The invention and rise to popularity of the bicycle at the turn of the 19th century in England was a significant development for women's independence and fundamental rights in Europe. The "bloomer" or "pantaloon" was a short-lived ladies fashion craze in the 1890s made to accomodate the new-wheeling woman. However, bloomers were harshly criticized for their bold imitation of masculine dress and disappeared from women's wardrobes within five years. Held in contempt, these women gave up their pants... for love. This short-lived fashion gave Victorian ladies a taste for knickerbockers and the freedom this fashion represented. One hundred years later, I reflect on these muscular ladies and their dreams of whisking away.