How to Dress for a Tea Party A Guide for the Perfect Outfit

Tea parties are elegant and sophisticated events that call for the perfect outfit. Whether you’re attending a formal high tea or a casual garden party, dressing appropriately is key to making a good impression and feeling confident. But with so many styles and dress codes, it can be challenging to figure out what to wear. Don’t worry, as we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about dressing for a tea party, from the different types of tea parties to the dos and don’ts of tea party attire. So let’s get started and make sure you’re dressed to impress at your next tea party.

Types of Tea Parties

Before we dive into the dos and don’ts of tea party attire, it’s essential to understand the different types of tea parties and their dress codes.

Formal High Tea

A formal high tea is a posh affair that usually takes place in the late afternoon and is typically hosted by the upper class. It’s a more extravagant version of an afternoon tea, with a more extensive menu and more refined atmosphere. This type of tea party requires guests to dress in their best formal attire, such as cocktail dresses or suits.

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea, also known as low tea, is a more relaxed and informal gathering that takes place between 3 pm and 5 pm. It often includes a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries. The dress code for afternoon tea is usually smart casual, which means you can still dress up but not as formally as a high tea.

Garden Party

Garden parties are outdoor events that are perfect for spring or summer afternoons. They usually involve garden games, live music, delicious food, and of course, tea. The dress code for a garden party is typically slightly more casual than an afternoon tea, with light and airy dresses and comfortable shoes being the go-to outfit choice.

Tea Party Attire Dos and Don’ts

Now that you know the different types of tea parties let’s look at the dos and don’ts of tea party attire. These tips will help you make the right outfit choices for a tea party, no matter the occasion.

Dos:

• Do opt for conservative and modest outfits. Tea parties are elegant and refined events, so make sure to choose attire that is appropriate and not too revealing.
• Do wear pastel or soft-colored dresses for a feminine and delicate look. Pastels are perfect for spring and summer events and will give your outfit a whimsical touch.
• Do accessorize with pearls, gloves, and hats. These accessories add a touch of sophistication to your outfit and are perfect for a tea party.
• Do choose lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or silk. These fabrics will not only keep you cool during the event but also give your outfit a more elegant look.
• Do wear closed-toe shoes. High heels, flats, or even dressy sandals are all acceptable options for a tea party, as long as they are polished and in good condition.

Don’ts:

• Don’t wear jeans, shorts, or anything too casual. These types of outfits are not appropriate for a tea party and may make you stand out for the wrong reasons.
• Don’t wear anything too flashy or with loud patterns. Stick to classic and timeless pieces that won’t steal the show from the tea party itself.
• Don’t forget to check the dress code if you’re attending a formal high tea. Always follow the dress code to avoid any awkward moments or feeling out of place.
• Don’t wear anything too tight or restrictive. Remember, you’ll be sitting down and enjoying food and tea, so make sure your outfit is comfortable and allows for movement.
• Don’t forget to dress appropriately for the weather. If it’s a garden party, make sure to bring a shawl or lightweight jacket in case it gets chilly.

What to Wear to a Tea Party

Now that we’ve covered the general dos and don’ts of tea party attire let’s dive into specific outfit ideas for each type of tea party.

Formal High Tea

For a formal high tea, you’ll want to dress in your best attire. Think elegant and sophisticated, but not too over-the-top. A classic little black dress with pearls and a pair of heels is always a safe and stylish choice. You can also opt for a knee-length or midi cocktail dress in a pastel color for a more feminine look. Pair it with closed-toe shoes and a clutch for a complete outfit.

Afternoon Tea

As mentioned earlier, the dress code for afternoon tea is smart casual, which gives you some room to experiment with your outfit. A flowy sundress in a pastel color or floral pattern is a great option for an afternoon tea. You can also choose a skirt and blouse combo or a jumpsuit for a more modern twist. Don’t forget to accessorize with a hat and gloves for a complete and polished look.

Garden Party

For a garden party, you’ll want to wear something light and airy to match the outdoor setting. A flowy maxi dress in a soft color or floral print is a perfect choice. You can also opt for a skirt and blouse combo or a summer sundress. As for accessories, a floppy hat and sandals are appropriate for a garden party.

Tea Party Attire Etiquette

Aside from knowing what to wear, it’s also essential to follow proper etiquette when attending a tea party. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Be punctual. Tea parties have a specific start and end time, so make sure to arrive on time.
• Always use utensils when eating. Finger food may be served, but it’s still polite to use utensils.
• Don’t overfill your teacup. Only fill your cup about three-quarters full to avoid spilling tea.
• Place your napkin on your lap when sitting down. This is standard table etiquette.
• Don’t dunk your food in your tea. This behavior is considered rude at a tea party.
• Keep your pinky down. Contrary to popular belief, raising your pinky while drinking tea is not proper etiquette.

FAQs

What colors should I avoid wearing to a tea party?

Avoid wearing black or white to a tea party unless the dress code specifically calls for it. Black can be seen as too formal, while white is reserved for the bride at weddings.

Can I wear pants to a tea party?

It’s best to stick to dresses or skirts for a tea party. However, if you must wear pants, make sure they are well-tailored and paired with a dressy blouse or top.

Are hats necessary for a tea party?

Hats are not necessary, but they are a classic accessory for a tea party. If you’re attending a formal high tea, a hat is more appropriate than a garden party.

Can I wear open-toe shoes to a tea party?

Open-toe shoes can be worn to a tea party as long as they are dressy and in good condition. Avoid wearing flip-flops or anything too casual.

Can I wear a pantsuit to a tea party?

A pantsuit can be appropriate for a formal high tea, as long as it’s well-tailored and in a dressy fabric such as silk or cotton.

Conclusion

Attending a tea party is a delightful experience, and the perfect outfit can make it even more memorable. Remember to follow the dress code and etiquette, choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable, and have fun! Whether it’s a formal high tea or a casual garden party, this guide has got you covered on everything you need to know about dressing for a tea party. So now it’s time to put together the perfect outfit and enjoy your next tea party with grace and style.