In recent times we have seen a number of mainstream brands branch out into commuter wear. Levis and Marks and Spencer for example have both released a range of ‘regular’ looking clothes which feature reinforced gussets, additional stretch in the fabric, waterproof materials and discreet reflectives. But unfortunately women are yet to be catered for.

As a hardy year-round commuter, I often find myself dashing for the loos before a morning meeting to change out of my lycra and into something marginally more respectable. I know there are ‘City’ commuter options out there, but they are few and far between and often not very flattering.

Thankfully Rapha have come to the rescue. It’s City Range is still relatively small, but with the release of jeans in the pipeline, I know its Spring 2014 collection is just a taste of the good things to come.

Here are my first impressions of the range:

• I think I have fallen in love. My long body is adequately catered for in a range of merino wool tank tops and t-shirts. In fact both of these items look so good, they will be able to be worn alone when summer comes.
• The women’s button down shirt is smart enough to be worn in the office but the soft feel and give in the fabric give the impression that it will still be very comfortable when riding.
• The City Bomber Jacket is beautifully cut and comes with a very discreet drop down at the back to save your bottom in wet weather. When not in use, it zips away into an invisible pocket.

To find out more about the range check out the Rapha website.