Sometimes, in order to change perspective, you must present an example that is as far away as possible from the status quo. As the two extremes start to become equally valid, everything in between them gets brought along for the ride.
Cycle Chic is important because it attempts to counteract two widely-held perceptions of cycling:
1) That cycling is a "sport".
2) That cycling is transportation only for people who can't afford cars or can't drive.
It shows cycling in the context of transportation by people who, by the effect of their clothing at the time of the photo, appear to be (a) not participating in "sport" at all, and (b) apparently making a choice to ride, and not doing so out of monetary, legal, or activism-related reasons. People who are not broke, "hippies", or stripped of their licenses.
I say "appear to be" and "apparently", because you of course can't actually tell these details from a photo. In many cases it's probably true; in some, it's not. It's not the actual facts that matter but the impression that forms in the viewer's mind.
This is the first of a series of posts in which I examine my opinions on this "cycle chic" movement (also known as bicycle 'style', 'vogue', 'fashion' and anything else related to non-sport cycling, especially by women). I need to know that my opinions are logically formed, consistent, and hold up well against my values, and that I can advocate for them based on a solid foundation.
Coming soon...
- How cycle chic made me more stylish all around, not just when riding
- Cycle chic and people who love high-end motor vehicles
- The trio: sport, recreation, and transportation
"[...] in order to change perspective, you must present an example that is as far away as possible from the status quo."
ReplyDeleteAgreed.
"It's not the actual facts that matter but the impression that forms in the viewer's mind."
Well put.
These points are exactly two of many reasons Vancouver Cycle Chic exists. You have a way with words and I totally identify.
Thanks for a great blog!