In the early days, there was no such thing as cycling specific kit. About the only exceptions were penny farthing riders, who wore knee-high leather boots to protect themselves from the wheel. Even then, they essentially nicked them from horse riding.
As the 20th century dawned, only racers wore specialist clothing, which was generally made of wool. Everyone else wore something everyday or at least, everyday for the era. Plus-fours and stockings for gentlemen, unless they were a little racy and went for plus-twos. Either a long skirt or (a bit later on) baggy khaki shorts for ladies.
On top, a cotton shirt, properly ironed, with a collar and quite probably a tie, or a nice blouse. An article from this magazine in 1934 suggests a leather golfing jacket as…
