For this Cycle Chic interview, we chat with Sarah Jasat, the vibrant voice behind Cycling in Sparkly Wellies — a social media account that celebrates the fun, freedom, and flair of everyday cycling. Based in Leicester, Sarah’s approach to bike style is equal parts practical and playful, blending floral tunics, pink bikes, and (of course) her signature sparkly wellies. She rides for confidence, connection, and a touch of everyday magic — proving that utility and joy can absolutely share the same basket.
What is your bike style?
Cute and practical.
What are your favorite clothes to bike in?
I have cycling jeans that I wear a lot with flowery tunics in the summer, then with sweaters in the winter. I also have a bunch of dresses that I like to layer up and wear with boots in the winter or sandals in the summer. I have a chain guard so most dresses are fine.
Where are we most likely to spot your bike?
Parked outside the local library or grocery store. I’m doing a PhD at the university, so I often park it on campus too.
What do you like most about riding?
I love how empowered I feel on a bike. It gives me confidence that I can get where I need to be and do what I need to do.
What is your dream bike for everyday cycling?
I love my current bike which is a custom-built pink No Probellama from Flux Bikes. It’s very much a utility bike with a massive front basket and dynamo lights so I can jump on and ride off without having to think much. Also, it’s pink. That’s very important.
Sarah’s bike
How would your friends describe your bike style?
I think they would say “a bit crazy” hopefully also “joyful.” I like seeing how fun I can make my bike: I have fairy lights on my wheels, a big shiny bell and a saddle charm. I love to accessorise.
Any wardrobe “no-go’s” when cycling?
Now that wide-legged trousers are back in fashion, I make sure to keep a few trouser clips on my basket — I’m not always great at judging what’ll be fine and what needs to be pinned back until I actually start pedalling. I try to avoid waterproof trousers unless it’s a downpour; they’re so annoying to ride in. I have ‘shower-proof’ hiking trousers that look quite normal but are perfectly sufficient for a short ride on a drizzly day.
How often do you ride each week, rain or shine?
Pretty much 5 days a week. When I’m poorly I’m fortunate to be able to borrow my mum’s e-bike, but I’m adamant that I want to use my non-electric bike as standard — I need the exercise!
Do you have a favourite pre-ride ritual?
Typically shouting “has everyone got their shoes on???” while chucking my workbag and my kid’s school bags into my basket and scrambling around for helmets/gloves/buffs. It’s not very relaxing but it beats driving!
Any hidden bike-friendly gems in your city you can’t resist visiting?
Leicester has a car-free route called the Great Central Way which used to be a train line. When you cycle there it feels like you’re out in the countryside, despite being right in the city centre.
Have you ever had a memorable mishap or funny incident on a ride?
I was once cycling in the rain wearing a poncho and it flipped up in the wind. I tried to flip it back down, taking one hand off the handlebars, and lost control of the bike. I crashed into a wooden and although the bike was fine and the poncho got a small rip, the fence was never the same again.
Where’s the most unusual place your bike has taken you?
Following map apps on my phone has led me down some really strange alleys, most of which I had no idea even existed. It’s shown me a lot of great shortcuts too.
What’s your favourite cycling accessory that combines style and function?
My pink sparkly wellies. With a poncho or raincoat, it’s a simple, cheap way to stay dry during my commute. The sparkle only makes me more visible to other road-users and I always get compliments on them.
Gives us a cycling-related tip for would-be bike commuters?
Make small talk at the bike crossings. You can learn a lot.