Thanks to everyone for your wonderful input and enthusiasm.

I just purchased the last item for the tea party costume today. Likely not as exciting as some of your more creative suggestions, but it is cute, if I do say so myself...and I do. So, here is my ensemble:

Black velvet sleeveless dress with 'burned-out' floral pattern (black on black). Most assuredly a reproduction of a 1920's design.

Old black velvet shawl with 12" fringe.

Black velvet pumps.

Wrist-length, fingerless black-net gloves.

Elaborate black-beaded choker & black earrings to match.

And last but not least, a small black velvet hat with veil, c.1920, which I just bought today at a vintage store in Mt. Dora, FL.

I'm really pleased with the look and will be able to reuse most of the items again for other occasions (though I'm not sure what I'll do with the hat).

Thanks again to all!