As bicycle culture expands, the typical Lycra uniform is being updated for a more fashion-forward cyclist.
ELEGANT AND EFFICIENT
The Moment Blog of the New York Times had a feature dedicated to bicycles and art that featured RVCA. The company, which emphasizes artistic expression, combined efforts with Cinelli, a well-known Italian bicycle company, to create a limited edition fashion line.
The line, named "Pressure," "matches RVCA's deep roots within the arts and Cinelli's apparent appreciation for world class design," according to the RVCA Web site.
Featured designs include cotton T-shirts with vintage graphics that accompany a custom bike created by artist Barry McGee. The frame is cream and chrome with red graphics.
The New York Times featured Rapha, another company dedicated to functional designs with a vintage edge. Simon Mottram, the founder of the brand, who has consulted for Burberry, "seeks quite self-consciously to recall cycling's romantic era," the Times reported. The line features men's suits that are practical enough to cycle in and tailored to be work appropriate.
PURE FASHION
A New York Observer reported on an upsurge of young and beautiful women in New York choosing to travel by bike.
"Eco-conscious and ethereal, they wear flowing frocks and gigantic sunglasses but never helmets," according to the Observer.
"Biking these days is a statement ... Don't be afraid to wear a skirt and heels," designer Roanne Adams told the Times.
Even the bike is a fashion statement to these women. Their bikes often have fenders, bells, and baskets for dogs or purses, the Times reported.
Popular as well are a variety of colors, printed seats and matching helmets. The vintage bike is making a comeback because of its sleek style, but can often be just as pricey as a new bike. The best deals can be found on Web sites like Craigslist and eBay.
DRESSED TO SWEAT
The main goal for the serious cyclist is exercise and the clothes reflect as much. Lycra and nylon are the traditional fabric choices because of their breathability and durability.
Front-zip jackets with snaps and pockets make it easy to store items or remove clothes quickly while traditional bike shorts won't get caught in the chain.
The Bicycle Pro-Shop in Georgetown carries a wide variety of bicycle products. Brands such as Cannondale and De Rosa feature parts for bicycles as well as apparel including underwear and racing clothes for men and women.
These clothes can be rather expensive, with a pair of shorts costing about $45. The bikes are equally pricey.
"The Pinarello Prince, whose frame plus components cost about $13,000," according to the Times, is just one example.
"It feels like the bike has an engine on it," said Kim Jenkins, the bike's owner.
As spring shifts into gear consider enhancing your wardrobe to match the style of your bicycle.
You can reach these columnists at thescene@theeagleonline.com.
