Styling Your Shoes Wrong Has An Unexpected Benefit
No matter what look you’re going for, it’s always important to keep your style fluid. The rule of looking “put together” or “purposeful” applies to all fashion styles, whether you’re a maximalist who loves bold trends and bold colors or a minimalist who opts for a neutral, calm aesthetic. But while the rule still stands, there is one exception: the “wrong shoe theory,” a term coined by stylist Allison Bornstein on social media. In an exclusive conversation with Glam, Peter Martinez, fashion stylist, co-founder, and designer of Leather Skin Shop, explains that it’s possible to be a little rebellious with your footwear, as long as you stay within certain boundaries.
“The concept, better known as the ‘wrong shoe theory,’ aims to create eye-catching visual contrast and enhance your overall style,” Martinez explains. “Much like ‘color-blocking extravaganza’ or the famous ‘unexpected accessories,’ wearing inappropriate shoes with an outfit reflects a person’s personal style and creativity. The self-expression displayed as a result of these style changes is a great way to break away from conventional fashion norms.”
Wearing unexpected footwear certainly brings an aspect of uniqueness to an outfit, but Martinez emphasizes that there are still guidelines if you want to do justice to the “inappropriate shoe theory.” Namely, there should be some thought behind the choice of shoes, no matter how out of place it may seem, so that the overall ensemble remains “cohesive and intentional,” according to Martinez.
How to Pull Off The ‘Wrong-Shoe Theory’
According to Peter Martinez, keeping your look consistent—even if it includes a striking pair of shoes—is crucial. “…[I]f the shoes are so different that they overpower the outfit or confuse the overall message, it may stop ‘clicking,’” he tells Glam exclusively. Above all, Martinez tells us it’s important to feel “confident and authentic” in your footwear, and this comes down to three simple criteria: color coordination, style compatibility, and balance. “The degree to which you can deviate from traditional matching norms when pairing shoes with outfits depends on the color, style, and overall aesthetic you want to achieve,” the stylist adds.
When it comes to color, Martinez says your shoes should match the broader palette you’re using, even if there’s some contrast. Formality also plays a role. “For casual wear, a stark contrast can work, but for formal contexts, it can be jarring,” Martinez notes. “For example, pairing bright red sneakers with an understated outfit can create a statement look, but if the colors clash too much, it can detract from the overall look.” Keeping formality in mind is also important for style compatibility. “For example, wearing casual sneakers with a tailored suit can look disjointed unless it’s done intentionally with a clear fashion statement in mind,” says Martinez, warning that it’s easy to cross the line between cool and clashing.
Finally, the style expert shares that “incorporating elements that echo” your shoe details into the rest of your outfit will help achieve that balance. If you opt for patent leather heels, you may also want to opt for a patent leather bag. Or if your loafers have metallic details, you can highlight them with gunmetal jewelry or a metallic Barbiecore manicure.
The Best Ways to Style Your Shoes
The “wrong shoe theory” can be effective if done correctly, but it’s not the only way to make a statement with your footwear. If you want to opt for shoes that are more in tune with the rest of your outfit, Peter Martinez says they’ll also look great if you follow a few tips. The main point to keep in mind is that your choice of footwear should always be a piece of a larger puzzle, which is your entire outfit. You can achieve this harmony by either matching or contrasting, as long as the elements flow well together.
“Pairing different materials can elevate your look,” Martinez advises in our exclusive conversation, adding that wearing “suede booties with a shiny leather or rugged denim outfit” always works wonders. It’s also important to keep in mind that some shoes simply stand out more than others, and you should let them shine, especially if they’re going to make a neutral outfit more interesting. “If you have a statement pair of shoes, let them be the focal point of your outfit,” Martinez suggests. “For example, a pair of heels with big ruffled bows instantly ups the style meter reading of a simple dress. The key is to choose simpler pieces that complement but don’t compete with your footwear.”
As for color, Martinez believes you can’t go wrong with neutrals. “Footwear in black, brown, nude, or navy is incredibly versatile, which is why you should have a pair of each in your shoe closet,” she says. “If your outfit is patterned or colorful, consider selecting a color from the print for your shoes to keep it harmonious.” By introducing the same hue into your footwear and other areas of your outfit, you’ll keep it from looking totally random and end up with a perfectly balanced fit.