What do you wear to a tea party: 10 Chic and Timeless Outfit Ideas
Tea parties evoke a moment to celebrate elegance, femininity and timeless style. Whether it’s a fashionable dinner party at a country estate or a backyard soiree with pals, the right outfit can help set the tone for a memorable affair. So what does one wear to a tea party? We’ve put together some sexy, but thoughtful outfit suggestions that’ll ensure you’re as comfortable as you are chic at your next tea: Here’s how to get in the spirit, either by wearing traditional tea party garb or something a bit more contemporary, so you can truly enjoy the event.
1. A Classic Tea Dress
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A tea dress is the perfect option for any tea party. Taking in the feminine-forward one, this one typically ends at the knee or the midi, boasting a flared skirt and dainty details like lace or embroidery. A soft pastel, like blush pink, mint green or powder blue adds an adorable element, while floral print is fresh and playful. Pair it with an adorable cardigan or shawl to keep it a little warm in case you’re attending an outside gathering. The tea dress is an easygoing and refined form, so beautifully well-balanced for the high tea party milieu.
2. Pencil Skirt and Blouse Combo
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For something a little more structured but still feminine, a pencil skirt with a delicate blouse. The pencil skirt you select should be in a sandy, breezy fabric, like cotton or linen, that heeds your movements, not fights them. Pair it with a blouse of light silk or satin, adding soft details like ruffles, bow ties or lace trims. A soft ivory or pale peach blouse would complement it beautifully in a formal but relaxed manner.
3. Maxi Skirt and Fitted Top
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A fitted top along with a flowy maxi skirt creates a long silhouette that gives a nicely balanced look. A skirt with gentle pleats or a subtle A-line silhouette will work beautifully with the movement. Whether a fitted tee or tucked-in blouse, something form-fitting helps draw attention to your waist and gives you a proportional silhouette. You can even wear a belt with it to become something additional to the outfit. Ideal for indoor and outdoor tea parties, this pairing can be dressed up or down with an accessory like a wide-brimmed hat or some delicate jewelry.
4. Tea-Length Dress with a Bolero
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For slightly more vintage-inspired take, a tea-length dress topped with a bolero can make a sweet statement. The tea-length cut hits just below the knee, creating a playful yet polished effect. A bolero or cropped cardigan would keep you cozy in cooler temperatures and be a nice touch of sophistication. For a truly fancy touch, look for dresses adorned with softer fabrics such as lace, tulle or chiffon. A pair of ballet flats or kitten heels would complete this delicate look perfectly.
5. Chic Jumpsuit
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And while jumpsuits may not be the most obvious wardrobe choice for afternoon tea, there’s no reason they can’t work as a chic, modern option. The silhouette of a tea party jump would be floatey and feminine with a cinched waist or tie belt for definition. Choose a piece with soft drape and flattering lines and wear it in a neutral or pastel color to keep the look soft and approachable. They can be outfitted with a statement necklace or beaded clutch to make them more glamorous.
6. Floral Midi Skirt and Sweater
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With a lightweight sweater, a floral midi skirt is a soft, romantic look that’s equally good for a spring or summer tea. The floral print gives you a light youthfulness (and a midi skirt hits on that sophistication). A sweater of breathable materials like cotton or linen to keep warm without risk of death. A fitted style will cling to your shape; a looser knit has a more relaxed, bohemian feel. Style this look with neutral flats or sandals to keep it casual yet chic.
7. Vintage-Inspired Shift Dress
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If you love that throwback vibe, a vintage-inspired shift dress can also be an ideal choice for you. In clean lines and a straight silhouette, this style is reminiscent of the elegance of mid-century fashion. A pale-shaded shift dress in shades like lavender, mint or pale yellow has a timeless appeal — the type of dress perfect for a tea party. Embellish with simple pearl earrings and a small, structured bag. Chic and easy, not much is required here in terms of accessories.
8. Blazer and Cropped Trousers
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Wear a blazer and cropped trousers for a polished look with a contemporary take on tea-party attire. Light blazer in a soft colour (neutral colour), e.g. blush, light grey or white. Cropped trousers are a chic but tailored style, and can be paired with a tucked in blouse or silk camisole for a smart look. This look is suited for an afternoon tea with a more urban vibe or for lovers of an elegant (and a little edgy) tea party aesthetic.
9. Polka Dot Dress
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Polka dots have a nostalgic, playful appeal that’s so appropriate for a tea party. A knee length or midi polka dot dress adds a fun twist to traditional tea party attire. The best of both worlds: Black and White Combination Or Pastel Polka Dots; This Pattern Is Timeless Yet Modern The dress could also have a bow at the waist, lace trim, or other details for a sophisticated touch. Wear subtle jewels, like stud earrings and a small handbag, to keep the look polished and chic.
10. Flared Pants and Tunic
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Flared pants with a tunic for something that’s a little different, but still comfortable. Opt for soft, flowy pants in a solid color, or a dainty print. A tunic top in a lightweight fabric, such as cotton or silk, will keep the look light, airy and comfortable. (Soft ruffles or embroidery adds a soft touch, like a tunics.) Cropped images of classic comfort with the hit of style, this look is made for a day tea and then some.
11. A-Line Dress with a Cardigan
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A-line dresses with cardigans are perfect dress options for the tea party. This A-line silhouette looks great on all body types and is very easy to pull off. For a classic and chic look, opt for a light pastel dress with subtle, floral or geometric printed patterns. Layer with a light cover up cardigan (in a neutral or contrasting color for a pop of style). Finish this sweet and polished look with minimal accessories such as a thin belt or classic pumps.
12. Knee-Length Skirt and Button Down Shirt
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For a more relaxed but still put together feel, pair a knee-length skirt with a tailored button-down shirt. This joking combination of smart casual, is absolute perfection Choose a pencil or A-line skirt made of a light-weight fabric such as linen or cotton and pair it up with a crisp, button-down shirt. A white or soft coloured blouse would work for this look. Try tucking the shirt into the skirt and adding a belt for a dressier vibe. Finish the look with some ballet flats or low heels.
13. Tea Party Hat
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No matter how cute your tea party outfit, no tea party is complete without some accessories, and a tea party hat is key! A statement wide-brimmed hat or fascinator will add a dramatic touch to your outfit, as well as elegance. Keep it classic with a lightweight straw hat or one embellished with flowers, feathers or ribbons. As well as making sure that the hat’s color and style goes along with the rest of your outfit, in keeping with balance and the related line of sophistication. on.
14. Ballet Flats or Kitten Heels
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When it comes to shoes, comfort and style is the key. A pretty pair of ballet flats or kitten heels are perfect for a tea party. Ballet flats go with everything, they’re available in just about every color under the sun and they can be embellished with bows or other small embellishments. Kitten heels, on the other hand, give you a touch of height while still being comfortable. Choose something neutral, like nude or blush, so you have versatility — or match them to your outfit for a matched look.
15. Minimalist Jewelry
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Tea party attire is typically soft elegant, so minimalist jewelry fits. Opt for delicate items like stud earrings, a simple bracelet or a small pendant necklace. Most tea party outfits work well with gold or silver finishes, and a few simple additions keep the look elegant and underplayed. A single pearl necklace or small diamond studs can bring an outfit together without stealing the show.
Conclusion
Tea party dressing is an art in its own right, and much like a lush garden of vintage charms, it is a robust bouquet of elegance, sophistication and comfort. Be it in your best vintage-inspired shift, a classic tea dress or a streamlined jumpsuit, your look should echo the formality with a side of fun of the shindig. Smart touches — from a fanciful tea party hat to simple jewels and the right footing — can elevate an outfit to another level, making for a look as special as the gathering itself.
These 15 wardrobe ideas will get you properly dressed to head to any tea party you have in your future, from a classic, formal gathering to a modern, chic tea. Tea party dressing should be about balance — wearing styles that are elegant and on-point with little points of difference that speak to your personal style.
So the next time you’re invited to a tea party, you’ll have a multitude of stylish RSVPs to consider. In addition to dress well and stay in good company, have fun!
