Have you heard of the 'Wrong Shoe Theory'? Here's how to apply it to interior design to create unexpected spaces

If you're feeling bored and uninspired with your rooms and are looking for ways to enliven a space with more personality, I would love to point you toward the 'wrong shoe theory'.

This TikTok-born movement, coined by stylist and author Allison Bornstein, took the fashion industry by storm last year and has been making waves ever since. But how does it work in interiors?

It's really as simple as this – anywhere you may be tempted to select the matching or obvious option, be that a piece of furniture or decorative accessory, instead we encourage you to think more outside the box. It is essentially the antithesis to matching sets, seeking an alternative and more unexpected piece in order to create spaces that feel so much more unique.

If you're intrigued by the concept, keep reading to find out how we recommend implementing this in your own home.

What is the 'Wrong Shoe Theory' in interior design?

We've had many TikTok-founded theories this year that traverse both the fashion and interior worlds. Take the unexpected red theory, for example, which went viral at the beginning of this year for telling us all that a pop of red no matter how big or small would instantly improve both our homes and our wardrobes.

And it is a similar design principle that the 'wrong shoe theory' works from. 'It inspires you to create contrast and tension, instead of just putting like with like' says Allison (@allisonbornstein6) in one of her TikTok videos explaining the concept.

'A shoe can really make a break your look, so sometimes the obvious shoe can actually just make your look feel obvious or expected, and maybe even a little bit boring,' she explains. 'I tell my clients to always pick the less likely shoe.' For example, pairing chunky sneakers with a summer dress.

A similar thing can apply to other accessories when outfit building, like a statement earring or colorful bag with a neutral outfit. And of course, works exactly the same in your home.

Think about opposites attracting. Take something that feels "wrong" for the space or that you might think doesn't quite fit, and see how it feels in that setting.

Different patterns – like a large-scale geometric paired with a dainty floral or a soft gingham with a bold stripe – unexpected color combinations, textures, shapes, and interior design styles can create a captivating juxtaposition.

Retail favorites Lulu and Georgia took to their Instagram to share their take on the trend.

It goes like this: 'Instead of choosing the "right" or obvious option for your space, choose the "wrong" or unexpected one,' they explain in the video. For example, they show a couch with a dark wood coffee table and a matching side table which is then swapped for a more sculptural side table made from a woven, wicker material instead.

'Unexpected patterns, colors, shapes, and textures bring visual interest to your space,' they continue, swapping the wooden coffee table for a trio of rogue red marble tables instead. The room feels instantly lifted, more vibrant, and honestly – just a whole lot cooler.

While this might sound best suited to more eclectic or maximalist homes, you can absolutely try this out in more subdued spaces with smaller decor pieces that feel a little "ugly" or jarring.

Thrift stores, estate sales, shopping small, or collecting things on your travels are all great ways to make your home feel like it has life in it and a personality all of its own. It's a failsafe way to make your home feel more unique.

The key is to be surprising, even with the smallest of details. Try decorating with tiny art on a vast empty wall that would otherwise welcome something on a larger scale, or lean into lampscaping and try a pretty lamp on your kitchen countertop. I've done just this, and there's something so lovely about adding a cozy touch to an otherwise functional space.

The best part of the 'wrong shoe theory'? You can achieve this without purchasing anything new. If you have rooms with slightly different design styles or color palettes, try swapping key items into the other's room to introduce a juxtaposition that won't cost you at all. Try it, and let us know what you think.