What to Wear to Afternoon Tea

Struggling to think about what to wear when you next pop out for a spot of afternoon tea in the Lake District? You’re not on your own. Many people need clarification on what to wear to these fancy occasions.

In this guide, we’ll talk you through your options for attending afternoon tea, so you exude fashionable elegance, whatever the dress code.

WHAT TO WEAR TO AFTERNOON TEA

The guidance on what to wear to afternoon tea for men and women is generally the same. However, women usually have more wiggle room to experiment with their looks!

MEN’S ATTIRE

For men attending any afternoon teas, they should consider an outfit choice that rests between formal and casual.

While there are no ties required, you might want to opt for a crisp, white collared shirt which is seen as a safe bet when it comes to afternoon tea. The look is very much a staple of the unwritten dress code for these events.

Men can also wear jeans or smart trousers and keep their footwear to a good standard. That means nothing you would wear to the supermarket! It might mean investing in a new pair of smart shoes if you want to perfect your look.

WOMEN’S ATTIRE

It all comes down to personal taste, yet dressing appropriately is always essential. If in doubt, consider dressing as if you were attending a work party to bring an element of formality with a hint of elegance.

It’s common for women to wear anything from tailored pencil skirts, dress pants, and embellished tank tops to floral prints and tea dresses. So, whether you decide on a strapless summer maxi dress or a tailored pencil skirt, there’s lots of options to consider.

In terms of women’s fashion, a free-flowing maxi skirt is always a sure-fire option. When paired with a matching cardigan, pastel top and ballet flats, the look thrives.

However, women can easily get away with wearing smart jeans and a bright blouse. Although, a lot of people may prefer to use the special occasion of afternoon tea to dress in their best whilst indulging in delicious treats and refreshingly fragrant teas.

WHAT NOT TO WEAR TO AFTERNOON TEA

While we’ve outlined some of the best choices of attire, some items of clothing should never be worn at afternoon tea.

TRAINERS

Although they might be super comfortable, it is somewhat frowned upon to cross afternoon tea with trainers.

SPORTSWEAR

Any form of gym wear, such as leggings, hoodies or visible sports socks, has no place at the tea table.

T-SHIRTS

T-shirts are a big no-no as they are considered too casual. However, it may be possible to wear jackets over solid-coloured t-shirts. Just as long as the t-shirt isn’t too flashy or embellished with slogans.

SHORTS

Although a staple of the summertime, if it’s warm outside, shorts should generally be avoided. However, you might get away with it if you opt for smarter-looking shorts.

WHAT EXACTLY IS A SMART-CASUAL DRESS CODE?

It should be noted that there could be a strict dress code, depending on where you go for afternoon tea. Always bear this in mind when deciding what to wear for such an occasion because a mistake, such as dressing in completely the wrong attire, could have you politely turned away at the door.

If there isn’t a dress code, smart casual is usually the best bet. However, as we’ve previously mentioned, many people use it as a brilliant excuse to get dressed up!

But what exactly is smart-casual? Well, it can be interpreted in several ways, which is only sometimes a good thing. But this dress code has come to envisage a look somewhere between business casual and regular casual.

Sometimes, smart casual requires men to wear a coloured shirt, but rarely does this mean having to don a suit and tie.

If in doubt, check ahead of arrival.

ENJOY AFTERNOON TEA IN THE LAKES AT THE DAFFODIL HOTEL

If you are heading for afternoon tea in the Lake District, look at our rooms & suites for the perfect place to stay.

From a relaxing break in the Lake District to a week exploring the countryside, we have rooms for everyone to enjoy. Remember, check your outfit before you head out – you don’t want to miss out on the scrummy scones and clotted cream!