Tea Party Attire

A tea party is more than just an occasion where people come together to drink tea and eat pastries. It is a social gathering that has an elegant charm. Tea parties have a traditional nature of their own as well.

Attending a bridal shower, birthday party, garden party, or formal afternoon tea requires an appropriate tea party outfit. But it is not too formal and tasteful too. Take a look at what to wear to tea in a feminine dress, polished accessories, and more.

What Is Tea Party Attire & Dresses?

When you dress for a tea party, be casual but dressy, not formal. It is similar to getting dressed for a fancy brunch or a daytime wedding. Clothes should be light, polished, and suitable for daytime. A floral print, pastel color, lace detail, or vintage silhouette often does the trick.

Garden parties for women generally mean dresses or skirts, or tailored sets. Men will generally tend to wear pants along with blazers or dress shirts. You need to look neat and put-together, such that you are sort of formal and not over-dressed like black tie.

Women’s Tea Party Attire

1. Dresses

Tea party dresses are the most popular choice among women. They are knee-length or midi-length and light and elegant. Popular styles include.

• Floral dresses are an evergreen option that captures the essence of afternoon tea.

• Tea Length Dresses: Vintage-loving mid-calf silhouettes that were designed for tea parties.

• Fit-and-flare styles are feminine, flattering, and great for creating a polished look.

• Dusty blue, blush pink, lavender, or cream are some popular options for an interior look.

2. Skirts and Blouses

A choice for a bridesmaid outfit is a flowy skirt and a delicate blouse. For a sweet and feminine look, look for lace detailing, puff sleeves, and ruffle details.

3. Accessories

• Very simple and classic fascinators are the most comfortable tea party outfit.

• Jewelry like pearls, necklaces, and stud earrings can go a long way in accessorizing.

• Choose structured handbags or small clutches for this look.

4. Footwear

Heels or dressy flats are the go-to. Block heels, kitten heels, and ballerina shoes will keep you comfortable.

Men’s Tea Party Attire

Tea parties are, of course, a woman’s affair. But men have style guidelines too.

• For a day event, light-colored button-downs are okay.

• When you want to dress up a little bit, you can wear a blazer or sport coat in a pastel or neutral color.

• For trousers, wear loafers or smart shoes with slacks or chinos.

• Adding accessories like a subtle print tie or pocket square adds character. 

Seasonal Tea Party Fashion

Spring & Summer

Light fabrics like chiffon, cotton, or linen work best. Soft florals, pastel shades, and lightweight silhouettes set the fresh and happy vibe of the season.

Fall & Winter

Tea party attire can be richer in color, say burgundy, emerald, or navy, during cooler months. Incorporate velvet, tweed, or wool in the outfit. It should overall give a polished and refined look.

Tea Party Attire Etiquette

• Don’t wear jeans, sneakers, or gear.

• Skip the sequined gown or anything too formal that may not work in the evening.

• A midi or knee-length dress is best, while a mini dress or gown that brushes the floor may not work.

• You should wear something comfortable yet trendy since tea parties are seat type of social gathering.

How to Modernize Tea Party Attire

Tea party fashion is traditional, but modern styling can keep your look fresh.

• Try bold statement earrings with a simple dress.

• Change the timeless hat for a stylish headband or hair accessory.

• Try out new prints such as polka dots, stripes, or soft metallics.

• Add a jumpsuit or tailored set for a modern look.