Vertical Cyclewear project wins Margarita 'First' from London School of Fashion

It's an indication of how things are going with the acceptance of cycling as a mainstream and even fashionable activity when a student can major in designing cycling kit. That's exactly what Margarita Ruiz did this year at the London School of Fashion, achieving a First with her Vertical Cyclewear project.

We think you'll agree that Margarita Ruiz's Vertical Cyclewear looks like the real deal. As soon as we saw it, her portfolio of cycling garments consisting of a jacket, shirt, trousers and jumper made us think, "Samples. Here. Now!"

Trousers have waterproof/windproof membrane called c_change, cinched cuffs.

Ms. Ruiz focussed on sportswear right through her BA (Hons) course, notably in 2010 designing a multi-sport jacket using fabric repurposed from Speedo banned by the swimming authorities. In a strange twist, the man in charge of that particular initiative in swimming is now the same figure behind the Union Cyclisme International's policing of racing bicycle design and - soon - bike clothing.

Fortunately, the only regulation on cyclewear of the kind she has designed for her final degree project is that cyclists like us need to find it practical for the purpose and - here's the tough one - stylish enough that it would impress our non-cycling friends and even the fashion glossies. "Designing smart products for physically active people is my passion," says Margarita Ruiz. We could be wrong and, of course, we haven't worn any of these prototypes but it looks like a good start. Hire this woman, someone.

Details: showtime.arts.ac.uk/marruiz

Jumper made from Schoeller Dryskin fleece: asymmetric button detail, reflective to rear.

Just enough of the hint of retro texture in these technical trousers but they're flexible and washable.