Quick Study: Inspiring Health Through Bike Fashion

Inspired by movement, health, and vintage fashion, Portland, OR, based Caitlin McCall is the designer behind Quick Study. Her collection of dress designs is sincerely thought-through, well executed, and versatile for life on a bike.

“I’ve been making clothes for awhile,” explained McCall in an interview, “I have been inspired by vintage fashion, even as a kid.” While working in the apparel industry, and living in Germany for a couple of years, McCall was motivated to start a bicycling-influenced women’s clothing line.

At the heart of the Quick Study line is the 24 Hour Dress. Aptly named for its versatility and performance-focused construction. The pull-on pencil dress is made from a bamboo, cotton, and spandex blend and is lined with a recycled polyester wicking knit that acts as a slip for both odor resistance and comfort. The curved hemline provides more coverage for riders in the saddle and the cuffed sleeves help the dress stay in place under a coat in the winter. Available in creme or grey stripe.

To demonstrate the connection between fashion and everyday bicycling, the Quick Study “Dress to Ride” project involved interviews with women from ages 18 to 60. The women featured discussed their bikes, careers, opinions on riding, and offered advice for new riders. Beautiful photos accompanied the interviews with each woman proudly wearing dresses from Quick Study. Quick Study clothes are “about a lifestyle not what age you are,” said McCall. “It’s for women who want to get fit and be healthy.”

Looking to the future of Quick Study, McCall is eager to grow her collection of dresses for women bicyclists, while continuing to keep the products manufactured in the Portland area. Soon to be released are a skirt and matching top that will be available online this summer.

Quick Study is a welcome addition to the growing number of designers making women feel comfortable, proud, and confident in their everyday lives on a bike.

quickstudyclothing.com