X-Treme X-Training: Fall Cycling Commuter Fashions

Cooler temps add up to even cooler style! Photo: CityZen by Lazer Helmets, Lucky Magazine Picks - Leather Biker Jacket & White Cotton Tank Top by H & M

I really enjoy the autumn weather as we have beautiful colors changing here on the east coast. If you are even thinking about using your bicycle more for fun, transportation and / or exercise, fall is the perfect time to do it. I've put together a few outfits that look and work great on your bicycle as well as when you arrive at your destination. No one need know you arrived on two wheels unless you want to tell them!

Pedal Panties Bicycle Lingerie

GETTING DRESSED FOR YOUR RIDE

I've often said, "Get dressed once in the morning and be ready for anything." If you think you need to dress in specific exercise clothing just to work out think again. The pieces I'm showing here all offer comfort, are breathable and have a bit of stretch. These are key selections and staples of any fashionable woman's wardrobe.

Starting with underwear, consider these very well constructed Pedal Panties Bicycle Lingerie. Pedal Panties have just enough padding for a short bicycle commute without feeling bulky. They also are completely invisible under even the most clingy cycling capris. Pedal Panties work with skirts, tights, jeans, etc. and are comfortable enough to wear all day at work. They rinse out easily and dry quickly but get at least a couple of pairs. Genius!

STRETCHING YOUR WARDROBE

Go There Blazer by ExOfficio & Southside Capri by Terry

Keeping in mind that your will be traveling by bicycle and perhaps doing a bit of walking, fabric choice is key.

Go There Blazer by ExOfficio
This essential blazer is made of drirelease® french terry and has large snaps at the front and sleeves. It has built in stretch and a zippered security pouch to stash a bit of cash or a letter for the post office. This is where form meet function as the Go There Blazer is also made of odor resistant fabric that wicks moisture, dries quickly and stays fresh. We paired this cool blazer with a chic Paris Striped Scarf by Carve Designs of California.

Go There Blazer by ExOfficio

Southside Capri by Terry
I added a red brad studded belt from H & M to these sweet gray checked capri cycling bottoms. Features: Unattached mesh liner with Italian comfort chamois; side hand pockets; snap/zipper front closure; belt loops; gusset crotch; houndstooth print. 18" inseam.
These pants have just enough stretch that they don't fight you even when riding a diamond frame bicycle with drop handlebars. Even better is that they look as fantastic off the bike as on.

TIGHTEN IT UP

Roughian Skirt by ExOfficio

Speaking of stretching your wardrobe, opaque tights are the perfect fashion staple that will allow you to wear your favorite skirt or dress a bit longer into the season.

Try not to get sheer black pantyhose. Pick good quality, thick tights that don't allow any skin to show through. Add a pair of black leather riding boots for extra warmth, (a low to moderate heel works best on a bicycle). You can also add a pair of low pumps or flats in the same color as your opaque hose to give your legs extra length.

Roughian Skirt by ExOfficio
Totally up to the challenge of cycling, walking and commuting. The cotton blend canvas, french fly closure and high strength stitching of this Roughian Skirt means that it is made for action and comfort without sacrificing looks. I especially like the secret rear zippered pocket and that this skirt is: Treated with Durable Water Repellent (DWR) for water and stain resistance. Made with durable canvas that has high tear strength. UPF Sun Guard 50+. Really the last thing you need while cycling is for your skirt to rip for all the world to see. The Roughian has double needle reinforced contrast stitching and just enough stretch to make pedaling and or walking a breeze. This is another hot item that works perfectly on or off the bicycle.

Cadence Wool Dress by Terry

Cadence 3/4 Sleeve Dress by Terry

The Cadence is my favorite fall dress period! However, on the bicycle, the real beauty is in the details. So well thought out down to the invisible zippered rear pocket. It is made of a dri release wool fabric blend that allows moisture to wick away, keeping you cooler and drier. 3/4 sleeves, two hand warmer pockets and ruched sides that can be hiked up, make this dress super adjustable.

You could wear a pair of cycling tights under it or throw a vest over the Cadence for extra warmth like the Countdown by Gore Bike Wear. Perhaps a blazer or leather jacket? Add a bright helmet and red scarf for a pop of color if you are going to wear that much black on your bicycle.


Gore Bike Wear Countdown Lady Vest

All of these pieces allow you to mix and match so you can pull together multiple looks. While you'll get the most play choosing neutrals, don't be afraid to accessorize with color.

So why not get the most bang out of your buck? When you choose fashionable pieces like these, you are lowering your "price per wear" ratio because you will get MUCH more use out of them. Leave those "yoga pants" on the rack!

Get your exercise while en route. We often only think of bicycle commuting to work but you can also run errands to:

The Bank
The Post Office
The Library
The Farmer's Market
Anywhere you want!