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Community Corner

An Old Fashioned Bike Ride

The Big Apple Tweed Ride brings whimsy and 19th century charm to Brooklyn's bikers.

At least for one day, shirtwaists and knickers were back in style.

Over 100 riders congregated at the monument at Grand Army Plaza on Sunday for the second annual Big Apple Tweed Ride. The ride, which has also taken place in Philadelphia, Boston, and Chicago, features participants decked out in vintage bikes and old English cycling attire in an attempt to recreate the cycling culture of the 19th century.

"We want everyone to come out whether they're a fashionista, like riding a bike, or just enjoy taking pictures of it all," said Maude Delice, publicist for the Big Apple Tweed Ride, who is also known under her tweed pseudonym as Lady Gray.

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The event kicked off at 11:00 am with registration and complementary bike repair service from . Once the ride began, Lead and Lag stewards led riders to their first stop at the Brooklyn Circus, a men's and women's boutique where participants could purchase specially discounted tweed items or take part in photo sessions.

Riders then traveled through Park Slope to reach their final stop at Flatbush Farm Restaurant and Bar, where traditional English brunch-time tea was offered while local band Scandinavian Half Breeds played a set of their songs.

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Of course, the outfits were the main attraction of the day. Brooches, faux fur and cardigans were all on display as riders competed for awards such as "Most Distinguished Lad," "Most Ravishing Lass," and "Most Magnificent Steed."

"I was really impressed by everyone's outfits," said Erica Williams, one of the riders at the event. "You could tell that people took a lot of time and effort to make sure they were recreating the style of the time period in the right way."

While many participants spent big bucks on their outfit, others went for a more economical approach in trying to replicate the classic style.

"I bought a pair of baggy tweed trousers at the Salvation Army for 10 bucks," said Mike Moonan, a rider at the event. "Once I had those, I spent about 15 bucks at the dry cleaners having them cut the pants and adding some velcro and buttons."

Delice said she was pleased with the overall turnout and anticipates having more Tweed Ride events in the future.

"I think this is just the beginning," said Delice. "We're like a moving time machine that is paying homage to a timeless period and having fun doing it."

All proceeds from the event benefitted Virginia's House of Hope, which helps New Yorkers in need gain access to food, clothing and other basic necessities.

For more information about the Big Apple Tweed Ride, visit their website.

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