Sandhya Garg — Style Guide
Afternoon Tea Dress Code:
The Complete 2025–2026 Guide
Top 10 Dos & Don'ts · Best Tea Venues USA & UK · Luxury Tea Brands · Hat Designers · By Sandhya Garg
Quick Answer
The afternoon tea dress code is smart casual to garden party elegant. Wear a floral midi dress, a feminine mini, a wrap dress, or a co-ordinated skirt and blouse in soft pastels, florals, or classic neutrals. A fascinator or hat is optional but encouraged at formal hotel teas. Avoid jeans, trainers, athleisure, and anything overly revealing. Think: effortlessly elegant, not accidental brunch guest.
Afternoon tea is one of life's most civilised pleasures — a delightfully British tradition invented in the 1840s by Anna, the Seventh Duchess of Bedford, who needed something to bridge the hunger gap between lunch and a fashionably late dinner. The ritual quickly spread to drawing rooms, hotel lobbies, and garden parties across Britain and beyond, and it has endured ever since as a social ceremony worth dressing for.
As a Project Runway designer and devoted afternoon tea enthusiast, I know exactly what works at the table — whether you're in The Ritz's Palm Court, The Baccarat Hotel's Grand Salon, or a charming garden tearoom. This guide covers everything: the dos and don'ts, what to wear by venue, the best tea spots in the USA and UK, the top tea brands to know, the finest hat designers, and a curated edit of outfits from our collection.
In This Guide
- Top 10 afternoon tea dress code dos & don'ts
- What to wear by venue: hotel, garden, casual
- Shop: Designer afternoon tea outfits (XS–3XL)
- Top 10 afternoon tea spots in the USA
- Top 10 afternoon tea spots in the UK
- Top 10 luxury afternoon tea brands
- Top 10 afternoon tea hat & fascinator designers
- FAQ: Afternoon tea dress code answered
Top 10 Afternoon Tea Dress Code Dos & Don'ts
✅ Top 10 Dos
01 · Wear a floral or printed midi dress
The quintessential afternoon tea outfit. A floral midi dress in a pastel print or feminine pattern is appropriate for every tea setting from casual to grand hotel. It says "I made an effort" without trying too hard.
02 · Choose soft colours and pastels
Blush, sage, lavender, soft yellow, mint, powder blue, and ivory are the palette of afternoon tea. They photograph beautifully on bone china and against the elegant backdrop of a hotel tearoom. Florals in any of these shades are always right.
03 · Add a hat or fascinator at formal venues
A fascinator or structured hat elevates any afternoon tea look instantly. It's not required at most venues, but it is warmly appreciated — and at very formal teas like The Ritz, it signals that you understand the occasion. Keep it proportionate and secure.
04 · Wear smart shoes with a small heel
Ballet flats, kitten heels, block heels, or low court shoes are all perfect. A small heel improves posture and elevates even a simple outfit. Keep shoes clean and polished — scuffed shoes at a grand hotel tearoom undermine an otherwise elegant look.
05 · Choose quality fabrics that hold their shape
Afternoon tea is a seated, multi-course occasion — you'll be in your outfit for two to three hours. Quality fabric (cotton, silk-blend, jacquard, scuba) holds its shape and looks polished from first course to last scone. Cheap synthetic fabric wrinkles and pills under pressure.
06 · Match your accessories thoughtfully
A small structured handbag or clutch, delicate pearl or floral earrings, and a silk scarf or wrap make the perfect afternoon tea accessory set. Think refined rather than statement. The tea service is the showpiece — your accessories should complement, not compete.
07 · Wear a wrap or light blazer for hotel venues
Hotel tearooms are often air-conditioned and more formal than casual venues. A silk wrap, structured blazer, or a light cardigan over your dress adds an extra layer of polish — and practicality. Choose one in a complementary colour rather than matching exactly.
08 · Consider a co-ordinated set
A matching blouse and skirt set in a complementary print or fabric creates an effortlessly put-together look. It reads as more considered than a basic dress while being just as easy to wear. Florals, pastels, and classic checks all work well as co-ord sets for afternoon tea.
09 · Check the venue dress code before you go
Luxury hotel teas (The Ritz, Claridge's) have specific dress codes. Read them before you book — most specify smart casual at minimum, with some requiring jackets for men and excluding denim and trainers entirely. Knowing the code ahead of time means arriving confidently.
10 · Wear something that makes you feel wonderful
Afternoon tea is a celebration of the ritual of leisure — it should feel indulgent. The best outfit is the one that makes you sit up a little straighter, smile a little wider, and fully inhabit the occasion. Dress for the moment, not just the dress code.
❌ Top 10 Don'ts
01 · Don't wear jeans or denim
Even dark-wash, tailored jeans are typically not appropriate for a formal hotel afternoon tea. Denim is explicitly excluded from the dress codes of venues like The Ritz and Claridge's. If you're attending a casual venue, smart trousers are always a safer choice.
02 · Don't wear trainers or sports shoes
Trainers and athletic shoes are banned at most formal tea venues. Even expensive designer trainers read as too casual for the occasion. The only exception: some very casual garden teas or independent tearooms where anything goes.
03 · Don't wear athleisure or activewear
Leggings, yoga pants, and sports tops are not appropriate for any afternoon tea setting. Even at a casual tearoom, the occasion calls for a step above everyday comfort dressing. If in doubt: a simple floral dress always works.
04 · Don't wear very revealing outfits
Micro-minis, very low necklines, and bare midriffs are not appropriate for afternoon tea — particularly at hotel venues. The occasion calls for elegance rather than exposure. A midi or knee-length dress is always a safe and sophisticated choice.
05 · Don't wear a hat that obscures others' views
At indoor teas, a very large brimmed hat can obstruct the view of other guests and create practical difficulties in seated settings. Keep hats proportionate to the venue — wide brims work beautifully at outdoor garden teas but can be tricky in tight hotel tearooms.
06 · Don't over-accessorise
Heavy jewellery, multiple statement pieces, and oversized bags overwhelm a delicate afternoon tea aesthetic. Choose one focal accessory — a fascinator, a statement earring, or a beautiful clutch — and keep everything else understated.
07 · Don't wear heavy perfume
This one surprises people — but afternoon tea is an experience built around delicate flavours and aromas. An overpowering perfume disrupts the tasting experience for you and your table companions. A light, fresh scent is all that's needed.
08 · Don't choose white at a bridal afternoon tea
If you're a guest at an afternoon tea bridal shower or hen party, the same rule applies as at a wedding: leave white, ivory, and champagne for the bride. Pastels, florals, and any other colour are all more appropriate choices for guests.
09 · Don't wear very casual flip-flops or sandals
Rubber flip-flops and very casual slides are too informal for any afternoon tea that takes place indoors. Strappy flat sandals in leather or woven styles are acceptable at casual outdoor teas, but dressy shoes are always the safer choice.
10 · Don't leave your phone on the table
This is an etiquette rule as much as a style note — but it completes the picture. Afternoon tea is an occasion for conversation and presence. A phone on the table signals that you're half-somewhere-else. Take your photographs of the three-tier stand, then put it away and enjoy the moment.
What to Wear by Afternoon Tea Venue
🏨 Grand Hotel Tea (Ritz, Claridge's, Baccarat)
Code: Smart casual to classic daytime elegant
Floral or printed midi dress, or a classic tailored dress in a solid colour. A light blazer or silk wrap. A fascinator is welcomed and appreciated. Kitten heels or court shoes. Small structured clutch. No jeans, no trainers, no denim under any circumstances.
🌸 Garden Party Tea
Code: Garden party to semi-formal
This is your floral maxi or printed midi moment. A wide-brimmed hat in straw or fabric is perfect. Flat sandals or low wedges (grass-friendly). Bold florals, soft pastels, and romantic silhouettes all shine at an outdoor garden tea.
☕ Casual Tearoom or Café
Code: Smart casual
A sundress, a floral midi, or a blouse and trousers. The dress code is relaxed but it's still afternoon tea — make an effort. Even a simple floral dress elevates the experience. Casual sandals are fine here; smart trainers might just pass.
💐 Bridal Shower or Hen Party Tea
Code: Garden party festive
This is the occasion for your most romantic, feminine outfit. Pink, lavender, blush, floral — the works. A fascinator is practically required. Avoid white (reserved for the bride). Match the energy of the occasion: celebratory, feminine, joyful.
Designer Edit · XS to 3XL · Afternoon Tea Perfect
Shop Afternoon Tea Outfits
Florals, pastels, and elegantly feminine silhouettes — every piece below is designed for the woman who dresses for the occasion and means it.
Florals & Embroidery — The Tea Table Essentials
Midi & Romantic — Garden Party Perfect
Rose Gold & Special Occasion
All pieces available in XS · S · M · L · XL · XXL · XXXL · Original prints designed in LA · Free US shipping on orders over $250
Top 10 Afternoon Tea Spots in the USA
The most celebrated venues for afternoon tea across America — from iconic New York hotel salons to historic tearoom institutions
For our full city-by-city guide with top 5 venues in New York, Los Angeles, Boston, Florida, Texas and Chicago — including dress codes, prices and outfit recommendations for each — see What to Wear for Afternoon Tea in the US →
01. Baccarat Hotel Grand Salon, NYC
⭐ TOP PICKNew York, NY · From $140 per person · Smart casual dress code
Widely considered the finest afternoon tea in New York City. Set amid sparkling crystal, the Grand Salon offers a "Prince of Wales" service with lobster caviar, coronation chicken, warm scones, and crème brûlée tart. The tea programme is extensive and the atmosphere is genuinely spectacular. The consistently top-ranked tea in NYC in 2025.
02. Waldorf Astoria New York
New York, NY · Post-renovation 2025 · Japanese-influenced menu
Fresh from an $2 billion renovation, the Waldorf's new afternoon tea at Yoshoku features Japanese-inspired finger sandwiches, wagyu reuben bites, and a curated Japanese tea selection from sencha to gyokuro. An extraordinary new entry dethroning Baccarat in some rankings for its meticulous detail.
03. The Plaza Hotel, Palm Court, NYC
New York, NY · From $89 per person · Iconic Eloise tea
The Plaza's storied atrium offers one of New York's most resplendent afternoon teas. The "Eloise" children's tea is famous, but the adult service — with tea sandwiches, scones, and petit fours — is equally celebrated. Book well in advance for special occasions.
04. Mandarin Oriental, New York
New York, NY · From $130 per person · Central Park views on the 35th floor
Year-round afternoon tea on the 35th floor with stunning Central Park views. Seasonal tea sandwiches, egg salad with caviar on brioche, and a carefully curated tea selection. The setting alone justifies the price — sunlight through floor-to-ceiling windows over the park is extraordinary.
05. St. Regis New York, Astor Court
New York, NY · Daily service · Old King Cole mural
Astor Court, with its soaring ceilings and iconic Old King Cole mural, continues the beloved St. Regis afternoon tea tradition. Historically, Caroline Astor herself held court here. Today the ritual continues with white, green, oolong, and black teas including Keemun and bergamot-scented Ceylon.
06. The Russian Tea Room, NYC
New York, NY · From $95 per person · Founded 1927 by Russian Imperial Ballet
A New York institution since 1927, synonymous with old-world glamour and decadence. The afternoon tea spans English Breakfast to rooibos chai, paired with elegant bites, assorted scones, and petits fours. Steps from Carnegie Hall — a perfect pre-performance tradition.
07. Lady Mendl's Tea Salon, NYC
Gramercy, New York · From $89 per person · Victorian Gramercy brownstone
Set in a Gramercy Park brownstone that transports you to 1800s high society, Lady Mendl's serves a five-course tea service with seasonal sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and petit fours. A hidden gem beloved by those in the know — and served with a Pink Lady cocktail option.
08. The Whitby Hotel, NYC
New York, NY · The Orangery & Crosby Street Hotel · Healthy-forward
The Orangery at The Whitby offers a lighter, health-conscious tea with whipped cashew cream instead of clotted cream, and pear-and-fig cake. A bright, welcoming SoHo alternative for those who want the experience without the heaviness. Sister property Crosby Street Hotel also serves daily.
09. The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel, NYC
New York, NY · From $90 per person · Bemelmans Bar & Gallery
The elegant Carlyle — opened 1930 as a residential hotel — serves a refined daily afternoon tea in its Gallery dining room: tea sandwiches, apple cinnamon and traditional scones, double cream, mixed berry preserves, and mini pastries. Café Carlyle and Bemelmans Bar add further glamour to the experience.
10. Bergdorf Goodman Tea Room, NYC
Fifth Avenue, New York · From $75 per person · Central Park view
The fourth floor of Bergdorf Goodman offers afternoon tea with a lovely Central Park view — one of New York's best value luxury tea experiences. Dainty two-bite sandwiches, well-executed scones, and a good loose-leaf tea selection, in the elegant surroundings of America's most storied luxury department store.
Top 10 Afternoon Tea Spots in the UK
London remains the undisputed capital of afternoon tea — from legendary institution The Ritz to creative new contenders
In the UK section: "For our complete guide to London's 10 best afternoon tea venues including The Ritz, Claridge's, The Langham, Sketch and The Shard — see What to Wear for Afternoon Tea in London →
01. The Ritz, Palm Court — London
ICONICPiccadilly, London · From £70 per person · Smart casual required — no jeans or trainers
Widely considered the gold standard of afternoon tea in Britain. Served in the ornate Palm Court with 18 loose-leaf teas to choose from, finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and hand-made pastries. The Ritz enforces a strict dress code — jackets required for men, smart attire for all. Reservations must be booked well in advance. The experience that all others are measured against.
02. Claridge's, Foyer & Reading Room — London
Mayfair, London · From £85 per person · Three-MICHELIN-Key hotel
Claridge's light-filled Foyer and Reading Room is the quintessential Mayfair tea experience — refined, timeless, and elegant. Curated teas by tea connoisseur Henrietta Lovell, classic finger sandwiches with British seasonal ingredients, and freshly baked scones served on delicate bone china embossed with Claridge's design. Widely regarded as one of the top two in London.
03. Fortnum & Mason, Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon
Piccadilly, St James's · From £78 per person · Opened by the late Queen Elizabeth II
Named by Queen Elizabeth II in her Diamond Jubilee year, the Fortnum & Mason Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon is the go-to for St James's afternoon tea. Who knows tea better than Fortnum & Mason — with over 150 varieties, their expertise is unmatched. Seasonal afternoon teas, still warm scones, and the world's finest tea selection. King Charles would surely approve.
04. The Savoy, Thames Foyer — London
The Strand, London · From £65 per person · A fixture since 1889
The Savoy has served afternoon tea in the Thames Foyer since it opened in 1889 — a quintessential English tradition now spanning over 130 years. The menu is largely unchanged: finger sandwiches, pastries, cakes, and a curated tea selection. Vegan and children's options available. Weekend bookings should be made well in advance.
05. The Berkeley, Goûtea by Cédric Grolet
Knightsbridge, London · Two-MICHELIN-Key hotel
Under celebrated pastry chef Cédric Grolet, The Berkeley's "Goûtea" combines French sweet treats with the classic British afternoon tea format. It's one of London's most creative and visually spectacular tea experiences — patisserie elevated to art. Also famous for its seasonal "Prêt-à-Portea" fashion-themed menu which changes with the collections.
06. The Dorchester, Promenade — London
Park Lane, London · Overlooking Hyde Park
The Dorchester's Promenade is a grand, opulent setting for afternoon tea — one of the most consistently top-ranked in London by serious tea reviewers. The finger sandwiches are exceptional, the scone service is generous, and the patisserie display is genuinely stunning. Best for a truly luxurious, traditional experience.
07. Brown's Hotel, Drawing Room — London
Mayfair, London · London's oldest hotel
London's oldest hotel serves afternoon tea in its Drawing Room — a beautifully wood-panelled, intimate setting that feels like someone's elegant private home. Brown's is beloved for the warmth of its service and the quality of its classic British tea service. A quieter, more intimate alternative to the grand hotel ballrooms.
08. The Connaught, Jean-Georges — London
Mayfair, London · Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten
Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten brings a South East-Asian twist to the British staple. Exotic teas, finger sandwiches with cucumber and mint, oak smoked salmon, and turkey with tandoori yoghurt. The people-watching from the Mount Street window seats is unmatched — Cherie Blair is apparently a regular.
09. Royal Albert Hall — London
South Kensington, London · Under its iconic dome since 1871
Originally opened as a tribute to Queen Victoria's late husband Prince Albert, the Royal Albert Hall has served afternoon tea under its magnificent 20,000 sq ft dome for 100 years. Traditional sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and seasonal cakes — combined with one of London's most extraordinary settings.
10. Kensington Palace Orangery — London
Kensington, London · Historic royal setting
The Orangery at Kensington Palace is one of London's most beautiful and historic tea settings — built in 1704 for Queen Anne. Light-filled, architecturally extraordinary, and set within the Palace gardens. The afternoon tea is traditional and well-executed, and the setting is unlike anything else in London. A must for any tea lover visiting the city.
Top 10 Luxury Afternoon Tea Brands
The teas served at the world's greatest tearooms — and the brands worth having at home
01. Fortnum & Mason
🇬🇧 London · Est. 1707 · Royal warrant holder
The gold standard of British tea for over 300 years. Royal warrant holder with iconic blends including Royal Blend (since 1902), Earl Grey Classic, and the Piccadilly. Their Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon is one of London's finest tea destinations. Over 150 varieties; beautiful gift packaging.
02. TWG Tea
🇸🇬 Singapore · Est. 2008 · 800+ varieties
The Singapore-born global luxury tea house with over 800 varieties sourced from every tea-producing region in the world. Known for lavish boutiques in luxury hotels, sophisticated packaging, and unique blends. Every TWG visit feels like a special occasion — one of the most cited luxury tea brands globally.
03. Mariage Frères
🇫🇷 Paris · Est. 1854 · French tea artistry
Founded in 1854, Mariage Frères is the epitome of French tea sophistication. Classic blends like Marco Polo and Earl Grey French Blue are beloved by connoisseurs worldwide. Vintage-inspired tins that double as collectibles; Parisian tea salons where the full experience comes alive.
04. Harney & Sons
🇺🇸 New York · Est. 1983 · 300+ blends
America's premier luxury tea brand, built over three generations by the Harney family. Over 300 blends, Fair Trade Certified, with favourites including Hot Cinnamon Spice and the Historic Royal Palaces collection. The go-to for elegant tea gifting in the USA, served in leading hotels, restaurants, and cafes.
05. JING Tea
🇬🇧 London · Single-origin · Michelin-starred restaurants
JING Tea's minimalist single-origin approach has made it the preferred tea of Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury hotel spas across the UK. Their curated selection of high-quality loose-leaf teas is served at some of London's finest establishments.
06. Kusmi Tea
🇷🇺/🇫🇷 Paris · Est. 1867 · Colourful tins
Started in St. Petersburg in 1867, now headquartered in Paris. Known for vibrant packaging, bold flavoured blends, and their BB Detox range. The Be Cool mint-green blend is a perfect palate cleanser between tea courses. Extremely popular as gifting teas.
07. Whittard of Chelsea
🇬🇧 London · Est. 1886 · Premium gifting
A British institution on the Chelsea high street since 1886, Whittard offers exquisite loose-leaf teas, beautifully designed gift sets, and tableware. Their wooden tea chest gift sets — combining black tea, green tea, and herbal infusions — are among the most beautiful tea gifts available.
08. Palais des Thés
🇫🇷 Paris · Est. 1986 · Travel-inspired blends
Le Palais des Thés is French tea sophistication at its finest — with evocatively named blends like Fleur de Geisha, Chai Impérial, and Paris for Her. Beautifully designed lacquered metal tins for loose tea; single-origin teas from the top gardens in Asia. Perfect for those who want a French alternative to British tea traditions.
09. Tea Forte
🇺🇸 USA · Signature pyramid infuser · Gifting
Known for their elegant pyramid-shaped silken infusers and beautiful gift packaging, Tea Forte is the go-to American brand for bridal showers, hen parties, and special occasion afternoon teas. Their curated gift sets are among the most photographically beautiful in the tea world.
10. Rare Tea Company
🇬🇧 London · Single-estate · Chef's favourite
A beloved niche London brand specialising in small-batch, single-estate teas sourced directly by founder Henrietta Lovell from farms she personally visits. The tea selection curated by Lovell for Claridge's afternoon tea is among the finest in the world. For serious tea drinkers who want the extraordinary over the familiar.
Top 10 Afternoon Tea Hat & Fascinator Designers
From royal milliners to accessible artisan hatmakers — the names behind the most spectacular headwear for afternoon tea
01. Philip Treacy
🇮🇪 London-based · Vogue: "perhaps the greatest living milliner"
The Irish milliner who has won British Accessory Designer of the Year five times. Philip Treacy designed for Alexander McQueen, Karl Lagerfeld at Chanel, and Valentino — and famously created Princess Beatrice's viral "pretzel hat" at the 2011 Royal Wedding. Lady Gaga called him "the greatest milliner of all time." His afternoon tea fascinators are architectural wonders.
02. Rachel Trevor-Morgan
🇬🇧 London · Royal milliner · 30+ years
Royal milliner Rachel Trevor-Morgan has been designing hats for HM The Queen and the Royal Family for over 30 years. Known for her extraordinary attention to detail, handwork, and feminine designs. Her work is the definition of restrained English elegance — perfect for formal hotel afternoon teas.
03. Stephen Jones
🇬🇧 London · Stephen Jones OBE · Avant-garde
Stephen Jones OBE is credited alongside Philip Treacy for establishing and popularising the modern fascinator in couture. A founding member of the British Hat Guild, Jones has collaborated with Christian Dior, Jean-Paul Gaultier, and John Galliano. His designs range from classic to the supremely theatrical — perfect for a creative afternoon tea look.
04. Jane Taylor
🇬🇧 London · Milliner to Duchess Sophie · Ascot specialist
The Duchess of Edinburgh's go-to milliner, Jane Taylor creates hats that balance heritage craftsmanship with a modern silhouette beautifully. "The balance lies in marrying heritage craftsmanship with a modern silhouette," she says — which makes her pieces ideal for formal afternoon teas where the hat must be both beautiful and appropriate.
05. Lock & Co. Hatters
🇬🇧 St James's, London · Est. 1676 · World's oldest hat shop
The world's oldest hat shop — established in 1676 on St James's Street and supplier to Lord Nelson, Winston Churchill, and Oscar Wilde. Lock & Co. creates beautifully made English hats that are genuinely investment pieces. Their women's range includes elegant fascinators, cocktail hats, and wide-brimmed styles perfect for afternoon tea.
06. Vivien Sheriff
🇬🇧 Wiltshire · Handmade · Dramatic flair
Crafting each hat by hand in her Wiltshire studio, Vivien Sheriff creates timeless headwear with an underlying dramatic flair. Her statement pieces — known for floral embellishments, sculptural shapes, and beautiful proportions — sit beautifully on the head without overwhelming the face. Ideal for garden party afternoon teas.
07. Lalage Beaumont
🇬🇧 London · Hats & luxury occasionwear
Lalage Beaumont creates hats alongside luxury handbags and occasionwear — making her one of the only milliners who designs for the full afternoon tea look. Her wide-brimmed styles with beautiful face-framing proportions are particularly noted by fashion editors for their sun-shielding glamour. Boaters and wide brims are her specialty for 2025.
08. Emily London
🇬🇧 London studio · All handmade · Every occasion
Emily London crafts all headwear by hand from its London studio, creating pieces for weddings, races, christenings, and special occasions including afternoon tea. A brilliant option for custom fascinator orders — their bespoke service allows you to match headwear precisely to your afternoon tea outfit colour palette.
09. Laura Cathcart
🇬🇧 London · Timeless collections · Elegant designs
Known for timeless collections and elegant designs, Laura Cathcart Millinery creates hats for weddings, races, christenings, and special occasions. Her afternoon tea pieces tend toward the classically beautiful — floral crowns, soft fascinator perchers, and pillbox-influenced styles that feel simultaneously vintage and entirely contemporary.
10. Merve Bayindir
🇬🇧 London · Sustainable · Modern drama
A rising name in British millinery, Merve Bayindir is known for dramatic, beautifully sculptural designs with a growing focus on sustainability and versatility. "Clients are increasingly looking for designs they can wear beyond a single occasion," she says — making her multi-wear pieces ideal for those who want a hat that works for afternoon tea, weddings, and Ascot alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the dress code for afternoon tea?
The afternoon tea dress code is typically smart casual to garden party elegant. For grand hotel teas (The Ritz, Claridge's), smart casual is the minimum — no jeans, no trainers, no denim. A floral midi dress, wrap dress, or tailored dress are all appropriate. For casual tearooms, a nice sundress or blouse and trousers suffice. For garden party teas, florals, pastels, and a hat or fascinator are ideal.
Do you have to wear a hat to afternoon tea?
No — a hat or fascinator is not typically required at most afternoon tea venues, including luxury hotels. It is, however, warmly appreciated and adds a wonderful element of occasion. At very traditional venues like The Ritz, a hat is strongly encouraged for women. For garden party teas and outdoor afternoon teas, a hat or fascinator is the natural and elegant choice.
What is the difference between afternoon tea and high tea?
Afternoon tea (traditionally 3–5 PM) is an elegant, light meal of finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries — historically a privilege of the upper classes, now a popular social occasion. High tea, despite its grand-sounding name, was originally a working-class meal served at a high (dining) table in the early evening — heartier, with meat dishes. Today the two terms are often used interchangeably, particularly in North America and Australia, though they have distinct British origins.
What colours should I wear to afternoon tea?
Soft pastels, florals, and classic neutrals are the most appropriate and flattering palette for afternoon tea. Blush, sage, lavender, soft yellow, mint, powder blue, and ivory all photograph beautifully against the elegant backdrop of a tearoom. Avoid white (especially at bridal teas), very dark colours that feel too formal, and neon brights that clash with the setting.
How do you hold a teacup correctly at afternoon tea?
Hold the handle between your thumb and index finger, with your middle finger supporting the base of the handle. Do not loop fingers through the handle, and do not hold the cup with both hands. Do not extend your little finger (the infamous pinky raise is actually incorrect etiquette, despite its reputation). The saucer should be lifted to chest height when standing; kept on the table when seated.
What is the correct order to eat at afternoon tea?
The traditional order is: savoury sandwiches first, then scones, then pastries and cakes. This moves from savoury to sweet in the way that best showcases each course. The scone should be split horizontally and topped first with clotted cream, then jam — not spread like a biscuit. At The Ritz this order is observed strictly; at more casual venues, feel free to dip in as you please.
Project Runway · Vogue Italia · Marie Claire · XS–3XL
The perfect dress for every occasion — including a very good scone.
Sandhya Garg is a Los Angeles boutique specialising in limited-edition artisanal dresses for women in sizes XS–3XL. Florals, pastels, and feminine silhouettes designed to be worn at life's most elegant moments.
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