What kind of shoes should one wear to ride a bike?

It depends on the type of cycling and the weather. For road (or racing), Lycra shorts and a tight top are recommended - i.e., nothing baggy that can flap around. If the weather is cold or wet you might like to add in a waterproof but light top. Also, clipless pedals demand good cycling shoes with cleats.

If it is more casual cycling or mountain bike then a t-shirt (and a light jacket if cold) and shorts or tight tracksuit trousers with trainers would suffice. Just watch the temperature- outside of spring/summer it can be cold cycling (especially if it rains) but in the summer you need ventilation and good hydration. Many find that fingerless gloves are a bonus and the most important thing of all is - a HELMET!

Happy cycling!