The 14 Best Chelsea Boots for Women of 2023

Best Budget

Athlefit Women’s Chelsea Platform Ankle Boots

Chelsea boots can cost a pretty penny, but believe us when we say you won’t have a bad case of buyer’s remorse with this pair. After all, they are reasonably priced and boast a stunning heel, trendy sock lining, plus a supportive sole that provides grip and support with every step. Above all, these boots are super flattering, according to Los Angeles-based personal stylist Jasie Style. “I love how the bulky sole is the perfect match for oversized layers like sweaters, shackets, and blazers,” she tells PEOPLE. “These boots also look amazing with a neutral-tone outfit and are versatile and easy to style.”

Price at time of publish: $48.99 (orig. $68.99)

Size Range: Women’s 5.5-11 | Construction: Thermoplastic Elastomers sole, sock lining, elastic side panels, back pull tabs | Colors: Cream, Apricot, Nude, Black

Most Versatile

Dr. Martens 2976 Smooth Leather Chelsea Boots

When scouring the internet for the best Chelsea boots, Dr. Martens boots are bound to pop up in your search — and it’s definitely for good reason; While the brand may bring thoughts of timeless combat boots to mind, Dr. Martens Chelsea boots are equally stylish, well-constructed, and supportive. What’s more, these boots go with everything you own, says celebrity wardrobe stylist Pilar Scratch. “These are edgy yet sophisticated,” Scratch tells PEOPLE. “You can style them with wide-leg pants, skinny jeans, or bootcut jeans, and they will mesh effortlessly.”

Price at time of publish: $135 (orig. $170)

Size Range: Women’s 5-12 | Construction: Leather upper, air-cushioned sole, grooved sides, scripted heel-loops | Colors: Black, Cherry Red, White

Best Chunky

Charles & Keith Lenox Stitch-Trim Chelsea Boots

These shoes have a lot going for them — a dramatic chunky heel, comfortable fit, and intricate stitch detailing that keeps them cutting edge. That said, these boots are the perfect shoe to wear on all your nights on the town when you need to make maximum impact. I mean, pair them with a leather moto (or aviator) jacket and a little black dress, and you’ve got an outfit that’ll knock ‘em dead.

Price at time of publish: $99

Size Range: Women’s 5-11 | Construction: Covered round toe, platform soles, double pull tabs, jersey lining, faux leather material | Colors: White, Black | Heel height: 2.5 inches

Best Mid-Calf

Rilista Mid-Calf Lug Sole Chelsea Boots

If you like your boots on the taller side, then you’re going to love these. As they offer a mid-calf height, streamlined silhouette, and on-trend chunky heels, they will spice up any outfit, says wardrobe apparel stylist Sarah Sommer. “I love how streamlined, chic, and sleek these boots are,” Sommer tells PEOPLE. “The height of the boot mixed with the chunkiness of the heel makes them a great option to help elongate the legs when paired with jeans and a sweater, while adding just the right amount of stylish edge. Pair them with your full-length party dresses, mini skirts, and everything in between.”

Price at time of publish: $28.88 (orig. $63.98)

Size Range: Women’s 5-11 | Construction: Thermoplastic Elastomers sole, elastic side panels, suede/artificial leather exterior, leather lining | Colors: Brown, Light Brown, Khaki, White, Black | Heel Height: 1.8 inches

Best High Heel

DKNY Block Heel Chelsea Boot

PEOPLE Commerce Editor Erika Reals recommends this Chelsea boot for anyone looking for a non-platform high heel version for those dressier everyday occasions. “This boot is both sleek and chic; while the heel is high (for me), the block design adds stability and comfort so your feet and back aren’t screaming at you by the end of the day.” This Chelsea boot is a versatile option that’s still wearable and walkable despite its refined design and height. Complement with slacks or a black sweater dress for a winter commute to the office or pair with jeans and a sweater for a casual but elevated date night. It’s also available in off-white or brown if you want to venture from a classic black Chelsea.

Price at time of publish: $150 (orig. $269)

Size Range: Women’s 6-10 | Colors: Black, Ivory, Sand

Best Waterproof

Sam Edelman Laguna Waterproof Chelsea Boot

There’s a reason why these waterproof Chelsea boots are a customer favorite; they offer a true-to-size fit and sleek design while keeping your feet dry through every splash or snowfall. But that’s not all: Reviewers love that this pair provided comfortable wear with no blisters or rubbing and appreciate that they can go with anything in their closet. Above all, they are relatively affordable (especially when on sale), so go ahead and splurge on two pairs if you can’t decide between the myriad of color options. Don’t mind us while we go on ahead and do just that.

Price at time of publish: $98.95 (orig. $170)

Size Range: Women’s 6-11 | Construction: Memory foam construction, side gorings, back tab, closed toe, medium width, and 5.5-inch shaft height | Colors: Black, Ivory, Frontier Brown, Desert Olive, Sesame, Black Suede, Pebble Grey, Tawny Brown, Chinchilla, Mineral Green, and more | Heel height: 1.5 inches

Best Western-Style

Everlane The Western Boot

More of a cowboy boot fan? You can trust these Chelsea boots offer that Western twist you’re behind without sacrificing comfort, says style coach Kimberly Hancher. “These boots are high quality, comfortable and stylish,” Hancher tells PEOPLE. “The stackable heel makes these walkable, and the pointed toe (and detailing) in the transition from the shaft to the leather uppers are the subtle but effective western detailing. The short shaft and pull-on feature keep them in the Chelsea boot spectrum.”

Price at time of publish: $147 (orig. $245)

Size Range: Women’s 5.5-11 | Construction: Leather upper with elastic side panels, rubber outsole | Colors: Black, Russett (suede) | Heel Height: 2.17 inches

Best Lug Sole

Reformation Katerina Lug Sole Chelsea Boot

Reformation excels in making outstanding clothing items that produce a smaller carbon footprint than other similar brands. That said, it’s hard not to fall in love with this pair of Chelsea boots — they are available in a classic black colorway, offering a classic Chelsea-style boot style you love but with a textured twist. As a bonus, these boots go with everything, says New York City-based personal stylist Alison Bruhn. “You can wear these boots in multiple looks — from jeans to dresses — making them a practical, comfortable, and chic choice,” she tells PEOPLE. 

Price at time of publish: $209.95

Size Range: Women’s 5-11 | Construction: Lug sole, elastic side panel, heavy tumbled leather with pebbled surface texture, recouro-regenerated leather welt, recycled SBR and natural rubber blend outsole | Colors: Black Tumbled | Heel height: 1.4 inches

Best Investment

Bottega Veneta Lug Chelsea Boot

We’d happily splurge on a Bottega Veneta bag, and these Chelsea boots are another luxury pick we’re moving right to the top of our wishlist. If you need more convincing, these are also beloved by professional stylists like Scratch. “I love the lug Bottega Veneta in the chic black color,” she tells PEOPLE. “They match any outfit that involves jeans, chinos, slacks, or suiting. Plus, they’re versatile and transition from daytime to evening wear.” And yes, we will acknowledge that these boots are expensive — but because they boast an elegant silhouette and high-quality materials, keep in mind that these boots won’t break down as quickly as most other pairs. However, if you love the look but can’t get past the price tag, the Scarosso Naomi boots are darn near identical (and about a third of the cost).

Price at time of publish: $1,450

Size Range: Women’s 5-11 | Construction: Calfskin upper, calfskin lining, micro rubber outsole | Colors: Bottle Green, Sea Salt, Nero, and more | Heel height: 2.17 inches

Best with Zipper

The Frye Company Carly Zip Chelsea

In our opinion, some zippered detailing on the sides can give Chelsea boots some added edge, so if you’re after a pair that flaunts some eye-catching hardware, these boots are worth a look. “While classic Chelsea boots usually do not have zippers, these boots offer a cute play on the traditional style,” says Holly Chayes, a personal style coach, and consultant. “The best thing about these boots is they go with practically anything — they can dress up a casual look or dress down a dressy look. They also look great styled with a dress and a cropped jacket.”

Price at time of publish: $209.95

Size Range: Women’s 5.5-11 | Construction: Leather lining, leather outsole, 10-inch shaft circumference, 5-inch shaft height, antique metal hardware | Colors: Cognac, Ash, Black | Heel Height: 1 inch

Best Lined

Dr. Martens 2976 Chelsea Boots With Faux Fur

One-up the classic Dr. Martens Chelseas by adding a cozy faux shearling lining, and you’ve got the Leonore boot. “These boots are completely on trend and a classic at the same time,” says stylist Kriena Nederveen. “Lug soles are all the rage at the moment, and this boot can be styled casually with jeans and can add a great edge to dresses and skirts. Above all, these boots always make a statement. Besides, if you need a lined boot, you might as well make it a stylish one.” While they’re only available in a black leather, these are bound to be your go-to boots for those cold and blustery winter days.

Price at time of publish: $180

Size range: Women’s 5-11 | Construction: Faux fur lining, leather with subtle grain upper, 10-inch shaft circumference, 5-inch shaft height | Colors: Black Burnished Wyoming | Heel Height: 1.25 inches

Best Work Boot

Blundstone Women’s BL500 Original 500 Chelsea Boot

These top-rated Chelsea-style boots are the perfect addition to your outdoor shoe arsenal. They are easy to slip on (and take off) and provide adequate protection to feet, so whether your outdoor adventures include walking the dog or tackling the latest long-distance trail, you won’t have to worry about wet feet spoiling the fun. We also love these boots for the extensive color range, which includes nine flattering shades that pop without taking attention away from your outfit. Finally, these boots prioritize support (thanks to the cushioned midsole, SPS Max comfort system, removable footbed, and steel shank features), so you stay comfortable with every step.

Price at time of publish: $209.95

Size Range: Women’s 5-11 | Construction: Water-resistant leather, elastic side, TPU outsole, cushioned midsole, SPS Max comfort system, removable footbed, and steel shank | Colors: Stout Brown, Black, Black/Rainbow, Black/Gray, and more

Best Square Toe

Ganni Square-Toe Chelsea Boot

Much like an LBD, everyone needs a classic pair of boots that can put the finishing touches on any outfit. So if you’re in the market for a timeless pair you can style with dresses, workwear, denim, and more, these Chelsea boots are worth adding to the cart, says fashion stylist Tara West. “The Ganni square-toe Chelsea boot is a modern take on an all-time classic boot,” West tells PEOPLE. “The 3-inch heel dresses these boots up while keeping them comfortable and versatile enough to style with cargo pants, skirts and tights, midi-length dresses, and jeans.” 

Price at time of publish: $311 (orig. $495)

Size Range: Women’s 5-10 | Construction: Calf leather, Chelsea-style elastic panels, pronounced wide welts, pull tabs, and low-block heels | Colors: Black | Heel Height: 3 inches