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The 15 Best Chelsea Boots for Women, Starting at $30

Step into fall in style

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A little bit Beatles, and a lot model off-duty, the Chelsea boot has long been a wardrobe staple. We’ve always gravitated to Chelsea boots due to their easy wearability, and love that they come in enough styles to justify owning multiple pairs (rain boots, $130, and faux-fur lined Doc Martens, $190? Sold).

So, as we enter into boot season, we scoured the market, reviewed plenty of pairs and talked to two experts to determine the best Chelsea boots for women. Whether you’re looking for the warmest pair to finish off your head-to-toe urban explorer look in the depths of winter (we’ve got the warmest coats covered here at PureWow, too), or need Chelsea boots that are a cinch to pull on and off in the TSA line, the picks below will get your shopping list off to a fall-worthy start.

The Best Chelsea Boots for Women at a Glance

1

PureWow Reader-Favorite Chelsea Boots

Nordstrom Miller 2 Leather Boots

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2

Best Platform Chelsea Boots

Sorel Caribou X Chelsea WP Boots

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3

Best Affordable Chelsea Boots

Dream Pairs Retro Chelsea Boots

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4

Best Designer Chelsea Boots

Tory Burch Double T Leather Chelsea Boot

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5

Best Heeled Chelsea Boots

Nisolo Leather Chelsea Boot

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Meet the Experts

  • Talia Abbas is Glamour's senior commerce editor, where she oversees the title's shopping content, making her the expert on all things fashion. She has contributed to Teen Vogue, Condé Nast Traveler, and SELF
  • Amberly Reese brings her artistic eye, style expertise, and 10+ years of industry experience to her role as a stylist at Stitch Fix for the past 5.5 years. Along with styling her own women’s, men’s and kids clients, Amberly trains stylists and provides continued education, ensuring clients have the best experience possible when it comes to building their wardrobe.

Are Chelsea Boots Still in Style in 2023?

We’re happy to report that not only are Chelsea boots still in style, they’ve experienced a resurgence in popularity and a refresh in styling to coincide with the rise in comfort-forward fashion (Dad sneakers, Normcore, Cabincore, etc.). As Reese puts it, “Chelsea boots remain stylish because they hit all of the high points of a timeless design: versatility, comfort, durability and a minimalist aesthetic. Their classic silhouette allows them to transcend seasonal trends, making them a reliable and versatile choice for any occasion year-round.” Chelsea boots are a step up, style-wise, from your everyday comfortable sneaker, yet in many cases offer more support and an equal level of comfort while elevating your outfit.

How to Wear Chelsea Boots in 2023?

One of the reasons we (and our fashion experts!) love Chelsea boots is because they can be worn with just about any look in your closet. Abbas swears by Chelsea boots with everything from “a slip skirt or regular straight-leg jeans” (bonus points if they offer “a little height boost”). While one of the benefits of Chelsea boots is their versatility, look for options that have a little something special to set them apart. Reese recommends a lug sole boot (like this one from Soda Pilot, from $30) as we head into autumn weather, or a style with a bit of sheen to keep things interesting (look no further than this heeled pair from Nisolo, $220; $198). If you’re unsure where to start, try something classic and simple like dark-wash jeans and a white button-up shirt for a no-fail look that’s appropriate for whatever you may have on your schedule.

How We Chose the Best Chelsea Boots for Women

As we enter into the fall season, there’s no shortage of boots to pick from, so we had our work cut out for us to narrow down this list to the best of the best. Using guidance from our experts and shoppers (read: we pored over dozens of reviews from real buyers to get the straight talk on what worked and what didn’t) we assessed it all.  From fit (narrow, wide, etc.), material (leather vs synthetic), claims (waterproof for the win!) and style, we checked the specs to ensure we’re recommending boots that’ll hold up both in function and looks for this season and beyond.

The 6 Boot Styles That Will Rule Fall 2023


PureWow Reader-Favorite Chelsea Boots

1. Nordstrom Miller 2 Leather Boots

Miller

  • What We Like: just enough platform (1.5 inches) to give a bit of lift, leather at an excellent price
  • What We Don’t Like: water-resistant instead of repellant, some reviewers say they run narrow
  • Size Range: 4 to 13 
  • Material: leather upper, rubber sole

Starting off strong with a PureWow reader favorite, Nordstrom’s own Miller 2 water-resistant boot was a top pick during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and shows no sign of slipping down the list. The leather upper is treated to be water-resistant for those rainy and snowy winter days, and you can take your pick of multiple goes-with-everything neutral shades from black to burgundy. We’re a fan of the sleek, minimalist design that makes the boots the perfect footwear to pair with everything from a cozy sweater dress to your favorite jeans.

Best Platform Chelsea Boots

2. Sorel Caribou X Chelsea WP Boots

Sorel

  • What We Like: four color options, high fashion look, waterproof leather
  • What We Don’t Like: priced on the higher end
  • Size Range: 5 to 11
  • Material: leather upper, rubbersole

Futuristic fashion meets function in these platform Chelsea boots. With more than just looks to set them apart, the Sorel Caribou x Chelsea boot is fully waterproof with angled goring on the sides for easy on and off with a hint of edge. They’re one of Stitch Fix stylist Reese’s top picks for this season, and we couldn’t agree more. If you want to step outside the box a bit while still keeping things neutral overall, try the Canoe/Tippet colorway that has a pop of color in the neon green sole.

Best Affordable Chelsea Boots

3. Dream Pairs Retro Chelsea Boots

Dream Pairs

  • What We Like: block heel, well-priced
  • What We Don’t Like: not real leather or suede
  • Size Range: 5 to 11
  • Material: faux leather/suede upper, TPR anti-slip sole

We get it, there are a million fabulous things to buy for fall (like sneakers fit for royalty, or the best down coats to beat the winter winds) and budgets are real. Enter these perfectly pointy faux-leather beauties that can elevate your seasonal wardrobe (and your height, thanks to that 2.5-inch block heel) for just under $40. Reviewers say “the block heels are perfect for some added height without feeling wobbly or unstable,” and that they’re both “supportive and comfortable.” We won't judge if you buy them in all four colors!

Best Designer Chelsea Boots

4. Tory Burch Double T Leather Chelsea Boot

Tory Burch

  • What We Like: subtle designer accents, adjustable ankle strap
  • What We Don’t Like: brown colorway is less sleek than the black with a contrasting gusset panel
  • Size Range: 5 to 11
  • Material: leather upper, rubber sole

Designer items can be aspirational wardrobe-elevators, but you don’t always have to be covered in logos to feel chic. These Tory Burch Chelsea boots are the definition of understated elegance with a discreetly embossed logo on the adjustable ankle strap, and are made of the highest quality lightweight leather. If you’re looking for a monochrome look, the black is the perfect high-end basic to add to your wardrobe, while the brown has a hint of colorblocking with the contrast gusset panel.

Best Heeled Chelsea Boots

5. Nisolo Leather Chelsea Boot

Nisolo

  • What We Like: slip-resistant heel caps, shock-absorbing memory foam insoles
  • What We Don’t Like: only available in one color, need to size up a half size
  • Size Range: 5 to 11
  • Material: leather upper, rubber sole

We love the urban cowgirl vibe for all seasons, but especially during fall when you can pair a ruffled boho dress with the perfect pair of boots. If you’re not ready to go all in with a pair of cowboy boots, these Western-inspired Chelsea boots are the way to nod to the style without looking like all you’re missing is your horse. This “Chelsea boot with a lift” has a 3-inch heel to give the leg-lengthening look of heels with the comfort of a boot (the memory foam cushioned insoles are next level) and are made of high-quality, waterproof leather that PureWow Editor-in-Chief Jillian Quint calls “buttery soft.” Nisolo is committed to sustainability in their product manufacturing, so even though these are on the higher priced end of our list, you can feel good about where your hard-earned dollars are going. Reviewers say to size up a half size, and with that minor tweak they’ll be your new wardrobe staple.

Best Durable Chelsea Boots

6. Blundstone 510 Leather Chelsea Boots

Blundstone

  • What We Like: double loops ensure they’re easy to pull on, removable moisture-wicking insert
  • What We Don’t Like: may feel tight before being fully broken in, unisex sizing means they start at a women’s 6.5
  • Size Range: 6.5 to 14
  • Material: leather upper, rubber sole

These ankle boots by Blundstone are sleek enough to wear to work or out to dinner, but are designed to be super durable and weatherproof, making them a great option for outdoor adventures and inclement weather, too. They offer a ton of support (claiming to reduce shock by 33 percent as you walk!) and are “virtually indestructible” per multiple reviews. So while they don’t come cheap, they are built to last for years and years, making them well worth the investment, in our opinion.

Best Comfortable Chelsea Boots

7. Marc Fisher Padmia Chelsea Boots

Marc Fisher

  • What We Like: comfortable for walking, available in three colors
  • What We Don’t Like: light colors may scuff easily
  • Size Range: 5 to 11
  • Material: faux-leather upper, rubber sole

Many of the boots on this list are comfortable enough to wear day in and day out, but this Marc Fisher pair combines supreme comfort with a pretty affordable price tag, making it our top pick for this category. A supportive, flexible lug sole cushions your feet while also offering enough bounce to make walking as comfortable as possible. Per one review, “Bought these recently and, after having worn them for an eight-hour day with lots of walking around, I couldn't love them more. They’re incredibly comfortable and I got loads of compliments on the off-white color.” Some do mention that the material scuffs fairly easily, but as long as you address it in a timely manner they should be simple to fix and your boots will continue to look fresh and new for a long time.

Best Lug Sole Chelsea Boots

8. Soda Pilot Lug Sole Chelsea Boots

Soda Pilot

  • What We Like: multiple colors, wide width available 
  • What We Don’t Like: can feel a little stiff, light colors scuff easily
  • Size Range: 5.5 to 11
  • Material: faux-leather upper, rubber sole

Over 5,500 reviews and a rating over 4 stars? Clearly, we’re not the only ones who approve of these versatile Chelsea boots. Starting way below $50 and available in a ton of colors, these lug sole boots are a must to round out your autumn wardrobe. We love that this style comes in both wide and regular widths, as well as half sizes, so you’re sure to get the perfect fit. Reviewers say that they wore them “in pouring rain and even stepped in a few puddles” and their feet stayed nice and dry. The waterproof material does lead to a lack of breathability, so keep that in mind when choosing the socks you pair with these all-weather workhorses. A small price to pay for fashion that hits the mark at an excellent price, in our minds!

Best Chelsea Boots for Wide Feet

9. ASOS Wide-Fit Reality Chelsea Boots

Asos

  • What We Like: size run starts at 4, well-priced
  • What We Don’t Like: some reviewers say they’re hard to get on
  • Size Range: 4 to 11
  • Material: faux-leather upper, synthetic sole

This classic Chelsea boot was specifically designed for those with wide feet, and it has extra room throughout so you don’t have to worry about pinching or rubbing in the toe, heel or anywhere in between. And despite the inexpensive price tag, ASOS shoes hold up surprisingly well over time. One downside, however, is that these boots come only in whole sizes, so we’d say opt for the larger over the smaller to ensure your feet are comfortable and have ample room for thick socks. But on the plus side, they do go all the way down to a size 4—a major win for those with small, wide feet. If the shine on these boots isn’t your thing, try the ASOS Simmi London boots which should be equally as comfy for wide feet as the Reality style.

Best Chelsea Rain Boots

10. Merry People Bobbi Rain Boots

Merry People

  • What We Like: stylish, waterproof, lined
  • What We Don’t Like: available in whole sizes only, best to pair with thicker socks as the top opening runs wide
  • Size Range: 5 to 12
  • Material: rubber upper and sole, neoprene lining

Living in Australia sounds like a dream until you look up their weather patterns…and you see you’re just as likely to get a downpour as you are that warm Australian sun. Melbourne-based brand Merry People designed this Chelsea rain boot to withstand the most torrential downpours while not sacrificing style. The neoprene lining makes them extra comfy and flexible, and reviewers swear by these for “festivals, long work shifts or gardening.” Not only are these boots vegan, the natural materials used to make them were tested in sub-zero temperatures so they’ll easily take you from season to season. Since they’re available in whole sizes only, we suggest sizing down for the best fit if you’re in between sizes, as the natural rubber and neoprene lining should stretch over time.

Best Chelsea Boots for Winter

11. Dr. Martens 2976 Leather Chelsea Boots

Dr. Martens

  • What We Like: waterproof, plush lining
  • What We Don’t Like: available in whole sizes only, best to pair with thicker socks as the top opening runs wide
  • Size Range: 5 to 12
  • Material: leather upper, rubber sole, faux-fur lining

These Dr. Martens booties are made from slightly thicker leather than other styles and come with a cozy faux-fur lining that should keep your feet toasty once Jack Frost comes nipping at your toes. We love the signature yellow Dr. Martens stitching at the sole and the subtle color contrast of the white lining against the black leather, making us feel like the ultimate ‘90s ingénue. Although these boots are only available in whole sizes, reviewers who typically wear half sizes say going up to the nearest whole size still fits super well, especially if you factor in a thicker winter sock.

Best Neutral Chelsea Boot That Isn’t Black

12. Juliet Holy Lug Sole Chelsea Boots

Juliet Holy

  • What We Like: available in solids and patterns, comfortable heel height
  • What We Don’t Like: some reviewers say they wore out quickly 
  • Size Range: 5 to 11
  • Material: faux-leather upper, rubber sole

If you’ve realized recently while assessing your fall boot collection that you’ve been purchasing black, black, and…more black, we’ve got the fix for your Manhattan-monochrome style with these neutral Chelsea boots. Available in multiple colors from white, to dark cognac, to several shades of tan, these Juliet Holy boots will round out your seasonal look perfectly. WIth almost 2,000 reviews and an over 4-star average rating, these boots are beloved by reviewers for their simplicity, utility and comfort. Pro tip: Scotchgard the lighter tones if you want to keep them scuff-free. You’re going to want to keep these babies looking good and ready-to-wear all season long.

Best Sustainably Made Chelsea Boots

13. Reformation Katerina Leather Chelsea Boots

Reformation

  • What We Like: sophisticated tumbled leather upper, eco-friendly
  • What We Don’t Like: priced at the higher end of our list, only available in black
  • Size Range: 5 to 11
  • Material: leather upper, rubber sole

Reformation is one of our favorite places to shop for eco-friendly fashion, and that extends to its shoe line. These boots are made from ethically and sustainably sourced leather and finished with beeswax for weather protection. Even the rubber soles are made from recycled materials. As far as wearability goes, the ridged lug sole, pull tab and elastic goring should ensure grip and comfort through all sorts of autumn weather conditions. While they aren’t exactly cheap, the incredibly classic design is definitely worth the investment, both in terms of style and in the good they do for the environment long-term.

Best Leather Chelsea Boots

14. Cole Haan Greenwich Leather Boot

Cole Haan

  • What We Like: waterproof, highly cushioned footbed
  • What We Don’t Like: susceptible to wear-and-tear
  • Size Range: 5 to 11
  • Material: leather upper, rubber sole

When you want a chic boot without too many bells or whistles, an option like the Cole Haan Greenwich Boot comes in clutch. Fully waterproof with a leather upper, rubber lug sole and sealed seams, this sleek boot will take you from work to happy hour while keeping your feet dry and comfortable even in the worst weather. Shoppers note that the Greenwich boot feels comfortable “right from the get go,” and some even say they’re the “most comfortable pair” of shoes they own. High praise, indeed.

Best Waterproof Chelsea Boots

15. Ganni Recycled Leather Boots

Ganni

  • What We Like: waterproof, made of recycled materials
  • What We Don’t Like: not available in half sizes
  • Size Range: 5 to 12
  • Material: 100 percent recycled rubber

Glamour editor Abbas’s pick for her go-to Chelsea boots are these industrial-chic rain boots by Ganni. Made of recycled rubber, these boots epitomize the downtown look. Whether you’re traipsing through the streets in a rainstorm or meeting your coolest friend for dinner, these boots will add the perfect edge to your outfit. Abbas notes that “these boots offer a bit of give around the ankle—essential since I'm petite and too snug-fitting ankle boots can cut off my legs and make me look even shorter,” but we can attest that they look good even on taller frames. The only downside is that they come in whole sizes only, but Abbas assures us that if you go up to the next full size these will fit like a dream.

What Are Chelsea Boots, Exactly?

If you’ve devoured the list above and are in the mood for a little more backstory on these longtime fashion favorites, here’s everything you need to know about Chelsea boots. Named for the Chelsea neighborhood of London where they first became popular, Chelsea boots are typically a simple ankle boot that includes a stretchy gusset on the side so you can pull them on and off without a zipper or shoelace. The style actually dates back to the Victorian era (Queen Victoria herself was reportedly a huge fan), but was brought back into the zeitgeist in the 1960s, when Mod fashionistas, both men and women, revived them. And after The Beatles started wearing them, there was simply no going back.

Where to Buy the Best Chelsea Boots for Women

One of the other upsides of Chelsea boots is that they’re available at a ton of retailers. Depending on the price point and aesthetic you’re after, you’ve got a number of stores to choose from. Some of our favorite retailers for Chelsea boots are Amazon, Nordstrom, and ASOS, but you can also find chic designer styles from brands like Nisolo and Tory Burch.

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Anna headshot

Freelance Writer

Anna Vognsen received her B.A. in English Literature from Trinity College. She has been writing commerce content for PureWow since 2023 and is forever and always a deal hunter. She covers verticals including beauty, parenthood and fashion. Prior to covering shopping content, Anna worked in the fashion industry for 17 years in trend forecasting as a market analyst, womenswear and children’s apparel sales. Most recently, she managed the U.S. education program for Canada Goose.

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