Suede Chelsea boots: What you should know about this classic Boots!

Although Chelsea boots were originally designed for men, they were long considered classic men's boots. The characteristic feature of these mid-ankle boots: is two elastic inserts on the sides – one on each side of the ankle. Since around 2011, Chelsea boots for men have also been enjoying their triumphant rise. One reason for this is that these ankle boots go with almost any look and perfectly combine sportiness and elegance. The question that arises about the suede Chelsea boots is: What is suede? Are they suitable for cold and wet environments? And how do you style them to highlight their elegant appeal? In this guide, Durawalk will answer all these questions by discussing the history, style ideas, maintenance, and shopping recommendations for suede Chelsea boots in winter, ensuring you take every step with confidence and class.

Chelsea boots: A classic boots and its history

It was Queen Victoria who commissioned the shoemaker JS Hall in the 1830s to make mid-calf boots with elasticated side panels. This made the Chelsea boots easy and quick to put on and take off – a wonderful alternative to the annoying lacing. Queen Victoria is said to have worn these outdoor boots often and with pleasure. Since then, the short ankle boot has been popular as riding boots, especially in rural areas. The term "Chelsea boot" probably became established in the 1950s, when many artists from the London districts of Chelsea and Fulham wore this type of boot. The "Beatle boot" became a cult shoe at the latest with the Beatles, who preferred pointed models with higher heels. In recent years, the English shoe has experienced a comeback on the fashion scene and is also being produced for men by an increasing number of companies. 

Suede Chelsea Boots: A Quick Overview

Because of their slip-on style and elastic side panels, they are both durable and comfortable.

Suede versions of these boots became popular. They offer a softer, more polished look ideal for contemporary menswear. 

Why are Suede Chelsea boots stylish?

Suede Chelsea boots can fit wherever you want, whenever you want. They are neither cold nor warm, perfect in the transitional seasons. And they look great anyway. There are enough reasons why these stylish ankle boots have been worn for years, decades, even centuries, and have never gone out of fashion. 

How do you combine the ankle boots?

Chelsea boots are wonderfully versatile. These "light ankle boots" go with formal office outfits as well as casual leisure looks and with trousers as well. You should choose a delicate smooth leather model with a narrow heel for the former. Pair the boots with, for example, slim-fitting, pleated trousers, and a fine cashmere sweater. The clean, lace-free design always creates a wonderfully understated, modern look. For a walk with your pet, a rustic suede version with a treaded sole is more suitable. How about a wool skirt and a comfortable knit sweater? If rain is on the horizon, rubber Chelsea boots are a good option. The general rule is: that Chelsea boots are meant to be seen. Trousers, skirts, and dresses should therefore not extend above the shaft. So opt for cropped trousers and opt for a tighter rather than a looser style.

How to style the timeless classics?

The overall look with Suede Chelsea boots is entirely up to you, as Chelsea boots almost always fit. Most importantly, they should be comfortable, so you can spend many hours in your new favorite shoes. Whether with a suit, a biker jacket, or in the fall with a casual blouse—whatever you like goes with anything. The only thing that matters when styling Chelsea boots is the pants. We like them best with nice chinos or loose-fitting suit trousers. Otherwise, one of the must-have pants for your wardrobe is also a good choice. At the office, it's just as simple. Instead of classic derbies, pair your suit with your favorite pair of Chelsea boots. Just make sure the suit trousers aren't too tight. 

What boots variations are there?

There are two model variants: Chelsea boots with or without a shaft cut. The shaft cut is a short, vertical seam below the rubber. Since less material is required with seams, these models are cheaper than those without seams. The ankle boots also have a fabric loop at the back or the front and back, which makes the boots easier to put on. The rubber inserts sewn into the sides used to be exclusively brown or black, but today, there are also models with bright colors or patterns on the market. The same applies to the color of the leather. Boots in brown, black, or blue remain a timeless classic.

What should you consider when buying men's Chelsea boots?

Although Suede Chelsea boots are classic and popular among stylish men, style mistakes can be made when combining them with other shoes.

Mistake No. 1

The shoes' ankle-high shaft and broader cut can quickly look bulkier and make the legs look shorter. 

• Tip 1: Men's boots should be combined with more robust fabrics. These can be denim jeans, corduroy trousers, cargo pants, or suit trousers made of stronger fabrics. 

• Tip 2: If you are short, a Chelsea boot with a subtle heel is a good choice—even for men!

Mistake No. 2

It's not just the look that should matter when buying stylish men's boots. One of the most critical aspects is and remains the quality of the artistry of the material because this is mainly responsible for the comfort of wearing them. 

• Tip: If you choose Suede Chelsea boots, it is even more important to care for them regularly. That is the only way they will retain their shine and allow you to enjoy them for a long time. Use suitable suede leather care products and waterproof boots immediately after purchase and after every cleaning.

Mistake No. 3

Because Chelsea boots are classic for the transitional and winter seasons, you should always choose a pair with a more pronounced profile. That ensures you have a sound footing even on the wet or snowy ground—with smooth soles, you would slip very quickly. It doesn't matter whether you choose a colorful model from a well-known brand or a simple, possibly brandless classic in a timeless design and material—Chelsea boots are always a stylish choice!

Always a good fit: Chelsea boots for office and leisure

The great thing about these suede boots is that they come in so many different styles that you can find the perfect model for every activity. Hardly any other shoe is so easy to combine and goes with both a chic office outfit and a sporty casual look. In the office, you can be stylish and elegant. Delicate smooth leather models with a narrow heel and stylish buckle are ideal for this. They look great not only with skinny jeans but also with a suit. In your free time, you can go for a more rustic look: suede boots with a flat block heel are ideal for a walk in the park without looking clumsy. On rainy days, cool rubber boots with a patent look protect you from wet feet. And for an evening date? Then it's best to wear pointed models.

One thing is clear: no matter whether classic, modern, stylish, or rustic – at least one pair of Chelsea boots belongs in your shoe cupboard.

Chelsea boots for men: the right outfit for the shoe

Like the white sneaker, the Suede Chelsea boot covers a consistently cool look from casual to chic. No matter which men's outfits you choose from which collection, you can combine elegant yet casual boots with pretty much any clothing. The most essential features of the boots:

• Made from leather or suede, Chelsea boots have the same appeal as formal shoes but are designed to be easier to put on and take off than loafers or oxfords (the elastic at the back is not there for decoration).

• The black leather ankle boots are essentially characterized by two essential details: an ankle-high shape and an upper made of two connected pieces of leather (usually connected by an elastic element or, more rarely, a zipper on the side).

• The key element is the tip of the boots: the right silhouette matters. The pointier, the more elegant. For the office, for dinner, or the Oscar gala, you should choose a shoe with a more pointed silhouette and a narrower ankle; for leisure, choose a shoe with a more rounded tip - but not too round. You can also play around with the sole. But please remember: Chelsea boots are not hiking boots.

The Boots for all seasons and many outfits

Depending on the style and design, you can wear Chelsea boots in summer, in between seasons, or in winter. The high heel of these shoes, which are also available in plus sizes, makes the foot appear smaller and very feminine—a pleasant side effect that men with larger feet will particularly appreciate.

Suede boots with comfortable block heels and brogue-style perforations are also available in plus sizes. They combine classic and modern elements and look fantastic with a dress shirt. A short, tailored jacket and subtle elements complete this very trendy outfit.

Are you planning a relaxing stroll through the city and want to enjoy a nice meal afterward? Then Suede Chelsea boots are the perfect choice. Elegant smooth leather with an antique look and a slightly pointed shape emphasizes the casual elegance of fashionable jeans. The material mix of smooth and nubuck leather creates a fascinating effect and has the pleasant side effect of making large feet appear a little smaller.

How do you wear Chelsea boots perfectly with any trousers?

There's no doubt that Chelsea boots are a comfortable and stylish companion for any occasion. However, quite a few people wonder how to combine these iconic ankle boots. Because men's boots are usually flat, or at least if they are, they only have a small heel, they hardly lengthen the leg. The ankle-length shaft contributes to this. With the right tips, however, Chelsea boots are very easy to style: skinny jeans are a suitable choice for both men and women. Chelsea boots can be easily worn over them, allowing the striking shaft to stand out perfectly.
Ankle-length jeans or jeans with rolled-up ankles can also be worn with them: This conveys a sense of style while simultaneously expressing independence. This style describes a generally stylish yet rebellious attitude towards old values ​​and long-outdated conventions.
Of course, Chelsea boots can also be worn with shorts: If you want to combine them with shorts, choose a simple model or boots that harmonize in color with the top. But keep the color and material of the men's boots simple. Otherwise, this combination can quickly become a bad look. Chelsea boots become elegant when worn with matching suit trousers, a jacket, and a shirt. The modern combination of jeans, a T-shirt, and a jacket also works.
Chelsea boots are also perfect for a business look: Combined with trousers and a well-fitting shirt, they are a perfect replacement for regular suit trousers and are also absolutely stylish. Additional accessories, such as cufflinks and tie pins in matching colors, complete the look.

Which jackets do you wear with Chelsea boots?

For business occasions, you should be careful when choosing unusual men's boots. For a cool and classic look, add a Burberry-style British trench coat and a hat. Simply dress however you like best and dare to experiment with Chelsea boots—because that's exactly what they're made for.

When and how to wear Suede Chelsea boots?

If you have black smooth suede Chelsea boots in your shoe cupboard, you can hardly make any mistakes, at least in style. They work perfectly with a suit and are an innovative business shoe. However, Chelsea boots made of (black) smooth suede leather are always the right choice, along with a black biker leather jacket, white T-shirt, and blue jeans. That makes this version very trendy, especially as a casual shoe. 

These are the features of Chelsea boots

Chelsea - hence the name. Boots without laces was an absolute novelty at the time. The characteristic features of the boots have remained to this day:

The vamp and the shaft are two parts, each made from a single piece of leather. The typical characteristics of Chelsea boots are:

• ankle-high shaft

• Rubber inserts on both sides as a replacement for the lacing

• rounded toes

• loops at the back of the shaft

• a striking, robust seam along the sole

• a low to medium heel

Wearing Chelsea Boots to the Office: How to Do It?

The key to the ideal business casual wardrobe is striking the correct balance. Choose a smooth leather boot to maintain a stylish look. That will keep you casual but still office-appropriate. A good combination is chinos, an Oxford shirt, and a blazer. A classic check pattern on your blazer gives your look an even smarter component.

Our Top 3: The best styling for men's outfits with Suede Chelsea

Chelsea boots are ideal for men to style with different looks, whether casual in everyday life or elegant in the evening or at the office. We show you the three most beautiful looks:

1. Chelsea boots with chinos

More elegant than jeans but less formal than a suit, chinos and Chelsea boots go perfectly together. The trick is understanding the fit and combining it with the right pieces. Avoid chinos that reach the calf. Instead, opt for slim-fit chinos that fit comfortably over the boot shaft. 

2. Chelsea boots with jeans

Chelsea boots and jeans are great for a classic, informal look. If your style is more urban street style, you can also wear suede Chelsea boots with vintage and used denim. For example, combine them with a khaki T-shirt and a black bomber jacket.

3. For special occasions: Chelsea boots are ideal for a smart suit

Chelsea boots are the right alternative to traditional street shoes for a business meeting, a wedding, or the next party. These very comfortable ankle boots go perfectly with a suit and are perfect if you don't want to let sore feet ruin your evening.

Opt for dark tones and a complete monochrome look: a turtleneck, a thin black sweater, or a suit in black, grey, or dark blue. Choose structured ankle boots to spice up your dark outfit: braided or grained leather or a crocodile effect - an ideal combination to break up your silhouette subtly. When you go out, you can wear a suit jacket. And for those who get cold easily, a long wool or beige trench coat is ideal.

How to Clean Suede Chelsea Boots? 

• Suede brush

• (news)paper

• Shoe trees

• Clean towel

• Eraser

• Cloth bag

Preparation

• Whether smooth leather or Suede, cleaning boots work according to the same principle: first, remove coarse dirt by brushing the material. With Suede, you should proceed carefully and only apply light pressure in the direction of the grain. 

Our tip: use a separate brush for light and dark shoes. This way, you can ensure no unwanted discoloration when cleaning suede shoes.

• Good preparation is key: stuff the boots with paper. You can use a newspaper for this. If your shoes are very light on the inside, the printer's ink may rub off. In this case, it's better to use pure white paper.

Suede in the stain check

• Cleaning suede Chelsea boots works best without soap and water. Instead, mix a quarter liter of vinegar essence with three-quarters of the water and rub the mixture onto the shoe with a clean towel. Make sure that the Leather is not entirely wet but only slightly moistened. This method is particularly suitable for stains on light Suede. A drop of mild detergent added to the mixture helps with more stubborn stains. It is important not to treat stains on the Suede in specific spots but always on the entire shoe surface. This way, watermarks don't stand a chance!

Let the boots air dry and roughen the Leather evenly with a brush.

Our tip: Light dirt on suede boots can sometimes be erased quickly with an eraser. Just try it out before you move on to wet cleaning. Rubbing a halved onion over stains also helps to remove stains from the Leather.

The myth of the Chelsea boot - how a shoe became a cult

It was primarily musicians who made Chelsea boots a cult classic: The legendary triumph of the ankle boots began in the 1960s. Bands like the Beatles, for example, wore Chelsea boots in a slimmer, pointier style with a slight heel. At times, the boots were even called "Beatle boots." Other artists, such as the Rolling Stones, also contributed significantly to the shoes' worldwide success – and this hasn't changed to this day. If you observe the outfit choices of international artists today, it's clear that Chelsea boots still have a firm place in the fashion world.
It's admirable how a shoe that was once reserved for the nobility and later evolved into a riding boot has now become a hip fashion statement for men and women. Did you know, for example, that Chelsea boots even made an appearance in Star Wars? Darth Vader's Stormtroopers wore the boots in white – a fashion highlight that triggered a real run after the film's release. Of course, the Chelsea boot is much more than that these days: It's a comfortable and sturdy everyday shoe that can also be combined with more elegant outfits - no matter whether for leisure or business, you can't go wrong with Chelsea boots!

Final Thoughts

Whether you ultimately choose the classic or the iconic version of Chelsea boots or simply treat yourself to a small selection of both, is a matter of personal taste. One thing is certain, however, that no matter which model you choose, you'll be well-styled. These smart shoes never go out of style and make every walk a comfortable experience.

Every fashion-conscious man owns at least one pair of Chelsea boots. Of course, because these iconic boots are so easy to style. Now all the questions are clear that: what is suede? Whether for the office, for a walk with loved ones, or everyday wear, we'll show you how men can skillfully combine their suede Chelsea boots.