Choosing the right high tea outfit goes beyond just dressing up for an event. It is about understanding the significance of the occasion and respecting its traditions.
Understanding the dress code etiquette is essential to ensure you dress appropriately and show respect for the occasion’s traditions.
Let’s explore the importance of selecting the right high tea outfit and how it contributes to the overall experience.
Understanding the dress code etiquette
While choosing a dress for a High tea event, It is important to keep a balance between personal style and the expectations set by the event’s formality and cultural significance.
High tea events often require a dress code that falls under formal or semi-formal categories. This means opting for more elegant and refined outfits compared to casual occasions. It is important to avoid overly casual or beachwear-inspired attire.
Here are some dress code etiquette associated with high tea-
Dresses and Skirts:
For women, dresses and skirts are popular choices for high tea events. Go with those styles which are modest, classy, and fall at or below the knee. A-line dresses, sheath dresses or tea-length dresses are perfect options. But avoid overly revealing or body-hugging outfits.
Fabrics and Patterns of your clothes:
Choose fabrics that are luxurious and elegant, like -silk, satin, lace, or chiffon. These fabrics add a touch of sophistication to your high tea outfit. Floral patterns and delicate prints, or light shades are good for high tea events, as they evoke a feminine and refined aesthetic.
Necklines and Sleeve Lengths:
When it comes to the dress code etiquette for high tea, it’s best to choose dresses with modest necklines and sleeves. Avoid dresses with plunging necklines or strapless styles. Instead, go for dresses with boat necks, V-necks or round necklines. And If your dress is sleeveless or has short sleeves, you can add a lightweight cardigan or bolero to cover up a bit.
Hats and Fascinators:
If the high tea event is more formal, wearing a hat can be a great choice. It adds an extra touch of elegance to your outfit. But make sure it complements both your outfit and your personal style.
Shoes and Accessories:
It’s important to select footwear that is not only stylish but also comfortable. Go for low-heeled pumps, dressy flats or elegant sandals that you can comfortably wear throughout the event.
When it comes to accessories, aim for a minimalistic look. Classic jewelry pieces like pearl necklaces, delicate earrings, or a statement bracelet can enhance your overall appearance.
Time of Day and Venue:
When you decide what to wear and how to do your makeup for a high tea, also think about the time and the place it’s happening. For daytime events, choose lighter and more vibrant colors to give yourself a fresh look. If the high tea is in the evening, choose darker or richer colors to add elegance and sophistication to your outfit.
Differentiating between casual and formal high tea events
For attending a high tea event, it’s crucial to understand the difference between casual and formal occasions in terms of dress code.
Let’s understand the difference between casual and formal high tea events in terms of dress code-
Dressing –
Casual high tea events allow you to go for less formal outfits. You can choose more comfortable and casual outfits. Formal high tea events have specific dress codes so It’s important to pay close attention and go with that.
Outfits –
In Casual high tea events, you can experiment with various styles including summer dresses, skirts, etc. Consider lighter fabrics and Playful prints and vibrant colors while choosing your outfit. For Formal high tea, events go with structured outfits, such as cocktail dresses, elegant skirts or pantsuits. For fabric go with silk, satin, lace, or chiffon and for color neutrals, pastels or deep jewel tones are best.
Accessories and Footwear-
For casual go for more relaxed accessories like statement earrings, colorful scarves or bohemian-inspired jewelry. And Choose comfortable footwear such as sandals, wedges, or flats. Hats or fascinators are often worn to formal high tea events. To complete your formal high tea look choose elegant and refined accessories like pearl necklaces, fine jewelry, or sophisticated clutches and pair of heels or dressy pumps that coordinate with your outfit.
Here are 5 ideas to create Classic high tea outfits-
A-line Dress with Floral Prints:
For a feminine and classic look, go for a knee-length A-line dress with a fitted top and a flared skirt. Look for floral prints in soft pastel colors. Pair it with simple pumps or ballet flats, and add some pearl earrings and a delicate bracelet for accessories.
Lace Tea-Length Dress:
If you want a refined and modest appearance, choose a tea-length dress made of delicate lace fabric. Look for one with a high neckline and 3/4 sleeves. Style it with nude heels, a small clutch, and consider adding a vintage-inspired hat or fascinator.
Pleated Skirt and Blouse:
Combine a knee-length pleated skirt in a solid color like pastel pink or mint green. Pair it with a button-up blouse in a complementary shade or a soft floral print. Use a belt to define your waist and finish off the look with ballet flats or low-heeled pumps.
Pantsuit:
For a more formal option, a pantsuit in classic colors like navy blue, charcoal gray, or black is a great choice. Look for a fitted blazer with a structured shape and matching trousers or wide-leg pants. Wear it with a blouse or silk camisole, and accessorize with statement earrings and a sleek clutch.
Vintage-Inspired Tea Dress:
If you prefer a vintage-inspired style, go for a tea-length dress with lace accents, Peter Pan collars, or puffed sleeves. Complete the look with T-strap heels or Mary Jane pumps and carry a vintage-style handbag to enhance the overall vintage vibe.
Accessories that Complement High Tea Outfits:
Accessories play a crucial role in enhancing and completing a high tea outfit. Here are some accessories that can complement your high tea look.
Hats and Fascinators:
Choose a stylish hat or fascinator that coordinates with your outfit.
Choose those hat or fascinator that adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to your look.
Gloves:
Adding elegant gloves to your formal high tea outfit can make it even more sophisticated. Look for gloves made of fine materials like lace, satin, or silk. Choose a length that matches your outfit, such as wrist-length or elbow-length gloves.
Statement Jewelry:
To add a touch of glamour, consider wearing statement jewelry pieces. Pearl necklaces, chandelier earrings, or a bold cocktail ring can make a statement without overpowering your outfit.
Handbags:
Go for a small or medium-sized handbag that complements your overall look. Classic options include structured clutches, vintage-inspired box bags, or elegant purses. Look for handbags in colors or textures that harmonize with your ensemble.
Shoes:
Popular choices for high tea events are low-heeled pumps, kitten heels, or ballet flats. These options provide both style and comfort.
Remember, when selecting accessories for your high tea outfit, look for a balanced look. Each accessory should complement your overall appearance without overshadowing it. Consider the event’s dress code and your personal style preferences to create an elegant look.
