...or, how I'm really not at the moment. In my (older) age I'm feeling the cold more, and the thought of riding my bike in winter is not totally appealing. The drop on temperature has revealed a startling lack of proper winter clothes in my wardrobe - I've got nothing but cotton. I'm wearing my flatmates woolly jumper today (thanks Dave) and I understand now why wool is great for winter.
I've also been piling on the layers I do own - appropriate for riding a bike - but definitely not good looking. I look like I've crawled out of my wardrobe backwards most days.
"Hmm...leggings are more comfortable to ride in than jeans. Ok, no tops long enough to wear with leggings. Don't want to look like one of those girls who wears leggings as pants...ah! I'll throw a jersey mini over them. Right, only singlets and t-shirts...ok, here's a clean cardigan. Hmm, still cold. Better thrown on the chunky scarf and bulky coat. Shoes? Hmm only have converse sneakers, no socks. Oh well. Might wear that beanie from Nepal, bit colourful and silly looking, but heck it's warm against the wind..."Yup. That's my daily dialogue. It's quite a hideous result. It's time to get serious about this and save my dignity. Inspired by my flatmates warm wool jumper, I have been pondering appropriate warm clothing. I have also been inspired by a random stumble across style icon Catherine Baba and her bicycling style. So this is what I'm thinking:
- Leggings - yes, we will stick with the leggings. One, they are cheap and easy to come by. Two, they are warmer than tights. Now, provided you have the appropriate top-half garment, you really can't go wrong with leggings.
- Tunic tops - the longer line is flattering with leggings. It's just so bloody difficult finding ones that don't have handkerchief hems and racer backs. For the love of god, someone find me a regular, fitted (as in tailored) tee style.
- Dresses - failing that, you can always go the dress option. Lots of pretty vintage numbers out there. Perhaps better with tights than leggings, I'd say. In which case, thicker tights are the way to go.
- Flat shoes - Ok, Baba wears heels, but I'm too clumsy for that sort of caper. Simple ballet flats (or sneakers, outfit depending) or warm and toasty boots.
- Wool - Fine, light wool (i.e. cashmere, angora/mohair) keeps you warm without the bulkiness of your usual woolen garments. Pricey, but a sound investment. It's also breathable and great for bike riding.
- Tailored coat - Made for womanly curves rather than potato sacks. Wool for warmth. Back split so it's easy to hop on your bike.
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