Born at the turn of the twentieth century, Emilio De Marchi was a friend of cycling pros such as Ottavio Bottecchia, Fausto Coppi, Giordano Cottur and a list of others including later legends like Basso and Moser. De Marchi’s career began as a bike and motorcycle mechanic, where he eventually became actively involved in some of the first cycling teams ever created. “At that time, quality cycling apparel was hard to come by, so Emilio [through his wife Emma] solicited by many fellow cyclists, started a small homemade production of cycling clothes and actively contributed to the definition of a cycling-specific [garment] standard as opposed to more generic ‘sports’ clothes that were more easily available back in the day.”

To commemorate this legacy, the De Marchi Company has recently assembled Dawn of The Pros, The Evolution of Style in Cycling (1940-1955). This beautiful hardcover book (printed in Italy!) is overflowing with images from this exciting era. De Marchi was there during the early years of cycling and is responsible for the design of some iconic garments such as the Italia track suit and the current jersey design that allows cyclists to breathe freely without the restraints of the rigid collars that were common in sportswear at the time.

I’m sure most readers of this blog could agree that for the past few decades, road cycling has eluded the concept of good style, and we generally equate functional cycling kits with sun-faded spandex covered in excessive logos like some kind of Nascar skin-suit, adorned with mostly unreadable pseudo-sponsorships from banks, car companies, and for some reason, chili peppers. However, this is not always the case. Brands like De Marchi have been quietly producing thoughtful and classic apparel designs that keep cyclists looking sharp as a tack. This is what their heritage is all about. Check out the book at demarchi.com

Geoff McFetridge is one of the many artists who have recently teamed up with Rapha Cycling to release a limited series of prints in conjunction with the 100th edition of the Tour de France. As it turns out, they sold out almost immediately.

Rapha just released an online lookbook to accompany their Autumn/Winter Collection. Click the images above to check it out.

I’m not sure when this was released, but it’s freaking radical. Paul Smith collaborates with Rapha on this excellent excuse to ride in better style. From the photos I’m guessing it’s available in solid Rapha pink.

I’m 50% positive that I have dual personality disorder. Today I’m going to be all copywriterish about some of the new product from Rapha. These gents continue to amaze with the functionality and fit of the new Club & Super Lightweight Jerseys. The qualifications for wearing one? You simply need to ride a bike and ride it fast. Ditch the speed chute you’ve been wearing and get one of the best jerseys available from the masters of minimalism and craftsmen of smart style (sounds like something from the J Peterman catalog). Available at Rapha.cc and other fine cycling retailers worldwide.

The gents at De Marchi have recently re-released a series of traditional wool cycling jerseys inspired by historical designs located in the De Marchi archives. Shown above: Wilier Triestina Wool Polo Jersey and the Pima Cotton Pullover with rear water bottle pockets. Click here for more.