Social media has drastically reshaped the fashion landscape over the past few years. Trends are short-lived, dress codes are blurred, and getting dressed feels more complicated than ever. But like a double-edged sword, those same platforms are also responsible for giving us the tools to navigate the fluid, fast-paced climate with ease. One of those tools? The unexpected red theory: a fashion practice that French women swear by, which argues that a pop of red always makes any outfit more interesting.
Brooklyn-based interior designer Taylor Simon originally coined the term as a quick-solve to elevating your home, but after more than a million views on Simon’s video alone, users quickly adopted the rule as a guideline to getting dressed. Although the styling hack has been trending recently, it’s a trick that French women have sworn by for years. The quick addition of the fiery shade can make even a jeans-and-tee combination feel totally fresh. Below, I’m breaking down exactly how to incorporate fashion’s unexpected red theory into your wardrobe.
How to Style the Unexpected Red Theory
The unexpected red theory is easy to apply to outfits: just add one red piece to a neutral or basic outfit. It’s as easy as swapping your black flats for red ones. If your outfits are generally colorful to begin with, it could also include experimenting with unexpected color combinations that utilize the color red as a focal point. (Think: a blue skirt with a red top.) As with all fashion trends, it’s about tailoring the theory to your own personal style.
With red shoes
Fashion-goers have been gravitating toward the wrong-shoe theory for years now, opting to finish an outfit with an unexpected pair of shoes rather than a predictable pair. The perfect way to take unexpected red for a test drive? With a pair of red shoes—especially when working with a monochromatic base. If you’re not ready to splurge on a pair for yourself, start small with a pair of red socks.
With a red sweater
Running out the door? Tie a red sweater around your waist or drape it across your shoulders for a quick way to elevate any look. This trick works well with a neutral base—white, black, grey, navy—or with head-to-toe denim.
With a red bag
A red handbag can be a last-minute addition to any outfit that’s still totally transformative. Offset jeans or neutral bottoms with a bright red mini bag or tote.
With a red lip
Perhaps the easiest and most versatile way to incorporate the unexpected red theory is through makeup. French women have a reputation for dressing up a pared-back, black-and-white look with a touch of red lipstick. Feeling brave? Pile on the rouge for an extra-rosy look.
Tinsley Crisp, Former Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer
Tinsley Crisp was formerly the Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer at The Everygirl and specialized in reporting on the season’s latest trends and hottest products. As a New York City-based stylist, she’s committed to injecting joy into the art of getting dressed and delivering attainable yet aspirational content to our readers.
Jessica Welsh, Senior Fashion & Beauty Editor
Jessica oversees and edits all fashion and beauty content on The Everygirl. She also writes in-depth styling stories, trend reports, capsule wardrobes, and more. She was previously the Commerce Editor for The Everymom, where she oversaw all shopping content on the site and social. She has created editorial content for major brands such as Nordstrom, Old Navy, and Kohl’s.
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