Firstly, let’s dive into the concept of a tea dress for those who may not be familiar. A tea dress is a genuine garment, not a fictional creation. It typically features a 1940s silhouette with well-defined shoulders. The waist is often accentuated by a raised seam, pin tucks, or ruching. The fit around the ribs, waist, and hips is neither tight nor baggy, allowing the lightweight fabric to move gracefully on the body. Designs may include floral patterns or polka dots and are adorned with dainty covered buttons.
Can you picture yourself riding a bicycle with a charming wicker basket, cheerfully greeting the postman as you pedal into the village to pick up some butter? That’s the exact image I want to evoke when talking about the tea dress.
The tea dress is experiencing a style resurgence, filling the void left by the decline of floral midi dresses earlier this year. While there are similarities between the two, such as their floral nature and knee-length or longer hemlines, the tea dress exudes more flair. The floral midi dress became predictable and unremarkable, whereas the tea dress boasts a more shapely and energetic silhouette. While a floral midi dress may make you feel a bit frumpy, a tea dress snaps its fingers, demanding that you stand tall with pulled-back shoulders.
Additionally, the tea dress flatters most women. It accentuates the vertical line between the ribs at the front, rather than emphasizing the horizontal line around the waist. This feature offers a more relaxed fit, allowing you to enjoy lunch without worrying about a slight tummy bulge afterwards. Furthermore, the tea dress covers the shoulders and knees, making it more versatile than skimpy vacation dresses.
However, it is crucial not to fixate on the 1940s aspect. Historical accuracy isn’t the goal here; it’s about capturing a mood, not reenacting history. Two high-end designer dresses have played a significant role in the tea dress revival this summer, each offering a contemporary twist on the style. The Victoria Beckham Gathered Waist Midi Dress, worn in a striking Agatha Christie poison green hue by prominent personalities like Kendall Jenner and Queen Letizia of Spain, maintains the tea dress length but features delicate gathering and draped sleeves. It retains its sweetness and flirtatiousness while exuding a cooler vibe with a simple high neckline. Alessandra Rich’s polka-dot dress, considered the highlight of Princess Diana’s wardrobe, boasts a more glamorous and polished look with pearl-and-gilt buttons and a formal ivory collar.
Affordable and excellent tea dress options are plentiful. Nobody’s Child offers a fantastic modern tea dress called the “Alexis,” priced at £59. It features a button-through design, a shirred panel at the back for gentle shaping, and sleeves with tie details. This dress is available in gingham or cherry print. Jigsaw’s Mini Graphic Pansy Tea Dress, currently reduced from £155 to £108, showcases a V-shaped neckline with decorative rouleau button loops, adding a quirky touch to the design.
Alternatively, you can embrace the vintage charm by exploring second-hand stores. It’s highly likely that the tea dress’s resurgence is influenced by our growing interest in rummaging through vintage rails. Vintage versions from the 1970s are abundant and offer a unique appeal. However, keep in mind that the more authentic and retro your tea dress, the more freedom you have to experiment with styling. Instead of a traditional brogue, opt for brightly colored trainers. Drape a big sweater around your neck instead of a dainty cardigan. Fashion history truly shines when worn with a light touch.
Hair and makeup for our model Suzanne, from Body London, were done by the talented Carol Morley at Carol Hayes Management. The dress featured is from Rixo, showcasing the timeless elegance of the tea dress.
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