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When I first had my daughter, I knew at some point I wanted to take her to high tea. It would be adorable to dress up together and enjoy a cup of tea together. In my opinion, it is a right of passage.
I took her to the Plaza hotel, and it was such a wonderful experience. Not only were their children, plenty of adults were partaking in the high tea experience. I really wanted to come back with my adult friends.
High tea is a light meal typically eaten in the afternoon, and it usually consists of sandwiches, scones, and pastries. It is originally a British tradition, but now enjoyed globally.
The general rule of thumb for tea party outfits is smart casual. You want to look dressed up, but not too formal. It also depends on the venue. If it is in a high-end hotel or venue, you will want to lean towards a more formal look. A garden party will lean towards casual.
Regardless of venue, a skirt or dress is a smart high tea look. All in all, tea party attire is all about looking put-together but not overly formal for the occasion.
Scroll below for 8 options of what to wear to high tea.
A pleated midi skirt is feminine and casual enough for a high tea outfit.
To add a contrast to the ultra-feminine look, add an unexpected blazer in the same color palette.
Who says a tennis skirt won’t work for afternoon tea?
Keep it formal with a tweed blazer and a velvet bow tie.
Maybe you’re going out on a date for high tea?
A blazer dress is a great choice.
For an edgy look, choose a cutout option.
A black dress is another choice for a date tea party option.
It can be worn underneath a blazer for a more modest tea party outfit.
If you want to go the more traditional route, a pretty dress is always a safe bet for high tea attire.
Opt for a knee-length dress for a sophisticated vibe.
This is a classic high tea combo.
A matching set in tweed or houndstooth works together as a set or break it up, wearing just the blazer and a different skirt or pants.
A blazer, especially in a luxe material, always elevates a look.
Keep the look monochrome for an overall chic look.
If you’re not a dress person, pants is also proper high tea attire.
A nice pair of pants, whether it be satin or silk, is an appropriate option, while maintaining a level of glamour.