Lydia Bolton launches ‘Re-Cycle Collection’ in collaboration with Lime

London-based slow fashion designer Lydia Bolton has today launched a limited edition cycle-friendly collection with e-bike and e-scooter company Lime, using second hand clothing sourced from charity retailer TRAID and deadstock fabrics.

The contemporary streetwear-led one-of-a-kind pieces in the ‘Re-Cylce Collection’ drop exclusively on eBay via charity auction today, 14 August, with 100% of proceeds donated to Friends of the Earth. It will also be on display at the ‘Re-Cycle’ pop-up shop at Boxpark in Shoreditch on 24 August.

Patchwork designs have been created from recycled old tents, waterproof coats, jerseys and puffer jackets, as is synonymous with Bolton’s brand, and there’s new takes on reflective ‘hi vis’ safety vests, which are described as “more gilet chic than health and safety marshall”.

Everything from pockets to linings and zips have been unpicked and carefully reapplied to create the pieces.

Designed to easily fit into an everyday wardrobe, the four-piece unisex collection “can be thrown over or styled under existing outfits, to allow a seamless transition from cycle lane to the office, or dinner with friends”.

The collection was inspired by a new study from Lime that found nine in 10 UK adults admit they avoid cycling when wearing certain items of clothing, and almost half (48%) of cyclists wish there was more high-fashion cycle friendly clothing.

Commenting on the collaboration, Bolton said: “As a slow fashion designer and sustainability advocate, I've loved having the opportunity to work with Lime to identify and create high fashion solutions for people who want to travel in a greener way.

“Being able to create everything from defective stock and waste textiles has meant I've been able to bring my experience and channel my passion into this project. As Lime has become so synonymous with London’s bustling city culture, I’ve taken cues from the city’s surroundings and current trends to inspire the ‘Re-Cycle Collection’. I wanted this transitional collection to feel authentic to how Londoners move around and use this city.”

Lizzy Day, Sustainable Operations Manager at Lime, commented: “Cycling in London is at an all time high - we’ve seen more than 12 million Lime e-bike trips taken in the last three years. But barriers still exist that prevent it becoming fully integrated into our daily routines and lifestyles. One of those barriers is the lack of fashion-friendly clothing that also lets you ride comfortably and safely.

“By working with Lydia and TRAID, we’ve created a collection that inspires a future of cycle-friendly fashion that can help more people travel sustainably without having to compromise their outfit choices.”