What to Wear to Afternoon Tea: A Guide to Dressing for the Occasion

Written by Stephanie Patterson

Stephanie Patterson

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As someone who enjoys the finer things in life, I have always been a fan of afternoon tea. It’s a time-honored tradition that allows us to slow down, relax, and indulge in some delicious treats. But for those who are new to this experience, the question of what to wear can be daunting. After all, it’s not quite a formal occasion, but it’s not entirely casual either.

When it comes to dressing for afternoon tea, the key is to strike a balance between comfort and sophistication. You want to look put-together, but not overly formal. As a general rule of thumb, “smart casual” is the way to go. This means avoiding anything too casual, like jeans or sneakers, while also steering clear of anything too formal, like a ball gown or tuxedo.

For women, a dress or skirt and blouse combination is always a safe bet. Aim for something knee-length or longer, and avoid anything too tight or revealing. If you prefer pants, opt for a pair of tailored trousers or culottes paired with a blouse or sweater. As for shoes, a pair of comfortable heels or dressy flats will do the trick. And of course, no outfit is complete without a statement accessory like a hat or scarf.

Dress Code

When attending an afternoon tea, it’s important to dress appropriately for the occasion. The dress code for afternoon tea can vary depending on the venue and the occasion, but there are generally three categories of dress code: formal, semi-formal, and casual.

Formal Attire

For a formal afternoon tea, dress as you would for a wedding or other formal event. Ladies should wear a formal dress or skirt and blouse, with dressy shoes and accessories. Men should wear a suit and tie, with dress shoes. Avoid wearing anything too revealing or too casual, such as shorts or flip flops.

Semi-Formal Attire

For a semi-formal afternoon tea, dress in smart casual attire. Ladies can wear a dress or skirt and blouse, with dressy flats or low heels. Men can wear dress pants and a collared shirt, with dress shoes. Avoid wearing anything too casual, such as athletic wear or sneakers.

Casual Attire

For a casual afternoon tea, dress comfortably but still presentable. Ladies can wear a sundress or skirt and top, with sandals or flats. Men can wear khakis or dress shorts, with a collared shirt and loafers or boat shoes. Avoid wearing anything too revealing or too casual, such as tank tops or flip flops.

Remember, when in doubt, it’s always better to dress up rather than down. Afternoon tea is a special occasion, and dressing appropriately shows respect for the event and the other guests. By following the dress code guidelines, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Accessories

Accessories are an important part of any outfit, and afternoon tea is no exception. They can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your look. In this section, I will discuss the three essential accessories to wear to afternoon tea: hats, jewelry, and shoes.

Hats

A hat is a must-have accessory for afternoon tea. It not only adds a touch of glamour to your outfit but also protects you from the sun. There are many types of hats to choose from, but the most popular one is the fascinator.

It is a small, decorative headpiece that sits on the side of your head. It can be made of feathers, flowers, or netting. If you prefer a more traditional look, you can wear a wide-brimmed hat. It will provide more shade and protection from the sun.

Jewelry

Jewelry is another essential accessory for afternoon tea. It can add a touch of sparkle and glamour to your outfit. However, it’s important to keep it simple and understated. Avoid wearing anything too flashy or overwhelming. A simple pearl necklace or a pair of diamond studs will do the trick. If you’re wearing a fascinator, you can add a small brooch to it for some extra sparkle.

Shoes

Shoes are an important part of any outfit, and afternoon tea is no exception. You want to wear something comfortable but stylish. Avoid wearing anything too casual, such as sneakers or flip-flops. Instead, opt for a pair of elegant heels or flats. Nude or black are the best colors to choose from, as they will match with any outfit. Make sure your shoes are clean and polished for a polished look.

Colors and Patterns

When it comes to dressing for afternoon tea, it’s important to keep in mind the dress code and the occasion. Afternoon tea attire is typically smart casual to semi-formal, so it’s important to dress appropriately. Here are some tips on colors and patterns to consider:

Neutral Colors

Neutral colors are always a safe bet for afternoon tea. Black, white, and beige are classic choices that will never go out of style. If you want to add a touch of color, you can opt for a scarf or a piece of jewelry in a brighter hue. Just make sure to keep the rest of your outfit neutral to balance it out.

Pastel Colors

Pastel colors are a popular choice for afternoon tea, especially in the spring and summer months. Blush, mint green, and baby blue are all lovely options that will give your outfit a soft, feminine touch. You can pair a pastel dress with nude heels and a clutch for a chic and sophisticated look.

Floral Patterns

Floral patterns are a timeless choice for afternoon tea. Delicate floral prints in soft colors are perfect for a spring or summer tea party. You can opt for a floral dress or skirt, or you can add a touch of floral with a blouse or scarf. Just make sure to keep the rest of your outfit simple to avoid looking too busy.

Remember, the key to dressing for afternoon tea is to keep it elegant and sophisticated. Stick to classic colors and patterns, and don’t be afraid to add a touch of your own personal style to your outfit.

Practical Tips

Weather Considerations

When planning what to wear to afternoon tea, it’s important to consider the weather. If it’s hot outside, you’ll want to choose lightweight fabrics that breathe well. A dress made of cotton or linen is a good option. If it’s cold, you’ll want to dress in layers so you can adjust your clothing as needed. Consider wearing a cardigan or a jacket that you can remove if you get too warm.

Comfortable Clothing

Afternoon tea is a social event, and you’ll likely be sitting for an extended period of time. Therefore, it’s important to choose clothing that is comfortable and allows you to move freely. Avoid tight-fitting clothing or anything that restricts your movement. Choose shoes that are comfortable to walk in, as you may need to navigate stairs or uneven surfaces.

Layering Options

Layering your clothing is a great way to stay comfortable and stylish at afternoon tea. Consider wearing a blouse or shirt with a cardigan or jacket over it. This will allow you to remove the outer layer if you get too warm. You can also add a scarf or shawl to your outfit for an extra layer of warmth or to add a pop of color.