Do you remember what is was like to ride your bike for the first time? Even with training wheels on, you felt free, alive, and suddenly completely in control of your own world. The idea of riding off into the sunset in search of greater adventures was suddenly as appealing as seeing if you could stand up with your feet on the pedals. Back then, we were kids who rode a bike for the sheer enjoyment of pretending it was a pony, or a car. What you wore mattered only if you were cruising next to a cute boy...or girl.
But what happens when you grow up? The training wheels come off and instead of a valiant steed braving a dark forest, the steed becomes your car...and only mode of transportation. What you put on suddenly counts but in a different way. Functionality. Now, you have to plan ahead and figure out what to wear because your adventures as a commuter are real and happening beyond the comfort of your driveway.
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| Who says you can't ride in a professional outfit?! (this gal has a fantastic bike blog!) |
A few months ago, I asked friend and bike commuter Kelsey (not the girl pictured above) to give me her opinion on what contemporary bicyclists need their clothing to do and if those needs were being met from the fashion industry. The interview* came right around the same time 7X7 magazine published on article about Levi's
announcing the release of a new line of clothing aimed at assisting the very specific market of urban
commuters. The one draw back: it's for men only. Though they completely
isolated the ladies, Levi's slight improvements to their pieces were
something you can easily incorporate into your wardrobe. Go for tops/tunics that run long in the back to make sure you're doing your part to "just say no to crack", and comfy pants that won't pinch as you ride slightly bent forward.
*Kelsey wrote back a gloriously detailed and funny account of what women want. To read her responses, scroll to the jump.
Essentially, Kelsey revealed that ladies riding bikes need something "that is easy to wear, to clean, to pack, and keeps somewhat dry". The biggest hassle wasn't getting dirty (as I had assumed) but sweating. Since you can't really stop yourself from sweating, though I'm sure we've all tried, you can seek out items in fabrics that breath. And if those are few and far between, become a layering a queen. As a
stylist, I'd like to tackle this from a style perspective. Active bike rider clothing isn't something I find to have the best aesthetics. So, I put together an outfit based on my method when it comes to layering: start with the bottoms and go from there.
My favorite things about these jeans is they have a 9" rise! (Most denim in general come as low-rise, typically have a 7"- 7 1/2" rise). These are great for flats OR tucking into boots.
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| Blue Essence, $98 |
This top is great because it's simple without being boring but it's also part linen so you get excellent wicking qualities from the fabric. Not to mention, it's tunic length which keeps the potential crack exposure down to a minimum. Remember that unless you're like me and constantly freezing in your
office, any jacket you're wearing will eventually come off so
make sure the top you have on underneath can stand on it's own and
create an outfit.
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| Caslon, $46 |
This cape cardigan is not only right on trend this winter season but also super easy to style by layering over just about any top.
Stylist tip: try using long sleeve shirts with a print or interesting detail because you'll still see it peaking out from the cape sleeve.
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| Caslon, $39.90 |
Quite possibly my favorite shoe brand,
Born revamped their "Liddy" flat to have a more tapered and pointed toe, a silhouette flattering on every body type. You can't find flats more comfortable, and durable, than these. They come with extra cushioning on the inside and great arch support, perfect for tromping around the city when you're done biking.
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| Born, $44.90 |
And when the whether gets colder and rainier, opt for some boots. They'll keep you warm and dry all the live long day. I just bought these cuties and LOVE them. They have a slight wedge for some added height and a rubber sole, which increases the life of the shoe in general.
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| BP, $119.95 |
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To take this outfit from day to night, pack a
clutch and a
statement necklace and you're golden, no change of clothes required.
Hopefully my tips have helped illustrate that you don't necessarily need to buy cycling specific clothing. You can easily look great on a bike with an outfit styled around the idea of ease, comfort, and length. Expect to get dirty and sweaty, that's just a natural occurrence when you're a bike commuter, but at least this way you know you have some options.
