Features - The Chic Geek

Fashion Cycle

Thursday, 30 April 2009 13:54

You Had Us At Velo!

There is only one way to travel this summer. Get on your bike, because cycling has become the most stylish way to go. The amazing haul of gold medals at the Olympic velodrome in Beijing last summer and the introduction of the ‘Velib’ cycle scheme to London has resulted in something of a cycling moment. From May 2010, people will be able to pick up and drop off hire bikes at 400 locations across nine London boroughs and several Royal Parks. An initial 6,000 hire bikes are expected to generate around 40,000 extra daily cycle trips in central London so you’ll want to look the part.

Designers from Alexander McQueen to Jil Sander showed hi-tech, body-conscious designs. Scottish cyclist Graeme Obree inspired the Topman Design spring/summer '09 collection with its figure-hugging tops and bold, primary Olympic colouring. Synthetic fabrics are becoming increasingly popular outside of the gym and we are seeing the return of the rucksack, Raf Simons has done some great ones for Eastpak.

The look should be effortless, you’re not actually going to be working up a sweat. Think bike as fashion accessory. Never do cycle shorts, stick to nylon sports shorts or roll/push up your trousers. This is a very body-conscious look, so we would recommend layering suit jackets or blousons over, this is exactly what Paul Smith showed on his autumn/winter 'm09 catwalk.

And finally, if you haven’t got great legs, pedal faster.

Topman Design Spring/Summer 09

Alexander McQueen S/S 09 - Contrast Funnel Top - £299, Fluoro Loss T-shirt -£99 www.oki-ni.com

Acne/Bianchi Bike

Swedish fashion brand Acne has created its very own racing bicycle with a helping hand from Italian masters Bianchi , which has been manufacturing the world's finest racing bikes since 1855.

www.acnestudios.com