Suede Chelsea Boots: A Brief History to New Arrivals!
As September hits, It's time to start embracing all that the Autumn and Winter months have to offer, and one of those is definitely cosy clothes and Boots!! One of our very favourite styles here at Mandarina has to be the Suede Chelsea boot. A firm fashion staple that dates back to Victorian times, Chelsea boots were first designed by the bootmaker to none other than Queen Victoria. He invented them as an alternative to lace up boots, using elastic side panels for easy on-and-off.
Introducing the Suede Chelsea Boot
In the 1960s, the Chelsea Boot gained massive popularity, especially here in the UK. The Chelsea Boot became an iconic symbol of the mod scene in London, and bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones often wore them. The famous 'Beatle Boot' is even a variant of the classic Chelsea Boot style but with a pointier toe. It was the 60's that also saw the introduction of Suede Chelsea boots. Suede offered a softer, more casual, and stylish alternative to traditional leather, making them a favourite among the fashionable youth of that era.
What Defines the Chelsea Boot?
Chelsea boots are ankle-high boots with rounded toes and low heels. Their most distinctive feature is the elastic side panels. Some versions also have a loop or tab of fabric on the back of the boot to help pull them on. Black and brown are the most traditional colours of Suede, but Chelsea boots are available in a wide range of suedes such as tan, honey, walnut, navy blue, or our new favourite khaki green!
Mandarina's Suede Chelsea Boot Styling Tips
For Casual Looks:
We like to pair our Chelsea boots with slim-fit jeans for a sleek, casual look. Roll up the jeans slightly to show off the boots. This works well with both leather and suede Chelsea boots. For a more classic vibe, stick with darker denim and black or brown boots.
For a look that is timeless and effortlessly cool, combine suede Chelsea boots with a simple t-shirt and a denim or leather jacket - you just can't go wrong.
For Smart Casual:
Wear Chelsea boots with chinos for a smart-casual look. Go for earthy-tone chinos, like beige or olive green, then tuck in a plain, smart shirt. Suede Chelsea boots work particularly well with this smart casual style as they add a touch of texture to an otherwise simple look.
Wear your Chelsea boots with slim-fit trousers and a tailored blazer. This combination is perfect for office settings or semi-formal events. A monochromatic palette (for example, navy trousers with black suede boots) can create a very pleasing outfit for many occasions.
More Formal Looks:
Suede Chelsea boots can be absolutely worn with suits! Choose a pair of smart style boots in black or dark brown for a classic, refined appearance. Ensure your trousers are slim and fall just above the top of the boots to avoid bunching at the ankle.
When wearing Chelsea boots with formal attire, match the colour of your boots to your belt. This simple styling trick can tie the whole outfit together and add the right amount of cool.
Mandarina's New Suede Chelsea Boot Arrivals
We could not be more excited about our brand-new Suede Chelsea boots that have just landed in time for AW24. Bringing you designs by European designers, S.Oliver and ALPE, who produce the highest quality footwear that aligns with all the Mandarina values. These are boots that really will stand the test of time and, if cared for well, could last a lifetime. (See our handy tips on how to care for suede footwear here.)
The Bloomsbury - Dark Blue Suede Chelsea Boots
Introducing The Bloomsbury, a modern twist on the classic Chelsea boot designed for those who value style, versatility, and comfort. A dark blue suede Chelsea boot is perfectly suited for both urban adventures and countryside strolls, these boots blend street-smart cool with a timeless look.
A sophisticated dark blue-black, The Bloomsbury boots are a versatile addition to any wardrobe, pairing seamlessly with a wide range of outfits.
Crafted for all-day wear, the lightweight combat soles and padded footbed ensure maximum comfort.
Made in Spain by ALPE, these boots feature durable cow suede for a luxurious look and feel. The elasticated sides and handy heel tabs make slipping them on and off a breeze.
Leather-lined with a padded insole for added comfort. The deep tread non-slip rubber soles provide stability and are weather-resistant, making these boots robust and reliable in all conditions.
Designed to be true to size, with an average fit. If you're a half size, we recommend sizing up, especially if you plan to wear thicker socks in the colder months.
Mandarina brand director Caroline has this to say about these new fab Bloomsbury boots:
"I totally rate our new Bloomsbury boots with the combat sole, a classic "Chelsea" style with a more modern, edgy touch. These really are 'go anywhere' boots - wear them with dresses or trousers, to a bonfire night party or a country weekend. The blue-black crossover colour is so useful as it goes with pretty much anything and everything."
The Bloomsbury - Walnut Brown Chelsea Boots
The Bloomsbury also come in a lovely brown suede, the deep walnut brown shade make them incredibly versatile, providing a warm, earthy tone that complements a wide range of outfits and settings.
Pair The Bloomsbury boots in walnut brown with dark denim jeans and a cosy cream sweater for a chic, everyday look. Add a tailored coat for a touch of sophistication on cooler days.
For a smart-casual office outfit, wear these brown suede Chelsea boots with slim-fit chinos in a complementary shade like olive green or navy blue. Top off the look with a crisp white shirt and a blazer for a polished appearance.
Burford Khaki Green Chelsea Boots
Have Chelsea boots have never looked this stylish? We just don't think so! Introducing our new faves; Khaki green suede Chelsea boots, they are here to bring a fresh, modern twist to the classic Chelsea design and will make the right kind of subtle statement wherever you go.
These green khaki Chelsea boots are perfect for a relaxed, yet stylish weekend outfit. Throw on a quilted jacket for added warmth and an autumnal feel.
Suede Chelsea boots are the ultimate transition piece; seamlessly going from day to night when there's no time to change, by wearing The Bloomsbury Khaki Suede boots with a knee-length dress or skirt in earthy tones. Layer with a long cardigan or a tailored jacket for a cool evening vibe.
Cotswold Honey Brown Suede Chelsea Boots
Oh hello honey! We are pleased to introduce our new Honey brown suede Chelsea boots, featuring a sleek, light brown suede with contrasting black elastic sides. A no-fuss, no-frills approach to the classic Chelsea boot, these gorgeous things are designed for effortless wear year-round and perfect for any weather.
Crafted from durable cow suede and leather-lined for comfort, these boots feature a sturdy, non-slip rubber sole. Their refined design ensures they look neat and feminine on the feet - never bulky.
Pair them with jeans and sweaters for a casual look, or dress them up with a skirt and cardigan for a chic touch. These boots are versatile, stylish, and built to last.
True to size, with an average fit, the elastic sides and a pull-on heel tab make for easy wear. Made for Mandarina in the EU by S.Oliver.
Cotswold Dark Navy Blue Suede Chelsea Boots
Embrace simplicity with these new classic Jodhpur style Chelsea boots in rich dark navy suede featuring sleek black elastic sides. Perfect for all seasons, these boots can be worn year-round, come rain or shine.
Designed to look elegant and streamlined, these navy blue Chelsea boots have a refined look and do not feel bulky or masculine.
Crafted from durable cow suede and lined with leather, these boots offer both comfort and longevity. The sturdy, non-slip rubber sole ensures reliable traction. Pair them with jeans and sweaters for a casual look or with a dress and cardigan for a more polished ensemble. They are the perfect blend of timeless and stylish.
So, if you are looking to kick off your Autumn season in style, grab yourself a pair of Suede Chelsea boots that will see you through till Spring. As always, remember our boutique lines do not hang around for long, and we offer a no quibble returns policy, so there is no reason to hesitate!
