How to Dress for a Tea Party: Your Ultimate Style Guide
Tea parties are the epitome of elegance, charm, and tradition. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a more formal affair, these events are always an opportunity to dress up and have fun with your wardrobe. If you’ve recently received an invitation to a tea party and are unsure of what to wear, don’t worry! I’ve put together a guide that covers dress codes, outfit ideas, and accessories that will have you sipping tea and enjoying finger sandwiches in style.
What to Expect at a Tea Party
Typically held in the afternoon, tea parties are a delightful blend of conversation, delicious tea, and light bites. Whether hosted at someone’s home, a local tea room, or a beautiful garden, tea parties often involve themed events, such as bridal showers or birthday celebrations. Expect a variety of teas with traditional accompaniments like tea sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, and cookies.
Since tea parties often feature delicate china, floral arrangements, and pretty table linens, it’s essential to follow proper tea etiquette to fully immerse yourself in the experience. But most importantly, don’t forget the fun of dressing up!
The Tea Party Dress Code: Elegant Casual or Smart Casual
The dress code for a tea party can vary depending on the event’s formality, but “elegant casual” or “smart casual” is usually your best bet. You want to look polished but not overly formal. Soft colors, florals, and subtle prints are perfect for this occasion.
Tea Party Outfit Ideas
1. Afternoon Tea: A Soft and Feminine Look
For a typical afternoon tea, opt for knee-length or midi dresses in fabrics like cotton, silk, linen, or lace. Choose breathable and comfortable fabrics that allow for easy movement whether you’re sitting or standing. You can pick a pretty print or a bright color that makes you feel happy and confident.
If dresses aren’t your style, you can also pair a delicate blouse with tailored pants or a flowy skirt.
For shoes, ballet flats, low block heels, or wedges are ideal for outdoor events, while indoor tea parties can accommodate slingbacks or chic heeled sandals. Accessorize with dainty jewelry, a structured handbag, and perhaps a stylish hat.
2. Garden Party: Light and Breezy
A flowy midi dress with a floral pattern is perfect for an outdoor garden tea party. Pair it with wedge espadrilles or block-heeled sandals for comfort, and add a straw sunhat and a cute clutch to complete the look. This outfit is relaxed yet polished, perfect for an afternoon outdoors.
3. Elevated Picnic Look: Stylish Without a Dress
If dresses aren’t your thing, a pair of wide-leg linen trousers with a lace or eyelet blouse offers a sophisticated but comfortable alternative. Opt for ballet flats or Mary Janes, and keep your accessories simple with pearl earrings and a crossbody bag. Stick to soft, pastel colors or neutral tones for an effortless, chic vibe.
4. Classic Ladylike Look
For a more refined appearance, consider a tea-length, fit-and-flare dress in a solid pastel shade. This timeless silhouette pairs beautifully with slingback kitten heels and a small, structured handbag. Keep your jewelry minimal with a delicate bracelet and a pair of elegant earrings. This look is ideal for a formal indoor venue like a hotel tearoom.
5. Feminine French-Inspired Style
For a charming, French-inspired outfit, choose an A-line midi skirt paired with a simple silk blouse. Pointed-toe flats or low heels will complete the look. Don’t forget to add a vintage brooch for a unique touch that gives your outfit a bit of personality.
6. Monochrome Elegance
A monochrome outfit exudes sophistication with minimal effort. Opt for a short-sleeved midi dress in a soft, subtle color like blush, ivory, or navy. Choose a fabric with a slight texture to add interest, and pair it with neutral shoes like nude mules or heeled sandals. A fresh manicure, statement earrings, and a clutch will give your look an effortlessly chic finish.
What to Wear to a High Tea Party
For a high tea event at a formal venue, consider opting for something more polished. A tailored sheath dress in a neutral or jewel tone is perfect for such an occasion. Pair it with classic leather pumps or a low-heeled block sandal, and add a leather clutch and drop earrings to complete the ensemble.
7. Luxe Matching Set
A matching set, such as a satin or jacquard skirt and top, is a modern yet formal alternative to a dress. This look is great for ladies who need different sizes for the top and bottom. Pair the set with strappy sandals and a metallic handbag for a sophisticated, coordinated appearance.
8. Elegant Jumpsuit
If you prefer pants, a wide-leg jumpsuit with a cinched waist offers a chic alternative to a dress. Pair it with strappy heels and an envelope clutch to keep the look refined. This option combines comfort with class, making it ideal for a high tea setting.
9. Classic with a Twist
For a stylish yet classic high tea look, pair a silk midi skirt in a unique shape with a tucked-in silk blouse. Pointed-toe heels and a classic top-handle bag are essential. Add a silk scarf around your neck or bag handle to give the outfit a playful twist that shows off your personality.
Final Thoughts
No matter the type of tea party, you can always find an outfit that makes you feel fabulous. Whether you choose a dress, matching set, or even a jumpsuit, aim for an elegant yet comfortable look that reflects the occasion. With the right accessories and attention to detail, you’ll be ready to sip tea and socialize in style.