Speed in style
THE spirit of modern urban cycling is captured in H&M for Brick Lane Bikes capsule men’s collection.
Designed by H&M and tested by Brick Lane Bikes, each piece has all the technical details needed for better cycling. From water repellent rider jackets and articulated blazers to vintage-inspired bike jerseys and caps, the 11-piece collection combines fashion with functionality.
For the uninitiated, Brick Lane Bikes is one the the world’s leading custom-bike specialists. Founded in 2006, Brick Lane Bikes was Britain’s first fixed-gear bike store, specialising in custom-made bikes built in its on-site workshop. Brick Lane Bikes is now at the heart of East London’s cycling scene, making it the perfect team to test and approve this collection.
“H&M for Brick Lane Bikes brings together the fashion, function and heritage of cycling ... It’s great that they’ve tested every single piece around the streets of London, so we know the collection really works,” says Petter Klusell, designer at H&M, in a press release.
“This collection captures the energy and excitement of Brick Lane Bikes, along with our respect for the traditions of cycling. I love how the technical details become part of the look of each piece, where the colours bring cycling’s heritage to life. I can’t wait to see guys wearing these clothes as they ride the streets of the world,” enthuses Feya Buchwald, founder of Brick Lane Bikes.
To make the perfect cycling garment, every detail needs to be considered. That’s why the rider jacket is made from water repel- lent and breathable material, with ventilation holes under the sleeves and taped seams. It’s cut longer at the back, with a back pocket and straps inside the jacket so it can be worn as a backpack.
Layering is key to a cyclist’s wardrobe. Shirts come quilted for colder days and in plaid checks with reinforced patches on the lower sleeves. The crewneck top has a zip and ventilation holes, as well as sleeves cut for extra mobility, while the rider T-shirt has a functional pocket on the back. For a true vintage cycling look, there are colour stripe Henleys in either cotton or Merino wool, both cut longer at the back.
The collection is completed with rider’s trousers similar to a functional chino. Legs are cut for slightly bended knees, and reflect-reflected tape seams on the inside leg. There’s also a pair of rider’s shorts for when the weather turns warm. Materials used include organic cotton, recycled polyester and recycled wool, making the collection as suistainable as it is functional.
The collection is launched in Malaysia today and sold exclusively at H&M in Lot 10, Kuala Lumpur. –WilliamK.C.Kee