What could be more timeless, more classic and more sophisticated than spending the day riding around the town on beautiful, 1940s-inspired Electra Ticino bikes? Conjuring images of simpler, slower times, we paired elegant outfits with stunning vintage-looking velocipedes that are also enchanting to ride.
One of the best things about adopting biking as a lifestyle is that you don’t have to buy an entirely new wardrobe to accommodate it. And while there are pieces designed to make your cycle eminently more enjoyable, a quick glance through your existing wardrobe will reveal many items that will work perfectly for tomorrow’s ride.
No part of your body gets colder, faster than your hands, and nothing will protect them better from the cold than leather gloves. Besides a high-performance raincoat, urban cyclists say a great pair of gloves is the best purchase they can make. Wool jackets are also a great pick for on and off the bicycle. Although not ideal for wet conditions, wool is a breathable natural fiber. Make sure your outerwear is roomy enough to fit a few layers, and maybe a thick wool sweater. You’ll need space to move your elbows and to avoid tearing the inner lining of your jacket.
The timeless combination of shirt and vest adds a layer of warmth and cuts a dashing figure of casual or formal elegance. The classic lines belie the technical aspects of his bicycle-friendly Outlier shirt and pants, made with some of the best technical fabrics in the world. Len Kuzma’s dapper look is set off by the distinctive Atlantic knot on his tie and a vintage Fedora up top for post-ride polish.
Tights are a staple of the urban cyclist, and something found in almost every gal’s closet. Whether the thin nylon-type, or long underwear in colder climates, these leg-flattering accessories provide sufficient warmth to keep you riding in skirts and dresses all year long. If you find that you need a bit more protection from frosty gusts, try pairing tights or leggings with boots.
Most women will say that it is more comfortable to bike in heels than it is to walk in them. It’s true! Heels work great on a bike; just make sure you have pedals without rough edges that might cause damage to your shoes. Pick heels that have grippy soles – rubber and suede are your best bet. Be wary of some synthetics, as they might slip on your pedals and end up damaging your heels.
On Natalia Chrusny: Electra Ticino woman’s multi-speed bike, vintage dress, coat, tights from stylist’s collection, vintage leather gloves from Burcu’s Angels.
On Len Kuzma: Electra Ticino men’s single-speed bike, Blazed Cotton Pivot Sleeve Shirt by Outlier, The Climbers pants by Outlier, vintage vest from Burcu’s Angels, models own tie, fedora from Burcu’s Angels.
A huge thank-you to Justis Morginn and Julie Bischoff of Denman Bike Shop, Models Natalia Chrusny and Len Kuzma.
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