LITTLE GREEN DRESS

Your Guide to Biking to Work in Style - Without Sacrificing Sustainability

by Hannah Timm

May 8, 2025

Biking to work is more than a transportation choice - it’s a lifestyle that prioritizes health, community, and the planet. But if you’ve ever wondered how to balance that effort with personal style (and the reality of sweat, weather, and practical needs), I’ve got you covered.

As a personal stylist with a love for sustainability, I work with clients to help them feel confident in what they wear while staying aligned with their values. The good news? With just a few smart swaps and thoughtful outfit planning, you can absolutely bike to work in style and support a more sustainable fashion system.

Start With Function, Then Add Personality

Your biking outfit should work with you - not against you. Look for breathable, stretch-friendly pieces like cotton-blend trousers, linen pants, or midi skirts that won’t ride up or restrict movement. Opt for tops in natural fabrics (like organic cotton, linen, or bamboo) that offer ventilation and resist odor.

Stylist pro tip: Blazers or polished layers can be kept in your bag or at the office to throw on once you arrive - they’ll instantly elevate your look without the risk of creasing or overheating.

Choose Sustainable Staples

There’s no need to overhaul your closet. Instead, focus on curating pieces that do double duty: items you can wear to work, to bike, and on the weekend. Some of my favorite go-to brands for sustainable and stylish pieces include:

• Girlfriend Collective (for bike-friendly basics)
  
  
• ABLE or Sezane (for elevated essentials)
  
  
• ThredUp, Poshmark or local thrift shops (for pre-loved finds that feel new to you)

If shopping isn’t in the cards right now, try reworking what you already own. The most sustainable wardrobe is the one you already have.

Plan Your Outfit Around Your Shoes

Your shoes can make or break a bike commute. Your shoes can also anchor your outfit. Look for stylish sneakers, loafers, or hybrid sandals with grip and support. Leather or faux leather shoes can easily transition from bike to boardroom. You can also stash a dressier pair at the office if needed.

Pack Smart, Layer Wisely

A lightweight backpack or crossbody bag with a secure closure is perfect for essentials - think water, deodorant, and a grooming kit. And if the weather is unpredictable, a packable rain shell or windbreaker is a smart (and stylish) layer to have on hand.

Whether you’re biking once a week or daily, your commute can be a stylish and sustainable extension of your values. And if you're feeling stuck, just remember - style isn't about perfection. It's about showing up in a way that feels like you, wherever the day (or bike path) takes you.