Bike fashion 2024: Three style sins, three style tips from fashion expert Steffi Marth

What is style in bike clothing? We asked Chat GPT. This is the answer:

The definition of "style" in clothing refers to the characteristic way in which clothing is designed, combined and worn. It encompasses both aesthetic and functional aspects and often expresses the personality, preferences and cultural influences of the wearer. Here are the main components of this definition:

1. Design and aesthetics: Cut and silhouetteThe specific cut and shape of the garment that determines the way it fits and looks on the body.
   Colours and patternsThe selection and combination of colours and patterns that create a certain visual impression.
   Details and embellishmentsElements such as buttons, seams, appliqués, embroidery or prints that decorate and personalise the clothing.
   
2. Combination and composition: Outfit compilationHow to combine different items of clothing and accessories to create a complete outfit.
   LayeringThe technique of layering clothing to achieve a particular look.
   
3. Individual expressiveness: Personal tasteIndividual choice of clothing that corresponds to your own preferences and sense of style.
   Self-expressionThe use of clothing as a means of expressing one's own personality, identity and mood.
   
4. Cultural and social influences: Fashion trendsThe current and contemporary trends in the fashion world that are influenced by designers, celebrities and the general public.
   Cultural influencesTraditions, ethnic backgrounds and social norms that characterise the style of dress.
   
5. Functionality and comfort: Practical aspectsFunctionality of the clothing, such as weather resistance, freedom of movement and comfort.
   Occasion-relatednessThe style of clothing in relation to the occasion, be it formal, casual, sporty or festive.

To summarise, "style" in clothing is an interplay of design, aesthetics, personal expression, cultural influences and functional aspects. It defines how clothing is designed and worn to fulfil both visual and practical needs while emphasising the wearer's individual identity.

Three style sins by Steffi Marth

Glasses without tinting

"I know glasses with clear lenses may have many advantages, but it's a real style sin. I call it lab glasses style. The good thing is that there is a solution: photochromic glasses that darken in sunlight."

>> Test: 14 photochromic lenses in comparison

Euro gap

"Pants that are too short have never been an advantage. Not then, not now. Nevertheless, it is still widespread. The gap between the knee pads and the lower edge of the shorts is called the Euro gap. If you can see skin here, the trousers are too short."

Socks that are too short

"There really is such a thing as the perfect sock length. The top edge of the sock should be no lower than the base of the calf muscle and reach no further than the largest circumference of the calf muscle. In any case, too short is out, and has been for quite a while - but you still see it a lot."

Three style tips by Steffi Marth

Muted colours

"Colour blocking is out! The days when bikers flitted across the trail like parrots are numbered. Muted colours are the order of the day. Black, white or subtle colours. Ideally, both on top and underneath."

White socks & shoes

"I don't know who got the ball rolling, but white socks are THE style statement par excellence. That applies on the road as well as on the trail. If you want to go one better in terms of style, wear white MTB shoes."

The right backpack size

"Hipbags are great, but they will never replace a rucksack. Because you can fit a lot more in there. Depending on the area of use, you should pay attention to the right rucksack size. A fat multi-day rucksack doesn't look good on a short lunch ride. But it shouldn't be too small either."