Zoë Kravitz Concurs With TikTok: The 'Wrong Shoe Theory' Is Genius
Coined by stylist Allison Bornstein, the unexpected trend keeps outfits interesting.


Let’s face it: Fashion can sometimes feel uninspired. Especially during the cooler months, when we are more concerned with staying warm than looking incredibly fashionable, it can be easy to fall into a style slump. The solution? Making fashion fun again by taking it less seriously. Stylist Allison Bornstein made headlines over the summer with her 'Wrong Shoe Theory,' which involves wearing a shoe that feels unexpected in your outfit—like swapping a sneaker for a colorful loafer, and so on. Stylish celebs are also in on the fun: In Los Angeles the other night, Zoë Kravitz mastered the wrong shoe theory with a pop-of-color purple shoe in her otherwise neutral ensemble. The High Fidelity star was out with fiancé Channing Tatum, who, judging by his simple outfit, might be taking cutes from the minimalist maverick by his side.
Kravitz’s sleek wardrobe is historically enviable—and her latest look was no exception. She layered a longline black maxi coat over a champagne-toned button-down and baggy black trousers. The "It" girl carried a Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello black shoulder bag and added a pop of sparkle with a tennis necklace. Last but not least was her stunning purple shoes that ever so slightly peaked out of the bottom of her pants. Hers are the Ava flats from The Row, which hardly came as a surprise since Kravitz often sports pieces from the quiet luxury brand.
Kravitz was arm-in-arm with beau Channing Tatum, who's clearly been taking a page out of her minimalist style guide: He opted for an olive-toned long-sleeve shirt, black pants, and neutral sneakers.
For stylist Bornstein, there is no such thing as the 'right' shoe. To explain, when we are styling a dress, we’ll often reach for a flat or sandal instead of a sporty sneaker. But the 'Wrong Shoe Theory' asks us to reconsider that first thought that sticks to the ordinary. In Kravitz’s case, this would be wearing a black boot with her outfit because that’s what seems correct. Byt by adding the pop of purple, she's caught our eye, and her overall ensemble appears more intentional than it is. The next time you’re styling an outfit, don’t be afraid to wear the shoe that feels wrong but is actually oh-so-right. Opt for a sandal with your baggy trousers, or a sneaker with your skirt—the opportunities are endless.
If you’re looking to re-up on some basics, you’re in the right place. Below, we’ve sourced a staple pair of trousers, a quality silk button-down, and a black coat perfect for winter to shop. Kravitz's The Row Flats are unfortunately out of stock. But don’t fret; we’ve added other purple shoe options for you to browse through.
Shop Zoë Kravtiz's Outfit
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Kaitlin is a Los Angeles-based freelance writer specializing in fashion, beauty, and culture. Her work is also featured in Editorialist, The Everygirl, Bustle, The Zoe Report, and i-D Magazine.
-
The Weekend Hobby George and Louis Are Currently Obsessed With
"At weekends, we go from one competition to the next," Prince William revealed.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Queen Mary Forced to Cancel Engagements Due to Illness
"Her Majesty The Queen, like many others right now, has become ill."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Why Princess Kate and Prince William "May Need a Referee"
Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis could get caught in the middle, according to one royal expert.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Without Donatella Versace, Celebrity Style Will Never Be the Same
She's walking away after 28 years.
By Kelsey Stiegman Published
-
Anne Hathaway's Burgundy Adidas Sambas Expertly Translate a Winter Color Trend to Spring
One accessory is the key.
By Kelsey Stiegman Published
-
Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid Match in Skintight Dresses for Saint Laurent's Paris Fashion Week After-Party
One look, two ways.
By Kelsey Stiegman Published
-
Rihanna Pairs Her New Fenty x Puma Sneaker With a Bikini Top and Baseball Jersey
With a look that's classic Rihanna.
By Kelsey Stiegman Last updated
-
Gigi Hadid Wears $9,895-Worth of Miu Miu Before Walking Its Paris Fashion Week Runway
The model stacked $9,895-worth of products into her wardrobe.
By Kelsey Stiegman Published
-
Bella Hadid Styles Her $880 Designer Tank Top With Lindsay Lohan's Famous Bottle Cap Necklace
She's a Paris Fashion Week drama queen.
By Kelsey Stiegman Published
-
Bella Hadid Takes Oversize Dressing to the Extreme in Baggy Jeans and a Massive $4,400 Saint Laurent Bag
Go big or go home.
By Kelsey Stiegman Last updated
-
Rihanna Pulls a Kendrick Lamar, Styling Celine Flare Jeans With a Leather Jacket and Vintage Fendi Bag
It's the last pair we expected her to wear.
By Kelsey Stiegman Published