How to Wear Chelsea Boots: 4 Chelsea Boot Outfits

Chelsea boots are ankle-high booties known for their rounded toe and tight elastic side panel or gusset. Whereas most boots secure to your foot with laces or a zipper, Chelsea boots utilize the signature flexible and stretchy panel to get a tight fit. Shoemakers also add a loop or pull tab at the opening, making it easy to slip these ankle-high boots on and off. The classic Chelsea boot features suede or calf leather uppers and rubber soles, but bootmakers create variations, such as pointed-toe versions or boots with a higher Cuban heel.

You can wear Chelsea boots year-round, but black leather Chelsea boots might make your feet too hot in the summertime. As a low-cut ankle boot, Chelsea boot styles are ideal for temperate weather conditions, making them an excellent choice for spring and fall fashion. They also make great winter boots if you wear thick socks for extra warmth.

The low heels on Chelsea boots make these shoes adaptable for casual and formal occasions. Here are a few styling tips and Chelsea boots outfit ideas for different dress codes:

• Business casual: As a versatile shoe, you can wear a pair of Chelsea boots to work if your office has a business casual dress code. Style your boots with a pair of khakis, a collared shirt, and a blazer for a fashionable look that is professional and chic. Brown suede or dark brown leather Chelsea boots are office-appropriate, as are classic black Chelsea boots.
• Casual look: Wear a mini skirt or denim jeans with a pair of Chelsea boots for a classic everyday outfit. Style black jeans with brown Chelsea boots, letting your pants fall just above the top of the boot, or tuck your skinny jeans into the shoe. If you opt for a mini skirt, wear the combo with black tights. Depending on the season, pair your leather boots with a white T-shirt or cashmere turtleneck. Finish the look with your favorite casual outerwear, such as a denim or bomber jacket.
• Formal: You can style Chelsea boots as an alternative to dress shoes like brogues or Oxford shoes. Wear Italian leather Chelsea boots with a classic black or grey suit and a white button-down.
• Smart casual: Trade in your loafers for Chelsea boots for an informal dinner or social event. Wear suede Chelsea boots with dress pants, such as slim-fit chinos or slacks, and a blazer or black leather jacket.

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