Recap & Photos of Aficionada Spring Tea and Jewelry in the Garden

Breezy sunshine and fragrant flora of all varieties finally delighted Washingtonians following a determined spell of heavy rains that plagued the region for what seemed like weeks. Fortunately, the showers and ominous clouds gave way just long enough today to enjoy a gorgeous afternoon outisde enjoying tea, sweets, and the company of friends in the garden. The brilliant blossoms came alive everywhere when embraced by the sun's welcome rays.

But the real flowers to behold were the J.Crew Aficionadas, who gathered on this gem of a sunny spring day to partake in the elegant tradition of Afternoon Tea. We swapped adventures about shopping, tales at home, and of course scintillating gossip about goings on around town -- all the while savoring champagne and canapes followed by finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries with assorted teas.

The 14 ladies were bedecked in bright spring motifs and floaty dresses, and adorned with sparkling baubles. Heidi G. allured in her refined Bouquet Cardigan topping the quintessentially chic little black shift dress. Slastena fluttered in debuting the ethereal Tiered Linen Playa dress in papaya. Not to be outdone, Drewablank stunned everyone in the new Watercolor Floral Pencil Skirt paired with a Lydia Blouse and Cate Slingbacks in matching seashell. Rosa channeled Audrey Hepburn in a delicate eyelet dress topped with a smart navy Jackie cardigan, while Summer looked ravishing in the new cotton poplin Ruffle-Top Tie Dress in a sultry dark olive (in stores now). It was Mediterranean-meets-Virginia prep for Dinagideon as she continued the Fresco fabulosity in an olive Bria Cami and pink Chinos finished with matching Printed Ballet Flats. Nancy breezed in with an invigorating Silk-Linen V-Neck Sweater in fresh mint paired with Cocktail Capris and striking Magdalene Heels. Kelly picked up the nautical theme in a classic navy knit dress topped with a crisp white jacket, while Diana P. continued the beachy vibe in the navy Printed Coastal Tunic. Finally, Cloggsy and Stephanie opted for cool, billowy white, with Cloggsy flaunting a cheery full skirt in rhubarb.

Equally dazzling was the exquisite jewelry created by the talented Diana P. as she unveiled her Spring-Summer collection. Floral details were abloom in several pieces, as were tropical shades of yellow, orange, aqua, and lime. Devotees and new fans alike took advantage of the swell discount as they scooped up freshest must-wear pieces, no doubt anticipating the receipt of many compliments on their unique finds.

The icing on the teacakes were the surprise favors for all the guests, courtesy of Richmond Aficionada Cloggsy. The artistic Ms. Cloggsy, who owns the deliciously addictive English Tea Paperie, thoughtfully made each guest a set of their very of personalized notecards, complete with their names and teacup embellishments. Thank you, Cloggsy! What a lovely gift to take home, and what a gracious gesture.

Thanks to all the Aficionadas who made this the loveliest of afternoons. I hope you enjoyed this (rare) sunny day in May, and I can't wait to see you next month! Also, check out Slastena's, Cloggsy's, Summerilla's, Heidi's and Dinagideon's posts for more tidbits and photos. Here are the rest of my pictures: