{"id":1397697,"date":"2025-10-07T23:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-10-07T20:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1397697"},"modified":"2025-10-07T23:00:00","modified_gmt":"2025-10-07T20:00:00","slug":"the-11-best-chelsea-boots-to-add-to-your-transitional-wardrobe","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1397697","title":{"rendered":"The 11 Best Chelsea Boots to Add to Your Transitional Wardrobe"},"content":{"rendered":"
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We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.\n<\/p>\n

The 11 Best Chelsea Boots to Add to Your Transitional Wardrobe<\/h1>\n

With everything from classic silhouettes to chunky options.<\/p>\n

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By<\/span><\/p>\n
Morgan Sullivan<\/p>\n
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\"Morgan\"Morgan<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nMorgan Sullivan\n<\/div>\n
\nMorgan Sullivan is a contributing writer for Byrdie with five years of experience in fashion, beauty, and wellness editorial, combining sharp trend analysis with hands-on product testing and audience strategy. From buzzy beauty tech to mid-tier luxury fashion, she digs into the details to uncover what\u2019s truly worth the hype.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nByrdie’s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Updated on December 18, 2025 03:20PM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Leave a Comment<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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In This Article<\/h2>\n
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View All<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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In This Article<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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  • \n
    Top Picks<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
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    Reviews<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
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    What to Look For<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
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    Frequently Asked Questions<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
  • \n
    Meet Our Experts<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
  • \n
    Why Trust Byrdie<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    \"Three\"Three<\/div>\n<\/div>
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    Byrdie<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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    TL;DR<\/p>\n

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    Our favorite Chelsea boot is the Thursday Boot Company Duchess Chelsea Boot. The sleek design is incredibly comfy and durable. If you’re looking for a waterproof pair, we recommend Ariat Women’s Wexford Waterproof Boot.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    With their iconic silhouette, Chelsea boots are a fall and winter mainstay for practical and trendy dressers<\/u>. The style\u2014derived from a men\u2019s boot made popular on the streets of London\u2014features lug soles, elastic gussets, and pull tabs that allow wearers to slip them on and go. Many Chelsea boots are designed to withstand rainy weather, so you can wear them in place of bulky rain boots.\n<\/p>\n

    \u201cChelsea boots are the ultimate walking boot in the cool weather months,\u201d says Sarah Pierson<\/u>, co-founder of shoe brand Margaux<\/u>. \u201cThe fitted ankle shaft holds your foot nicely, the lugged rubber sole can match up against any terrain, and the tapered toe of our Chelsea allows the shoe to be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.\u201d\n<\/p>\n

    Whether you\u2019re looking for a classic or want something bolder and modern, we spoke to experts and compiled the best Chelsea boots for women based on materials, comfort, fit, and durability.\n<\/p>\n

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    Top Picks<\/h2>\n
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    Best Overall:<\/div>\n

    Thursday Boots Duchess Chelsea Boot at Amazon<\/span>$160<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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    Best Waterproof:<\/div>\n

    Ariat Wexford Waterproof Chelsea Boot at Amazon<\/span>$200<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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    Best for Outdoors:<\/div>\n
    SALE<\/div>\n

    Sorel REVEL RD Waterproof Chelsea Boot at Nordstrom<\/span>$140<\/s>$105<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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    Best Slip-Resistant:<\/div>\n

    Doc Marten\u2019s 2976 Genix Nappa Reclaimed Leather Chelsea Boots at Dick’s<\/span>$170<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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    Best Heeled:<\/div>\n

    Free People Essential Chelsea Boot at Freepeople.com<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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    Best Budget:<\/div>\n

    H&M Chelsea Boots at Hm.com<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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    Best Block Heel:<\/div>\n

    Blundstone High-Heeled Boots at Blundstone.com<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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    Best for Wide Feet:<\/div>\n

    Vivaia Square-Toe Ankle Chelsea Boots at Vivaia.com<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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    Best Platform:<\/div>\n

    Ganni Black Stitch Cleated Low Chelsea Boots at Ganni.com<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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    Best Pointed Toe:<\/div>\n

    Vagabond Kelsey Boots at Vagabond.com<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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    \nBest Overall
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    Thursday Boots Duchess Chelsea Boot<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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    \"Thursday\"Thursday<\/div>
    Credit: Thursday Boot Company<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    $160 at Amazon<\/span><\/span>$160 at Thursdayboots.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Material:<\/strong> Leather | Size Range:<\/strong> 5-12 | Heel Height:<\/strong> 1.25 inches\n<\/p>\n

    If you’re looking to invest in a long-lasting, high-quality boot, it’s hard to beat the gold standard set by Thursday Boot Company. They create boots with superb traction and durability\u2014exactly what you need in a Chelsea boot. Beyond their functionality, these boots are beautifully crafted with luxury leathers and suedes that rival those in the $200-$300 price range. Thanks to the absorbing insole, it’s the kind of boot that forms to your feet over time.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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    \nBest Waterproof
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    Ariat Wexford Waterproof Chelsea Boot<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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    \"Wexford\"Wexford<\/div>
    Credit: Ariat<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    $200 at Amazon<\/span><\/span>$200 at Backcountry<\/span><\/span>$200 at Ariat.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Material:<\/strong> Leather | Size Range:<\/strong> 5.5-11 | Heel Height:<\/strong> 1 inch\n<\/p>\n

    Coming from a brand that specializes in equestrian wear, you know these boots mean business. They are a fully waterproof Chelsea boot with dry shield construction. The treaded sole is meant to handle slippery and uneven terrain. Despite the ruggedness, they are chic enough to wear in the city thanks to a range of luxurious leather finishes in olive green, chocolate brown, and burgundy shades.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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    \nBest for Outdoors
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    Sorel REVEL RD Waterproof Chelsea Boot<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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    \"Sorel\"Sorel<\/div>
    Credit: Sorel<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    $140<\/span><\/div>\n

    $105 at Nordstrom<\/span><\/span>View on Sorel.com<\/span><\/span>$140 at Dsw.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Material:<\/strong> Leather or suede | Size Range:<\/strong> 5-12 | Heel Height:<\/strong> 2.5 inches\n<\/p>\n

    Enter your ultimate rainy day accessory: this waterproof Chelsea boot from Sorel. These elevated boots feature both suede and rubber leather options to stomp around in when it\u2019s wet or snowy, or when it\u2019s sunny\u2014we don\u2019t care\u2014they\u2019re cute enough to slip into when the sun is shining, too. That\u2019s because they\u2019re crafted with rich fall shades and have a chunky design throughout.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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    \nBest Slip-Resistant
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    Doc Marten\u2019s 2976 Genix Nappa Reclaimed Leather Chelsea Boots<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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    \"Doc\"Doc<\/div>
    Credit: Dr. Martens<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    $170 at Dick’s<\/span><\/span>$170 at Zappos<\/span><\/span>$180 at Dsw.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Material:<\/strong> Reclaimed leather | Size Range:<\/strong> 5-12 | Heel Height:<\/strong> 1 inch\n<\/p>\n

    No boots list feels complete without including a pair of Dr. Martens. This take on their classic Chelsea boot gives a rugged twist that has earned our approval. It\u2019s a slip-proof version made from reclaimed leather that is soft, lightweight, and durable. The signature outsole, tonal elasticated panels for easy wear, and a special edition heel loop showcase that these boots are built to last while reducing waste.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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    \nBest Heeled
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    Free People Essential Chelsea Boot<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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    \"Free\"Free<\/div>
    Credit: Free People<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    View on Freepeople.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Material:<\/strong> Leather, rubber | Size Range:<\/strong> 6-11 | Heel Height:<\/strong> 2.5 inches\n<\/p>\n

    I see shades of blue\u2014and brown, and chocolate, and bone. Well, whichever colorway you choose, you get a quintessential women’s Chelsea boot. Of course, they include the brand’s bohemian flair; these have a towering shaft and a faded design throughout. Though, the standout design here is that stacked heel that gives you just the right amount of height (2.5 inches to be exact) without feeling like too much for a night out on the town.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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    \nBest Budget
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    H&M Chelsea Boots<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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    \"H&M\"H&M<\/div>
    Credit: H&M<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    View on Hm.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Material:<\/strong> Polyurethane | Size Range:<\/strong> 4-11 | Heel Height:<\/strong> 1.5 inches\n<\/p>\n

    Sometimes, you need a boot that isn\u2019t going to cost you upwards of $200. An impossible feat these days, we know! That\u2019s why our budget recommendation comes from H&M at $50. What makes these so great is that they look more expensive than they are, and it\u2019s all in the details. They are equipped with an elasticized side panel and loop at the back. These also feature satin linings and insoles, making them super comfortable. Style them in stark black or dark brown to easily pair with all your fall outfits.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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    \nBest Block Heel
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    Blundstone High-Heeled Boots<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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    \"Blundstone\"Blundstone<\/div>
    Credit: Blundstone<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    View on Blundstone.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Material:<\/strong> Knit | Size Range:<\/strong> 5-11 | Heel Height:<\/strong> 2.5 inches\n<\/p>\n

    Australian footwear brand Blundstone has been successfully making high-quality boots for centuries. That\u2019s because they\u2019re crafted with premium, water-resistant leather and are completely comfortable. These 3-inch stable block heels focus on all-day wear and versatility, which is why they get our stamp (or stomp?) of approval.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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    \nBest for Wide Feet
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    Vivaia Square-Toe Ankle Chelsea Boots<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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    \"Vivaia\"Vivaia<\/div>
    Credit: Vivaia<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    View on Vivaia.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Material:<\/strong> Knit | Size Range:<\/strong> 5-11 | Heel Height:<\/strong> 2.5 inches\n<\/p>\n

    Chelsea boots are known for their narrow silhouette, which may not seem the most comfortable if you have wide feet. But fear not! These square-toed boots from Vivaia are designed with an extra roomy toe box that is 30% larger than average. The boots are also made from a stretchy, upcycled knit that\u2019s more flexible than your standard leather. And the best part, it\u2019s water-repellent. Plus, the brand offers a WalkSole that provides extra shock absorption and two times the arch support. Simply said, this is an extremely comfortable Chelsea boot all around.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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    \nBest Platform
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    Ganni Black Stitch Cleated Low Chelsea Boots<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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    \"Ganni\"Ganni<\/div>
    Credit: Ganni<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    View on Ganni.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Material:<\/strong> Leather | Size Range:<\/strong> 5-15 | Heel Height:<\/strong> 2 inches\n<\/p>\n

    Ganni might have the best Chelsea boots for women when it comes to the chunky platform shoes trend. Their heavy, cleated soles are balanced out by narrowly stitched detailing and smooth leather, making them feel like a focal-point shoe while still being able to slip into just about anything while wearing them.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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    \nBest Pointed Toe
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    Vagabond Kelsey Boots<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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    \"Vagabond\"Vagabond<\/div>
    Credit: Vagabond<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    View on Vagabond.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Material:<\/strong> Leather | Size Range:<\/strong> 5-12 | Heel Height:<\/strong> 1.5 inches\n<\/p>\n

    Looking to step up your shoe game? Well, the Kelsey from Vagabond is a spot-on way to do so. It\u2019s reminiscent of a Western boot without too much flair, and the pointed toe adds a discernible difference from the traditional round-toe silhouette. Plus, the 1.5-inch block heel provides elevation without feeling overpowering.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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    \nBest Splurge
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    Margaux Chelsea Boot<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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    \"default<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    $430 at Nordstrom<\/span><\/span>View on Margauxny.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Material:<\/strong> Leather or suede | Size Range:<\/strong> 3.5-14, narrow, wide | Heel Height:<\/strong> 1.5 inches\n<\/p>\n

    At $425, these Chelsea boots are a splurge, but if you\u2019re willing to make an investment, we think it\u2019s well worth it, considering the quality. They are crafted from beautiful, water-resistant Italian leather. In terms of comfort, they offer 5 millimeters of plush foam padding and slip on and off easily. The lug sole adds traction and a nice platform. We love how the brand offers an extensive size range with the option for narrow or wide sizing.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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    What to Look for in Chelsea Boots <\/span><\/h2>\n
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    • Material: <\/strong>Since growing in popularity and becoming a more timeless boot style, Chelsea boots have seen upgrades to their soles and fabrications. \u201cThey were originally produced only in leather with a very limited color palette, but can now come in a variety of colors, materials, and textures, depending on trends,\u201d says fashion merchandising professor Maureen Lehto Brewster<\/u>. When deciding on what material is best for you, consider your desired usage. A rubber option is best for wet environments, while suede and leather tend to be better suited for dressing up (though many on this list are waterproof or water-resistant).<\/li>\n
    • Silhouette: <\/strong>Elastic gussets on the ankle are a defining factor in the Chelsea boot, but silhouettes can differ based on preference. A pointed, square, or round toe, are all common. A taller silhouette is less expected and offers more protection from the cold.<\/li>\n
    • Sole: <\/strong>Lug-sole boots have become more popular in recent years, and also offer great grip as well as a lift, which can both come in handy in poor weather conditions. For dressier occasions, consider a boot with a taller heel.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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      FAQ<\/div>\n
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        How do you style a Chelsea boot?<\/span><\/div>\n
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        Chelsea boots are an easy option to dress up or down, and since they generally come in neutrals like black, brown, or gray, they can be worn with classic neutral clothes or bolder options like a floral printed dress. \u201cI typically reach for mine during the fall or winter, styled with long pants, jumpsuits, or sometimes dresses if it’s a warmer fall day,\u201d says Candace Molatore, a travel and lifestyle content creator. A Chelsea boot with a higher heel can also be a great option for dressy occasions when you\u2019d prefer a boot to an open-toe shoe.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

        Meet Our Experts <\/span><\/h2>\n

        Byrdie interviewed the following experts for this article:\n<\/p>\n

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        • Sarah Pierson is the co-founder of footwear brand Margaux.<\/li>\n
        • Candace Molatore is a travel and lifestyle content creator.<\/li>\n
        • Maureen Lehto Brewster is an assistant professor of fashion merchandising at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          Why Trust Byrdie <\/span><\/h2>\n

          Byrdie contributor Morgan Sullivan<\/u> has over half a decade of experience in the beauty and fashion industry, writing for some of the most prominent magazines and websites. In addition to writing about fashion, she frequently covers relationship, wellness, and lifestyle topics.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          Read more:<\/div>\n
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          • What to Buy<\/span><\/li>\n
          • Shopping<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n

            Source URL: https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/best-chelsea-boots-11824079<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

            We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. The 11 Best Chelsea Boots to Add to Your Transitional Wardrobe With everything from classic silhouettes to chunky options. By Morgan Sullivan Morgan Sullivan Morgan Sullivan is a contributing writer for Byrdie with five years of experience […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1397699,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[83],"class_list":["post-1397697","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-politics","tag-byrdie-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1397697","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1397697"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1397697\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1397699"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1397697"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1397697"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1397697"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}