Here is a picture of myself on my very first day at University two years ago, looking rather like a chipmunk crossed with a scarecrow (my typical look of late, sadly) but I have not simply put a photograph of my 'fabulous' face for you all to 'admire' - oh no. The fact is I am on my bicycle and, oh yes, I do love to ride my bicycle at all times - and so should you!
A lot has been written lately about bicycles and a crop of blogs - perhaps most notably the one based in Copenhagen - have emerged on the very topic. Bicycles seem to add something to every photograph - an outfit seems to become significantly more stylish and au courant if a bike is involved. And on a totally non-fashion level, I truly believe that there are not many feelings better than going on a lovely bike ride through the countryside, wearing some lovely shorts and feeling the wind in your hair. That is, of course, only in theory, as the truth is that real bicycling is often far less glamorous and sports clothing is never at the top of my style agenda. Although my very first appearance on (television) camera took place on a bicycle and I'm sure my 7-year old self looked extremely glamorous (!), I do envy my University housemate Clair who cycles the three or so miles onto campus every day (whilst I drive in, like a fatty) and always arrives without a single hair out of place. I didn't realise it was possible to have bicycle envy until this year, but apparently it is!
But from fashion shoots, to the very vintage English countryside image of a spinster cycling to evensong with a bike basket, to Audrey Hepburn (plus small dog) on a film set, to the Chanel bike which I would give, quite literally, anything for, to Francoise Hardly in striped shorts on hers and even to Angela Lansbury in the opening credits of Murder, She Wrote (the ultimate television programme), you will always look better on a bicycle (as long as you're not actually cycling)!
