It is worth emphasizing that the fact that the half-skirt element 213 being firmly attached to the underneath trousers element 202 warranties that, whenever the garment is worn, this half-skirt element 213 is always perfectly and correctly positioned, both with respect to the underneath trousers element and with respect to that part of the body, i.e. the buttocks, that shall be covered and masked by such half- skirt. Therefore, the garment is easily and simply wearable and does not require, once it is worn, to position and/or adjust the elements that make up it.

The half-skirt element 213 consists of at least one layer of a second material, distinct from the knitted fabric that the trousers element 13 is made of, for instance a knitted fabric, more preferably an elastic knitted fabric. The fabric might for instance consist of a yarn comprising a natural fiber, for instance cotton, and a synthetic fiber, for instance fibers of the types known under the brand names: Lycra or Emana.

Figure 10A and B show a fourth embodiment of a garment according to the invention; the elements common to the first embodiment as illustrated in figures 1-4 will not be further described and will be referred to by the same reference numerals as used for the garments illustrated in figures 1-4 but increased by 300.

According to this variant, the garment still includes a first trousers-shaped element 302, and, externally thereto, above the first trousers-shape element 302, and in correspondence with the part 307 of said element 302 that covers the buttocks, a second half-skirt element 313, suitable for forming a rear half-skirt, so as to cover and render the shape of the buttocks less visible. However, according to this variant, the trousers element 302 is of a "shorts" type, i.e. trousers wherein the dimensions of the portions 308A and 308B where the legs pass through are extremely reduced.

According to this variant, the half-skirt element 313 is shaped and dimensioned so as to fully cover the rear part 307 of the trousers element that covers the buttocks.

Preferably is the half-skirt element 313 dimensioned and shaped so as to realize a half-skirt that features a plurality of pleats G.

Preferably is the half-skirt element 313 dimensioned and shaped so as to realize a "flared" half-skirt.

These pleats G are realized in a conventional manner as discussed for the variants according to figures 9 and 6. Alternatively, the half- skirt element 313 might even be dimensioned and shaped so as to realize a half-skirt clinging to the part 307 of the underneath trousers element, i.e. a clinging half-skirt element of the type shown in figures 1-3.

The trousers element 302 according to this embodiment might be realized in a conventional manner whatsoever for those skilled in this sector, for instance by sewing a plurality of pieces of fabric to each other, so as to shape the trousers and the singlet more and make it better cling to the various parts of the body. For this purpose, the trousers element 302 includes, for instance, a front part 311 suitable for at least covering the front part 3 (figure 1) of the pelvis 4, a rear part 307 (figure 3D) suitable for covering the buttocks 1, two lower parts 308 A, B suitable for separately covering each at least an upper part 9 of the legs, two lateral parts 305A, B suitable for positioning in and covering each a region S substantially extending from a lateral part 6A, B of the pelvis to a lateral terminal part Zl, Z2 of the buttocks, and a crutch part 310 interconnecting said two lower parts 308 A, B.

In the example here shown is the trousers element 302, for instance, of a type including a plurality of pieces of fabric sewn to each other (for instance by way of flat-locked seams), but said trousers element 302 might also be realized according to other construction techniques that are conventional for those skilled in this sector and, for instance, be realized of a seamless type, in a way similar to what described with reference to the previous embodiment.

For merely explanatory, but not limitative, purposes, figures 10A-B highlight and identify with the reference numerals 371A-C and 372A some of possible sewing lines of the various pieces of fabric that make up the trousers element 302.

The various parts that make up the trousers element 302 consist of at least one first layer of material, for instance a knitted fabric, more preferably an elastic knitted fabric. The fabric might for instance consist of a yarn comprising a natural fiber, for instance cotton, and a synthetic fiber, for instance fibers of the types known under the brand names: Lycra or Emana.

Preferably, the half-skirt element 313 has its own arched upper edge 315A (figure 10B) with a concavity facing the legs of the trousers; such arched edge is dimensioned and shaped so as to surround the upper terminal part V (figure 5B) of the buttocks above.

Preferably, the half-skirt element 313 has its own lower edge 315 (figure 8) also arched, but with a concavity opposite to that of the upper edge.

Advantageously, the half-skirt element 313 develops along a section M (figure 9B) of its own also below the rear crutch point P of the trousers element 302, so as to also partially extend above rear portions of the two parts 308A, 308B of the trousers element that cover the legs above. This section M might be dimensioned exactly as the section M described with reference to the half-skirt element 13. This section M might be dimensioned exactly as the section M described with reference to the half- skirt element 13.

Also, according to the invention the half-skirt element 313 has a height H (figure 10B) that is preferably greater than or equal to the height HI of that part of the trousers that covers the buttocks and/or the overall height H2 (figure 5C) of the buttocks. As with the previous embodiments, also for this one it is worth emphasizing that the half-skirt element might also feature a height H7 (figure 10B) lower than the above mentioned height H and be consequently capable of covering a central part Fl (figure 5B) only of the buttocks, featuring a greater roundness, and a lower terminal part F2 of the buttocks 1, and not also an upper zone of the buttocks. According to this variant the trousers element includes a part suitable for covering the upper part of the buttocks that is not covered by the half- skirt. Advantageously is the half-skirt element 313 shaped and dimensioned so that its two extremal lateral parts 314A (figure 9 A) extend in and also at least partially cover the lateral parts 305A, B of the trousers element 302 that cover the hips 6, but without also covering the front central part 311 of the trousers element which remains visible when the garment is worn.

In the garment according to this variant, the half- skirt element 313 suitable for forming a rear half-skirt has its own arched upper edge 315A (figure 10A) attached to the underneath rear part 307 of the trousers element 302, by way of an arched transversal seam 380 (figure 9B), which consequently also features a concavity facing the legs of the trousers and is dimensioned and shaped so as to surround the upper terminal part V of the buttocks above. Advantageously the half-skirt element 313 also includes lateral edges 314 (figure 10B) which are attached to the trousers element, such edges being for instance inserted in a section of the lateral vertical seams 37 IB and 371 A (figure 9B) of the trousers element 302.

According to this embodiment, an upper section R (figure 10B) of the lateral edges 314 is attached to the rear part 307 of the trousers element whereas the remaining lower section is attached to the lateral front part 305 of this trouser element. Such configuration is suitable for slenderizing the figure of the trousers' wearer.

Therefore, advantageously the half-skirt element 313 has portions 314A of its own that at least partially develop in the lateral front part 305A, B of the trousers, for instance in that part of the trousers element that covers the hips.

When the garment is worn, the half-skirt element 313 does not completely cling to the buttocks, nor is it such as to emphasize the shape of the glutei, but on the contrary it is suitable for masking the shape or for masking the shape of those parts of the buttocks which are more rounded. The fact that the half-skirt masks the shape of the glutei is also, in particular, a consequence of the fact that the half-skirt element 313 does not have a vertical central seam suitable for attaching it to the intergluteal rear central line of the trousers element 302. Furthermore, also the fact that the half-skirt extends below the rear crutch point P along at least a section M (figure 10B) thereof concurs to further mask the shape of the buttocks and of the glutei, which develop and/or might present a shape not always perceived as graceful, even partially below the rear crutch point P of the trousers.

It is worth emphasizing that whenever the garment is worn, between the rear part 307 of the trousers element that covers the buttocks and the half-skirt element 313 there is always present a gap of the type referred to by the letter J, and whenever the trousers are not worn the half-skirt element 313 might be at least partially raised with respect to the underneath part 307 of the trousers element.

It is also worth emphasizing that the lateral terminal parts 314A (figure 10B) of the half- skirt element 313 might have a width N more or less marked, consequently the half- skirt element might end exactly in correspondence with the lateral terminal portions of the buttocks or extend up to also at least partially covering a front lateral portion 305 A, B, for instance a lower portion of the hips, as shown in figure 10B, in any case the half-skirt element does not extend into the central front part 311 of the trousers, and in this sense said half-skirt element is suitable for forming only a half-skirt above the trousers element, suitable for substantially covering the buttocks only or the buttocks and a front lateral portion 305 A, B, for instance in correspondence with the hips.

It is worth emphasizing that the fact that the half-skirt 213 being firmly attached to the underneath trousers element 302 warranties that, whenever the garment is worn, this half- skirt element 313 is always perfectly and correctly positioned, both with respect to the underneath trousers element and with respect to that part of the body, i.e. the buttocks, that shall be covered and masked by such half- skirt. Therefore, the garment is easily and simply wearable and does not require, once it is worn, to position and/or adjust the elements that make up it.

The half-skirt element 313 consists of at least one layer of a second material, distinct from the knitted fabric that the trousers element 13 is made of, for instance a knitted fabric, more preferably an elastic knitted fabric. The fabric might for instance consist of a yarn comprising a natural fiber, for instance cotton, and a synthetic fiber, for instance fibers of the types known under the brand names: Licra or Enama.

It is finally worth pointing out that the embodiments illustrated so far have been provided for explanatory purposes and numerous variants are possible, all of them falling within the same invention concept. For instance, in the various types of trousers elements illustrated so far, it is possible to associate any of the various types of half-skirt elements illustrated so far. For instance, with the trousers element 2 according to figures 1-3 it would be possible to associate, in addition to the half-skirt element 13, of a clinging type, shown in figures 1-3, also a half-skirt element of a flared and/or pleated type, as shown in figures 9 and 10 or even the half- skirt element suitable for only covering the more rounded central part and the lower part of the buttocks, as shown in figures 6-8. The same holds true also for the remaining trousers elements illustrated so far and for the various half-skirt elements described so far.

It is also worth emphasizing that also the half-skirt elements suitable for forming a rear half-skirt illustrated so far have been provided for explanatory purposes only, therefore such half-skirt element might be shaped according to any of the known types of a skirt, usual for those skilled in this sector, for instance, the half-skirt element might be shaped so as to form a rear half-skirt not only of the clinging, flared, or pleated type, but also, for instance, of a flounce, tube, ruched, plisse, wrapover, or balloon skirt.

Similar considerations also apply to the configuration of the trousers element which might have any conventional shapes for those skilled in this sector, in particular the length of the part suitable for covering the legs might be of any type so as to realize trousers elements for instance of the short, long, below the knee, above the knee, half-thigh types, and so on. Likewise, the garment might be of any known type comprising a trousers element, provided it is suitable for being worn and being visible from the outside, i.e. not an underwear. Therefore, the garment also comprises salopettes and sleeved or sleeveless one- piece suits.

As already indicated above, a scope of this invention is also a piece of trousers with no half-skirt and with its rear part suitable for covering the buttocks shaped as illustrated in figure 8 A, in particular shaped in such a way as to present a waistband Kl that covers the upper part of the buttocks, structured by joining a plurality of elongated elements B 1-B4 sewn to each other by way of vertically-developing seams T1-T5 and a underneath waistband K2 joining to the band Kl by way of an arched transversal seam 179 (figure A) having a concavity facing the legs of the trousers and dimensioned and shaped so as surround the more rounded part F of the buttocks above.