Chelsea boots are the winter equivalent of summer's white trainers - they're a failsafe shoe that goes with everything. Kate Middleton is a paid-up member of the fan club. For a recent visit to 'Dadvengers', a community for dads and their children in north London, Middleton's outfit provided much wet-weather inspiration - a waxed jacket by Barbour, a Breton, a pair of kick-flare jeans and, last but not least, Chelsea boots from Reiss.
A staple on the winter boots spectrum, Chelsea boots usually have an elasticated panel and chunky track sole, which means they're one of the most comfortable kinds of boots. Even with the addition of a modest block heel, you can pretty much wear them straight out of the box without so much as a blister (as long as your socks are too thick or too thin).
They're also incredibly versatile to style. Chelsea boots look great with wide-leg jeans, even when you can only see the tips and the soles, and also lend a certain amount of cool-girl edge to swishing midi dresses or ankle-sweeping skirts. Summer might have never arrived but oh well - it feels good to be back in boots.
www.kurtgeiger.com
The Chelsea boot gets a subtle makeover courtesy of KG Kurt Geiger, who has added a track sole that will make it much less likely that you'll slip over when the weather's set to wet and icy.
www.reiss.com
Kate Middleton's Chelsea boots are from Reiss. Its Thea style, available in black but sold out in dark brown, is an absolute classic of the genre.
www.ganni.com
Ganni's Chelsea boots come with contrast top-stitching that makes them stand out from the crowd.
www.geox.com
Geox's Chelsea boots are classic, lightweight and breathable - the ultimate for everyday.
www.dunelondon.com
This Chelsea boot has a chunky track-sole for extra grip.
www.russellandbromley.co.uk
This Chelsea boot has biker credentials with its three-strap buckle. Love.
www.vagabond.com
Vagabond's version has a modest block heel if you prefer your boots to have a bit of lift.
www.net-a-porter.com
Isabel Marant is the queen of boots. Her Chelsea style is a polished take on the trend.
www.marksandspencer.com
M&S makes some of the best ankle boots on the high street. Its Chelsea is smart and sturdy, with white-on-black topstitching that you'll also find on designer versions.
www.drmartens.com
For snow days, Dr Martens' Chelsea boot is lined with faux-fur. Delicious.
www.grenson.com
Grenson's heavy-duty boots will go the distance in your shoe wardrobe.
www.toa.st
Solovair's Chelsea boots are crafted from sturdy leather with a goodyear-welted sole.