SO WRONG, BUT SO RIGHT

By Morgan Shine

If last summer has taught us anything, it is that something can be so wrong but feel so right. Stop yourself right there, before your mind wanders. Let me clarify; I am talking about shoes.

Take a trip back in time to June 2023. TikTok, the platform that has arguably become a fashion hub, began pushing an influx of videos with one key theory in mind; "Wrong Shoe Theory." The trend was first coined by Allison Bornstein, stylist and author of "Wear It Well: Reclaim Your Closet and Rediscover the Joy of Getting Dressed."

So, what is the Wrong Shoe Theory? While the theory title seems fairly self-explanatory, to elaborate a little further, the "Wrong Shoe Theory" involves wearing the wrong set of shoes with the outfit.

Bornstein told Vogue that when styling an individual, she feels that adding an accessory that juxtaposes the overarching vibe completely ties the outfit together (VOGUE). The key is to incorporate an element of surprise, throwing on shoes that add an uncoordinated or mismatched feeling (VOGUE).

For those of you ready to dive into the deep end with this new scientific-esque theory, let's break down this idea into a simple outfit formula.

First, pick a pair of pants that you want to wear. Then pick the top that you want to pair with those pants. Next, if the outfit needs a jacket, that step is included here. Then, think of a pair of shoes you would never wear with this outfit. Now, pick those shoes, put them on, and wear them out.

Below are a couple of outfits to spark inspiration when experimenting with the wrong shoe theory.

Outfit 1: Matching Blue Jean Jacket + White T-Shirt + Long Jorts (Same color denim) + Bright Pink Pumps

Outfit 2: White T-shirt + Overalls + Cream Oversized Sweater (to be casually thrown over the shoulders) + Black Ballet Flats

Outfit 3: Oversized Sweater + Mini Denim Skirt + Cowboy Boots

However, like every fashion trend or piece of advice, this is just another opportunity to express yourself and be creative. If you find yourself wanting to spice up your style, take the "Wrong Shoe Theory" for a test drive.