Women’s Chelsea boots | Update your boot collection

Are you looking for a boot that will be a classic in your closet for many years? In a world with ever-changing styles, the iconic Chelsea boot has been a staple for women (and men) for almost two centuries.

6 options for Chelsea boots for fall

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What is special about Chelsea boots?

The key characteristics of the Chelsea boot timeless design include:

  1. Close-fitting
  2. Ankle height
  3. Elastic side panels
  4. A fabric tab at the back of the book

The Chelsea boot’s classic design was designed to be a perfect fit while still easy to take on and off.

Why is it called a Chelsea boot?

Chelsea boots date back to just before the Victorian era. They were worn by men and women alike. According to Wikipedia, Joseph Sparkes Hall, Queen Victoria’s shoemaker, claimed to have designed the Chelsea boot, calling them “J. Sparkes Hall’s Patent Elastic Ankle Boots.” But the name “Chelsea boot” was first used by London cobbler Thomas Cotton in 1831, before Queen Victoria’s reign.

How to wear Chelsea boots

The iconic design of this pair of shoes is versatile and can be worn with multiple styles of pants, a formal suit, and even skirts. My three favorite ways to style are:

  1. Skinny jeans, with the bottom of the jeans just brushing or slightly shorter than the top of the boot
  2. Rolled or cuffed jeans, with the bottom of the roll just above the top of the boot
  3. With a straight skirt (or a straight dress) and a leather jacket

Do you wear socks with Chelsea boots?

I do recommend wearing socks with the boots. Because most Chelsea boots cover the ankle bone, ankle socks work especially well. Taller socks can be worn in cold weather with skinny jeans, pulling the socks over the jeans.

What type of jeans to wear with Chelsea boots

Skinny jeans are a very popular and classic combination. Straight legged jeans, usually rolled or cuffed, also complement the style of the Chelsea boot.

Where to buy Chelsea boots

You won’t have to look very hard! These boots are everywhere this fall, and at many different price points, from Nordstrom to Kohls. Even Walmart (think free shipping and in-store free returns) is carrying several styles this fall.

My fall capsule includes a pair from L.L. Bean, but they have since sold out, so I wanted to share some similar options I personally love.

Casual Chelsea Boots - 3 options

First, this pair of slight wedge boots from Nordstrom really caught my eye. I love the nuance of the wedge heel. They come in four colors. If you need a wide or narrow width, this may the best option for you as they come in both in addition to regular width.

Wildwood Chelsea Boot

Next, are the Northbound Chelsea boots made by Dr. Scholl’s. I have other Dr. Scholl’s shoes, and am a big fan of how comfortable they are while maintaining clean lines. I tried this specific option in black at DSW last weekend, then went home and ordered the “chili red” color pictured below. This option also comes in four colors, and offers wide width. Speaking of DSW – I didn’t know their VIP club had a free option, so make sure to check that out if you like these.

Dr Scholls Northbound Chelsea Boot

The style of this third option, the Rocket Dog Maylon Chelsea boot, is more similar to other styles of ankle boots, but still has the key characteristics of the Chelsea boot with the side elastic and pull tab in the back. I like it because it has a little more of a fun western flare to it. You’ll find it in three colors at Kohl’s.

Rocket Dog Maylon Chelsea Boot

What about Chelsea rain boots or snow boots?

Have you seen those cute little ankle rain boots? They are also Chelsea boots! There are rain boots and snow boots also.

Rain or Snow Chelsea boots - 3 options

I love the stripes on the elastic of this pair of Pendleton rain boots.

Pendleton Stripe Chelsea Boot

And how adorable are the gingham inserts on these Barbour brand Wellington Chelsea boots?

Mallow Wellington Chelsea boot

And if you need a new pair of snow boots, Bogs makes this pair of Chelsea boots with a plush lining. They come in two colors (green and taupe).

Bogs Chelsea Snow Boots in green

With so many choices, you are sure to find a Chelsea boot that suits you.

Best boots this fall - CHelsea boots for fall.

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