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Chukka, chelsea and monk strap boots

mg428

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JLibourel

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Any of the three would be perfectly acceptable for just about the entire range of business casual. I don't see any major differences in formality/dressiness between the three.

As for wearing with a suit, some of it would depend on the suit. They might look a little heavy or unbalanced with the typical lightweight worsted business suit. They would probably also not be the wisest choices if an extremely conservative business look was wanted. In other words, I wouldn't choose one as a substitute for the Allen-Edmonds Park Avenue in black. In a number of environments, though, I would deem them okay with a suit. Others may disagree with me. This is only my $.02, and that's about all it's worth.
 

DocHolliday

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For the most part, I'm with Jan on the comparative formality, though I don't think I'd wear a monk boot or most chukkas with a suit. Of your three selections, the only one I'd pair with a suit is the chelsea. The monk boot has a high-gloss finish (in addition to being a monk boot), and the chukka is very round-toed. The chelseas, on the other hand, are much sleeker and more refined.

Chelseas look great with slim suits, in particular. They're not for the dressiest of events, but fantastic otherwise.
 

mg428

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How about side gussets? Do you think that they make a boot really a lot casual?
 

Journeyman

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Interestingly, the Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, wore a pair of side-gusset chelsea boots in black by RM Williams to his meeting with the Japanese emperor and empress a day or two ago.
 

Rebel_5

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The Peal chealseas are stunning. I like the look even more than the Polo chealseas I own now--which I do wear with suits. Chukkas are I think too casual for suits, but look great with flannels, tweeds, cords or chinos. I'm looking at picking up a pair in suede soon.
 

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