TEA TIME

GARDEN PARTY GLAM

Whatever happened to the proper afternoon tea? I believe it’s high time we resurrected this English pastoral delight, not simply for its refinement, but because of all the lovely accoutrement that accompany it! [Carved watermelon photo at upper right by Michael Ternchine for the New York Times; watermelon flower with golden beet butterflies at lower right by Jimmy Zhang].

First, as the hostess, you will need a lush outdoor living space or patio, replete with flowering bushes, delicate blooms, and overstuffed ottomans. Next, every gal needs a deliciously wrought tea service, like this scalloped set by L’Objet from Bergdorf Goodman. Be sure to have homemade scones (try the oatmeal currant ones I found at www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/105754) and a variety of Twinings teas on hand for your guests.

Now, for the most important aspect of any sunken garden fête: your attire. May I recommend an utterly girly sundress, perhaps strapless and/or floral?

Anthropologie always has a sumptuous and varied selection, like this Maeve Campo de Fiori dress at right, a full-skirted blue floral sleeveless frock with a wide black waist sash.

Or, if you prefer a leaner silhouette, opt for this Tracy Reese Persian Thresholds dress at left, which features a fitted knee length skirt with kick pleats. CoutureCarrie adores the sophisticated paisley design and strapless neckline!

For a less traditional but still decidedly feminine take on the teatime trend, choose this diaphanous long-sleeve Chloe dress, in muted floral tones. The asymmetrical hemline and sheerness add interest.

Finally, if you have the means and you really want to stand out (you are the hostess, after all!), pretty please wear this incredible gold-leaf adorned cream-hued frock by Asprey. The voluminous skirt, tightly cinched waist, v neckline and cap sleeves would make Alice in Wonderland jealous, and delight the Mad Hatter no end! Runway footage courtesy nymag.com.

A suggestion for the ladies who lunch: always use an opportunity where you know you will be seated for the majority of the event to showcase your tallest, spikiest heels, like these gorgeous Alessandro Dell'Acqua d'Orsay pumps in magenta and beige, with unique leather ankle ties (at left, available in the Designer Boutique at shopbop.com).

As for accessories, Couture Carrie thinks this Juicy Couture Garden Party Ring (at right, for purchase at Bloomingdale's) just divinely perfect for the occasion!

And what properly stocked designer handbag (like this Zac Posen woven "pumpkin" bag at right, in soft ivory pebbled leather, on sale at shopbop.com) would be complete without an elegant handkerchief? Dab at those tears of joy or combat your allergy symptoms with this playful pink plaid pocket square at left. (borrowed from the boys, but who cares?). Find it in the menswear section at silkpashmina.us for a mere ten dollars!