If your FYP looks anything like ours, then you’ve been seeing TikTok after TikTok of people styling outfits with shoes that appear to be aesthetic opposites — at least on the surface. Dubbed the “wrong shoe theory” by stylist Allison Bornstein, it’s the idea that you should wear a shoe that would traditionally be considered antithetical to your given outfit to create a more interesting look. Think: flip-flops with tailored trousers, heels with sweatpants, dad trainers with maxi dresses, or any other combo that sounds “wrong” when you think of it, but, in practice, is just…right.
There’s a method to the madness, and it’s approved by fashion’s most stylish insiders.
Ahead, we’ve rounded up a few Instagrammable takes on the theory that will help inspire your own wrong shoe looks.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: PJs & Heels
Dress up a pyjama-style matching set with a pair of heels, bringing a whole new meaning to “just woke up like this” style. Bonus points for fluffy trimmings, like the one on the Sleeper set pictured here.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: A Dress & Combat Boots
In the canon of “wrong shoe theory” outfits, it’s hard to go wrong when combining the softness of a summer dress and the edginess of your fave combat boots.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: A Dress & Chunky Loafer
But if it’s too hot to stomach wearing heavy boots, pairing your frilliest dress with your chunkiest loafers will work just as well.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: Cargo Pants & Ballet Flats
Enjoy the functionality of on-trend denim cargo pants — one of this season’s most coveted pieces — while still bringing a touch of femininity with a pair of pretty ballet flats. Bonus points if it’s in a soft pink hue like this one.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: Cargo Pants & Heels
Or fancy up your street style-ready utilitarian look with a pair of pumps. We love the silver metallic hue pictured here — it’s one of the must-try colours of the year.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: Mismatched Prints
Opt for clashing prints that only you would think of pairing together for some added personal flair. To keep the outfit from looking too “wrong,” stick to prints in the same colour family.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: Shorts & Heels
Running errands? No one ever said you can’t add some style to your comfy cargo-esque shorts with a pair of runway-ready sandals.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: Denim Shorts & Strappy Sandals
Or try wearing a pair of strappy heeled sandals with your casual everyday jean shorts. The pink and green colour combo here makes the outfit all the more striking.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: Mini Skirt & Cowboy Boots
Trust us, you don’t have to don a head-to-toe yeehaw look in order to wear an eye-catching pair of cowboy boots. A pink mini skirt and printed shirt and statement jewellery offset the Western-style look.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: Midi Dress & Trainers
Take care of your style and your feet by matching your fanciest dresses with your most walkable trainers. This midi dress and sneaker combo is perfect for warm-weather style.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: Maxi Dress & Trainers
If midi dresses aren’t your thing, try styling a maxi dress with a pair of trainers instead.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: Suit & Trainers
Or rock them with a power suit that will have you walking into meetings with unmatched cool factor.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: Skirt & Trainers
Monochrome looks are an effortless way to look chic and put together, but adding a pair of trainers in a completely different shade will create an outfit with dimension and intrigue with just as much ease.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: Hoodie & Pointed-Toe Flats
On days when you just want to throw on a hoodie and shorts, opt for a pair of chic pointed-toe flats to pull your outfit together. And, yes, socks are a bold must.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: Crocs & Skirt
If you’re on the pro-Crocs side of TikTok, you know that these soft and lightweight shoes can be styled with anything and everything, including this preppy skirt. Don’t forget to accessorise with your favourite charms to complete the ‘fit.
“Wrong Shoe Theory” Outfit Idea: Flip-Flops & Trousers
Are your flip-flops adding a breezy casualness to your tailored look, or are your classic trousers bringing your flip-flops to new heights? That’s for you to decide.
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