Mix-And-Match Magic: Embracing The Charm Of Mismatched Dinnerware Sets

Dinnerware sets that don't match are a fun and exciting way to elevate your dining experience. Whether you're setting the table for a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual meal, a mismatched dinnerware set can add a touch of whimsy and charm to your table. Here are some tips to help you create a beautiful and cohesive mismatched dinner table:

- Devise a colour scheme: Choose a colour palette that complements your existing dinnerware and glassware. You can find coordinating hues in vintage shops or discount stores. Adding florals that match your colour scheme can also help to unify your table setting.

- Mix and match flatware: Think of your flatware like jewellery and alternate between silver and gold pieces with glossy or matte finishes. Varying shapes and sizes will add interest to your table.

- Collect unique plates: Mismatched dinnerware is a great way to showcase your collection of random dinner, salad, and side plates. Each plate can have its own story and memory, making your table setting even more special.

- Keep some things consistent: While embracing the mix-and-match style, it's important to have some consistency on your table. This could be through the use of matching napkins, a table runner, water glasses, or a unified floral scheme.

- Embrace patterns and textures: Don't be afraid to mix and match patterns and textures, especially if you're setting a table for a larger group. Combining modern and traditional prints in varying scales can create a magical and eclectic look.

- Plan for special occasions: While you may only have a small household, it's a good idea to invest in enough dinnerware to host bigger gatherings. This way, you won't be caught off guard when unexpected guests arrive or when you feel like throwing a dinner party.

- Invest in quality pieces: It's worth spending a little extra to get high-quality dinnerware that will last for years. Look for durable materials such as bone china, porcelain, or stoneware, and don't be afraid to take your time in building your collection.

Choosing a colour scheme: Select a colour scheme that complements your existing dinnerware and glassware. You can also add florals to bridge the colour gap

When it comes to choosing a colour scheme for your dinnerware, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, think about the colours that are already present in your existing dinnerware and glassware. You can use these colours as a base and choose complementary shades to create a cohesive look. For example, if you have white dinner plates, you could add some colour with patterned bowls or mugs. You could also choose colours that are opposite each other on the colour wheel, such as red and green or orange and blue, to create a contrasting look.

Another thing to consider is the mood you want to create. For example, earthy tones like sage green and dark brown can give a natural, environmentally-conscious feel. Bright and colourful tones can be used to make a statement, while pastel colours can give a cute, retro vibe. You can also use colour to determine allergies during plating, for example by using blue plates for gluten-free meals.

Finally, think about the size of your dining room and the amount of natural light it gets. If you have a small dining room, light and neutral colours like grey, white and beige can help to create the illusion of more space. In a larger room, you can get away with darker colours like navy blue, hunter green and plum.

So, when choosing a colour scheme for your dinnerware, consider the colours that are already present, the mood you want to create, and the size and lighting of your dining room. Have fun experimenting with different colours and don't be afraid to mix and match!

Flatware: Alternate between silver and gold flatware with glossy sheens or flat finishes

Mixing and matching flatware is a great way to add interest and charm to your table setting. When it comes to flatware, you can alternate between silver and gold pieces with glossy sheens or flat finishes to create a unique and elegant look. Here are some tips to help you achieve a stylish and cohesive mix-and-match flatware setting:

• Choose a colour scheme: Start by selecting a colour scheme that complements your existing dinnerware and glassware. You can stick to similar shades or add a pop of colour with gold or silver flatware.
• Mix and match patterns and textures: Feel free to mix and match different patterns, textures, and finishes. Combine sleek, modern designs with more ornate, vintage pieces. Play with different shapes and sizes to create visual interest.
• Create a cohesive look: While mixing and matching, aim for a cohesive look by choosing flatware with similar styles or themes. For example, you could pair antique silverware with gold-accented flatware for a sophisticated and elegant tablescape.
• Layer your flatware: Layering is a great way to add depth and dimension to your table setting. Try stacking multiple pieces of flatware, such as placing a smaller salad fork on top of a larger dinner fork. You can also layer chargers, plates, and bowls to create a visually appealing place setting.
• Add a personal touch: Mix-and-match flatware is a great way to showcase your personality and style. Include family heirlooms, vintage finds, or unique pieces that reflect your interests. You can also mix in seasonal or holiday-themed flatware to create festive tablescapes.
• Experiment with placement: Have fun with the placement of your flatware. Try alternating between silver and gold pieces at each place setting or create a unique pattern across the table. You can also mix and match within a place setting, such as pairing a silver fork with a gold knife and spoon.
• Consider your table decor: Think about how your flatware will complement your table decor, such as linens, centrepieces, and candles. You can create a cohesive look by incorporating similar colours or textures in your flatware and table decor.
• Play with proportions: Mix and match flatware of different sizes and proportions to create a visually appealing tablescape. For example, you can pair smaller salad forks with larger dinner forks or combine slender spoons with more substantial knives.
• Focus on quality: When mixing and matching flatware, choose pieces that are well-made and durable. Look for flatware with a good weight and a comfortable grip. Investing in quality flatware will ensure that your table setting not only looks beautiful but also functions well.

Patterns and textures: Mix and match patterns and textures to create a whimsical and bold look

Mixing and matching dinnerware patterns and textures is a fun way to add a whimsical and bold look to your table. Here are some tips to help you create a stylish and cohesive look:

• Choose a Colour Palette: Start by selecting a colour palette that you love and stick with it. This will help to create a cohesive look even when mixing different patterns and textures. You can choose complementary colours or go for a more eclectic look with contrasting colours.
• Mix and Match Patterns: Don't be afraid to mix different patterns. The key is to choose patterns that share at least one common colour from your selected colour palette. For example, pair a floral pattern with a striped pattern that has some of the same colours as the flowers in the floral design. You can also mix in some solid-coloured pieces to balance out the patterns.
• Play with Textures: Experiment with different textures to add interest and contrast to your table setting. Mix smooth porcelain with rough stoneware, or try combining matte and glossy finishes. You can also use unusual chargers, napkin rings, or other textured elements to add a unique organic feel to your table.
• Create a Focal Point: Use a bold pattern or texture as a focal point on your table. For example, a set of plates with a vibrant floral pattern can be the star of the show, while simpler pieces in complementary colours and textures act as supporting players.
• Layer and Experiment: Don't be afraid to layer different patterns and textures. Start with a basic set and then add accent pieces to create a unique and personalised look. You can also experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect mix that suits your style and the occasion.
• Consider the Occasion: Think about the occasion when mixing and matching patterns and textures. For a daytime event, go for light and bright colours, while for an evening event, you might want to opt for darker and moodier hues. You can also add a metallic element to your dinnerware or flatware for a more elegant touch.

Consistency: Maintain consistency in your tablescape through the use of a runner, placemats, water glasses, or a unified floral scheme

A runner, placemats, water glasses, or a unified floral scheme can be used to maintain consistency in a tablescape. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Runner: A runner can be placed lengthwise down the centre of the table, with both ends hanging over the edges. Alternatively, place two runners lengthwise, one on either side of the table. You can also place shorter runners widthwise across the table, creating a visual and physical divider between place settings.
• Placemats: Placemats can be used to add a little consistency to a mismatched table. They can be placed underneath each place setting, or used to separate settings if your table is particularly long.
• Water glasses: Water glasses should be placed to the right of the plate, just above the main dining knife.
• Floral scheme: Flowers can be used to bridge the colour gap between mismatched tableware. You can also opt for a more permanent floral display, such as a potted plant.

Buying dinnerware: When buying dinnerware, consider factors such as size, material, colour, and whether it is sold as open stock

When buying dinnerware, it is important to consider various factors, such as size, material, colour, and whether it is sold as open stock. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

Size:

• Ensure the dinnerware fits your cupboard, shelves, and dishwasher.
• Consider the size of your household and how often you entertain. Buy enough pieces to host a big dinner party.
• If you have limited space, opt for stackable dinnerware.

Material:

• Bone china is lightweight, durable, and chip-resistant. It is safe for the dishwasher and microwave.
• Porcelain is non-porous and durable due to high firing temperatures. It is usually dishwasher-, microwave-, and oven-safe, but avoid the microwave if there are metallic accents.
• Earthenware is durable and substantial but avoid sudden temperature changes and high heat.
• Stoneware has a smooth finish and is family-friendly. Avoid high heat or freezing. Hand-painted pieces may require hand washing.
• Melamine is shatterproof and break-resistant, ideal for outdoor use and kids but not suitable for the oven or microwave.

Colour and Pattern:

• White dinnerware is classic, versatile, and food looks great on it.
• Formal dinnerware is typically made from china or porcelain, while casual dinnerware is often stoneware, earthenware, or melamine.
• Consider a neutral colour like white or ivory for formal dinnerware.
• For casual dinnerware, be adventurous with colours and patterns.
• Solid or banded white pieces are timeless and versatile.
• If you want longevity, choose classic designs over trendy options.

Sets or Open Stock:

• Formal dinnerware is often sold as place settings, including a dinner plate, salad/dessert plate, bread plate, teacup, and saucer.
• Dinnerware sets typically include multiple place settings. A common set is 20 pieces, serving four people.
• Open stock dinnerware is sold piece by piece, allowing customisation and easy replacement of broken items.
• Having one set for everyday use and another for special occasions is ideal, but if you prefer one set, choose something durable and dress it up or down with accessories.

Frequently asked questions