The Princess of Wales is as well known for her countryside fashions and stylish streetwear ensembles as she is for her glamorous gowns and demure dress coats.
When having to report for recreational royal duty, she loves to don comfortable slip-on shoes in the form of rugged lug sole ankle booties and stacked heel Chelsea boots.
A nod to her regal ancestors, the ‘Chelsea’ was believed to have originally been a design for Queen Victoria which was conceived and constructed by her shoemaker Joseph Sparkes Hall in 1837. The former female monarch, who was the great-great grandmother of Queen Elizabeth, liked to wear her elastic-sided ‘balmoral boots’ for their ease of pulling on and walking in rural and urban settings; she appreciated the lace-less and button-free style which was both functional and fashionable.
Later on, the ankle boots were sought after by both men and women but the style eventually received its name ‘Chelsea boots’ because of their popularity with affluent city dwellers in the trendy area of London lining King’s Road. During the 1950s and 60s the shoes saw a surge in demand in the Chelsea district with popular musicians like the Beatles sporting the leather low top boots.
Today, Princess Kate seeks out Chelsea boots for their comfort and classic charm. She loves wearing the mod boots with their easy on and off design when she’s meeting with scouts, shopping the high street or spending time on treks at local farms and forests.
Here are 4 of Kate Middleton’s Favorite Chelsea Boots:
1. Blundstone Classic Chelsea Boots in Antique Brown
Worn five times thus far, Kate’s water-resistant boots are constructed of a durable leather with signature SPS Max Comfort technology. Made in Australia, the supportive boots offer a removable cushioned insole with a layer of arch support.
The princess wears the boots designed with double-pull tabs and elastic side panels in the #1609 Antique Brown shade.
Beloved by Emily in Paris star Lily Collins as well as Emma Watson, the classic boots are coveted for their versatility and practicality.
2. ba&sh Coda Leather Chelsea Boots in Chocolate Brown
A sculpted lug tread defined by a ridged chunky stacked sole gives these stylish brown boots plenty of personality. Crafted with a fitted and sleek shaft, the timeless leather boots have side elastics for more comfort and flexible wear.
A pull tab, 4.5cm heel and shock absorbing center foam give these stylish boots extra durability.
The eco-friendly ba&sh brand is also beloved by celebrities like Selena Gomez and Olivia Rodrigo. The princess has worn the cowhide leather boots, designed in Portugal, on two royal engagements.
3. Aquatalia Black Fallon Dry Chelsea Boots
Featuring a low stacked heel, these ankle booties are crafted in supple black suede. A closed almond toe, elastic gussets, double side zips and a lining comprised of leather and fabric gives these water-resistant boots lots of cool-girl attitude.
The 2 inch heel, padded leather footbed, breathable micro-fiber lining and suede upper makes these boots feel luxe but understated.
Worn in 2017 and 2018, the princess craved comfort when she stepped out in these soft suede boots designed for retailer Russell & Bromley.
4. See by Chloe Combat Ankle Boots
An edgy take on the iconic Chelsea, these lace-up dark brown suede ankle boots boast a chunky tread sole and logo embossed heel tabs.
Designed courtesy of style inspo by way of Creative Director Gabriela Hearst, who helms the designer brand See by Chloe, the Spanish made military-inspired boots have polished Parisian charm but with a rockstar edge.
Worn over a dozen times, these utilitarian boots are one of Kate’s favorite pairs of boots for on and off royal duty.