ATHFLOW - THE NEW AESTHETIC TREND EXPLAINED
After two years that can be measured by the sheer volume of sweatpants acquired to work from home, there’s a glimmer of optimism on the horizon with the easing of lockdown rules. But even as our most glamorous outfits await their day back in the sun, a return to some degree of normalcy doesn’t mean we’ll be leaving our loungewear behind. In fact, according to the 2021 Pinterest Predicts report, comfortable clothing is suggested to take on a new kind of leading role in our wardrobes this year, as part of a trending aesthetic dubbed “Athflow.”
Scroll through Instagram, TikTok, or Pinterest, and you’re bound to run into at least a dozen influencers decked out in the Athflow aesthetic. Thinking “ath-what?” Know that you’re not alone. And that’s exactly why we’re giving you the full run-down on the trend ahead.
IMAGE FROM FAZ.NET
WHAT IS ATHFLOW?
Even if you're never heard of the term 'Athflow', you're probably familiar with the style. In fact, you've likely been living the Athflow life for the past few months. It's the outfit you'd wear for a virtual Zoom, when you need to look professional but are determined to remain comfortable. Think: Flowy pants, casual jumpsuits, and oversized outfits—all professional enough for a work-from-home look, but stretchy enough for the yoga mat.
First recognized as a trend by Pinterest style analysts back in 2020, Athflow is, more or less, an elevated take on athleisure. “When athleisure meets elegance—that’s Athflow,” explains Jenna Landi, who is the head of brand insights at Pinterest. “Athflow is all about comfortability and style." And nowadays, there’s an added emphasis on texture, too.
In 2022 we think these soft outfits set the stage to enable Athflow - a trend where people of all ages will fall in love with low-impact ways to move their bodies, from starting a daily stretching routine to nature walks.
What’s more, Landi says that the Pinterest Insights team is noticing the same soft outfits trend taking over people’s bedtime attire as well. “We predict people will take their nighttime ensembles seriously and embrace satin sleepwear and classic nightgowns,” she explains, emphasizing the comfort-meets-style premise of Athflow at its core.
So, what does Athflow look like and how can you get on board with this trend? We've compiled an 'Athflow' collection with some of our favourite picks to help get you started.
PERFECT SET
With working from home becoming more prevalent, staying chic and cosy is becoming ever more important when having those virtual meetings from home. The ONZIE Bella Sweatshirt Le Muse is the perfect cute outfit to wear especially in the time of the Athflow aesthetic, where cozy, looser-fitting coordinating styles are all the rage.
WRAP IT UP
Another Athflow fave? Just about anything that wraps around the body. Particularly the LIVE THE PROCESS Seamless Wrap Cardigan Cream Moonstone which fits well within the Athflow aesthetic. We’re particular fans of this wrap that looks positively office-ready but feels like one of the brand’s cult-favorite throws. With its modernized detailing like extra long sleeve lengths and slit wrist cuffs. Resilient and regal, a knit can't be beat.
FIND YOUR FLARE
Remember: Athflow is all about loose silhouettes. These stylish ONZIE Lounge Pant Black high-waisted, wide-leg pants are all the hype. If you’ve been paying attention to TikTok trends, you’ll know that skinny jeans are no longer the end-all, be-all (though we still love them and they have their time!) At the same time though, we’re seeing a big resurgence in wide-leg pants and styles, which is characterized in the Athflow movement as well.
We love a wide-leg pant as an opportunity to add a little more drama to more basic bottoms, and give a relaxed fit that will again give you the benefit of comfortable clothing. We’d recommend pairing a wide leg with a more fitted top, to blend some different cuts and create more interesting angles in your look.
Designed with an elastic high-rise waistband, thesewide leg trousers have a soft and luxurious feel with its heavier fabrication. You will never want to take these off!
GO TO LAYERS
Again, we love to play around with mismatched fits — such as a legging or close cut pant, with a bigger sweater. And layers add a dynamism to your look that can make your ‘fit unforgettable! One of our favourite oversized pieces right now is the VARLEY Ramona Half Zip. When Athflow meets preppy, you get this academic-style boyfriend sweater, a luxurious and elevated take on the traditional outdoor fleece. Wear it at the office, or as an alternative to loungewear on chilly days.
We all want to look good while we feel good, which is really what Athflow is all about. So if you’re not already onboard with this trend, come shop with us to get onboard. If you ask us, Athflow is kind of the dream: comfy and cute/trendy? Yes please.