Outfits for Biking - Cute Clothes for Bike Riding

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Ever traveled to a chic European city and had a revelation upon seeing all the gorgeous women biking around, with nary a centimeter of spandex in sight? It's true — you can bike and look effortlessly glamorous at the same time.

While Washington may not be Amsterdam, much of the city is bike-friendly, and there's a huge segment of the 9-to-5 crowd that uses two-wheel transport to get to work. How to do it with the same effortless je ne sais quoi as a Parisian babe on a beach cruiser? Picking the right outfit to go from pedals to power-lunch can help — and while we can't guarantee you instant Euro It Girl swagger, we can show you some outfits that'll definitely get your wheels spinning.

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Biking to work in a dress is totally doable. The secret to flash-free riding? Opt for a frock in a heavier fabric, such as thick cotton, linen, or jersey. Pair it with a bright blazer and sturdy wedges, and you're ready to hop off your wheels and head straight to your desk.

DV by Dolce Vita Janna Sandal, $89, available at Dolce Vita; Botkier Springtime Spritz Bag, $395, available at Modcloth; Dorothy Perkins White Palm Print Dress, $69, available at Dorothy Perkins; Topshop Ponte Roll Sleeve Blazer, $70, available at Topshop; Badgley Mischka Navajo Deco Cuff, $650, available at Charm & Chain; Pashley Princess Classic Bike, $848, available at Pashley and BicycleSPACE (1019 7th Street NW; 202-962-0123).

A lightweight, breezy blouse will keep you from overheating as you pump those pedals, and trim, cropped trousers are comfy but completely work-appropriate. A cross-body bag and ankle-strap flats are both cute and practical — essential qualities for biking and working.

Zara Small Messenger Bag, $89.90, available at Zara; Linus Dover 1 Bike, prices vary, available at BicycleSPACE (1019 7th Street NW; 202-962-0123) ; Sandy Hyun Deco Lucite Earrings, $52, available at Endless; Club Monaco Shawna Silk Top, $129.50, available at Club Monaco; Reiss Alicia Toe Cap Ballerina Pumps, $245, available at Reiss; Acne Sensational Pleat Front Trousers, $189, available at My Wardrobe.

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In a casual workplace, a pair of tailored Bermuda shorts can look right at home. Style them with a soft, feminine blouse and a statement necklace to add polish without creating bulk.

Modcloth Ready or Naut Flat, $49.99, available at Modcloth; Vince Washed-Silk Top, $275, available at Net-A-Porter; Mango Classic-Cut Bermuda, $34.99, available at Mango; Bauble Bar Marble Bead Trio, $26, available at Bauble Bar; Bobbin Brownie Bike, prices vary, available at Bobbin and The Daily Rider (1108 H Street NE; 202-396-0704); Mulberry Postman's Lock Satchel, $910, available at Mulberry.