Do You Have to Dress Up for Afternoon Tea in London?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re planning to experience the quintessential British tradition of afternoon tea in London, you might be wondering if you need to dress up. After all, this elegant affair has been celebrated for centuries and is often associated with a certain level of formality and class.

So, do you have to dress up for afternoon tea in London? Let’s take a closer look.

The Traditional Afternoon Tea Experience

Firstly, it’s important to understand the traditional afternoon tea experience in London. Typically served between 3 pm and 5 pm, afternoon tea is a light meal that consists of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, pastries, and a pot of tea. It’s often enjoyed in luxurious settings such as hotels or high-end restaurants.

The Dress Code

When it comes to the dress code for afternoon tea in London, there isn’t a strict code that everyone must follow. However, most venues suggest dressing smartly or ‘smart casual’ attire would be appropriate. This means avoiding casual wear such as shorts, flip flops or trainers but it doesn’t necessarily mean wearing a suit or full-length dress either.

What Women Should Wear

For women attending an afternoon tea event in London, wearing a dress or skirt with a blouse is always a good option. If dresses aren’t your style then tailored trousers paired with a nice top or sweater would be equally suitable. Avoid wearing anything too revealing or tight-fitting as this may not be appropriate for the occasion.

What Men Should Wear

Men should opt for smart trousers paired with a shirt and jacket rather than jeans and t-shirts. A tie is optional but can add an extra touch of elegance to your outfit.

Why Dressing Up Adds to the Experience

While there may not be an official dress code for afternoon tea in London, dressing up adds to the overall experience of this timeless tradition. It creates an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication, making it feel like a special occasion. Plus, if you’re celebrating a special event such as a birthday or anniversary, dressing up can make the occasion feel even more memorable.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while there isn’t an official dress code for afternoon tea in London, dressing smartly is always appreciated and will add to the elegance of the experience. Women should opt for dresses or skirts with blouses while men should wear smart trousers with a shirt and jacket.

Remember to avoid anything too casual or revealing as this may not be appropriate for this occasion. So go ahead, dress up and enjoy your afternoon tea in style!

  • Remember to dress appropriately for the venue
  • Avoid wearing anything too casual or revealing
  • Dressing up adds to the overall experience of afternoon tea