What should I wear to a summer afternoon tea?

When deciding on your outfit, consider something elegant. And afternoon tea is (unlike high tea) a formal daytime event. Light fabrics such as cotton or linen can keep you cool, while floral patterns or pastel colors can enhance the summery vibe. Think of pieces that allow for ease of movement, especially if you'll be enjoying a leisurely afternoon.

Are there specific dress codes for summer afternoon tea?

Dress codes can vary based on the venue. Some places call for morning dress, while others allow for a relaxed atmosphere. It's a good idea to check the invitation or venue guidelines. Generally, semi formal attire is a safe bet. But you can go for a smart boujee look in summer as well.

What are some stylish outfit ideas for a summer afternoon tea?

Consider a knee-length sundress with heels. Accessories like a wide-brimmed hat or a headband will elevate your look. Midi skirts paired with fitted blouses are also a fashionable choice that offers comfort and style.

Can I wear casual clothes to a summer afternoon tea?

Casual attire is not acceptable for afternoon tea. You might be able to lean towards smart-casual. However, consider how your outfit reflects the occasion and the company you'll be with.

What accessories should I consider for a summer afternoon tea outfit?

Accessories can play a vital role in completing your look. Think about ldascinators, sunhats and headbands. Footwear can also be an accessory; opt for elegant sandals or chic flats that complement your outfit.

Is it appropriate to wear a sundress to a summer afternoon tea?

A sundress is a modern choice for summer afternoon tea. To keep the look polished, consider styling it with dressy shoes.

What shoes are best for a summer afternoon tea?

Slingback pumps for a semi formal summer afternoon tea and dressy sandals for other summer afternoon tea dress codes.

How can I stay cool while dressing up for a summer afternoon tea?

Opt for breathable fabrics and lighter colors to help manage heat.

What should I wear to a summer afternoon tea?

It depends on the dress code set for the afternoon tea. While traditional afternoon tea attire leans towards formality, the relaxed atmosphere of summer allows for a more relaxed approach. Opt for pieces that exude sophistication while keeping you cool and comfortable in the warmer weather.

What is the appropriate dress code for a summer afternoon tea?

An afternoon tea is generally considered a semi-formal occasion. Aim for a polished and put-together look that reflectsthe event's refined atmosphere. Consider the venue and time of day when selecting your outfit.

How formal should I dress for a summer afternoon tea?

The level of formality for a summer afternoon tea can vary depending on the event. However, the modern afternoon tea outfit presented comes somewhere in between the dress codes and can make you look dressed appropriately in any setting.

What are the best fabrics for a summer afternoon tea outfit?

Opt for breathable and lightweight materials such as cotton, linen, and silk.

What kind of dress is suitable for a summer afternoon tea?

Midi or knee length dresses in floral prints, solid colors, or delicate patterns. A knee-length dress with a belt is the best option for semi-formal summer afternoon tea party.

Can I wear sandals to an afternoon tea?

The appropriateness of sandals for an afternoon tea depends on the specific event and venue. While most afternoon teas allow for dressy sandals with high heels, it's generally recommended to opt for slingback pumps.

What accessories should I wear to a summer afternoon tea?

A fascinator, a sunhat, or a headband, and a pretty mini handbag. Opt for delicate jewelry and avoid overly flashy pieces.

What about hats for a summer afternoon tea?

Hats can add a touch of elegance to an afternoon tea outfit. A wide-brimmed hat or a fascinator are the most appropriate choice, especially for outdoor events. However, it's essential to consider the venue and the overall atmosphere before deciding on a hat. You might prefer to wear a headband with a rose instead.

What footwear is appropriate for a summer afternoon tea?

While dressy sandals can be a good choice for a modern summer tea party, closed-toe shoes or dressy flats are more suitable for an old money afternoon tea. Wedge sandals or espadrilles can also be considered for a more relaxed setting. Avoid casual footwear like flip-flops or sneakers.

Can I wear a jumpsuit to an afternoon tea in summer?

Jumpsuits can be a stylish and comfortable option for summer afternoon tea. Choose a jumpsuit with a flattering silhouette and high-quality fabric. Pair it with elegant accessories to elevate the look.

What about plus-size options for afternoon tea attire?

here are plenty of stylish options for plus-size women attending an afternoon tea. Look for dresses with empire waists or wrap styles to flatter your figure. Opt for fabrics that drape well and avoid overly tight-fitting clothes.

2 Summer Afternoon Tea Party Outfits You Need to Try

November 26, 2025 by Veronika Lipar

Summer afternoon tea outfits here – for all who got bedazzled with Kyle Jenner’s Vogue tea party. My tea on her tea party – it was evident that was her first tea party. Not because of her outfit, while dismissing the standard afternoon tea dress code, we are obsessed with her modern tea party outfit. Surely, we will not copy that fit for our summer afternoon tea party. No, I have another modern tea party outfit for you. Less boujee, very demure. Obviously, for all of you who want to have a proper summer afternoon tea party, straight from the rule book, we also have one old money afternoon tea party look. Scroll down to see both.

OGLAS I get a commission for purchases or clicks made through links in this post.

Key Takeaways

Choose between a traditional or modern tea party look for summer 2026; options include elegant dresses and chic accessories.
The article features specific outfit suggestions, such as a semi-formal dress with slingback pumps and flounce dresses with sandals.
A free or paid subscription to Brunette from Wall Street provides access to more fashion insights and styling guides.
Stay cool and fashionable by opting for breathable fabrics, light colors, and elegant accessories suitable for summer afternoon tea.

If you are anything like me, you are already planning your next tea party. Surely, you already know the menu. The tea menu might be challenging during the heatwave, but you can always ask for a summer blend that will cool you down at your tea shop.

But what to wear for afternoon tea in summer 2026 to be the best dressed? Well, you can follow the standard dress code. Remember, afternoon tea is not a high tea. Afternoon tea is a low tea and a daytime formal event that has a standard dress code. The standard afternoon tea dress code is explained in Afternoon Tea Dress Code Guide – published on Brunette from Wall Street Substack – exclusively for Brunette from Wall Street Substack paid subscribers. Subscribe/upgrade to paid if you are not on the exclusive tier yet. Benefits of paid subscribers: fashion trend reports for AW26/27 and SS27 (essential for Fashion Influencers, Fashion Designers and people working in Fashion Business/Retail), Dress Code Guides (essential for EVERYONE).

Or throw the rule book out of the window and go for a modern tea party outfit. I did so for my last afternoon tea. It was a last minute afternoon tea. We didn’t plan it in advance. But didn’t want to miss a chance and let those pretty cakes I bought a few hours earlier go to waste.

Anyway, here are the best summer afternoon tea outfits 2026 you can wear for a garden tea party this summer. We are having tea in our lower garden in summer.

THE BEST SUMMER AFTERNOON TEA PARTY OUTFITS 2026

By the way, all the collages in this article are hyperlinked and shoppable too. To shop for any of my summer tea outfits, simply click inside the pink brackets or in the widget under the collage, and a store window will open for you in the new tab.

And if you want to know more about the size and fit of the clothes/shoes before purchasing it – subscribe to Brunette from Wall Street Substack. It’s all there. Plus, the 101 style guide for every outfit. Yes, I’m telling you why we paired that top with those shorts and that dress with those shoes.

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SUMMER OLD MONEY AFTERNOON TEA PARTY OUTFITS

Moments with a dress code demand an equally thrilling new look. Tailored and belted styles chinch in the waist, while fluid fabrics craft an elegant figure in motion as you walk your way to the tea table.

1 SEMI FORMAL DRESS WITH SLINGBACK PUMPS AND A FASCINATOR

Imagine sunlight filtering through the leaves, dappling your skin with gold. The air is warm and fragrant with the scent of grass and wildflowers. You wear a semi formal pastel blue dress that is giving, and a wide-brimmed hat that shields your shoulders from the sun. Pov, a fascinator just won’t do it in the middle of summer at 2 pm.

You sink into the comfortable rattan sofa, feeling the gentle give of the cushions beneath you. The light breeze caresses your skin, carrying with it the scent of petit fours in front of you.

You carefully arrange yourself on the low sofa, smoothing your light blue dress as you sit. Finally, you unfold the napkin, and gently place it across your lap.

As you adjust its position, you catch a faint scent of the clean jacquard napkin, mingling pleasantly with the outdoor aromas surrounding you.

You run your fingers along the napkin’s edge.

With the napkin perfectly placed, you turn your attention to the 3-tier stand before you.

SUMMER MODERN TEA PARTY OUTFITS

When the invitation with no dress code arrives, and you know your host doesn’t know the afternoon tea etiquette, look to modern tea party styles that bring the demure. Like a pink flouce dress with what appears to be a dropped waist and sandals.

2 FLOUNCE DRESS WITH SANDALS

You try not to look at the upper tier and take the cake just yet. Pov, you are a host, so it’s your rules. But, very demure, you are a host. So you lift the delicate teapot, and start pouring it to the girlies and finally to yourself. The sound of tea pouring is giving ASMR.

You raise the cup to your lips, savoring the aroma before taking a sip.

Setting down your cup, you turn your attention to the array of sandwiches on the tiered stand before you. You select the closest one and place it onto your porcelain plate. You lift your plate, hold the sandwich with your fingers and take it to your mouth. One small bite, after another and before you know, your eyes are already at the Viennese whirls.

Pov, forget the scones, we are doing this afternoon tea party in a modern way with swirled shortbread filled with clotted cream and jam. The sweetness is perfectly balanced, not overwhelming but satisfying your craving for something indulgent.

Finally, you reach for the mousse cake.