a proper tea, a proper hat

The three of us - my daughter Rebecca, my granddaughter Neve and I - headed out east today, traveling 50 miles for a proper English tea at Mary Margaret's Tea & Biscuit Shop in sleepy Arcadia. An afternoon 'cream' tea is always special - scones, served with fresh clotted cream and thick British jams - all with a personally selected tea, lovingly brewed and poured.

But, it was the tea shop's display of a women's unique styled hat that caught Neve's eye.  Each one an original and hand-made. Yet, so English, and so properly referred to as a "fascinator".

Wikipedia - the term "fascinator" first surfaced in the fashion world in 17th-century Europe. Originally, a lacy scarf type item that was wrapped around the head (or often fastened, hence the name). Rather than attracting stares from across the room, the later version was meant to give women an alluring air of mystery. 


Mary Margaret's Tea & Biscuit  Shop

A small sampling of varied tea pots, cups and saucers that were displayed and on sale

The shop's British owner, Maureen Cooke proudly displaying her own personal 'fascinator'

Neve's newly bought version of her own chosen lace and feathers. She loved it.  And, we all approved.