Last week Pedal Chic hosted the Avant Garde Fashion Show bringing their “Runways are the new roadways” philosophy to life. With pulsating beats coming from the disk jockey, models walked an outdoor runway under the evening stars. Over two-hundred people were in attendance sipping wine or beer and noshing on snacks from the generous sponsors – The Community Tap, Chicora Alley, Pomegranate on Main, and Chipotle.
The fashion show not only focused on cycling and après wear, but also yoga and tennis apparel. The models sashayed down the catwalk in clothing by Giordana, Terry, Sheila Moon, Castelli and many more. The Bianchi bikes were a focal point of the show with models walking these beautiful machines down the catwalk. Racing bikes weren’t the only rigs on display – Civia, Puma and Pashley’s urban bike line were coordinated with the urban apparel that some of the models wore.
One piece of equipment that is mandatory for cycling but at times has been ignored from an aesthetic standpoint is the helmet. Obviously protection needs to be the first requirement, but looking at some designs can make you wonder if aesthetics was even a consideration. The Lazer line of helmets were showcased and looked sharp. As expected this Belgian helmet company produces a compete line from the racer to the urban explorer. Also in the helmet mix were a few juvenile models from Nutcase and Yakkay. For this younger demographic image is everything and both these companies hit the mark with playful designs and colorways.
Pedal Chic owner and one of the masterminds behind the fashion show is Robin Bylenga. Focused and full of energy this entrepreneur is carving a niche for herself in the male dominated cycling industry. While Pedal Chic has only been open for less than a year she already caught the attention of major cycling distributor Quality Bike Parts. QBP flew her to their recent Frostbike show where she sat on a panel discussing women in cycling. The Pedal Chic shop also made the pages of G Magazine calling it the destination for active women shopping for contemporary stylish, and high-performance cycling, fitness, and lifestyle apparel.
“Blending fashion with cycling and athletics has been a long time in coming,” said Bylenga. “We are so excited to bring this concept to Greenville and have been overwhelmed by the response.”
In addition to retail, Pedal Chic has a mechanic on duty to keep that bike running like new. You will also find friendly service and a commitment to get more locals riding bikes on Greenville great roads and trailways – and looking great while you are out there!