Chelsea Boots Guide: Your new favorite everyday boot
From royal beginnings to London’s leadership, the Chelsea boot is deeply rooted in British history, from the Victorian era through the swinging 60s to the current century.
The iconic boot design has proven to be a wardrobe staple thanks to its ability to transition between casual and formal wear. That’s why we thought such a versatile shoe deserves some attention and who knows, you might find your new favorite shoe in the process.
Without further ado, here is your ultimate guide to Chelsea boots, how they came to be and how they have become synonymous with sophisticated elegance and British culture.
Chelsea boot style
The recognizable Chelsea boot style is recognized by the lack of laces, the smooth top and the elastic inserts on the sides. They are usually tight-fitting, ankle-high boots made of leather or suede.
They also usually have a leather or rubber sole with a low heel and since they have no laces, they have a distinctive pull tab at the back of the collar to make them easier to put on.
Traditionally they were plain, but some have since evolved with brogue perforations for a more decorative style and some even have thick soles.
Where do Chelsea boots come from?
Queen Victoria and her personal shoemaker, Joseph Sparks Hall, are often referred to as the most famous shoemakers. Queen Victoria commissioned Sparkes Hall to develop a boot suitable for walking and riding.
Sparkes Hall first called her “J. Sparkes Hall’s patent elastic ankle boots”. After receiving his patent, he claimed, “She [Queen Victoria] walks about in them every day, and thus gives the strongest proof of the value they add to the invention.”
The boot then became popular among men and women for hiking and riding due to its robust design and elastic wedge, which was only made possible by the invention of vulcanized rubber. Also known as ‘paddock boots’, they are easy to slip on and off at the end of a ride or muddy walk.
How Chelsea boots got their name?
The Chelsea boot takes its name from its popularity in the 50s and 60s, the era of fashion and culture. The name probably comes from its association with King’s Road, a wealthy fashion district in Chelsea, London, which was home to socialites and is often referred to as the “Chelsea Set”.
The group included fashion icons such as Mary Quant and Jean Shrimpton, who favored Chelsea boots and considered them the ultimate casual accessory. The term “Chelsea” soon began to refer to the new, fashionable clothing style.
Artists and musicians such as the Beatles and the Rolling Stones favored them and influenced their popularity, including Anello & Davide’s “Beatle Boot” variant with a higher Cuban heel.
Why is the Chelsea boot so popular?
While other boots go in and out of fashion, the Chelsea boot is still at the forefront of fashion. Their versatility and classic style have made them popular with both men and women since the 50s and 60s.
Not only have they been fashionable among celebrities throughout history, including in movies like Star Wars and the Avengers TV series, their minimalist look also means you can dress them up or down. Their designs give the wearer a timeless charm and exude sophistication, elegance and British heritage
What are the best Chelsea boots for men?
There is no ‘best Chelsea boots for men’ as there are different models for different occasions.
We recommend the Godwin or Godfrey Chelsea boot in black calf leather for the gentle and sophisticated gentleman looking for a comfortable and stylish boot for the office or to wear with a suit.
These boots offer the classic and iconic elegant black Chelsea boot worn with suits in the London fashion era that is still relevant and modern today. If you combine them with brown or blue suits, then of course choose a brown, dark leaf or suede boot.
Tamar C Chelsea boots in almond leather
A throwback to country walking and riding boots, Chelsea boots are also ideal for countrymen. The best Chelsea boot for the modern country gentleman would be the Tamar style. The robust Commando rubber sole makes this robust boot perfect for nature walks.
Finally, thanks to the decorative brogues, this particular boot is ideal for the gentleman who wants a more casual look.
What to wear with Chelsea boots?
As shown earlier, the styles of Chelsea boots for men and women are very versatile, so you can wear them for casual, formal occasions or anywhere in between for smart casual events.
For a casual Chelsea boot style for men, pair the Tamar with jeans, a plaid shirt and a waxed jacket to create the perfect casual country look.
Godfrey D Suede Chelsea Boots
In our guide to the best shoes to wear with chinos, we also recommend pairing Chelsea boots with chinos to reduce the formality of your outfit to smart-casual. You can also create a smart casual look by pairing light chinos with suede or grainy Chelsea boots,
as these are more casual materials. This combination allows you to create a luxurious and distinctive look without making it seem too formal.
Victoria R Brogue Chelsea Boot with wing hood in burgundy leather
The aptly named Victoria Chelsea Boot offers casual country style for women. Pair this style with your favorite jeans, a chunky knit and a duffle coat. Just like the modern ladies of the 60s, the classic Chelsea boots pair easily with skirts.
Avril D Chelsea boot in suede calfskin
Similarly, you can create a formal or business casual look with a Chelsea boot for women. The higher profile and elegant look of the Avril Chelsea Boot easily complements an A-line or pencil skirt and is perfect for an office setting or a job interview.
Chelsea boots Cheaney
At Cheaney, we undeniably love Chelsea boots and believe they should be a staple in any man or woman’s wardrobe. They offer versatile comfort and are easy to put on and take off. Any city dweller, country woman or gentleman can benefit from a pair of these boots in their outfit arsenal. Click to Buy
Browse our selection of handmade Chelsea boots for men and women today and find your new favorite shoes. Click for more