Eleanor's NYC has just changed cycling for me forever. I think a lot of you know my struggle with wardrobe and the constant woes of dismissing my beautiful dresses for shorts, tights or pants when biking through the city. The Squid is lucky that he can throw on some chamois under nice shorts and a button down and still be presentable enough to go to a "smart casual" (thanks Open Table) restaurant and look dashing. I however am stuck trying on 5-8 outfits and figuring out what items to wear, what I can bike in and what I will need to bring in order to attempt to be presentable at the dinner table. Well, I have listed a few of my issues with cycling around the city and how Eleanor's has just improved my life.
You have all seen it. A cute girl with a dress on biking down the street. Even in movies you see a light breeze blowing through her hair, but not blowing her dress. Let me enlighten you on the reality of this - there are a small selection of dresses that can be worn on a bike, in fact just one: Flowy full skirted dress that hits from your knee to mid calf. Of course the list is longer of dresses that can't be worn. Skirts shorter than mid thigh, form fitting frocks, bias cut or anything structured with no elastic give (unless you are in it to bare all.) So even when wearing the most appropriate of the choices, it happens! Dress blows up and you are exposed! Solution? Eleanor's bicycle skirt garter This item is small, easy to throw in your bag and conveniently prevents an afternoon peep show. Just brilliant!
Scenario Two: Summer showers bring wet tushes?
I am sure many people in the green world of today don't keep handy plastic bags anymore. Also, in the District you are charged $.05 for each bag that you use when grocery shopping, picking up take out or going to the liquor store. It can really add up. So it is rare when it rains to be able to find a plastic bag handy to throw over your bike seat. Some may say "Lacy, is that really necessary, just wipe off your seat!" But I have a B17 Standard Brooks leather saddle that cannot withstand the rain. What to do...EUREKA! Bicycle Polka Dot Rain Cap! Its like a shower cap for your saddle! I love this so much and think it is a fun statement to make on a gray day!
Scenario Three: Clutch your inner style, not unattractive active bag!
It is hard to find items that retain qualities of fashion AND function, but Eleanor's got it right! I have tried many bags before and ended up with a cross body, active bag with waist clip (think fanny pack, but on your lower back.) I have embraced the idea because I have searched everywhere for some that can transition from commuting to going out with the girls OR to a last minute business meeting. Enter the Handlebar Convertible Purse! This gives the perfect balance to fashion and function! It affixes to your handlebars (so no need to worry about wrinkling your clothes or "fanny packing it" around town) and also comes with a detachable strap so it can be a clutch OR cross body bag. AND it is water, stain and fade resistant!
Bravo Eleanor's for bringing fashion back into my daily routine. I know that the Squid is going to be proud.
Now everyone, get out there and ride!
