With summer 2014 in full -swing

transport by bicycle

is in evidence everywhere-

on country lanes and city streets,

great for getting from here to there.

…

For some cycling is a seasonal fair-weather past time.

For many cycling has become the go-to means of daily transport:

environmentally friendly, cost efficient (no petrol costs),

easy to navigate through road traffic and enjoyable.

…

Yet cycle-fashion presents its own unique sartorial challenges:

how to look effortlessly chic, while pedaling around town:

to dress for ultimate comfort and ultimate style.

What to wear for a bike ride has been a query posed

since the invention of this two wheel transport wonder.

…

The construction of the bicycle, as we now it today,

was perfected by the late 1890s-

thanks to improvement in tire design and metallurgy.

…

For men, the bicycle was quickly embraced as a cost

effective means of transport for work and leisure;

 cycling- dress was relatively straightforward.

Long trousers were worn,

tucked to prevent entanglement in the wheel spokes, as well as

 the problem solving and smart – look,  knee length knickerbockers.

…

(image fron anywhen.com):

the composer, Edward Elger

cycle-fashion fabulous in long trousers, easily done

…

(image from commons wikimedia):

knickerbockers:  practical cycle-fashion

…

Given the restrictive nature of women’s clothing during the 19th century,

dressing for cycling presented its challenges for the ladies.

Yet, the pioneering forces of the feminist movement proclaimed

the bicycle as a symbol of emancipation:

a doing-away with the confining corset and bothersome bustle skirt –

for clothing of dress-ease and dress-practicality.

…

(image from heritage-explorer.co.uk):

sensible skirts for cycling

…

(image from change your life ride a bike):

loose skirts for the ladies

knickerbocker trousers for the gents

…

In the opinion of Susan B. Anthony, noted American suffragette:

“the bicycle has done more for the emancipation of women

than anything else in the world.”  (c. 1896)

…

Today, cycle-fashion is as creative and varied as one’s imagination allows.

A few inspiring looks:

…

(image from free.fr):

pretty ballerina

…

(images from pinterest):

nautical

…

it’s in the details: 

grey patterned statement headgear with red straps

coordinated red plaid skirt and mocha-hue trench

…

eclectic style setting:  equestrian hat, metallic mini, leather high tops

…

a bit boho

…

(image from enzo club):

fashionably accessorised ride: canvas / leather bike bag

…

(image from dailymail.co.uk):

on the move:  London City Boys

…

(image from a fashionable sport):

a YAKKAY helmet (Danish design)

safety and style

…

(image from le 21eme.com):

a touch of the Orient

…

stilettos?  mais oui bien sur!

…

(image from caramel a la mode):

denim – wear:  shirt and backpack

…

 

(from free.fr)

a bicycle built for three:  knickerbockers and argyle socks

…

Sartorial Inspiration

Cycle Fashion from the Tweed Run

…

(images from the dailymail.co.uk)

the ladies in fine fashion form

Tweed Run, London 2014

…

all in the family

Tweed Run, London 2014

…

(image from velo city girl):

print / pattern mix

Tweed Run London, 2014

…

(image from japan trends):

a flowing cape caught in the breeze

Tweed Run Tokyo, 2013

…

(image from the londonist):

arts blending:  music and fashion

Tweed Run, London 2013

…