​The tradition of afternoon tea dates back to 1840, when an English Duchess found herself feeling peckish between lunch and dinner. She decided it was too long to wait for a meal. Every day that followed, at 4 PM, she began enjoying light snacks like cucumber sandwiches and petits fours. This daily afternoon activity caught on, and soon it became fashionable to dress up and indulge in afternoon tea.

 

Now, it’s a cherished mealtime complete with its own set of refined customs!
 

But you shouldn’t let etiquette overshadow the fun. Afternoon tea is at its best when everyone is feeling relaxed. There is no real need for “airs and graces.”

 

That said, if you think etiquette will enhance your English tea party and you would like to adopt some of the customs, choose the ones that suit you:

 

Etiquette Do’s

• Dress smartly by leaving the jeans and sportswear at home, and opting for a jacket or a nice dress.

• You can accessorize with a hat (yes, even indoors—though it looks even more sophisticated at a garden party).

• Lace gloves add to the elegance of the occasion, and you can even keep them on to pick up your cucumber sandwiches!
   

Etiquette Don’ts

• ​It is not necessary to lift your pinkie to drink tea.

• If you like milk in your tea, add it after the tea has been poured.

• Pronounce the word scone as “skon” and don’t let anyone correct you!

• Afternoon tea is not high tea. High tea is more of a hearty meal enjoyed a little later, and less so by high society.

For more tips and teatime stories, visit our blog.