What to Wear to High Tea:Elegant Dresses, Shoes, and Accessories
One of my favorite activities is having high tea in a gorgeous environment. Occasionally, my pals and I go fancy and treat ourselves to tea at a nearby establishment. One thing that comes to my mind that what to wear to high tea. But having afternoon tea when traveling is my absolute favorite. Even while we occasionally reserve afternoon tea in advance, most of the time, we don’t and must make do with the clothing we pack. I’m prepared for everything if I’ve brought a capsule outfit, including high-tea!
What To Wear To High Tea?
High Tea Attire For Women
High tea attire for women typically includes a dress, skirt, blouse, or pantsuit. The dress code can be formal, semi-formal, or smart casual. High-Tea is flexible and can be more relaxed, but it’s good to dress nicely. You can wear Accessories such as hats, gloves, handbags, and closed-toe shoes usually preferred. It’s always better to check with the event or establishment hosting the high tea event for specific dress code guidelines.
What is High Tea?
High-Tea is a formal meal that typically includes savory and sweet dishes and tea or other beverages. It is traditionally served in the late afternoon or early evening. The name “high tea” comes from the fact that it was originally served at a high table rather than a low table, as would be used for afternoon tea.
In the past,High-Tea was often a working-class meal served to factory workers and other laborers, but it has evolved into a more formal and upscale event. Today, High-Tea is often associated with fancy hotels and restaurants and is sometimes served as part of a special occasion or celebration. Many consider high tea a fancy afternoon tea service with more substantial savory and hot dishes than afternoon tea.
What can you wear to a High-Tea?
High tea attire is typically formal or semi-formal and can vary depending on the event or establishment hosting the high tea. A dress, skirt, blouse, or pantsuit are good options for women. It’s also appropriate to wear a dressy sundress or even a smart jumpsuit. For men, a suit or sport coat and tie, along with dress pants, is appropriate. It’s always a good idea to check with the event or establishment for specific dress code guidelines.
We can pair Jewellery, makeup, and hairstyles for an elegant and simple look. While it is a fancy event, you don’t have to wear a black tie to high tea.
What colors should you wear to High-Tea?
You need No specific colors for high tea attire, but traditionally, darker, more neutral shades such as black, navy, grey, and beige and light color like white are popular choices. These colors are considered more formal and sophisticated, which makes them appropriate for a high tea event.
Bright or bold colors, such as red, pink, and yellow, you can also wear to high tea, but less formal than darker shades. You can also wear Pastel colors.
It’s always best to check with the specific event or establishment hosting the High-Tea for any color restrictions or guidelines they may have. Generally, the goal is to dress elegantly and ensure your clothing is appropriate for a fancy, upscale event.
Best color and pattern options for High-Tea
Here are some examples of color and pattern options that can work well for High-Tea attire:
- Dark shades like black, navy, and charcoal grey can be elegant and sophisticated. For example, a black dress with a pearl necklace would be a classic high-tea look.
- Neutral shades like beige, cream, and taupe can also be appropriate for high tea attire. A beige or cream-colored suit or dress can be a stylish choice.
- Pastel shades like pale pink, light blue and mint green can add a touch of femininity and elegance to high tea attire. For example, a pale pink dress with a floral pattern would be attractive.
- Patterns like stripes, polka dots, and small florals can add interest to high tea attire without being too bold or distracting. For example, A striped blouse or dress with a neutral skirt or pants would look nice.
- As for fabrics, lightweight, flowing fabrics like chiffon, silk, and cotton are often preferred for high tea attire, as they are considered more elegant and appropriate for a formal event. But, again, always check the guidelines of the establishment you’re going to attend.
What shoes should I wear to high tea?
Closed-toe shoes are usually the most appropriate choice for high tea, as they are more formal than open-toe shoes.
Here are a few options for shoes that would work well for high tea attire:
Pumps: You feel a classic choice for high tea attire and can find them in various styles and heel heights. They should be comfortable enough for a few hours of standing and walking.
Flats: For a more comfortable option, closed-toe flats can be an elegant and appropriate choice for high tea attire.
Heels: High heels can add a touch of elegance to high tea attire, and a heel height between 2-3 inches is appropriate. Wedges or kitten heels are also good options.
Oxfords or loafers: For men, oxfords or loafers with a dressy look, in colors like black, brown, or navy, can be a suitable option.
It’s always a good idea to ensure that shoes are clean, polished, and comfortable, as it is a long event. It’s also good to check with the event or establishment hosting the afternoon tea, as they may have specific guidelines or recommendations regarding shoe attire.
Some great shoe options for high tea
Here are a few specific shoe options that can work well for high tea attire:
For women:
Classic black pumps: You can pair classic black pumps with different afternoon tea wear and add a touch of elegance to any outfit.
Slingback heels: Slingback heels in a neutral color like nude or beige can be a stylish and comfortable option for high tea attire.
Ballet flats: If you’re looking for a more comfortable option, closed-toe ballet flats in a dressy fabric like silk or satin can be a great choice for high-tea attire.
High heels: A pair of high heels in a neutral color like black or beige can add a touch of elegance to any high tea attire.
For men:
Oxfords: A dressy pair of Oxfords in black, brown, or dark grey leather can be appropriate for men’s High-Tea attire.
Loafers: Dressy loafers in black, brown, or cordovan can also be a good option for High-Tea attire.
Boots: A dressy boot in dark brown leather can also be a stylish option for men’s high tea wear, as long as they are not too casual.
It is important to note that shoes should be comfortable, as it is a long event. As always, it is good to check with the event or establishment hosting the High-Tea, as they may have specific guidelines or recommendations regarding shoe attire.
Can you wear pants to high tea?
Yes, pants are generally an appropriate outfit for high tea as long as they are dressy and not too casual. A dressy pant suit or tailored trousers paired with a blouse or dressy top can be an elegant and appropriate choice for High-Tea attire.
Paired with a dressy blouse, blazer, button-up shirt, and a tie for men, it can be a stylish and appropriate choice for High-Tea wear.
It’s always a good idea to check with the specific event or establishment hosting the high tea, as they may have specific guidelines or recommendations regarding attire.
Wear a hat to high tea?
Wearing a hat for high tea is not necessary, but it can be a stylish and elegant addition to high tea attire. It’s not a requirement but can be a nice touch, especially for the woman.
Here are a few options for hats that can work well for high tea attire:
Fascinator: A small, elegant headpiece worn on the side or front of the head, often secured with a clip or headband.
Cloche: A bell-shaped hat with a close-fitting crown look nice with a dressy outfit.
Sun hat: A wide-brimmed hat can be worn to protect from the sun, but it should be dressy and neutral.
Pillbox hat: A small, round hat with a flat top and straight sides, often worn perched on the head and can be secured with a hatpin.
Dress Code For Afternoon Tea
The dress code for high tea can vary depending on the event or establishment hosting it. Typically, High-Tea wear is formal or semi-formal and dressier than the wear for a regular afternoon tea.
A dress, skirt, blouse, or pantsuit are appropriate options for women. Sundresses and jumpsuits always check with the establishment or event if they have a specific dress code.
Regarding colors, darker and light beige are traditional options for high tea attire. It’s also good to check with the specific event or establishment for any color restrictions or guidelines they may have.
Helping guidelines to decide what to wear high tea
Here are a few general guidelines to keep in mind when deciding what to wear to high tea:
Dress code: High tea is a formal event, so it’s a good idea to dress in semi-formal or formal attire. For men, this might mean wearing a suit and tie, while for women, a dress or skirt and blouse with dress shoes would be appropriate.
Color and style: Traditional high tea events often have a conservative and sophisticated aesthetic, so it’s a good idea to stick to classic colors and styles, such as black, navy, grey, or beige. Avoid anything too casual or flashy.
Layer: Keep in mind that it’s always a good idea to layer your clothing, as tea rooms can sometimes be chilly. You can bring a cardigan or wrap to put on if needed.
Accessories: Accessories are a great way to add a touch of personal style to your outfit. A simple pair of earrings, a necklace, or a scarf can add a nice finishing touch.
Consider the season: Keep in mind the season, if it’s hot or cold, and dress accordingly to be comfortable.
White Pant Suit to wear high tea
A white pantsuit can be a chic and sophisticated choice for high tea. A white pantsuit’s classic and timeless look can complement the formal and elegant atmosphere of a traditional high tea event.
When wearing a white pantsuit to high tea, it’s important to choose a tailored and polished style. A well-fitted blazer and trousers that are not too tight or too baggy will look elegant and refined. A button-up blouse or a simple silk top would be a nice complement to the white pants.
It’s also worth noting that white can be a hard color to keep clean, so consider the potential for spills and stains when choosing a white pantsuit for high tea. A pantsuit with sturdy and stain-resistant fabric like cotton-twill or linen is a safe option.
Jumpsuit wear to afternoon tea
The High Tea Jumpsuit is a type of clothing you can wear to a high tea event. High tea is a traditional afternoon meal typically served around 4 or 5 pm and often included tea, sandwiches, scones, and cakes. The attire for a high tea event can vary depending on the location and the specific event, but it is generally considered a more casual, yet elegant, occasion.
Wearing a jumpsuit to an afternoon tea event can be stylish and appropriate as long as it is appropriate for the occasion. A High Tea Jumpsuit can also be a fancy jumpsuit, usually a more elegant jumpsuit more formal, in colors such as black, navy blue, beige, or even floral prints.
Floral Dress to wear to high tea.
A floral dress is an appropriate attire for a high tea event. High tea is a formal occasion, and a dress with a floral pattern can add a touch of elegance and femininity to the overall look. For a traditional high tea, you could opt for a dress with a full or knee-length skirt and a more modest neckline, whereas a modern high tea could be more versatile, so you could wear any floral dress that you feel comfortable in.
Matching Skirt Set
A matching skirt set would be appropriate attire for high tea as long as it is in line with the dress code of the specific event or venue. A tea dress or a smart casual outfit would be suitable.
For women, a dress or skirt and blouse ensemble in a classic, feminine style would be appropriate, while men might wear a collared shirt and slacks or a sports coat. It is always a good idea to check with the host or venue to confirm dress code requirements.
Blouse & Colorful Skirt
A blouse and colorful skirt are also appropriate attire for high tea, as long as it is in line with the dress code of the specific event or venue. You could opt for a classic blouse in a neutral color like white, cream, or light pastel and pair it with a colorful skirt. A knee-length or tea-length skirt in a bold or bright color can be a great way to add some visual interest to your outfit.
You could also wear a blouse with a fun or unique print and pair it with a neutral-colored skirt or match the skirt’s color with any color or pattern on the blouse. It is always a good idea to check with the host or venue to confirm dress code requirements.
Parasols for afternoon tea
Parasols, also known as sun umbrellas, can be a stylish and functional accessory for afternoon tea. They can provide shade from the sun, making it more comfortable to be outdoors on a sunny day. They can also be a fashion statement with various colors, patterns, and styles.
Traditionally, parasols were used by women as a means of protecting their skin from the sun while also adding to their outfits. They were also a sign of high society and were used to show that you were a lady of leisure.
Today, parasols can also be used as decorative items and are popular at outdoor events such as tea parties, garden parties, and weddings. You can pair it with various vintage or retro-inspired dresses, hats, and other accessories to create a timeless and elegant look.
If you plan on using a parasol during afternoon tea, ensure that the venue allows it and consider factors like wind strength for safety.
Jewelry to wear high tea
Jewelry can be a great way to add a touch of elegance and style to an outfit for high tea. When choosing jewelry for a high tea event, it’s a good idea to keep things classic and timeless rather than trendy.
Some options for jewelry to wear to high tea include:
Pearl jewelry: Pearls are a classic choice for tea time and can add a touch of elegance to any outfit. A simple pearl necklace or earrings can be a great way to dress up a blouse and skirt ensemble.
Diamond jewelry: Diamonds are always a classic and elegant choice and can add a touch of sparkle to your outfit. A diamond pendant necklace or stud earrings can be a great way to add a touch of luxury.
Gold or silver jewelry: Gold and silver are neutral colors that complement any outfit. A gold or silver bangle bracelet or a delicate necklace can be a great way to add a touch of shine to your outfit.
You should consider the style of the jewelry; if it’s a formal event, elegant and delicate pieces are more suitable, and if it’s a casual gathering, more relaxed and simple jewelry will be perfect.
