Tea parties are delightful occasions where fashion meets fun, offering a perfect opportunity to showcase your style. But what exactly should you wear to a tea party?
The answer depends on the theme, setting, and your style. If it’s a casual garden gathering or a formal high tea; then dressing appropriately is key to feeling confident and enjoying the event.
Here I will share various outfit ideas to help you look your best.
From chic dresses to elegant accessories, you’ll find everything you need to create a perfect tea party ensemble.
Classic Tea Party Attire
When attending a traditional tea party, opt for classic and elegant outfits. Think floral dresses, pastel colors, and delicate fabrics like lace and chiffon. Here are some key pieces to consider:
Floral Dresses: Timeless and feminine, perfect for spring or summer tea parties. Floral patterns bring a touch of nature’s beauty to your outfit and create a light, airy feel. Choose dresses with flattering silhouettes, like A-line or fit-and-flare, to enhance your figure while maintaining comfort.
Pastel Blouses: Pair a pastel blouse with a midi skirt for a chic and sophisticated look. Light colors such as blush pink, mint green, or baby blue are perfect for tea parties, as they evoke a sense of elegance and calmness. Ensure the blouse has delicate details, like ruffles or lace, to add a romantic touch.
Light Cardigans: Ideal for layering, especially if the weather is unpredictable. A soft cardigan in a coordinating color can be a practical and stylish addition to your outfit, keeping you warm without sacrificing style. Look for cardigans with intricate knits or embellishments to elevate your look.
Midi Skirts: These skirts strike the perfect balance between formal and casual, making them a versatile choice for any tea party. Opt for skirts in soft fabrics like silk or chiffon, and consider pleated or wrap styles for added sophistication.
Ballet Flats: Comfortable and stylish, ballet flats are an excellent choice for traditional tea parties. Choose pairs with elegant details like bows or metallic accents to complement your outfit.
Casual Garden Tea Party
For a more relaxed and informal tea party, comfort is key. Here’s how to strike the right balance between casual and chic:
Maxi Dresses: Flowy and comfortable, yet stylish. Maxi dresses in lightweight fabrics like cotton or jersey are perfect for a laid-back garden tea party. Opt for playful prints or solid colors, and consider dresses with adjustable straps or elastic waists for added comfort.
Wide-Brimmed Hats: Adds a touch of elegance while providing shade. A wide-brimmed hat not only protects you from the sun but also adds a glamorous touch to your outfit. Choose hats in neutral tones like beige or white, and consider adding a ribbon or flower for extra flair.
Flat Sandals: Perfect for mingling on grassy lawns without sinking in. Look for sandals with supportive soles and decorative elements like beads or embroidery. Neutral colors work best, as they can easily match any outfit.
Denim Jackets: A denim jacket can add a casual, cool vibe to your ensemble. It’s perfect for layering over a sundress if the weather turns chilly. Opt for a fitted jacket to maintain a polished look.
Boho Accessories: Incorporate bohemian-inspired accessories like beaded necklaces, stacked bracelets, or woven bags to enhance your casual garden tea party outfit. These pieces add a playful and relaxed touch to your look.
Elegant High Tea
High tea calls for a more polished and refined look. Aim for smart-casual elegance with these tips:
Tailored Dresses: A fitted dress in a solid color or subtle pattern. High tea is the perfect occasion to wear a dress that exudes sophistication. Look for dresses with clean lines, high-quality fabrics, and elegant details like a belt or pleats.
Statement Jewelry: Add a touch of glamour with a bold necklace or earrings. Choose one or two statement pieces to complement your outfit without overwhelming it. Consider pearls, crystals, or gold for a classic look.
Heeled Pumps: Elevate your outfit with a classic pair of heels. Opt for comfortable yet stylish pumps in neutral colors like black, nude, or navy. If you prefer a bit of sparkle, metallic heels can also be a great choice.
Structured Handbags: A structured handbag or clutch adds an air of sophistication to your ensemble. Look for bags in complementary colors and high-quality materials like leather or satin.
Elegant Scarves: Add a pop of color or pattern to your ensemble with a lightweight scarf. Drape it over your shoulders or tie it around your neck for a chic and polished look.
Blazers: A tailored blazer can instantly elevate your high tea outfit. Choose blazers in neutral or pastel shades, and look for designs with subtle embellishments or unique cuts to add interest.
Accessories to Elevate Your Look
Accessories can make or break your tea party outfit. Here are some must-haves:
Pearl Jewelry: Classic and elegant. Pearls are timeless and can be worn as earrings, necklaces, or bracelets. They add a touch of sophistication and can be easily paired with various outfits.
Stylish Handbags: Opt for small, chic clutches or crossbody bags. Choose bags that are functional yet stylish, with enough space for your essentials. Look for designs with embellishments like beads, embroidery, or metallic accents.
Elegant Scarves: Add a pop of color or pattern to your ensemble. Scarves can be draped over your shoulders, tied around your neck, or even used as a headband. Choose lightweight fabrics like silk or chiffon for a delicate touch.
Wide-Brimmed Hats: Perfect for outdoor tea parties, providing shade and style. Choose hats that complement your outfit and consider adding decorative elements like ribbons or flowers for a personalized touch.
Vintage Brooches: Add a unique and nostalgic element to your outfit with a vintage brooch. Pin it on your dress, cardigan, or hat to create a focal point and spark conversation.
Delicate Bracelets: Stackable or single delicate bracelets can add a subtle sparkle to your outfit. Look for designs with charms, pearls, or crystals to enhance your ensemble.
Final Tips
- Comfort First: Make sure your outfit is comfortable for sitting, standing, and mingling. Tea parties often involve a mix of activities, so choose clothing and footwear that allow you to move freely and enjoy the event.
- Weather Ready: Bring a light jacket or shawl in case it gets chilly. Layering is key to staying comfortable in varying weather conditions, especially for outdoor tea parties.
- Confidence is Key: Wear something that makes you feel good, as confidence is the best accessory. Choose outfits that reflect your personal style and make you feel fabulous.
- Consider the Venue: The setting of the tea party can influence your outfit choice. For a garden party, opt for more casual and practical attire, while a high tea in a fancy venue may require a more polished look.
- Mind the Dress Code: If the invitation specifies a dress code, be sure to follow it. This shows respect for the host and ensures you’re appropriately dressed for the occasion.
- Practical Footwear: Choose shoes that are both stylish and practical, especially if the tea party involves standing or walking on grass. Wedges or block heels can be a great alternative to stilettos.
By following these simple guidelines, you’ll be perfectly dressed for any tea party, ready to enjoy the delightful experience in style.
Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and savor the moment, so wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Cheers to a fabulous tea party!