The Athenaeum Music and Arts Library in La Jolla opened its doors for a unique tea party on Wednesday. The library hosted “BouTEAque" featuring clothing, scarves, purses and design sketches from British (but San Diego-based) fashion designer Zandra Rhodes. Rhodes was joined by her good friend and artist Andrew Logan who had flown in from England. Logan’s mirrored über-sized jewelry was also offered for sale. And of course, tea was served.

A portion of all sales was designated to benefit the music and arts programs for the Athenaeum.

The free event quickly became a bustling one filled with shoppers.

Among the attendees were Barbara Bloom, Joyce Butler, Lori DeMaria, Carole Laventhol, Claire Reiss, Fiona Tudor and Diane Welch.

Reiss has a special affiliation with Rhodes. Reiss’s daughter, Natasha Reiss, wore an original Zandra Rhodes design for her wedding last September. That’s the wedding where the Beach Boys provided the surprise entertainment.

Guests not only shopped but many also had their photo snapped with Rhodes. After all, she is a world-renowned designer admired not only for her whimsical couture and prêt a porter designs, but also for her uniquely designed textiles. Rhodes’ dresses have been worn by the late Princess Diana, as well as a number of La Jollans, including Valerie Cooper, Martha Gafford, Sheri Jamieson, Barbara Kjos, and Erika Torri.

Torri, who is the Joan & Irwin Jacobs executive director for the Athenaeum was pleased with the turnout for the event.

“It was a most successful, exuberant event. If you combine the genius of a Zandra Rhodes and Andrew Logan with the old-world, almost forgotten atmosphere of the Athenaeum and the California spring weather, it just has to be a winner. People were enchanted and the artists were pleased. A most fabulous happening.”

Find us on Facebook and Twitter @LaJollaPatch.