Students from the Fashion Institute of Technology and the London College of Fashion have been taking a serious liking to bicycle fashions.
Claire Smith (LCF) designed the bike cape poncho that has multiple features other than its sleek look. The cape is made from recycled and water-resistant polyester on one side, and wool on the other. It also has mini pieces of Scotchbright reflector tape for safe visibility.
Jackie Velasquez was award $5,000 for her innovative bike fashions, and her designs will be showcased as DKNY-prototypes this summer. Her ideas were awarded as a part of a Louis Vuitton sponsored contest to create bicycle couture in the form of a poncho, travel bag, and jacket.
Bicycle chic is riding its way into mainstream fashion at high speeds, pedaled by a younger generation of designers.
Rider Chic Fashion
London Fashion Students Re-Think Classic Bicycle Apparel
Trend Themes
1. Bicycle Chic Fashion - The growing popularity of bicycle fashion among young designers presents opportunities for innovative and sustainable materials, such as recycled polyester and water-resistant fabrics.
2. Functional Bike Apparel - Designers are re-thinking traditional bicycle apparel, incorporating features like reflector tape for safety and versatile fabrics like wool to create multi-purpose garments.
3. Bicycle Couture Collaboration - Fashion competitions and collaborations between established brands like Louis Vuitton and emerging designers provide a platform for showcasing innovative bike fashion concepts.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Design - Fashion designers can explore the intersection of style and functionality in bicycle apparel, using sustainable materials and incorporating safety features.
2. Textile Manufacturing - Textile manufacturers can respond to the demand for innovative fabrics that are both durable and climate-resistant to meet the needs of bicycle fashion designers.
3. Outdoor Sports Equipment - Companies specializing in outdoor sports equipment can collaborate with fashion designers to create stylish and functional bicycle accessories, like travel bags and jackets.