Jun 2, 2013
Ride Béret Baguette 2013
Thanks to a hat-tip by Sam, I was out this morning to check out at Place de la Sorbonne to check out the Ride Béret Baguette 2013. In its third year, the aim of the group is to promote the (rhyming) culture of “rétro et vélo”, and boy have they delivered! A few hundred people and bikes were there, all dressed up and ready to bike around Paris.
The programme for 2013 edition included a “caravan” (that showcased all kinds of things in rétro style, including fashion, accessories, styling and, of course, bikes!), a bike race, a vintage ball, and a bike ride to cap off the wonderful weekend. If only I’ve known about this ahead of time, I probably would have participated (a fellow blogger, Lauren Lou, did!), at least in the bike ride on Sunday. Next year, I shall be there ;)
As you can see from the photos of the bike ride, there were lots of very stylish Parisians in their rétro get-up, aiming to conform to the dress code requirement of “between the two world wars”. Berets, suspenders, polka-dots, stripes, braids, bright red lipsticks, moustaches, vest, satchels, old bikes, penny farthing(!) – it was a transport back in time, until you spot the smartphones and dSLRs being used among the participants. Without further ado, the photos, results of my paltry effort.
You know what, after reviewing photos being uploaded by a whole bunch of people on Flickr, I feel like kicking myself over a number of things. They are life lessons to be learnt!
First and foremost, for not bringing a spare battery of my camera. I was such an idiot for forgetting it this time when I normally have one with me. My battery died and I had to resort to using my phone, which was not ideal. Secondly, for lacking the courage to ask if I could take portrait photos of the participants. I saw so many interesting faces, and they would have make a wonderful album of the day. Thirdly, for not yet learn how to use F’s new EOS 100D and try to produce better photos. Ok, the last one maybe the least of the regrets, since the package arrived just a couple of days ago.
Still, all said, I was still glad I took the time to go to Place de la Sorbonne. The atmosphere that I soaked up was priceless, and even if I can’t digitally record the event as beautifully as I’d like to, the memory stays. :)
hehe…why didnt u dress up (or down?) n join in the fun as well lil? ;)
Since I found out about it only on Saturday where I already had several things planned (e.g. Skype call with friends in US to discuss their wedding programmes, attending birthday party etc) I didn’t have time to hunt for the right get-up. I went in a white lace blouse to somewhat blend in a little, does that count? ;)
Oh, what a bummer I didn’t see you! Next year!! What are you talking about, your pics are great! xx
Aww, thanks, and indeed, next year! Your outfit was adorable, by the way :D