Stirling Social: Hats, High Tea, And High Fashion

While "High Tea" was once only associated with the British working class as their evening supper, it has become synonymous with afternoon tea and formal social events in United States. As the custom evolved, "High Tea" became the most commonly accepted name that blended the tradition of afternoon tea with social formalities. Attendance is only a reservation away.

Hats, High Tea, And High Fashion

At 2 p.m. on Friday, March 26, the Stirling Club will host a Hats, High Tea, and High Fashion event with Saks Fifth Avenue. Served alongside bite size sandwiches, scones, and other treats, Saks Fifth Avenue will present their Spring 2010 Safari Accents line, which became one of three dominate trends this year.

The line doesn't include animal prints; it's better described as adventurous and outdoor spirited. The styles have been modified for more elegant and contemporary look, including military shirts and tan Safari jackers. Find a sneak peak right here.

Saks Fifth Avenue will also present samples that include the two other trends this year, making this a rare opportunity to plan some seasonal purchases while socializing with other club members. Attendance for members is only $18.95 per person.

Non-members are invited contact Kathleen Gustafson, executive director of membership, at 702-784-4603 or by e-mail via The Stirling Club Web site. Bring a hat to complete this unique experience.

A Few Fun Facts About Afternoon Tea

While there are many stories that surround afternoon tea time (sometimes called high tea in the United States), the most common attribution credits Anna Maria Stanhope, the Duchess of Bedford. According to legend, the Duchess had her servants sneak her a pot of tea, sandwiches, and small cakes to compensate for lighter noon time meals and late formal dinners.

Others, however, attribute tea time to the French, citing letters written by Madame de Sévigné. She frequently mentioned the affection that Louis XIV had for tea. And, credited the Marquise de la Sablière with being the first to add milk. This account considers that the French Revolution may have interrupted the earliest excitement for tea times in Europe, which Americans tend to mostly associate with England.