Timeless China

Casual china dinnerware sets are a great way to elevate your dining experience. Whether it's a casual get-together or a formal dinner party, the right dinnerware set can set the perfect tone for your meal. You can choose from a variety of materials such as porcelain, stoneware, bone china, and glass, each offering a unique look and feel.

When it comes to casual china dinnerware sets from the 1990s, you can find a range of elegant and timeless designs that are sure to impress. These sets often feature soft and subtle solid colours, chic platinum and gold rim designs, or bold floral prints that never go out of style. The sets typically include dinner plates, salad plates, dessert plates, tea cups, and soup bowls—everything you need for a complete dining experience.

Some popular brands that offer casual china dinnerware sets include Gibson, Mikasa, Lenox, Noritake, and Royal Copenhagen. These sets are usually microwave and dishwasher-safe, making them practical for everyday use while still exuding sophistication and elegance.

Whether you're looking for a classic white set or something with a pop of colour, casual china dinnerware sets from the 1990s offer a wide range of options to suit your personal style and elevate your dining experience.

Bone China

When shopping for bone china dinnerware, it is important to consider the size of the set, the number of place settings, and the types of pieces included. Some sets offer full 5-piece place settings, while others provide individual pieces or smaller sets that can be mixed and matched. It is also essential to check the care instructions, as some bone china dinnerware may not be dishwasher or microwave safe.

• Mikasa 5225580 40-Piece Delray Bone China Dinnerware Set
• Gibson Elite Embossed Bone China Double Bowl 16-Piece Dinnerware Set
• Stone Lain Fosca 16-Piece Bone China Dinnerware Set in Matte White
• MALACASA 16-Piece Bone China Dinnerware Set in Round White
• Mikasa Colter Bone China 12-Piece Dinnerware Set
• Stone Lain Quinn 12-Piece Bone China Dinnerware Set
• Mikasa Ciara 16-Piece Bone China Dinnerware Set
• Mikasa Samantha 16-Piece Bone China Dinnerware Set
• Stone Lain Gabrielle 24-Piece Bone China Dinnerware Set
• Mikasa Jenna 16-Piece Bone China Dinnerware Set
• Pfaltzgraff Haisley 12-Piece Bone China Dinnerware Set
• Villeroy & Boch Cellini 12-Piece Bone China Dinnerware Set
• Vera Wang Wedgwood Vera Lace Gold Dinnerware Collection
• Wedgwood Florentine Collection
• Wedgwood Wonderlust Dinnerware Collection
• Wedgwood Hibiscus Dinnerware Collection
• Royal Crown Derby Darley Abbey Dinnerware Collection
• Lenox Lowell White 5-Piece Bone China Place Setting

Porcelain

History of Porcelain Dinnerware

The history of porcelain dinnerware is a rich and fascinating one. In the early 20th century, dinnerware was typically adorned with floral patterns, especially violets, and families often had servants, so there were many different pieces, each with a specific purpose. During World War I, American families stopped buying German and Japanese dinnerware, and instead, bright colours and geometric shapes became popular.

In the 1930s, spaghetti sets, corn-on-the-cob sets, and devilled-egg plates were introduced, and holiday-themed dinnerware also became popular. In the 1940s, pastels were pushed aside in favour of deeper, more sophisticated shades of red, blue, and green, and the peasant (hand-painted) look became popular.

The 1950s saw the rise of buffet-style serving dishes, such as casseroles, due to a lack of space in the home, and the introduction of the TV dinner and the microwave. In the 1960s, dinnerware designers got experimental, and in the 1970s, dinnerware had to be convenient and versatile, often heavy and rough-textured, with soft colours and floral patterns.

Buying Porcelain Dinnerware

When buying porcelain dinnerware, it is important to consider the size of your household, and how much space you have for storage. A good option for those with limited space is stackable dinnerware. It is also worth considering whether you require microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe dinnerware, and whether you would prefer an elegant, formal set, or something more casual.

There are a variety of porcelain dinnerware sets available, in a range of styles, including vintage and contemporary designs. For example, the Gibson Home Oslo 16-piece dinnerware set features a contemporary design, combining classic pearl porcelain with a black lip, and is both dishwasher and microwave-safe. For a more vintage look, the Gibson Home Everyday Square 12-piece Dinnerware Set features a classic whiteware look with a modern square silhouette.

For those seeking something more luxurious, the Bernardaud Constance Dinner Collection features bold floral prints, and the Villeroy & Boch Artesano Dinnerware set is an elegant, white porcelain option. For a bold statement, the Versace Butterfly Garden Dinnerware set features an eye-catching pattern, and the Royal Copenhagen Blue Fluted Plain set is a sophisticated choice.

To keep your porcelain dinnerware in good condition, it is important to handle it with care, and to avoid subjecting it to extreme temperature changes. It is also recommended to wash porcelain by hand, as dishwashers can cause scratching and discolouration over time.

Stoneware

• East Fork Pottery: This handmade stoneware has a similar aesthetic to Heath Ceramics but is less expensive. It features a dark clay body with exposed rims that are less prone to staining than other stoneware options. The set includes plates, bowls, and mugs, and is available in various colours.
• Jono Pandolfi The Coupe Collection: This stoneware collection has a sophisticated look and is designed to be durable. It features a dark brown clay body with rounded, smooth edges, giving it a clean and modern appearance. The set includes plates, bowls, and mugs, and is microwave and dishwasher safe.
• Stone Lain Blair Bone China 12-Piece Dinnerware Set: This set offers a simple yet elegant design with a white colour palette. It includes dinner plates, salad plates, and bowls, and is suitable for everyday use or formal occasions.
• Gibson Home Rockaway Round Stoneware Dinnerware Set: This set features a matte white finish with a metallic rim, adding a touch of elegance to your table setting. It includes dinner plates, dessert plates, and bowls, and is microwave and dishwasher safe.
• Cambria 16-Piece Stoneware Dinnerware Set: This set offers a unique dark brown colour, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for your dining experience. It includes dinner plates, salad plates, and bowls, and is perfect for everyday use or special occasions.
• Stone Lain Lauren Stoneware Dinnerware Set: Available in off-white, green, or charcoal, this set adds a touch of sophistication to your table. It includes dinner plates, dessert plates, and bowls, and its simple yet elegant design makes it suitable for any occasion.

Dinnerware Sets for Special Occasions

Dinnerware is an essential component of any dining table, and special occasions call for dinnerware sets that elevate the dining experience. Whether it's a celebratory meal with family or a dinner party with friends, the right dinnerware set can make the occasion memorable. Here are some ideas for dinnerware sets that are perfect for those special occasions:

Bone China Dinnerware Sets

Bone china exudes elegance and sophistication, making it ideal for formal dining and special occasions. Here are some options to consider:

• The Mikasa Trellis 16-piece dinnerware set is a perfect blend of casual and stylish. Made of high-quality bone china, this set includes dinner plates, salad plates, cereal bowls, and mugs, serving eight people.
• For a luxurious and refined dining experience, the Mikasa Delray and Mikasa Lucerne White collections offer exceptional quality at a surprising price. These bone china sets have a bright and creamy hue, simple yet sophisticated design, and are both dishwasher and microwave safe.
• The Mikasa 40-piece dinnerware set in parchment is another elegant option. With its classic design and bone china construction, this set is perfect for those who frequently host dinners and want a durable yet stylish option.

Porcelain Dinnerware Sets

Porcelain dinnerware sets offer versatility and durability, making them suitable for both everyday use and special occasions. Here are some options to consider:

• The Gibson Home Oslo 16-piece dinnerware set strikes a perfect balance between modern elegance and practicality. With its AB-grade porcelain construction, this set includes dinner plates, salad plates, dinner bowls, and cereal bowls, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
• The Lenox Butterfly Meadow 28-piece dinnerware set is a charming option with its vibrant images of butterflies and flowers. Crafted from porcelain, this set is both durable and elegant, making it perfect for those who want to add a touch of nature to their dining experience.
• The Gibson Home Everyday Square 40-piece dinnerware set provides a classic look with a modern twist. The square silhouette of the plates and bowls adds style to any table setting, and the AB-grade porcelain construction ensures durability.
• For those who appreciate unique patterns and designs, the Blue Bay 12-piece dinnerware set is a breath of fresh air. Featuring textile-inspired patterns and organic shapes accented with a thin gold line, this porcelain set includes dinner plates, dessert plates, and all-purpose bowls, making it perfect for a mix-and-match dining experience.

Stoneware Dinnerware Sets

Stoneware dinnerware sets offer a rustic yet elegant appeal, making them ideal for special occasions where you want a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Here are some options to consider:

• The Mikasa Annabele 40-piece chip-resistant dinnerware set is a stylish and durable option. With its elegant white color and modern design, this set is perfect for those who want a sophisticated look without compromising on practicality.
• The Euro Ceramica Essential Collection 16-piece dinnerware set provides a classic look with its white porcelain construction. This set is both dishwasher and microwave safe, making it a convenient choice for hosting special meals.
• The Stone Lain Blair 12-piece bone china dinnerware set offers a simple yet elegant option. With its white color and sleek design, this set is perfect for those who want a timeless look that complements any table setting.

When choosing dinnerware sets for special occasions, it's essential to consider the number of guests you typically host, the style and ambiance you want to create, and the level of formality or casualness you prefer. Remember, the right dinnerware set can enhance the dining experience and make your special occasions even more memorable.

Dinnerware Sets for Everyday Use

Dinnerware is an important part of setting the mood for a meal, whether it's a casual get-together or a formal occasion. When choosing dinnerware for everyday use, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get a set that is both functional and stylish.

First, think about the material. Porcelain, bone china, and stoneware are popular choices for dinnerware due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. These materials are typically microwave and dishwasher safe, making them convenient for everyday use. Some options, like the Mikasa Trellis 16-piece set, are also oven safe, making them versatile for different cooking methods.

Next, consider the size and shape of the pieces. Round and square shapes are common, but you can also find more unique options like the Lenox Butterfly Meadow set, which has scalloped edges. The size of the pieces is important, especially if you have limited storage space. Some sets, like the Gibson Home Everyday Square set, offer a range of plate and bowl sizes to suit different purposes.

The design of the dinnerware is also crucial. Solid colours, like white or cream, are classic choices that can easily be mixed and matched with other pieces. You can also find sets with patterns and designs, like the Blue Bay 12-piece set, which features textile-inspired patterns and organic shapes.

Finally, think about the number of pieces you need. Most sets include dinner plates, salad plates, bowls, and sometimes mugs. If you entertain frequently, you may want a larger set or one that offers service for more people. Some sets, like the Gibson Home Zen Buffet set, offer a good balance of style and value, making them suitable for both everyday use and special occasions.

• Gibson Home Oslo 16-piece set: This set offers a balance of modern elegance and practicality, with a beautiful shape and lipped design. It is made of AB-grade porcelain, which is durable and microwave/dishwasher safe.
• Mikasa Trellis 16-piece set: This stylish and casual set is made of high-quality bone china and includes dinner plates, salad plates, cereal bowls, and mugs. It is microwave and dishwasher safe.
• Gibson Home Everyday Square 12-piece set: Featuring a classic whiteware look and modern square silhouette, this set is versatile and durable. The pieces are made of lightweight AB-grade porcelain and are microwave and dishwasher safe.
• Lenox Butterfly Meadow 28-piece set: This set features a trademark design with lively butterflies, dragonflies, and bumblebees on durable white ceramic porcelain. It is freezer, oven, microwave, and dishwasher safe.
• Gibson Home Everyday Round 40-piece set: This set combines contemporary soft round shapes with a classic whiteware look, making it both stylish and practical. The pieces are made of durable AB-grade porcelain and are microwave and dishwasher safe.

Frequently asked questions