The wrong shoe theory is a term you may have seen circulating on social media the past month. This is everything to know about the styling hack that feels so wrong, but looks so right…
What is the wrong shoe theory?
The wrong shoe theory is exactly how it sounds. It means picking a shoe for an outfit that is traditionally mismatched or not right. For instance, wearing high heels with joggers or biker boots with a floral summer dress. The idea is that wearing the wrong shoe actually makes the outfit more interesting and personal, therefore making it the right choice.
@allisonbornstein6 DO NOT PANIC! rushing and panic shopping does not work! Here are a few tips! #stylist #summerstyle #shopping #styletips ♬ original sound – Allison Bornstein
Stylist, Allison Bornstein, coined the term recently on TikTok. She explained the example of wearing trainers and styling them as an intentional choice rather than a functional one. Bornstein worked with a client who would always wear trainers because she was constantly on the go. The client would style the rest of her look to match the sporty vibe, despite the fact this was not her style. Bornstein further explains how she then would style her client with the same trainers, but with the rest of the outfit matching her typical style. Thus, making the trainers the focal point of the outfit as it appeared intentional and ‘cooler’.
READ MORE: 5 Colour Trends To Inspire Your Summer Style
Wrong Shoe Theory Inspiration
Emili’s outfit is a double-whammy for the wrong shoe theory. She pairs neon orange slingback heels with a casual track pant, that not only clashes styles but colours too. Whilst this traditionally would be a big no in the fashion rules handbook, there is something about this outfit that works.
Hanna has also understood the assignment, combining crystal-embellished heels with a baggy jean.
Grece styles her trainers with an outfit that screams business chic more than sporty – a cooler streetwear choice.
Wearing biker boots with an angelic floral dress may not be your first choice, but it should be.