More than just the tea and pastries, high tea is about a graceful and elegant presence. It’s one of those events where you get to be a true Victorian for the day, at a historic castle or at a countryside garden. Now, speaking of presence, what to wear is the big question. Although the setting is often relaxed, the shared understanding is that high tea carries its own unspoken dress etiquette. In this article, we will decode the dress code and guide you to make the best outfit choice that feels amazing in the season and looks awesome in the photos.
What is a High Tea?
Before we guide you through the dress code, let’s first understand what high tea is. High tea originated in the UK as a hearty tradition served to workers in the late afternoon for relaxation. Over time, it evolved into a refined affair, often featuring elegant surroundings, light bites, and a curated tea selection. For more explanation, read through the Wiki here.
So, what is in a high tea? It’s more than just fine tea, diners often enjoy savoury sandwiches, scones with cream and Jam, and a selection of sweet pastries. These are served on tiered trays with a pot of tea, inviting guests to enjoy the light meal with leisure conversations. By mixing the culinary charm and social tradition, high tea is ideal for light social gatherings, family reunions, or dates.
What to Wear to High Tea
From classic silhouettes to weather-appropriate fabrics, choosing what to wear to high tea mixes tradition with your style. While modern fashion is more relaxed compared to the past, an underlying appreciation for neatness and appropriateness still remains. Let’s decode that.
A rule of thumb
The high tea dress code is about your intention. It needs to show thought, effort, and recognition of the traditions. For ladies, a knee-to-midi-length dress, modest in neckline and refined in details, is often a safe choice. Consider gentle prints, flowing lines, or tailored structures. For gentlemen, think collared shirts, smart trousers, and shoes that fall in between casual and formal. Though not required, blazers are also a great idea.
In short, you should find a midpoint somewhere between smart casual and semi-formal. Avoid casual choices like jeans, sneakers, or t-shirts as those can feel out of step with the setting.
One-size-fits-all cheat code
If you have a tough time choosing, pick a line skirt, button-down shirts, dressy blouses, or modest dresses. For men, it’s even easier, go for trousers and shirts. Those one-size-fits-all choices can’t go wrong for your high tea.
Now, a one-size-fits-all solution is often not the best of the best. If you want to get to the essence of high tea style, look to the seasons. Each brings its own charm, mood, and practical needs, and your outfit should reflect that.
What to Wear to High Tea in Every Season
If you want to upgrade your high tea dress code, let’s adapt to the weather and surroundings. Seasonal dress brings you comfort and enhances the experience. Here’s how to align your outfit with the moment, from spring to winter.
Spring
Spring invites freshness and colour. Choose light and breathable fabrics like chiffon, linen, or cotton for the season. Consider dressing in pastels, floral prints, or subtle lace to fit in the atmosphere better. Short or three-quarter sleeves are great, and a light cardigan brings versatility as the weather shifts. For the footwear, mix elegance with practicality. Choose low heels or ballet flats in soft tones that work well for both indoor and garden settings.
For the accessories, a delicate bracelet or petite pendant necklace will do the job. In outdoor settings, put on a sunhat can elevate the look and protect you from the sun. For men, choose lightweight trousers and a linen shirt is perfect for the weather.
Summer
Australian Summers are full of sun, choose breathable materials and sun-smart styling. Consider sleeveless dresses, cap-sleeve blouses, or wide-leg trousers with a refined top. You can also try out brighter colors for summer, such as mint, coral, or ivory.
A wide-brimmed hat adds shade and style, and pair sunglasses when they match the tone of your outfit. Footwear should remain polished—espadrilles or sandals with a slight heel work well. To keep things fresh and functional, we also recommend minimal makeup in the weather.
Autumn
Temperatures cool in Autumn, and it’s time to add layers. Consider long-sleeved dresses or a fitted skirt. For both style and warmth, pairing with a blouse and a lightweight trench coat is ideal. And lastly, mustard, burgundy, or forest green are the common tones associated with the season.
Include low-heeled boots or dressy loafers for the footwear. Put on a silk scarf or handbag to complement your outfit. Men might choose a darker trouser pair with a sleeved button-down shirt, perhaps with a casual blazer.
Winter
Winter is about the refined warmth. Choose sleeved woolen dresses or heavier jersey and layer with a coat in darker tones, such as camel, navy, or charcoal. Bring in the bigger weapon for the season, pair with knee-high boots, closed-toe heels for both the style and comfort. For accessories, consider leather gloves or a wool beret.
For men, winter high tea dressing can include fine knits under blazers, wool trousers, and well-polished leather shoes. A scarf in a subtle pattern to complete the look.
How to Look Picture-Perfect at High Tea
Let’s be real, taking a 10/10 is probably a top agenda for most. Now you know the secret to perfect high tea attire, let’s talk about how to get your perfect high tea picture. Outdoor high tea is often held in a garden setting, a sun hat is a great complement and makes you look elegant and down-to-earth. Soft morning and late afternoon light bring out the skin tones and fabric texture; avoid midday as the sunlight can interfere with the lens. Indoor settings are less concerned with the weather and lighting; the secret is the pose. Be relaxed but composed in front of the camera with a slight turn of the shoulders or looking down at a teacup. Think of the paintings from the Victorian era, people from the 19th century know exactly how.
Where to Experience a Good High Tea in Melbourne
Finding the right outfit is only half the charm; finding the perfect place is the second half. If you’re looking for a high tea experience that blends romance with a vintage castle, consider Overnewton Castle. Nestled in the heart of Keilor, this 19th-century Scottish Baronial-style castle offers manicured gardens, a beautiful tea room, and brilliant culinary leisure. Whether you are planning a date, a celebration, or a weekend outing, the high tea experience at Overnewton will turn a simple afternoon into a timeless moment.
