What to wear for Afternoon Tea in the US?

by sandhya garg

What to wear for Afternoon Tea in the US?

Afternoon Tea in the United States tends to be a bit less formal compared to some traditional British settings. However, it's still a special occasion, and dressing appropriately is a sign of respect for the tradition. Here's what to wear for Afternoon Tea in the US:

Smart Casual: Smart casual attire is generally suitable for Afternoon Tea in the US. This means dressing neatly and stylishly without being overly formal.
Dresses and Skirts: Many women choose to wear dresses or skirts, which are a classic choice for Afternoon Tea. A knee-length or midi dress is often a good option.
Slacks or Dress Pants: Men can opt for slacks or dress pants paired with a collared shirt. A blazer or sport coat can be added for a more polished look, especially if the occasion is at an upscale venue.
Blouses and Tops: Women can pair their skirts or slacks with a nice blouse or top. Avoid overly casual t-shirts or tank tops.
Footwear: Comfortable shoes are essential, as you'll be seated for an extended period. Flats, low heels, or dressy sandals are excellent choices.
Layers: Depending on the season and the specific location, you may want to layer your outfit. A cardigan or light jacket can be handy, especially if the venue has air conditioning.
Hat (Optional): While not as common as in traditional British settings, wearing a stylish hat or fascinator is still a lovely touch, especially for women who want to embrace the elegance of the occasion.
Minimalistic Jewelry: Keep your jewelry tasteful and understated. Avoid large, flashy pieces that may distract from the overall look.
Check Venue Requirements: Some tearooms or hotels in the US may have specific dress codes, so it's wise to check in advance. They may require slightly more formal attire, especially if they aim for a more upscale or traditional experience.

Remember that the dress code for Afternoon Tea can vary depending on the specific venue and your personal style. The key is to look presentable and polished without feeling overly constrained. Enjoy your Afternoon Tea experience in the US!

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Sandhya Garg is a Project Runway fashion designer. She studied and specialized in women's fashion at London College of Fashion, UK and has worked at Alexander McQueen, Gucci, Liberty London, Alice Temperley to name a few.

She has her own successful resort wear, vacation dresses, special occasion dresses, wedding guest looks, swim coverups label. While on Project Runway Season 13, she won 2 challenges and was fortunate to show her collection at Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week. The brand has been featured in Marie Claire US,Workshop at Macy's, Ftv.com, Elle Magazine, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Vogue online to name a few.

She designs limited edition high end printed spring dresses, casual resort attire and swim coverups. Beautiful prints are inspired from around the world to be worn during travel, resort stay or cruise holidays.

See Sandhya's work