What to Wear to a Tea Party: Outfits and Style Tips for Every Occasion

Planning a tea party involves more than just setting the table and brewing the perfect pot of tea. One of the most delightful aspects of a tea party is the opportunity to dress up in elegant and chic attire. Whether your tea party is a casual garden gathering or a more formal afternoon affair, knowing what to wear can make the event even more special. Here’s a guide to tea party outfits, along with some suggestions you can include on your invitations to help guests choose the perfect attire.

Tea Party Outfits: Casual and Chic Attire

Tea parties often call for an elegant yet relaxed dress code. Depending on the theme and formality of your event, you can guide your guests toward a range of styles that fit the occasion. Here are some classic tea party outfit ideas to consider:

1. Big Hats

• Style: Wide-brimmed hats are a quintessential tea party accessory, especially for outdoor or garden-themed gatherings.
• Pair With: A floral maxi dress or a skirt and blouse combination. Big hats add a touch of glamour and protect you from the sun during an outdoor event.
• Tip: Choose a hat that complements your outfit’s color scheme for a cohesive look.

2. Fascinator Hats

• Style: Fascinators are small, decorative hats that add a sophisticated flair to any tea party outfit. They often feature feathers, flowers, or ribbons.
• Pair With: A tailored dress or a blouse with a skirt. Fascinators are perfect for more formal tea parties, like a bridal shower or a charity tea.
• Tip: Opt for a fascinator in a contrasting color to your outfit for a bold and stylish statement.

3. Gloves (Without Finger Tips)

• Style: Fingerless gloves are a charming nod to traditional tea party etiquette, adding a vintage touch to your look.
• Pair With: A classic tea-length dress or a skirt and blouse set. They’re especially fitting for an elegant afternoon tea.
• Tip: Choose lace or satin gloves for a delicate and refined appearance.

4. Pearls

• Style: Pearl necklaces, earrings, or bracelets are timeless accessories that bring elegance to any tea party ensemble.
• Pair With: Almost any outfit! Pearls look stunning with everything from a simple blouse and skirt to a more formal dress.
• Tip: For a modern twist, layer multiple strands of pearls of varying lengths.

5. Skirt and Blouse

• Style: A skirt and blouse combination is a versatile choice that can be dressed up or down depending on the tea party's theme.
• Pair With: A knee-length skirt in a pastel or floral pattern paired with a crisp, fitted blouse. Add a belt to accentuate your waist and create a polished silhouette.
• Tip: Choose lightweight fabrics like cotton or chiffon for comfort and style.

6. Pastel or Bright Color Blazer

• Style: A pastel or bright-colored blazer adds a pop of color to your outfit and is perfect for spring or summer tea parties.
• Pair With: A simple dress, wide-legged pants, or a blouse and skirt. A blazer can instantly elevate your look while providing a layer of warmth if needed.
• Tip: Opt for a blazer with subtle details like a bow or floral print for a more tea-party-appropriate vibe.

7. Button-Down Shirt

• Style: A button-down shirt is a classic and versatile piece that can be dressed up for a tea party.
• Pair With: Tuck it into a high-waisted skirt or wear it with tailored trousers. Choose a shirt in a light or pastel color for a soft, elegant look.
• Tip: Add a statement necklace or a pair of pearl earrings to enhance the outfit's sophistication.

8. Bow Tie

• Style: For gentlemen or anyone wanting a dapper touch, a bow tie is a fun and stylish accessory for a tea party.
• Pair With: A button-down shirt and a tailored blazer or vest. Bow ties are perfect for themed tea parties like an Alice in Wonderland tea or a vintage tea party.
• Tip: Choose a bow tie in a complementary color or pattern to add personality to your ensemble.

9. Maxi Dress

• Style: A flowing maxi dress is an elegant choice for outdoor or garden tea parties.
• Pair With: Pair the dress with a wide-brimmed hat and dainty sandals for a romantic, effortless look.
• Tip: Opt for floral prints or pastel colors to embrace the tea party's serene and inviting atmosphere.

10. Wide-Legged Pants

• Style: Wide-legged pants offer a chic and comfortable alternative to dresses and skirts.
• Pair With: A fitted blouse or a button-down shirt tucked in. Add a statement belt and heels to elongate your silhouette.
• Tip: Choose pants in soft fabrics like silk or linen for a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe.

Informing Guests About the Attire

When planning your tea party, it's helpful to include a note about the suggested attire on your invitation. This lets your guests know what to expect and adds to the excitement of the event. Here’s an example of how you might word this:

"You’re invited to an elegant afternoon tea! Please join us in your best tea party attire—think big hats, fascinators, gloves, and pearls. For a more casual affair, feel free to don a lovely maxi dress, a chic skirt and blouse, or a colorful blazer. We look forward to a day of tea, treats, and style!"

Final Tips for Tea Party Attire

• Comfort is Key: While tea parties are often associated with elegance, comfort should also be a priority. Choose breathable fabrics and styles that allow you to move and enjoy the event comfortably.
• Match the Theme: Coordinate your outfit with the theme of the tea party. For instance, an Alice in Wonderland tea party might call for whimsical attire, while a classic English tea would suit more traditional and refined looks.
• Accessorize: Don't forget the finishing touches like hats, gloves, and jewelry. These accessories can elevate your look and make your tea party outfit truly special.

With these outfit ideas and tips, you and your guests will be perfectly dressed for a memorable tea party. Whether you go for a traditional, whimsical, or casual-chic look, the key is to have fun and embrace the elegance and joy of the occasion.