What to Wear to High Tea: A Guide to Nailing the Dress Code!
I only recommend products I love and I think you will, too. If you click on links I provide, I may receive a little compensation. Learn more.
My best friend recently launched his new store, and when he invited me to his “high tea party”, I was like, whaaaaatttt is that?
I mean, I knew that it had something to do with tea, and the word ‘high’ gave me the idea that it wouldn’t be anything casual. Which, btw is absolutely true!
But how to freakin’ dress for something that elegant and classy? What should be the perfect high tea attire that would turn heads? What would the dress code be, or would there be any?
There are just so many questions, right? I had them, too. This is why I did my research and found the right outfits for you to enjoy this extravagant party in full style! So let’s get started!
What is a high tea party?
First off, high tea isn’t just any tea. It’s an elevated tea experience often punctuated with delicious savories, sweets, and of course, the star of the show, tea! Traditionally, it’s an affair that calls for a tad more elegance and preparation, not just in terms of food but also in how one dresses.
What to wear to a high tea?
The crux of the matter! Think elegant, comfortable, and polished. Ladies, a floral dress that whispers elegance or a chic skirt and blouse ensemble will have you basking in compliments. Gents, a smart-casual attire, such as chinos with a button-up, won’t steer you wrong.
Leave those yoga pants, sequin skirts, and sneakers at home. The theme usually is soft romance. Just picture yourself in a vintage British movie, and you’ll get an idea.
As far as accessories go, go simple but elegant – think pearl earrings or a dainty necklace. And don’t forget your fascinator! It may seem over-the-top, but trust me, it adds that extra touch of class to any high tea outfit.
What is the dress code for a high tea party?
While there’s no one-size-fits-all rule, aiming for business casual or smart casual is a safe bet. It’s classy yet not overdone.
High tea parties are semi-formal events, so the traditional etiquette dictates that ladies wear a dress or skirt falling below the knee, paired with stockings and closed-toe shoes.
Accessories such as a hat or gloves are also encouraged. Gentlemen should wear a collared shirt and trousers, with optional additions such as a blazer or tie.
But to be honest, high tea dress code has changed with time. Yes, it’s best to err on the side of caution and dress conservatively—think chic sundresses and blouses for women. Things like maxi dresses and blazers can also work well.
You can also go for above-knee skirts and dresses but not too mini. Hats and gloves are optional, but oh dear, do they look lavish.
Can you wear jeans to afternoon tea?
Though you might love your denims, they lean a bit too casual for high tea. It’s best to save them for less formal outings.
If you wanna wear something that is not a dress, you can go pair blazers with pants and skirts, and for a more casual setting (like that of a friend), you can even go for shorts – not denim, though.
At least then, your outfit won’t be the main topic of conversation instead of the delightful snacks and delicious drinks served at afternoon tea 😉
Is it OK to wear pants to high tea?
Absolutely, yes! A well-tailored pair of trousers can look both chic and appropriate. Pair them with a statement top, and voilà, you’re ready to sip tea in style!
What shoes to wear to high tea?
Shoes are easy.
Avoid sneakers or flip flops, opting instead for flats or dressier sandals since you’ll likely be sitting for most of the event. But if you really want to rock those heels, just make sure they’re not sky-high stilettos that’ll have you teetering on unstable ground (sorry, I had to throw in a tea pun).
Can you wear open-toed shoes to high tea?
Open-toed shoes can work, especially in warmer climates or during the summer months. Just ensure they’re on the dressier side!
Do you have to wear a hat to high tea?
Not at all, but where else will you get the chance to flaunt that fabulous wide-brimmed hat or adorable fascinator? If you’ve got it, flaunt it!
What are high tea etiquettes?
Since high tea is a formal event, there are a few etiquettes you must keep in check for a delightful evening.
- Too revealing clothes are not appreciated, like low cuts, mini skirts, skin-tight or see-through. Your main purpose should be to look rich and classy.
- When wearing a dress or skirt, choose knee-length and below. We have so many options like tea length, ballerina, midi, and maxi lengths.
- Don’t wear overly long heels, they are not formal. And definitely steer clear from sneakers.
- Hats and gloves are optional, but if the event asks for them, I’d say go for them!
- High tea is a semi-formal affair, and it’s important to be on time.
- You must also use your utensils carefully. You’ll want to start with the outermost utensil and work your way in. For example, if there’s a salad fork and a dinner fork, you’ll want to use the salad fork first. And if there’s a soup spoon and a dessert spoon, you’ll want to use the soup spoon first.
12 high tea outfits that are truly breathtaking!
Now that we have got everything figured, let’s see all the outfits for high tea that’ll make you the star of the show.
1. Maxi dress with a blazer
How freakin’ beautiful is this? I love the matching blazer and heels ensemble, it speaks class!
2. jumpsuit
If not dresses, jumpsuits are a safe bet. There are many sophisticated styles, and they go pretty well with hats and gloves as well.
3. one shoulder top + ruffle skirt
If you wanna mix and match, a subtle high tea outfit would be a midi skirt and slim-fit top. Nude heels and makeup would go beautifully with this piece.
4. printed maxi dress
Don’t wanna take the trouble of finding the right outfit? Just pick a printed maxi dress from the wardrobe, and you’ll be good to go! Did I mention espadrilles are my newfound love?
5. tweed blazer pantsuit
Remember when I told you that the dress code for high tea is semi-formal, and you can definitely go wearing blazers and pantsuits? This is what I meant! It’s so business casual, and I love the color.
6. blouse + maxi skirt
For a bohemian romantic look, match your puffy sleeve blouse (which gives a very vintage feel) with a printed long skirt, and you’ll get ready for high tea within seconds!
7. ruffle blouse + skirt
How about spelling boujee and sexy for all the guests? I love this voluminous blouse paired with wrap over skirt. And can we just fall in love with that fascinator?
8. sweater + satin skirt
I am a big fan of slip dresses. They are such versatile pieces, and you can style them for any occasion. Literally. Look at this sweater over a dress, for instance. Isn’t it elegant?
9. button down shirt + printed skirt
If the setting for your party is a bit more casual, a simple button-down shirt and printed skirt will play really well.
10. printed midi dress
Or you could pick a beautiful printed midi dress with flats and a huge hat to make a subtle statement with your high tea attire!
11. blouson dress
Blouson dresses look so darn cute, it’s unbelievable! And these are just what you need to add a touch of casual sophistication to your outfit for high tea.
12. tea length dress
And what’s better than a tea-length dress actually made for events like high tea? This high tea outfit is exactly what a royal tea party would look like. With gloves and hats and a perfect-length dress, it’s just so pretty!
Should you dress up for high tea?
While it’s not mandatory to dress up for high tea, it’s still considered a formal occasion. Dressing up adds to the overall experience and makes the event feel more special. It’s a chance to don your most sophisticated and stylish attire and really embrace the elegance and refinement of this time-honored tradition.
Wrapping up what to wear to a tea party
High tea is more than just tea; it’s an event, a celebration of the finer things in life. It calls for attire that’s a notch above the everyday yet remains true to one’s personal style.
With these tips, you’re now armed and ready to nail that high tea look with panache, without betraying any pre-event wardrobe panics. Now go out and rock that high tea party attires like the royalty you are inside!
And remember, it’s as much about the company and the conversation as it is about the scones and tea. Dress your best, but don’t forget to enjoy and savor the moment. Cheers! 🥂
This is a great article but there is one large error. Afternoon tea is high end. High tea is lower end. I can send you an image.