The Chelsea Boot : From Queen Victoria to Kings Road.
Fast approaching its 200th birthday as a footwear favourite, the Chelsea boot has a long and illustrious history which dates back to the Victorian era. The originator of the classic unisex style is actually credited as the official shoemaker to Queen Victoria herself, with Joseph Sparkes Hall creating ankle high boots with elastic inserts on both sides making them a comfortable choice which were easy to pull-on and off. Initially sold as J Sparkes Hall’s Patent Elastic Ankle Boots, their creator claimed that Queen Victoria “walks in them daily and thus gives the strongest proof of the value she attaches to the invention”.
The invention of vulcanized rubber in the 1840s by Charles Goodyear saw the creation of the elastic gusset boot and by the late 1840s the style had become highly popular, and would remain so until the outbreak of the First World War.
The boot would coming swinging back into style in a massive way in the 1960s with the style associated with everyone from the Rolling Stones to Jean Shrimpton. Their association with the trendy King Road ensured they would forever more be known as the Chelsea Boot. Quickly adopted by 60s Mods, the style combined perfectly with a slim-cut 60s tailored suit.
Variations of the Chelsea boot have appeared over the years with perhaps the most famous being the Beatle boot. Commissioned by the Beatles who loved the original style but felt an improvement could be made with the addition of a Cuban heel. The smart Beatle boot sometimes utilised zip fastening as opposed to the traditional elasticated gusset, and stands somewhat opposed to another notable variant, the Paddock which emphasised a more agricultural friendly, rugged style which evolved over time into a more utilitarian workwear style with a chunkier sole.
Three Madcap England Chelsea Boots, all with classic Cuban heels and Mod winklepicker pointed toes, (from left to right) the Outlaw in tan leather, the Vinnie in Paisley embossed black leather and the Casbah in black leather.
The Chelsea boot has remained a firm fashion favourite since the 60s, with it proving to be a versatile style that can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for various occasions. Naturally both the colour and silhouette are important in getting that combination just right.
The classic Mod look combining the Chelsea boots with slim-cut suits is still a classic look, with wide leg leg openings best avoided to maintain that Mod smart silhouette. Black leather offers the most versatility, although naturally lighter hues can combine well with lighter fabrics. This smart style ensures the Chelsea boot is the perfect alternative to the traditional Derby shoe when it comes to office attire.
Three more styles of Chelsea Boots available at Atom Retro, (from left to right) the Madcap England Thunderbolt Chisel Toe Boots in black suede, the Dr Martens '2976' in savannah tan tumbled nubuck leather, and Roamers Classic Chelsea Boots in black leather.
The more utilitarian style of boot, with a chunkier outsole are a fantastic alternative to trainers for your off-duty ensembles. Combining well with turned-up jeans, a simple tee and check overshirt for a timeless take on a vintage workwear aesthetic. Alternatively switch the tee for a roll-neck sweater and combine with classic peacoat for a smart seasonal look. Or go Mod revival with traditional Chelsea boots combined with slim jeans, a classic polo shirt and Harrington jacket. The possibilities are somewhat endless, which is why this iconic boot has stood the test of time.
