Afternoon tea has always held a special place in my heart. I remember my first tea party at my grandmother’s house.
The delicate china, the perfectly arranged finger sandwiches, and the array of teas to choose from made it feel like I had stepped into a different world. But what truly made the day unforgettable was the outfit I wore.
I had spent weeks planning it—a beautiful floral dress with a matching hat that made me feel like a character from a Jane Austen novel.
Since then, I’ve fallen in love with the tradition of tea parties and, more importantly, the fashion that comes with them. With that said, if you’re attending a casual garden tea or a more formal high tea, choosing the right outfit can make all the difference.
Here are 20 tea party outfit ideas that will ensure you look as elegant as the setting.
1. Floral Midi Dress
A classic choice, a floral midi dress pairs beautifully with the serene ambiance of an afternoon tea. Opt for pastel colors and pair them with delicate jewelry.
2. Lace Dress
Lace exudes elegance. A knee-length lace dress in white or soft hues is perfect for a sophisticated tea party look.
3. A-Line Dress with a Belt
An A-line dress cinched at the waist with a belt creates a flattering silhouette. Choose light fabrics and pastel shades for a soft, feminine look.
4. Tea-length skirt and Blouse
A tea-length skirt paired with a delicate blouse is a timeless choice. Opt for soft prints or solids and accessorize with pearls.
5. Polka Dot Dress
Polka dots bring a touch of retro charm to your outfit. A polka dot dress in a classic cut is both fun and elegant.
6. Maxi Dress
For a boho-chic look, a flowy maxi dress in floral or geometric prints is perfect. Keep accessories simple to let the dress shine.
7. Pastel Jumpsuit
A pastel jumpsuit is a modern twist on traditional tea party attire. Look for ones with ruffle or lace details to keep it feminine.
8. Pleated Skirt and Sweater
A pleated skirt with a light sweater is perfect for cooler weather. Choose complementary colors and finish with ballet flats.
9. Vintage-Inspired Dress
Channel a bygone era with a vintage-inspired dress. Think 1950s silhouettes, complete with a full skirt and fitted bodice.
10. Wrap Dress
A wrap dress is both comfortable and stylish. Choose one in a soft, breathable fabric and accessorize with a wide-brimmed hat.
11. High-waisted trousers and Blouse
High-waisted trousers paired with a feminine blouse offer a chic, sophisticated look. Add a pair of kitten heels to complete the outfit.
12. Shirt Dress
A shirt dress is effortlessly stylish. Look for one with a belt to define your waist and pair with ankle boots for a contemporary twist.
13. Gingham Dress
Gingham is timeless and perfect for a garden tea party. Opt for a dress in classic black and white or soft pastels.
14. Embroidered Dress
An embroidered dress adds a touch of craftsmanship and detail. Keep accessories minimal to let the embroidery stand out.
15. Matching Skirt and Top
A matching skirt and top set is a modern, coordinated look. Choose soft fabrics and light colors for a breezy, elegant outfit.
16. Chiffon Dress
A chiffon dress is light and airy, perfect for an outdoor tea party. Look for soft colors and delicate prints.
17. Peplum Top and Skirt
A peplum top paired with a fitted skirt creates a flattering silhouette. Choose soft pastels and floral prints for a feminine touch.
18. Boho Blouse and Jeans
For a more casual tea party, pair a boho blouse with high-waisted jeans. Add some statement jewelry to elevate the look.
19. Tulle Skirt and Top
A tulle skirt paired with a simple top is whimsical and elegant. Keep the top fitted to balance the volume of the skirt.
20. Monochrome Outfit
A monochrome outfit in soft hues creates a sleek, polished look. Choose a dress or separates in the same color family and accessorize with metallics.
Conclusion
Attending a tea party is not just about enjoying delicious treats and fine teas—it’s also about embracing the elegance and tradition of the occasion.
With these 20 outfit ideas, you’ll be sure to find the perfect ensemble for your next afternoon tea, ensuring you look and feel your best while making lasting memories.