“Wrong Shoes” Theory – Sometimes Wearing the Wrong Shoes Can Make You More Fashionable!

A clever trick that not every fashionista knows: intentionally choosing a pair of shoes that completely contrasts with the overall outfit will make your appearance much more striking. And that’s precisely a new theory in the fashion world – the “wrong shoes” theory.

Summary:

• Slip dress + biker boots
• Dress + sneakers
• Long denim skirt + cowboy boots
• Jeans + Mary Janes
• Jorts + high heels

Shoes have always been seen as crucial accessories in completing the overall appearance. Because the final step of dressing will dominate almost 90% of your appearance. Fashion in previous eras always silently dictated that a pair of flip-flops should never be paired with a sophisticated suit, or a glamorous dress should never be “matched” with a pair of casual sneakers. Until fashion gradually evolved with the development of the mindset of the new generation of “dominators,” those rules were no longer appropriate for modern aesthetics. From then on, fashion began to operate more freely and “unpredictably” because it became a true reflection of the inner selves of each of us. This is also one of the reasons explaining the emergence of new trends, where not only stylish clothing is focused on but also the exploration and appreciation of the wearer’s individuality. Among them is the theory of choosing the wrong shoes – the “wrong shoes” theory.

In recent months, Vogue magazine has introduced a new term to the fashion world, more accurately, a new theory – the “wrong shoes” theory. Created by stylist Allison Bornstein, this theory implies completing an outfit with a pair of “opposite” shoes, such as a satin dress with sneakers or wearing high heels with jorts. The “wrong shoes” theory encourages fashion enthusiasts to go against their usual shoe choices. For example, when searching for a suitable pair of shoes to match a long denim skirt for an autumn day, instead of opting for the first choice that comes to mind, like a comfortable pair of sneakers, challenge yourself with a more daring suggestion, such as a pair of free-spirited cowboy boots. The “wrong shoes” theory also brings many more interesting experiments, and the following 5 mix-and-match combinations will surely help fashionistas understand more about this theory to elevate their outfit coordination to a new level.

Slip dress + biker boots: From the runway to every corner of the street, the slip dress has asserted its position in the fashion world as a widely popular item, rather than just a piece worn at home. Slip dresses paired with delicate strappy high heels may not be a new outfit pairing for true fashionistas. However, following the constant evolution of the modern era, this combination has been updated in a completely new way – trendy, free, and more different than ever. No longer favoring feminine high heels, slip dresses now become edgy and gritty with a pair of rugged biker boots. Following the exciting fashion moments on the street, biker boots have made a name for themselves in every aspect, every appearance, every personality, and every style. From shorts, baggy jeans to mini skirts, biker boots also coordinate perfectly with an unexpected combination – the seductive slip dress. If the sensuality from the material and the typical design of the slip dress is too overwhelming, then a pair of rugged biker boots with numerous metal buckle details will be the perfect factor to balance it out and add a new spirit – personality and sophistication. A leather racer jacket, a wide bomber jacket, and oversized sunglasses will be worthy suggestions for you to perfect your appearance.

Dress + sneakers: Without feminine high heels, elegant sandals, or comfortable Mary Janes, those who love breaking fashion rules nowadays often experiment with their elegant dresses paired with sneakers. This interesting mix-and-match suggestion in the “wrong shoes” theory not only makes the coordination with dresses more unpredictable but also provides absolute comfort for the wearer during movement. From bodycon to maxi dresses, sneakers won’t “cause trouble” for true fashionistas like we often think, because they can match every dress style in your wardrobe. If platform sneakers are the safe choice, chunkier styles will satisfy you with their challenging nature when mix-and-matching. Fashionistas can also keep up with trends by wearing dresses with sneakers featuring a perfect blend of bold and feminine styles that are currently popular (such as ASICS x Cecilie Bahnsen or adidas samba with ribbon laces). Matching a handbag or sunglasses with the same color as the sneakers will be a great tip to make your overall appearance more harmonious and impressive.

Long denim skirt + cowboy boots: Cowboy boots always make us think of a free-spirited look in the Wild West with sand-dusted jeans covering the desert. Also associated with denim fabric, cowboy boots have been “refreshed” as a companion to long denim skirts with a Y2K vibe. The “wrong shoes” theory makes cowboy boots more interesting and curious under the stylish skirt. A long denim skirt with a fishtail design sweeping the floor will perfectly coordinate with a pair of pointed and sharp cowboy boots. Meanwhile, cowboy boots with distinctive patterns will be more suitable when fashionistas wear long denim skirts to the knee. The mix-and-match combination of a long denim skirt and cowboy boots also helps the wearer “hack” the body proportions effectively and easily.

Jeans + Mary Janes: The rise of Balletcore has brought along a strong resurgence of low-heeled Mary Jane shoes. Due to their design and color characteristics, in the past, Mary Janes were often worn with designs that strongly emphasized femininity such as office skirts or long dresses. However, when “reborn” by today’s young generation, Mary Janes began to expand their approach and combined with more “mismatched” items such as jeans. If you are a minimalist, love elegant style, or the trending “quiet luxury” style, the combination of straight-leg jeans with simple Mary Jane shoes will be an ideal suggestion. Meanwhile, Mary Janes will surprise bold and playful fashionistas by making their favorite jeans look magically attractive. Young and short jeans and Mary Jane shoes are also a promising match to shake up the fashion world in the coming time. With short denim designs, fashionistas should match tights with Mary Jane shoes to make their body proportions more balanced and add focal points to the overall outfit.

Jorts + high heels: Emerging as a fashion phenomenon in recent years, jorts (short jeans above the knee) are seen on every street, every photo on social media platforms, along with popular adidas samba or dynamic sneakers. But once you know about the “wrong shoes” theory, surely those familiar shoe styles will be replaced by a mismatched suggestion – feminine high heels. From kitten heels to ankle-strap heels, high heels will make casual jorts look elegant and mature. A pair of pointed high heels combined with a jorts and blazer pairing will be a perfect alternative for boring office outfits, overly familiar. Meanwhile, kitten heels (heels with a strap, about 3-4cm high) will be a great piece for everyday activities for fashionistas, combining harmoniously with the nostalgic spirit from Y2K.