Tea party hats add a touch of sophistication and whimsy to any tea party. Here are the classic styles, from wide brimmed straw hats to fascinators, plus how to choose the perfect hat for your next gathering.
Tea parties are a beloved tradition in many cultures, known for their elegant atmosphere and delicious treats. Tea party hats have long been a staple of this timeless event.
So pour yourself a cup of your favorite tea, and let’s dive into the history of tea party hats, the styles to choose from, and tips for picking the one that fits your next tea extravaganza. If you are still planning the party itself, my tea party checklist covers everything else.
Quick Look
- 👒 Classic Styles: wide brimmed straw or silk, pillbox, cloche and fascinator
- 🎩 Most Formal: wide brimmed straw or silk hats, Victorian style
- 🎀 Most Playful: fascinators and decorated pillbox hats
- 🪶 Trims: lace, feathers, ribbons, flowers and jewels
- 👗 Pair With: your tea party dress, earrings or a scarf
- ✋ Rule of Thumb: match the hat to the atmosphere and the dress code
Quick Answer
The classic tea party hats are wide brimmed straw or silk hats, pillbox hats, cloche hats and fascinators. For a formal tea, choose a wide brimmed straw or silk hat decorated with ribbons, feathers or jewels. For a casual or outdoor party, a whimsical fascinator or a pillbox hat in vivid colors and playful trims is perfect.
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Why Hats Matter at a Tea Party
Click to see why they matter
- They are tradition. Hats have been part of the tea party custom for centuries.
- They set the mood. A room full of hats instantly feels like an occasion.
- They add style and class to every event, formal or casual.
- They show your personality. Your hat should be a reflection of your style.
- They make memories. The right hat helps create an event your guests talk about for years.
Why You’ll Love These Hat Ideas
- A style for every party, from elegant to whimsical.
- Simple rules for matching your hat to the atmosphere and dress code.
- Outfit help, with my guides to tea party attire and how to dress for tea.
- Accessory ideas for a coordinated look.
- Theme ideas, so your hat fits the party.
- Permission to have fun with it. That is the whole point!
Tea Party Hat Styles
From delicate lace and feathers to vibrant colors and fun patterns, tea hats come in a variety of styles:
- Wide brimmed straw or silk hats. The traditional choice, typically worn by ladies in the Victorian era. They usually feature intricate decorations such as ribbons, feathers or jewels, and are a great choice for a formal tea party.
- Pillbox hats. A small, classic design that can be decorated with vivid colors and playful trims.
- Cloche hats. A close fitting, traditional style for a sophisticated look.
- Fascinators. A more modern, whimsical choice that is perfect for a casual affair and stands out in the crowd.
Hat Ideas for Every Occasion
- Garden tea party: a wide brimmed straw hat with flowers or ribbons.
- English high tea or a formal venue: a classic wide brimmed straw or silk hat.
- Mother’s Day tea party: a pretty pillbox or cloche in soft colors.
- Baby shower tea party: a light, playful fascinator.
- Birthday tea party or Galentine’s tea: bold prints and bright colors.
- Alice in Wonderland tea party: the more whimsical the better.
- Christmas tea party: festive trims to match the season.
Need a theme first? Browse my tea party theme ideas and adult tea party ideas.
How to Choose the Perfect Tea Party Hat
- Consider the atmosphere. Is the event formal and sophisticated, or casual and fun? Choose something traditional like a cloche for a formal tea, or something playful like a fascinator for a relaxed one.
- Check the dress code. At a formal venue, stick to classic wide brimmed straw or silk hats. For an outdoor or more casual event, have some fun with bold prints and bright colors.
- Match your outfit. High tea hats come in an array of colors and fabrics, so it is easy to match them to your tea party dress.
- Add accessories. For a coordinated look, add a few coordinating pieces such as earrings or a scarf.
- Make it yours. Your hat should reflect your style and the overall atmosphere of the event. Have fun with it and enjoy!
A Little Tea Party Hat History
The history of the tea party dates back to the 17th century, when tea was first introduced to Europe. Tea parties became a popular way for socialites and members of high society to gather and share stories and gossip in elegant settings.
Hats became an essential part of the custom, adding style and class to each event. Both hosts and guests dressed in their finest clothes, often including a stylish hat. Read more about the tradition of English afternoon tea and high tea vs afternoon tea.
Tea Party Hat Tips for Hosts and Guests
- Hosts, mention hats on the invitation. Here is how to make tea party invitations.
- Guests, ask about the dress code before you choose your hat.
- Choose the hat and dress together, so the colors and fabrics work as a set.
- Brush up on manners with my tea etiquette guide.
- Make hats part of the fun with your tea party favors and keepsakes.
- New to hosting? Start with my easy steps to host a tea party.
Tea Party Hat FAQs
Not always, but hats are a beloved part of the tradition and add style and class to the event. Check the invitation or ask the host about the dress code.
A fascinator is a small, whimsical hat style that is a more modern choice for a tea party. It can be decorated with vivid colors and playful trims.
A traditional wide brimmed straw or silk hat, decorated with ribbons, feathers or jewels, is a great choice for a formal tea party.
For a casual or outdoor tea party, choose a whimsical fascinator or a simple pillbox hat, and have fun with bold prints and bright colors.
Pick a hat in a color or fabric that matches your dress, then add a few coordinating accessories such as earrings or a scarf.
Tea parties date back to the 17th century, when tea was introduced to Europe, and hats became an essential part of the custom as socialites gathered in elegant settings.
