Mixing and Matching Modern Dinnerware: Tips for a Creative Table Setting

Do you pride yourself on hosting dinner parties and creating an unforgettable dining experience for your guests? It's time to upgrade your hosting game and add a little creativity to your tables cape! Mixing and matching modern dinnerware is a trend that has taken the dining world by storm, and for a good reason. By blending different styles, colors, and patterns, you can create a one-of-a-kind table setting that reflects your personal style and adds a touch of flair to your meals.

In this blog, we'll share tips and tricks for creating a cohesive and creative table setting that will leave your guests in awe. Get ready to awaken your inner designer and transform your dining experience!

Plates + Bowls is a Match Made in Heaven

Plates and bowls are a match made in heaven, the dynamic duo that brings a balance of form and practicality to the table (literally)!

Try to layer each piece of dinnerware and create cohesion with contrasting colors. If your plate has hints of light or dark blue, it will go well with turquoise or pale blue Italian pasta bowls. If you’re serving individual crème brûlée or dip sauces with dinner, then you have to include ramekins as well. A small ramekin works well with a larger dinner plate, while a more significant ramekin pair nicely with a smaller salad plate or bowl.

Flatware is the Key to Dress Up/Down

Just like a statement necklace or a pair of fabulous earrings can transform an outfit, the right flatware can elevate your dining space from ordinary to extraordinary!

Choose flatware with traditional teardrop-shaped handles or a high-polish finish if you want a timeless look. But if you want to bring a touch of contemporary style to your table, opt for slim or pointed handles, oblong or rounded heads, and distinctive finishes, whether matte or two-tone. Matte flatware has a relaxed, undone feel that pairs perfectly with modern farmhouse-style serve ware and hand-thrown dishware. Meanwhile, black flatware instantly evokes a chic, contemporary vibe, while copper and rose-gold finishes add a trendy touch. If you’re indecisive, a two-toned flatware set will be your safest bet!

Don’t be Afraid of Black Dinnerware

Black is not for the goth, brave, and bold anymore! It's time to ditch the traditional white and embrace the stunning canvas that black dinnerware provides. But now that you’ve bought the black dinnerware with peer pressure, you might be daunted with how you will style this sophisticated dinnerware!

At first, black dinnerware may seem complicated and modern, but don't be afraid to mix and match it with different textures and colors to soften the look. Remember, black and gold are best friends, so pair your dark dinnerware with metallic flatware and gold-rimmed glasses for a formal dinner party. If you want to tone down the dark vibes, throw a textured place mat and a colorful centerpiece (fresh flowers) to lighten the table setting!

You can also play with black on black by pairing a black stoneware charger and a porcelain plate or bowl. The incredible textures of porcelain vs. stoneware will help cut through the black monotony. It stands out in a sea of white, bringing a touch of suaveness and a lot of class!

Play With Patterns and Textures

It's 2023, and it's time to bring out the vintage teacups and saucers with stunning intricate patterns handed down by grandma and collecting dust on the shelves! But where do you even begin when it comes to creating your mix-and-match look? Don't worry. We've got you covered.

Start small by adding accent pieces to your current table setting, like one-of-a-kind serves ware statement pieces such as sauce boats, large platters, or creamers. These smaller items add a pop of color or texture and are also perfect for entertaining at a dinner party or afternoon tea.

Try incorporating repurposed vintage pieces or hand-me-down decor items into your mix of patterns and textures because it adds more personality to your table's cape. For dinnerware, play it safe and utilize two textures. It can be anything from smooth china to earthenware or melamine, and pair it with unexpected surfaces like a woven place mat or a rough-hewn wooden board as a charger!

Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize!

A good dinnerware set will lose its spark on the table if not paired smartly with complementing accessories. They're the little details that make a big difference and can take your table setting from bland to grand in no time!

One of my favorite ways to add a touch of drama to a table is with black candlesticks and matching black candles. Paired with a light wooden table in a sleek white room, the bold centerpiece will draw the eye without disrupting the minimalist palette, creating a striking contrast that will make your guests go all ooh and aah! Swapping out your linens is also a great way to give your table a seasonal update, whether switching from light and breezy cotton in the spring to cozy flannels in the fall.

If you’re hosting a birthday party or baby shower, you can use a glass cupcake tier stand as a centerpiece with cream-colored cloth napkins. Just please, whatever you do, stay away from paper napkins or kitchen rolls because they take away the oomph from your look!

Monochrome is not Boring Anymore

Who says white dinnerware is boring? With creativity and the right accessories, your white plates can be transformed into a stunning table's cape that will leave your guests in awe!

Imagine using your white plates as a canvas for your unique style. Add a pop of color with colorful flatware, bright glasses, and playful decor. Or keep it simple with neutral tones and natural textures for a more rustic feel.

If you think achieving a luxurious table's cape is impossible with white dinnerware, think twice! Pair the pearly whites with a galvanized charger, silver-toned napkin, and metallic flatware to make your friends feel like millionaires at the dinner table! You can also use textured white plates as a canvas for handcrafted dinnerware. Pair them with vintage coupe glassware for a modern and artistic table setting.

Wrapping Up!

As we conclude our journey through mixing and matching modern dinnerware, we hope you've gained some inspiration for your following table setting. Remember, no rules exist for creating a cohesive and creative table setting. Play with patterns, textures, colors, and accessories to make a unique statement. So, channel your inner designer, let your creativity run wild, and get ready to impress your guests with a stunning table setting that will surely be the talk of the town!