How to Wear the Popular Chelsea Boots
There are numerous choices when it comes to footwear. We all have our preferences regarding the style, material, and type of shoes we wear, but one thing’s for sure – they should be comfortable and suited to the weather. Since the weather conditions aren’t as predictable, we often turn to versatile shoes that we can wear on many occasions. One such type of shoe is the boot. Women’s boots can be found in plenty of styles, and with so many choices, it’s easier to find a pair that we like but it’s harder to find quality ones. Ankle boots are a popular option for women since they can be worn with everything and still look good, and one type of boots that are usually ankle length are the Chelsea boots.
What are Chelsea Boots?
Chelsea boots were first invented in the Victorian era by the Queen’s shoemaker Joseph Sparkes Hall. They were worn by men and women and used for everyday walking and horse riding. These boots are usually ankle height, close fit, and elastic side panel that enables easy putting on and taking off. The adding of the panel was made possible by the invention of vulcanised rubber by Charles Goodyear.
The name derives from the boots’ popularity during the 50s and 60s in Chelsea, a London area. Their quality and versatility made them a footwear staple and, nowadays, you can find a wide array of chelsea boots for woman, varying in style and heel height.
What Defines a Chelsea Boot?
Some of the characteristics of original Chelsea boots are:
- Elastic Panels – This is what makes a boot a Chelsea boot. This is what made them popular in the first place and remains to be the characteristic feature. They have no laces, which means you won’t waste time lacing them up. These panels are located on the sides of the boot, above the ankle. They are usually the same colour but different shade from the rest of the boot and have a U shape.
- Ankle Height – The first designs were only ankle-high to protect the ankles and give good support to the entire foot. These made them desirable among horseback riders and country people. But as trends are evolving, there are many women's chelsea boots with variations in height and they can be a lot higher than the ankle.
- Low Heel – Since it was created for walking or riding, the heel was low in order to be more comfortable and suited to men and women. But now you can find them with any heel height, depending on your preference. Some would argue that that’s not a Chelsea boot, and they might be right, but since the elasticated sides are their most prominent feature, as long as they have it they can be called Chelsea style.
- Rounded Toes – The characteristic Chelsea boot has round, non-adorned toes. However, you can find them with various designs, like brogue patterns, and some even have pointed toes.
- Quality Upper – The chelsea women's boots are made of two pieces of leather, one for the front and one for the back. They are joined on the side by the elasticated panel. In this way, they’re tough and long-lasting. Some manufacturers even make them from one piece of leather, which gives an even cleaner look and higher durability.
- Snug Fit – These boots follow your foot to give a close fit that creates a beautiful form. They also feature a pull tug on the back to help you put them on easily.
Why Are Chelsea Boots so Popular?
All of the mentioned characteristics make chelsea boots for woman the ultimate footwear that everyone should own. Besides leather, which is the original material for making these boots, another popular option is suede. This makes them suitable for various occasions, no matter the formality.
Women’s Chelsea Boots Come in Several Materials
Leather Chelsea Boots
The leather Chelsea boots are perfect for business or business-casual style because of their clean, professional look. Black leather looks sleek with everything and suits any smart wear, while brown works for more semi-formal looks. Leather is also the leading material for wintertime since it’s more durable and stronger than suede. So, if you’re planning to wear your chelsea womens boots during the winter months, leather would be your best bet because it’ll keep your feet warm and protected. Also, they’re more practical than the lace-up boots and not as bulky as the other types, which makes them the ideal choice that will give a touch of elegance to any winter look.
Suede Chelsea Boots
Suede is the more informal option of Chelsea boots. They’re more fit for casual clothes, which means you can wear them seven days a week if your job doesn’t require formal wear. They come in various colours and will make every outfit look like you’ve put effort and thought into it.
There are also the brogue Chelsea boots that are the most relaxed and casual version. They aren’t the ideal choice for formal occasions but will give a rugged vibe to any smart-casual outfit.
It’s the simplicity of these boots that makes them a great option for most outfits but it’s also the thing that restricts them. They are "too simple" to be worn with evening and party dresses so you’d better stick to heels.
How to Choose Your Chelsea Boots?
When buying your chelsea boots for women make sure you get the right size since you wouldn’t want them to look bad just because you didn’t get the sizing right. High-quality boots are true to size, so you wouldn’t have a problem picking the ones that fit you. The boot should be snug to your foot but not too tight. Since many brands make them in a variety of styles, you can try various models to see which pair is the right one. If you’re purchasing online, check the site’s sizing guide.
Typically, Chelsea boots are made with leather soles but some can be made with rubber ones. Good-quality rubber is fit for everyday wear, especially if you’re using the boots for work. No matter which one you choose, look for soles that are made to last and easy to repair in case of damage.
