For weeks we’ve been throwing on a pair of joggers or jeans and not varying it a whole lot. The likelihood of actually seeing someone we know on our daily walk pretty thin. So now being able to actually have friends round in the garden needs to be celebrated. The Tea dress is the perfect look for sitting in the garden but with a glass of something bubbly, not just a cup of tea.
These pretty lightweight dresses are usually midi length and date back to the 1800’s. It’s like we’ve gone back in time as they were only worn to private garden parties then too! They are the perfect mix between formal and casual and that’s why they are The dress to invest in this season.
I have found my favourites out there and as some of you follow my footwear blog, you’ll know I like to show you the top end first and then finish with my high street picks. Click the links for more details.
This floral ditsy print dress in silk from British brand Wyse, really captures Spring for me and can be dressed up or down. I’d go for a pair of Castaner espadrille wedges to add a bit of height and elegance to the look. Go for beige, this hard working neutral will lengthen your legs and works with every outfit or a cute flat sandal ( you are in the garden after all) or a fresh white sneaker.
Body Shape Tip: A small floral pattern is ideal for a more petite frame. You may want to add a narrow belt to create more curve.
This dress in soft pink satin dress is super feminine. The row of small buttons gives it a beautiful vintage feel.
The V shape neckline will really flatter a fuller bust and the short sleeves and sculpted waist help achieve that curvy silhouette. The gold barely there sandals above would work perfectly with this.
Faithfull The Brand have a beautiful collection of flowing dresses this season. I absolutely love their prints. They always evoke the exotic location Bali, from which the brand comes from. Each of their garments is designed, sourced and produced in small factories in Indonesia and ethical production is at the forefront of their ethos.
The high round necked style on the right is particularly flattering if you are pear shaped. The puff sleeves will add width at the shoulder line and then the flowing fabric will glide over your hips.
Looking at British based brands, if you want a beautifully cut dress that oozes distinction with a bit of quirkiness, look no further than Kitri Studio. Their dreamy pieces won’t break the bank either.
If you’re looking to create an illusion of a slighter frame, vertically aligned contrasting buttons do the trick every time.
I know I’ve got a thing for polka dots, and Baukjen’s peachy tea dress is also on my wish list. Ethically and sustainably produced, their Design For Good policy makes me feel a little more comfortable in adding another tea dress to my basket. They promise to give 10% of their profits to charity and donate many clothes to womens shelters.
If you’re after a summery tea dress for under £50, Mango offer a yellow cotton print that has a pretty ruched waistline at the back.
I snapped up a dress from New Look because at £27.99 and finally having something in my diary, I needed to mark the excitement. As seen on my Instagram, I paired it with black strappy flats but with the sale on at Net a Porter why not add a mid heel mule for a more polished look.
I couldn’t finish this blog without mentioning The insta famous Top Shop tea dress, that flatters every shape and looks way more expensive than its price tag.
