When it comes to compiling the perfect capsule wardrobe for the Autumn and Winter months, there are few items as vital as a pair of reliable and trustworthy winter boots. If you, like us, like to get a lot of wear out of your purchases, a classic Chelsea boot will ensure that you get timeless year round wear from just one purchase. Offering transeasonal style, you can wear your Chelsea boots all year round with the help of some clever styling tricks. Chelsea boots tie a whole outfit together with ease, thanks to their laid-back profile and our quality materials and craftsmanship, so you are sure to get optimum wearability and versatility with your purchase. Whether you are looking for a modern chunky Chelsea boot with a serious attitude, or a sweet suede style to wear with floral dresses, we take a look at some of our favourite Chelsea boot styling tips and tricks and tackle some of your most asked Chelsea boot queries.
What are Chelsea boots?
The contemporary Chelsea boot is characterised by its close-fitting design, ankle height and elastic side panel, often styled with a pull tab or loop for both men’s and ladies’ fashion. The traditional Chelsea boot has been a British fashion favourite for decades, with very little being done to alter the design after nearly two hundred years. A favourite due to their uncomplicated style and effortless wear, Chelsea boots have evolved into a classic style worn by all ages.
Are Chelsea boots comfortable?
Absolutely! Chelsea boots give comfortable wear and effortless put on thanks to their simple pull on silhouette. The deep elastic insert allows for flexible wear and a comfortable fit around the ankle, as well as aiding put on and take off. For easy application, look for styles which feature a pull tab at the back of the heel, and for a luxuriously comfortable fit, opt for our styles which feature a leather insock.
Do Chelsea boots come in different fittings?
Like all of our boots, our collection of Chelsea boots has styles in a wide variety of fittings so that you can find your perfect fit. With styles imagined in standard, wider and wide fit profiles, there is a style to suit every foot! Click here to view our guide to finding your perfect boot fit, or here to check out our shoe size guide.
What are the origins of Chelsea boots?
If historical evidence stands correct, the first pair of Chelsea boots were designed by Queen Victoria’s bootmaker, Mr J Sparkes-Hall in 1837 for her majesty herself, selecting the silhouette due to their easy put on properties. However, this invention would have never been possible without the prior invention of vulcanized rubber by Charles Goodyear (whose son went on to invent the Goodyear Welt). By the early 1890s, the Chelsea boot had been adopted by equestrians across the nation and became known as the ‘paddock boot’, gaining momentum through agricultural crowds as it was both protective and easy to slip on at a moment’s notice. Next came the 1950s, which saw widespread adoption of the Chelsea Boot, and its contemporary naming. Worn by the cool art set who hung out around Chelsea, the ‘Chelsea boot’ title as we know it today was born. Popularised by the Beatles, the mods soon followed, captivated by the Italian inspired design and classic look.
Can you wear Chelsea boots in the summer?
Absolutely! Chelsea boots are a timeless style which look fantastic all year round. The Great British summer is known to have it’s chilly days (or weeks!) and Chelsea boots are a great option for staying warm but still looking stylish. In the summer months, why not try pairing your Chelsea boots with some cropped jeans, or a floral midi dress for a contrasting look?
What to wear with Chelsea boots
When it comes to what outfits to wear with Chelsea boots, there really is no limit! Chelsea boots are an endlessly versatile choice which offers countless styling options, for both casual and smart casual settings. For off-duty looks, why not try a pair of suede Chelsea boots, which will look great paired with jeans or chinos. Or, for a smarter approach, try a pair of polished leather Chelsea boots which have a more formal look. For celebrity fashion inspiration look to royalty turned fashionista Kate Middleton, who often wears her polished Chelsea boots with classic skinny jeans for casual days, or, for a boho look, look to well dressed Harry Styles for styling inspiration.
How to wear Chelsea boots with jeans
Jeans are the perfect partner for a pair of trusty Chelsea boots! Both time honoured fashion icons which have reigned supreme for decades, the off-duty pairing is a match made in heaven. No matter what your favourite style of jeans, they are sure to look fantastic styled with Chelsea boots. If you love skinny jeans, why not try tucking them into boots of a similar shade for leg lengthening appeal? Or, if you prefer a chunkier Chelsea boot, try pairing them with a wider hem or straight leg jean that will balance out the heaviness of the shoe. Finally, if your go-to style of jeans are the contemporary mom-jeans, try pairing these with a pair of suede Chelsea boots for an effortless casual style.
Can you wear Chelsea boots to work in an office?
When it comes to Chelsea boots and office wear, there are ways to make the casual wardrobe heroes more formal and office-ready. Look for styles which are crafted from polished or high-shine leather or faux leather for a more put together look, which will also ensure that the sleek look can be maintained and looked after with polishing and aftercare to keep the boots looking smart. Darker shades can also appear more formal or professional than light or bright shades, and look great at all months of the year.