High Tea is a sophisticated and elegant affair that requires proper etiquette, including the right attire. Wearing the right outfit will not only help you fit in with the setting and theme of High Tea, but it will also boost your confidence and make you feel special. The key to dressing for this occasion is selecting clothing and accessories that convey elegance, grace, and refinement while still maintaining comfort. We are here to share with you some high tea attire ideas.
As more people become interested in classic traditions such as High Tea, the guidelines surrounding proper attire are becoming more important. You don’t want to miss out on this beautiful and sophisticated event by showing up in casual or inappropriate clothing. By dressing properly, you’ll show respect to the occasion, host or hostess, and your fellow guests.
There’s no need to stress about what to wear to High Tea – it’s all about enhancing the experience by dressing appropriately. Keep reading for a guide on what to wear to High Tea and avoid any faux-pas when it comes to dress code.
Key Elements of High Tea Attire
High tea is an elegant and formal occasion that typically requires a specific dress code. Whether you’re attending a casual afternoon tea or a more formal high tea event, it’s essential to dress appropriately for the occasion. Here are some key elements to consider when selecting your high tea attire:
Dress Code
The dress code for high tea can vary depending on the occasion, venue, and time of day. However, in general, high tea attire should be formal or semi-formal, with conservative and modest clothing choices. For women, a tea-length dress, skirt, blouse, or pantsuit is appropriate, while men should wear a jacket, trousers, and a tie. Avoid wearing jeans or shorts, as they’re too casual for the occasion. Always check the dress code for your specific event to ensure that you’re appropriately dressed.
Accessories
Accessories are an essential part of high tea attire and can elevate your look to the next level. For women, a hat is traditional, and gloves may also be worn, especially for a more formal event. Jewelry should be understated and not too flashy or distracting. A small clutch or purse is also a great accessory to bring along. For men, a pocket square, cufflinks, and a watch are excellent choices to add to your wardrobe to complete your look.
Remember, high tea is an occasion to dress up, so it’s essential to make an effort with your outfit. By considering the dress code and adding the right accessories, you’ll be sure to create an elegant and timeless look that will fit in perfectly with the occasion.
Choosing the right outfit for the occasion, based on the setting and theme
When it comes to choosing the perfect attire for high tea, it’s important to consider the setting and theme of the occasion. Here are some tips for making sure your outfit is both appropriate and stylish:
- Research the venue: Before deciding on what to wear, take a look at the venue where the high tea is being held. Is it a formal hotel setting or a more relaxed outdoor garden party? This will give you a clue as to what level of dress is expected.
- Consider the time of day: High tea is traditionally served in the late afternoon, so think about wearing something appropriate for this time of day. Dresses, skirts or trousers are all good options.
- Think about the season: Is it warm or cool outside? This will have an impact on the type of fabric and layers you should be wearing.
Now that you have an idea of what to consider when it comes to the setting, let’s move on to looking at how the theme of the event can influence your outfit:
- Classic theme: If the high tea has a classic theme, such as “Afternoon Tea at The Ritz”, think about wearing a traditional tea dress. This could be a vintage-inspired outfit with a midi-length hemline and classic prints, such as polka dots or florals.
- Modern theme: For a more modern high tea theme, such as “Tea & Technology”, consider wearing something more contemporary. This could be a stylish jumpsuit in a bold color or a trendy skirt and top combination.
- Seasonal theme: Finally, if the high tea is themed around a particular season, such as “Winter Wonderland Tea Party”, think about incorporating seasonal touches into your outfit. This could be a fur stole or scarf for winter or a straw hat and lightweight dress for summer.
By taking into account both the setting and theme of the high tea, you can ensure that your outfit is both stylish and appropriate for the occasion. Don’t be afraid to have fun with your high tea attire, and remember to add your own personal touches to make your outfit truly unique.
Tips for Accessorizing Your High Tea Attire, Including Hats, Gloves, and Jewelry
Accessories can make or break an outfit, especially when it comes to high tea attire. Here are some tips for choosing the perfect add-ons to complement your look:
Hats
- Choose a hat that complements the style and color of your outfit. A wide-brimmed hat is always a good choice for high tea.
- Avoid hats that are too casual or too flashy, such as baseball caps, fedoras, or fascinators.
- If you’re not comfortable wearing a hat, consider a hair accessory, such as a headband, hair clip, or ribbon.
Gloves
- Wearing gloves is a traditional part of high tea attire, but they are optional these days.
- If you do choose to wear gloves, make sure they match your outfit in color, fabric, and style.
- White or cream-colored gloves are always a safe bet, but you can also choose a pop of color to add some personality to your look.
Jewelry
- Keep it simple and elegant. High tea is not the occasion for flashy or gaudy jewelry.
- A pearl necklace, stud earrings, or a simple bracelet are timeless options that complement any outfit.
- Avoid wearing too many accessories or anything that makes noise, such as bangle bracelets or dangling earrings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When It Comes to High Tea Attire
While dressing for high tea can be a bit daunting, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can make you stand out for the wrong reasons. Here are some things to avoid:
- Wearing a casual outfit such as jeans or sneakers. High tea attire is typically more formal and elegant.
- Choosing an outfit that is too revealing. Remember, high tea is a sophisticated occasion that requires modesty.
- Forgetting about the weather. If you are attending an outdoor high tea, make sure to dress appropriately for the weather.
- Wearing too much jewelry or bling. Remember, less is often more when it comes to accessorizing your high tea outfit.
- Wearing the wrong shoes. High heels or dress shoes are typically the best choice for high tea attire.
- Not paying attention to the dress code. If the invitation specifies a certain dress code, make sure to adhere to it.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your high tea attire is just as elegant and sophisticated as the occasion requires.
Conclusion
Overall, dressing appropriately for high tea is all about striking the right balance between glamour, sophistication, and comfort. Whether you’re attending a formal afternoon tea at an upscale hotel or a more casual gathering with friends, don’t be afraid to have fun with your outfit and let your personal style shine through.
Keep in mind that the key to achieving the perfect high tea look is to pay attention to detail. From the right dress or skirt to the perfect accessories, each element of your attire should be carefully chosen to complement your personal tastes and the occasion.
If you’re still unsure about what to wear, don’t hesitate to do a little research beforehand to get a sense of the dress code and style expectations. Many high tea events may have specific guidelines or themes, so it’s important to do your homework and dress accordingly.
Ultimately, whether you opt for classic elegance or modern chic, what matters most is that you feel confident and comfortable in your attire. By following a few key tips and guidelines, you can be sure to create a high tea look that embodies your unique sense of style and sets you apart from the crowd.