So what’s going on with TikTok’s shoe theory?
Gift-giving is one of the five love languages, and for those of us who show—and receive—love in this way, it can be pretty fun.
Let’s face it, who doesn’t love a surprise gift? Whether it’s a bouquet of flowers or a romantic walk.
But now TikTok is warning couples in love that there is one gift you should never give your partner — or you risk the consequences.
According to the “shoe theory”, if you gift your significant other a pair of shoes, it will eventually end your relationship.
Yes, it sounds shocking, but TikTok warns against gifting your loved one a shoebox anytime soon, be it humble flip-flops or high-end sneakers.
This trend has picked up steam recently, with several TikToker users sharing their stories.
Creator Brooke recalled how her husband bought her the shoes the week before she left him, adding, “I still haven’t worn them.”
So where did the shoe theory come from?
According to user Angela Chaan, this theory is actually rooted in Chinese culture and passed down from generation to generation.
Essentially, she says, the theory is that “if you give someone a pair of shoes, they will eventually walk away from you.”
According to Angela, the word for “shoes” in Mandarin is similar to the word for “bad luck” or “evil”.
Commentators chimed in, adding that for those who have recently bought their partner a pair of shoes, there is a superstition that all you have to do is accept £1 from them to reverse bad luck.
They are essentially buying shoes from you, so it’s not a gift anymore.
Angela shared another video with other gift superstitions shared by her followers in the comments.
Some have said that you should never buy someone a watch or perfume, because their love for you will dry up – like seconds on a watch – or, accordingly, disappear – like the scent of your favorite Eau de Parfum.
Consider yourself forewarned.
Do you have a story you want to share?
Contact us at MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.
MORE: Is TikTok’s “boyfriend air” theory really relevant?
MORE: ‘No Rules’: TikToker is hated for cutting open a vintage dress to make an evening gown, but why can’t she?
MORE: Looking for love in stores? To do this, there is a secret dating code in the supermarket.
Rush Hour Crush – love (well, lust) is all around us
Visit Metro’s Hour Crush online every weekday at 4:30 pm.
Tell us about your rush hour hobbies by posting them here and you can see your post posted on the site.
