Afternoon Tea Etiquette Dress Code - Top 10 Dos & Don'ts

The Style Guide to Afternoon Tea Dress Code

Hello Afternoon tea lovers!! Read here if you are planning on attending a tea party.

Whether you are heading to a fun afternoon tea or a high tea with your friends or having a garden tea party celebration. I have insight on what you should wear.

What Is Afternoon Tea & Why Does It Have a Dress Code?

Afternoon tea (a delightfully British tradition served mid-afternoon) typically includes tea, finger sandwiches, scones, pastries and conversation. It’s a social event — and yes, there is etiquette around attire and manners. Knowing the difference between “afternoon tea,” “high tea,” and “cream tea” helps you dress appropriately for each.

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I am a fellow afternoon tea lover. I love dressing up in bright florals, putting on a fun hat (fascinator) and snacking on finger sandwiches, scones, small pastries and fragrant tea.

Afternoon Tea Dress Code Basics

Smart Casual Is Your Best Friend

Most contemporary afternoon tea dress codes fall under smart casual, classic daytime attire, or garden party style. Dresses, skirts, tailored pants, and polished tops are all winners — but stay away from athleisure, hoodies, or loud logos.

 

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Here you can see some amazing Afternoon Tea Dress Ideas and tea etiquette do's and don'ts.

I have put together some pretty floral dresses perfect for high tea attire for women. ‎Like me if you are planning to have California hotel Afternoon tea, these high tea dress code tips are very helpful.

Related Read - Floral Dresses and Fashion Outfits for Woman High Tea

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When deciding what to wear for high tea or afternoon tea, have fun with your looks! Yes, they need to be appropriate for the occasion, but that doesn’t mean you can’t play with beautiful colors, fabrics or patterns to make your look unique to your personal taste. A general rule of thumb for all tea parties is smart casual.

I hope that you are able to confidently style your looks with the help of my fashion guide about what to wear to afternoon tea. So when you pick your outfit for taking tea, be sure to refer back to my afternoon tea guide with ever-changing outfit ideas for your teatime adventures! I’m sure you’re excited about it and even more excited about getting to put on a fancy frock and strut your way into the tea room. 

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What is a proper afternoon tea?

Proper Afternoon Tea CoursesTraditional afternoon tea is served in three courses on a tiered stand along with a pot of tea. Tea sandwiches are eaten first, then scones with clotted cream and jam, and then finally, the sweets. Sandwiches are usually made crustless to make it easier to eat and to give it a more delicate look.

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Related read - What to wear for Afternoon Tea in London?

 

 

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What do ladies wear for afternoon tea?

Afternoon Tea Dress While you can get away with a smart top and jeans, if you don't want to dress up, many ladies choose to take the opportunity to don a pretty frock. All you need is a light and flowy dress, with a matching bag and either a pair of sandals or wedges.

Fun Fact- Did you know afternoon tea is completely different from high tea? Afternoon tea was meant for royals and the rich, whereas high tea was more for the working class. High tea is called high tea because it was conducted on high tables. 

Related Read - Floral Dresses for Woman High Tea

Related Read - What to wear for Afternoon Tea in the US? 

Afternoon Tea Outfit Ideas That Work Everywhere

Here’s how to mix style with comfort — no fashion faux pas:

• Timeless Tea Dress: Floral or solid midi with delicate accessories.

• Midi Skirt & Blouse Combo: Flowy skirt + silk top + ballet flats.

• Tailored Trousers + Chic Top: A modern alternative to dresses.

• Sweater Sets for Cooler Weather: Polished even with light layers.

• Light Jacket for Transitional Seasons: Keeps you warm and stylish.

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Related Read- Blue Dresses for Afternoon Tea

 

High Tea Attire

In America, the "high" part of "high tea" has come to mean an elegant afternoon tea. Don't be fooled by this misconception and tricked into wearing an outfit that is ornate and fancy. Instead, dress appropriately for the occasion in the following ways.

Related Read- Casual Fashion Outfits and Dresses for Afternoon Tea

 

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Do 1. - Finding a Fashionable Dress

Dresses are a wonderful choice for high tea as these styles are comfortable and fashionable. When choosing the right dress, look for a pattern that is flattering and eye-catching but stay away from anything that looks too busy. Color will also be key here, so choose shades that flatter your skin tone.

In today’s featured post, we address tea time attire. Specifically, we focus on what to wear for afternoon tea and give some tips and tricks to style a look perfectly appropriate for taking tea with the Queen, herself.

Related Read - Floral Dresses for Woman High Tea

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