Timeless High Tea Dresses for Modern Elegance: What to Wear to an Afternoon Tea Party in 2025

High tea has evolved from a humble afternoon snacks to a luxurious social experience steeped in elegance, etiquette, and exquisite fashion. If you’ve received an invitation to a high tea, your outfit should be just as refined as the event itself. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about what to wear to high tea in 2025, from timeless etiquette to the most stylish dresses from BTK COLLECTIONS.


What to Wear to High Tea: Fashion Rules and Timeless Etiquette

Afternoon tea comes with an unspoken dress code: elegant, modest, and polished. Here are the essentials:

  • Length: Opt for midi or knee-length dresses for a traditional and tasteful appearance.

  • Style: Think puff sleeves, high necklines, A-line silhouettes, and soft fabrics.

  • Shoes: Choose pointed-toe flats, kitten heels, or block-heel pumps.

  • Accessories: Pearl earrings, a structured mini bag, and perhaps a floral headband or fascinator.

  • Print & Palette: Florals, polka dots, pastels, and soft contrasting tones are all high tea classics.


Best High Tea Dresses from BTK COLLECTIONS

Dress Description Occasion Fit Product Image
Blue Floral Print Shirt Dress by NISSA Sheer bishop sleeves, structured collar, porcelain blue floral motif Traditional hotel high tea Nissa Blue Floral Print Collar Shirt Dress – A long-sleeve sheer midi dress with a white pointed collar, button-down front, belted waist, and blue floral print on a flowy silhouette.
Lace Detail Chiffon Midi Dress by NISSA Romantic black lace, pink florals, crisp white collar Garden tea parties Model wearing black chiffon midi dress with pink rose print, black lace sleeves, and white collar by NISSA - BTK COLLECTIONS
Lace Detail Linen Midi Dress by NISSA Crisp white lace trim, dainty pink floral print Indoor afternoon events Model wearing pink floral linen midi dress with 3/4 puff sleeves, white lace trim, and belted waist by NISSA- BTK COLLECTIONS
Puff Sleeve Printed Midi Dress by NISSA Balloon sleeve silhouette, cinched waist, soft florals Daytime terrace or countryside tea Model wearing vintage-inspired pink floral puff sleeve midi dress with white lapel collar - BTK COLLECTIONS
Scarf Detail Pleated Midi Dress by NISSA Neck scarf bow, moody floral print, pleated texture Fall/Winter or evening high tea Scarf - detail pleated midi dress - BTK COLLECTIONS
Polka Dot Viscose Midi Dress by NISSA Classic black & white polka dot, high lace neck Retro hotel lounge tea Black and white polka dot midi dress with contrast scalloped lace bib front, 3/4 sleeves, and vintage-inspired silhouette.
Printed Viscose Midi Dress by NISSA Whimsical pink & yellow florals on soft pink base Spring brunch-style tea party
Two-Material Dress by Weill Blush pink A-line with bow belt and tonal texture Bridal shower or luxury indoor tea Woman wearing Weill Paris blush pink dress with short sleeves, lace bodice, and waist bow
Two-Tone Bouclé Dress by Weill Parisian mini with green trimmed bow pockets Contemporary city hotel tea Weill Paris cream and black boucle dress with gold buttons
Embroidered Shirt Dress by Weill Waist tie, shirt silhouette, subtle floral embroidery Resort or estate high tea

How to Style Your High Tea Dress

Accessories Checklist:

  • Shoes: Pointed-toe flats, slingbacks, or Mary Janes

  • Bag: Mini top handle or quilted clutch

  • Jewelry: Pearl studs, vintage brooches, or dainty bracelets

  • Outerwear: Cropped cardigan, lace shawl, or a pastel trench coat

  • Headwear (optional): Floral headband, straw boater hat, or fascinator


High Tea Dress Code FAQ

Question Short Answer
What is the dress code for high tea? Elegant midi or knee-length dresses with polished accessories.
Can I wear black to high tea? Yes, when paired with lace, florals, or bright accents.
What's the best fabric for tea dresses? Chiffon, cotton, linen blends, viscose, or bouclé.
Are pants appropriate for high tea? Only if they are wide-leg or jumpsuit styles in elegant fabrics.

Dress the Part, Sip in Style

Whether you're sipping champagne at a grand hotel or enjoying pastries in a sun-dappled garden, your high tea outfit is a reflection of timeless taste.

These dresses from BTK COLLECTIONS offer the perfect balance of heritage elegance and modern grace. Pair one with classic accessories and enjoy your afternoon indulgence at iconic destinations like:

  • The Ritz London

  • Café Royal Grill, London

  • The Plaza Hotel, New York

  • The Peninsula, Beverly Hills

Ready to RSVP in style? Explore these timeless looks and more at BTK COLLECTIONS.