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What’s made in Chelsea… but not unbearable like the posh kids on the reality show? Chelsea boots, of course!
The Chelsea boot has been a classic wardrobe staple for decades, for both men and women. But just what do we know about the style that gave all other shapes and silhouettes the boot?
What is a Chelsea boot?
Chelsea boots are close-fitting ankle boots which usually feature stretchy elastic panels – a mark of innovation dating back to when the boots were first introduced. Many Chelsea boots also have a loop or fabric tab at the back to allow for easy pulling on and off, a classic feature from the boots’ Victorian origins.
Most evidence suggests that the first Chelsea boot was designed by Queen Victoria's bootmaker, Mr J Sparkes-Hall in 1837. It was said that he created the pair of ankle height boots with elastic inserts either side, to make them easy to pull on and off for her majesty.
Since then, Chelsea boots have become much less rigid and regal and have been revamped, reimagined and rebirthed by brands including Timberland and Dr Martens. At EMP, we have Chelsea boots from brands like these available in a variety of styles and sizes for men and women, as well as styles with chunkier heels and new features.
Where does the name ‘Chelsea boots’ come from?
Chelsea boots inherited their name from their popularity in Chelsea, an affluent and trendy area of London, during the fifties and sixties, particularly on the ‘mod’ scene – which had bands like The Kinks and the Rolling Stones leading the scene.
How to style Chelsea boots
Part of the reason for the enduring popularity of Chelsea boots is their versatility: they can be worn as part of formal or casual outfits, whether with ripped jeans and band t-shirts or suits and dresses. No matter the occasion or the dress code, Chelsea boots are a wise investment that won’t look out of place anytime, anywhere.
For men, Chelsea boots look great paired with blazers, chinos and suits as an alternative to more formal work shoes, like brogues and Oxfords. For women, Chelsea boots can be worn well with formal pants or skinny jeans, as well as casual skirts and dresses, either with tights in cooler weather or bare legs in the summer for a cool, rock vibe.
EMP’s Chelsea boots include the sort of styles and materials you’d traditionally expect – black and leather – but, in classic us style, we’ve also found some of the more alternative Chelsea boots that play with colours, prints and fabrics. From flower power prints to vegan leather Chelsea boots, we’ve taken a mod classic and made it even more modern! Grab your pair today and give all of your other bland shoes the (Chelsea) boot.