Dressed to a tea字面解释是“打扮好去喝茶”。这是什么意思呢？请看对话：

    A: Did you go to the weekend party at the Johnsons’ house?

    B: No, I didn’t. But I am going to their backyard barbecue this week.

    A: Well, if you are with them, beware a tall slim blonde who is dressed to a tea, smiles too much, and talks fast.

    B: What’s the deal with that tall blonde?

    A: She is a car salesperson. If you allow her, she may talk you into buying a new car!

    Note: This is a short way of saying “dressed for a tea” or “dressed to go to a tea.” In the Victorian era, high tea was a formal affair, and all those who attended were dressed in appropriate attire. The phrase therefore means “well dressed with attention to detail.”