What to Wear to a Tea Party A Guide for Every Occasion

Tea parties have been a beloved social event for centuries, known for their elegant atmosphere and delectable treats. Whether it’s a traditional afternoon tea or a modern themed party, it can be a bit daunting to figure out what to wear. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what is appropriate for the occasion. In this guide, we will break down the dos and don’ts of tea party attire, providing you with the ultimate fashion guide for any tea party. So, put on your best dress and grab your cup of tea, as we dive into the world of tea party fashion.

The Traditional Afternoon Tea

The traditional afternoon tea is a formal affair that originated in Britain in the 1840s. It typically takes place between 3 pm and 6 pm and includes a selection of finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries. This type of tea party is usually held at a fancy hotel, restaurant, or even a stately home. The dress code for a traditional afternoon tea is smart casual, meaning that while it is a formal event, there is no need to overdress. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the perfect outfit:

Dress Code:

• Women: A knee-length dress or skirt paired with a blouse or a nice top is the most appropriate choice for a traditional afternoon tea. Stick to classic and feminine silhouettes such as A-line or fit-and-flare styles. You can also opt for a jumpsuit, which is a trendy and comfortable alternative. Avoid anything too revealing or tight-fitting, as well as casual items like jeans or t-shirts.
• Men: A suit or blazer paired with dress pants and a button-down shirt is the go-to option for men attending a traditional afternoon tea. If you want to add a touch of personality, you can opt for a colored blazer or a patterned shirt. Avoid wearing shorts, flip flops, or athletic wear.

Accessories:

• Women: A tea party is the perfect opportunity to wear a statement hat or fascinator. Choose a style that complements your outfit and adds a touch of elegance. As for jewelry, keep it simple and classic. A pair of stud earrings and a delicate necklace will do.
• Men: A tie is not necessary for a traditional afternoon tea, but you can add one if you want to elevate your look. A pocket square is also a great way to add a pop of color or pattern to your outfit. Avoid wearing baseball caps or beanies.

Colors and Fabrics:

• Pastel colors are the most appropriate for a traditional afternoon tea, as they reflect the light and airy atmosphere of the event. Stick to soft shades of pink, blue, yellow, and green. Avoid wearing bold or neon colors, which can be too distracting.
• Light and breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, and silk are ideal for a tea party. They will keep you comfortable and cool while still looking elegant. Avoid heavy materials like wool or velvet, which are more suitable for winter events.

The Garden Party

A garden party is a more relaxed and casual version of a traditional afternoon tea. It usually takes place in an outdoor setting, such as a garden or a park, and includes activities like croquet or lawn games. The dress code for a garden party is informal, meaning that you can have more fun with your outfit choices. Here are some ideas to help you dress for a garden party:

Dress Code:

• Women: A sundress or a flowy maxi dress is a perfect choice for a garden party. You can also opt for a skirt paired with a blouse or a summery top. Don’t be afraid to play with prints and colors, but make sure they are not too loud or overwhelming. Avoid wearing heels, as they can sink into the grass. Opt for wedges or flat sandals instead.
• Men: A shirt paired with chinos or linen pants is a classic and comfortable option for a garden party. You can also wear shorts if the weather permits. A polo shirt is also a great choice for a more casual look. Avoid wearing denim or athletic wear.

Accessories:

• Women: A wide-brimmed hat is a must-have for a garden party. It will protect you from the sun while adding a touch of sophistication to your outfit. As for jewelry, stick to simple and delicate pieces. You can also add a pop of color with a colorful scarf or a statement necklace.
• Men: A straw fedora or a Panama hat is a stylish accessory for a garden party. Sunglasses are also a must-have to protect your eyes from the sun. Avoid wearing any flashy or bulky accessories.

Colors and Fabrics:

• Garden parties are the perfect opportunity to wear bright and cheerful colors. Think pastel shades, floral prints, and bold hues such as red, yellow, and green. Just make sure not to overdo it and stick to one or two statement pieces.
• Lightweight fabrics such as linen, cotton, and chambray are ideal for a garden party. They will keep you cool and comfortable in the warm weather. Avoid heavy materials like wool or velvet.

The Themed Tea Party

Themed tea parties have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a fun and unique twist to the traditional afternoon tea. From Alice in Wonderland to Great Gatsby, there are endless possibilities when it comes to themes. The dress code for a themed tea party can vary depending on the theme, so make sure to check the invitation for any specific guidelines. Here are some general tips to help you nail your themed tea party outfit:

Dress Code:

• Women: Themed tea parties allow for more creativity with your outfit choices. For a Great Gatsby theme, opt for a flapper dress and accessorize with a feather headband. For an Alice in Wonderland theme, go for a playful and colorful dress paired with a statement necklace. Make sure to stay true to the theme while still keeping it elegant.
• Men: Again, check the theme of the party for any specific guidelines. For a Great Gatsby theme, a three-piece suit paired with a fedora hat is a classic look. For a Mad Hatter theme, you can go for a whimsical suit or opt for a patterned blazer paired with dress pants and a bow tie.

Accessories:

• Women: Accessories are key when it comes to themed tea parties. Make sure to choose pieces that complement your outfit and the theme. For example, for a floral-themed party, you can wear a flower crown, and for a 1920s theme, you can add a long pearl necklace.
• Men: As mentioned earlier, accessories will depend on the theme of the party. For a James Bond theme, a classic watch and a sleek tie will complete your look. For a Harry Potter theme, you can add a wand and a house scarf to your outfit.

Colors and Fabrics:

• When it comes to themed tea parties, colors and fabrics will depend on the theme. If it’s a floral-themed party, opt for pastel shades and flowy fabrics. For a vintage theme, stick to muted colors and classic silhouettes. Make sure to also consider the season, as some themes may be more suitable for winter or summer.

FAQs

Q: Can I wear jeans to a tea party?

A: It’s best to avoid wearing jeans to a tea party, as it is considered too casual for formal events. Opt for dress pants or chinos instead.

Q: Are open-toe shoes appropriate for a tea party?

A: Yes, open-toe shoes are acceptable for a tea party, as long as they are not too casual. Avoid flip flops or athletic sandals and opt for wedges or heeled sandals instead.

Q: Can I wear a mini skirt to a tea party?

A: It’s best to avoid mini skirts at a traditional afternoon tea, as it may be considered too revealing. However, if the event is more casual, such as a garden party, you can opt for a knee-length skirt.

Q: Should I wear gloves to a tea party?

A: Gloves are not necessary for a tea party unless the event has a specific dress code that requires them. However, for a more formal and traditional tea party, you can add a pair of delicate gloves as an elegant touch to your outfit.

Q: Is it appropriate to wear black to a tea party?

A: While black is always a classic and elegant choice, it’s best to avoid wearing all-black to a tea party. Opt for pastel shades or add a pop of color with accessories to keep your look appropriate for the occasion.

Conclusion

Attending a tea party is not only about enjoying delicious treats and sipping on a warm cup of tea; it’s also about dressing appropriately for the occasion. Whether it’s a traditional afternoon tea, a garden party, or a themed event, following these guidelines will ensure you make a stylish statement while staying true to the dress code. Remember to choose outfits that make you feel comfortable and confident, and don’t be afraid to add your personal touch with accessories. With this guide, you’ll be ready to attend any tea party with grace and style.