1896 CYCLING WORLD ILLUSTRATED – The Online Bicycle Museum

Some wise people say that corsets should be discarded for cycling. That is not correct. There should be no approach to tight lacing, but a pair of woollen-cased corsets afford great support; they keep the figure from going all abroad, and protect the vital parts from chills. Special woollen-cased corsets are made by at any rate two manufacturers, who have spared no pains to provide a safe and good corset for cyclists.

It is essential to have well-cut knickerbockers in lieu of skirts. They can be obtained at most ladies’ tailors, the price running to about £1. It is best to have them lined with leather as for riding on horseback. They should be made to buckle at the knee, but loosely – no tight bands are allowed in cycling. In the same way, suspenders should invariably be used to secure the stockings.

– Lady Cycling: What to Wear & How to Ride, by Miss F.J Erskine, page 11