It’s no secret that boots are a fall staple. Over-the-knee, heeled, lug-sole, western, or combat—the styles are endless, really. But the true hero of the season may be the Chelsea boot. The popular ankle boot style often featuring an elastic patch and a pull tab, they’re versatile enough that you can style them with almost any outfit for virtually any occasion. Naturally, this makes a pair the perfect travel companions for fall getaways. Comfortable enough to wear on any plane, train, or automobile, they’re chic enough to go wherever your day—or night—take you.
To make travel planning (and packing) easier, we’ve got three totally achievable looks to serve as inspo. Meet your new favorite boots and the pieces that complement them, whatever activities are on your itinerary.
Sightseeing
Hopping from cultural attractions to museums to monuments to shows and everything in between, comfort (with a side of style) is your best friend. Vionic’s Brionie Chelsea Boots (which come in 4 colors!) have super lightweight, supportive soles which mean no tired feet after a long day of walking, and chic suede uppers that are social media-level perfect. Extend the classic-but-comfy look with luxe leggings in a neutral hue and a go-to white tee. To add a little brightness (you are on vacation, right?), top the better-than-basics with a pink shacket, which brings both warmth and color to your ‘fit.
Boots: Vionic Brionie Chelsea Boot, $150 at vionicshoes.com; Shacket: BB Dakota By Steve Madden, $86 at nordstrom.com; Tee: Le Bon Shoppe, $48 at twodaysoff.com; Leggings: Ascot Manner, $63 at ascotmanor.com; Bag: Madewell, $25 at madewell.com.
Shopping
What’s traveling without a little shopping spree? As you find local spots for souvenirs, window browsing, or strolling farmers’ markets with your string bag in hand, stay chic no matter where the day takes you. Your go-to Chelseas plus a day dress add up to the perfect recipe. Layer a knit sweater over a ribbed dress for some textured contrast to give you that whole Euro-street-effortlessness you’re craving. Top off the look with a felt hat for a bit of je ne sais quois.
Courtesy of the brands
Boots: Vionic Brionie Chelsea Boot, $150 at vionicshoes.com; Hat: Free People, $58 at freepeople.com; Dress: The Drop, $50 at amazon.com; Sweater: H&M, $25 at hm.com; Bag: H&M, $9 at hm.com.
Dinner and Drinks
Get your boots ready for a night on the town with a little leather and lace. Pair them with skinny jeans and that (faux) leather jacket you’ve been waiting all summer to bust out again. Balance the edgy aesthetic with a lace trimmed camisole for flirty touch. And—win!—these Chelseas have a protective coating so even if you get caught in the rain, your boots will be safe and sound (because that whole wet-dog-in-the-rain look was never in, anyway).
Courtesy of the brands
Boots: Vionic Brionie Chelsea Boot, $150 at vionicshoes.com; Jacket: Zara, $70 at zara.com; Camisole: The Drop, $35 at amazon.com; Jeans: Old Navy, $30 at oldnavy.com; Bag: Wild Fable, $13 at target.com.