Getty Images
Ask a team of eight editors the difference between a chelsea boot and an ankle boot, and you'll get a different answer each time. (Chelseas are technically booties! They're supposed to have a loop on the back! Ankle boots always have a heel!) Despite the varied opinions, there is an overall consensus: Chelsea boots are comfy, versatile, and can be worn year-round, which makes them a must-have in every woman's closet. Shop the best under $250, below.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
1
The Classic
Frye, $219
SHOP IT
Frye's leather is known for its incredible quality with its built-to-last durability made for work or play.
2
Metallic Wonder
Marc Fisher, $71
SHOP IT
Name a better going out shoe than this metallic Marc Fisher chelsea boot. I'll wait.
3
Level Up
Fenty x Puma, $100
SHOP IT
Only the inimitable Rihanna could turn a chelsea boot into a half platform sneaker.
4
Cut It Out
Sorel, $140
SHOP IT
No need to commit to a full-on rain boot or snow boot—these cutout babies will save you in all kinds of weather with their no-skid traction underneath.
5
Patent Leather Magic
Free People x Jeffrey Campbell, $198
SHOP IT
Jeffrey Campbell designs an unconventional chelsea boot wrapped in patent leather that's perfect for dinner and drinks.
6
Zipped Up
3.1 Phillip Lim, $192
SHOP IT
A classic chelsea/ankle silhouette that will stay at the front of your closet with its half leather, half suede mix.
7
All About Velvet
Urban Outfitters, $60
SHOP IT
Your favorite booties just got a velvet upgrade.
8
The Glossies
Hunter, $145
SHOP IT
Say goodbye to traditional rainboots and swap them with these glossy waterproof chelseas. You'll want to wear them even when it's not monsooning outside.
9
Lost in the Desert
Free People, $248
SHOP IT
You don't have to be in the desert to rock these on a summer day with jeans or a dress. (Though they are a great excuse to plan a trip out west.)
10
Back to the '90s
Urban Outfitters, $89
SHOP IT
Fuel your nostalgia with these square-toed, '90s-inspired chunky chelsea boots.
11
Tell Me About It, Stud
Shutz, $119
SHOP IT
It's all in the details with this neutral pair of chelseas lined with metallic studs.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
