TikTok's Red Theory Trend Can Instantly Elevate The Boring Picture Frame On Your Wall

TikTok can be a great place to find home decor hacks you would have never dreamed of. Alongside the dance trends, get-ready-with-me vlogs, and cooking videos are plenty of home renovators sharing innovative DIY tips. And this viral TikTok home decor trend, coined the "unexpected red theory" is one such gem of a find. The unexpected red theory posits that a burst of the hue can add dimension and vitality to a living space. Interior designers agree that a surprising bold accent can elevate your space to a new level. One trending way to do this is to use red picture frames. Whether you're building a perfectly-laid out gallery wall or installing a large statement piece, a scarlet-hued frame can make it pop.

Interior Designer Erika Dale, founder of Erika Dale Interior Design, spoke exclusively with House Digest saying, "A picture frame is the perfect small accent to introduce your pop of red. It is a minimal pop of color, yet impactful. It can really make your art sing!" And, the surprise factor will keep your home feeling chic. "The power of doing something unique and unanticipated with the design of your space is unmatched and undeniable," Dale said.

"The surprise of this expected colorful element immediately catches your eye," Dale exclusively told House Digest. And it's not just a fad. "Designers have been using the element of surprise to grab attention and create visual interest since as long as the profession has existed," Dale said. "So even though the new term has been circulating TikTok, the general premise of the unexpected red theory is time-tested and here to stay."

Dale explained that part of this theory is the fact that red can create "sophisticated dissonance" from the rest of a space. "Red is a powerful, attention-grabbing primary hue used to make most other colors, so it has the ability to fit into and ground any palette." Keep in mind that there are varying tones of red. So, you can play with which hues look best with your current color scheme to create a pop that's also complementary.

It's also not all that hard to find creative ways to incorporate red into your home decor, and it's actually better to start small. "As with any design trend, if red isn't for you but you force it, you may tire of your pop of red, so start small in case it isn't vibing with your home," Dale noted when speaking exclusively to House Digest, saying that small color pops will be efficient in achieving this look. 

Dale recommends using paint to turn a typical frame "bright or deeper cranberry red" or using accessories to add a small touch of red to your space if a frame isn't your first choice. Start with a red lamp, vase, or other small accent piece that's simple to switch out if you decide the hue is too much. For example, a piece like this red stool from Wayfair or this blanket from Target can give you the low-commitment bit of red you need to try this TikTok trend.