14 reasons you need a Chelsea boot in your life.
what are Chelsea Boots?
Chelsea boots. While you might not know that Queen Victoria is to thank for the invention of Chelsea boots, they’re a footwear style that has changed very little since its introduction to the world.
It was created for the petite royal who requested boots crafted so that her laces didn’t get stuck on her stirrups while riding a horse.
Pro Tip 😎
The iconic details of the Chelsea Boots
Constructed with a pull-on design that features a band at each side made of elastic (the Queen’s 1837 version was made with cotton-topped wire…) that allows for the boot to expand and contract as it’s being pulled over your foot.
In the 1950s, they expanded in popularity outside the equestrian world, and gained their name from London’s Chelsea neighborhood where they re-emerged with fervor, now expanding to the far reaches of the world.
how to wear chelsea boots
Though typically made of leather with elastic panels that reach to your ankle, designers have taken the trend and run with it, crafting everything from sneakers to all-weather wellies in the silhouette.
What’s more, some even brought the height of the boot up to our knees for a more stylized effect.
The Chelsea boot is a great, elegant style that dresses up just as well as down, pairing expertly with skirts and distressed denim alike with ease.
Chelsea Boots Options
If you’re looking for something to really tackle the elements, the famous Hunter Boots makes a Chelsea boot. Or if you’re looking for something that can do it all, you can’t go wrong with Sorel.
If you accessorize to the stars, opt for ankle embellishments like this Gucci pair. Or if you prefer a grown-up grunge look, you can’t go can’t wrong with a pair of Dr. Martens with their yellow stitching. It’s truly a boot for everyone.
Ahead, shop the best of the best right now…all with our stamp of approval.
OUR TOP PICKS
Perhaps the most classic of them all, shop Manolo Blahnik’s ankle height black Chelsea boot with an understated lug sole.
It’s weather-friendly, but still looks sleek and pairs as perfectly with wide leg jeans or dresses.
Beloved sherpa boot brand Ugg crafts much more than just that, offering chunky ’90s-inspired Chelsea boots for the coldest and wettest days of the season.
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Make white work for winter with these chunky block-heel Chelsea boots in a bright shade of off-white that will stand out no matter how you style them.
If you are a fan of chunky heel, also try retro chunky loafers that are so on trend!
For another neutral option that isn’t classic black, go for a brown leather style, like these from Loeffler Randall with a chunky low heel. Complete your cold winter day outfit with a cute beanie!
If you are looking for an updated take on your rainproof wellies, look no further than Hunter Boots.
They’ve crafted a pair of bright yellow Chelsea style boots that are great for monsoons and drizzles alike.
Keep warm in Dr. Martens’ take on the Chelsea boot trend, with a pull-on-and-go style that’s toasty and lined with sherpa for the coldest days of the year.
Don’t forget to take your heated gloves out.
Especially for wet days of winter, shop Sorel for all of your performance-ready boots.
They don’t stop at classic snow boot styles, however, offering a stylish Chelsea boot that’s not only edgy but boasts a heel as well. This will be your most stylish apres ski boots!
Keep it cozy with a pair of Chelsea boots that are sherpa lined and a lug sole that’s great for snowy days.
For your perfect ski outfit, check out our stylish ski suit and ski jacket guides.
If you’re looking to dip your toe into the chunkier set, but don’t want to go full-blown lug sole, these are the kicks for you.
This Chelsea boots feature a slightly bulkier bottom but still feel quite understated, whether day or night.
On the edgier end of the spectrum falls this Chelsea boot style from Gucci. Not only are you shopping for a lug sole, but also a block heel and embellished ankle detail.
Go for a slim Chelsea boot style that’s great for more dressed-up events, like these from 3.1 Phillip Lim.
You’ll love the comfortable ankle band that comes up above the leather top.
For those seeking a head-turning style, shop this Chloé Chelsea boot that’s colorful and whimsical, with a bright rubber sole and an insert that looks like a multi-colored sock.
These J.Crew booties are shorter in the rise and have that sleek and narrow style that harkens back to the 1960s originals you love.
Yes, you can marry Chelsea boots and knee-highs, styling these kicks from Staud with ‘70s-inspired miniskirts and skinny jeans.
Pro Tip
😎The style is sometimes difficult to pull on, but focus on the fit of the Chelsea boots once they’re on your feet. They should be snug—not loose—but not painful, either.
Leave it to Queen Victoria to invent one of the most long-standing iconic boot styles of the world, all the way back in the 1830s—and one that you still need to shop as an ultimate wardrobe essential today.
What to Look For in chelsea boots
Materials
Most Chelsea boots are made of leather, or sometimes faux leather. Boots see all the grime of winter, especially a city girls’ boots, so make sure you head to your local cobbler for a waterproofing treatment.
Whenever the water stops beading, it’s time for a touch-up.
Maintenance is key to the longevity of your Chelsea boots (and keeping your feet dry!).
Design Details
The Chelsea boot sets itself apart from a regular ankle boot with its trademark elastic side panel.
You may think of a plain black boot at first, but there are plenty of design details to find the perfect take on this classic closet staple.
Designers have reimagined this style, with everything from chunky heels to platforms, lug soles to flat soles, and ankle-grazing to knee-high.
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