Dinnerware Sets That Stand The Test Of Time

Choosing a dinnerware set is a personal decision, and there are endless styles and patterns to choose from. A great set will bring a touch of class to any dinner table and remain in fashion for years, all while withstanding the rigors of daily use.

If you're looking for a set that you won't hate in 10 years, it's best to opt for classic, simple designs that are more likely to stand the test of time. White or neutral-coloured sets are a good choice, as they can be easily mixed and matched with other pieces and are unlikely to go out of style. Materials such as porcelain, bone china, and stoneware are durable and timeless options.

- Corelle 18-Piece Dinnerware Set: This glass dinnerware is highly resistant to chips, cracks, and shattering. It comes in a variety of patterns and is microwave and dishwasher-safe.

- Gibson Home Rockaway 12-Piece Dinnerware Set: This stoneware set has a simple, unfussy design that is on-trend and inexpensive. It comes in a variety of colours, including soft grey, slate blue, and millennial pink.

- Pfaltzgraff Trellis 16-Piece Dinnerware Set: This stoneware set has a rustic, vintage look with a subtle scrolled pattern and random dark markings. It includes mugs, which are large enough for a tall coffee with milk.

- Fiesta 12-Piece Classic Dinnerware Set in Mixed Colors: This iconic dinnerware set has been manufactured in the USA since 1936 and is highly collectible. It comes in a variety of bold colours, such as poppy red, daffodil yellow, and lapis blue.

- Fable Basic Dinnerware Set: This simple, organic-looking set is manufactured in Portugal and hand-finished, so each piece is slightly different. It includes generously sized plates and bowls and comes in a variety of colours that can be mixed and matched.

Classic porcelain in white or grey is timeless and versatile

White or grey porcelain dinnerware is a safe choice if you're looking for something that will stand the test of time. This option is also great if you want to switch up your table setting without committing to a new dinnerware set. You can always spice up your table with accent pieces, such as patterned dessert or salad plates.

• Great Coupe White Dinnerware from Pottery Barn: This four-piece set is simple and classic, so there's nothing for you to get tired of.
• Mud 3-Piece Place Setting from Horne: This sleek, modern, and minimalist set can be dressed up or toned down, depending on the occasion or your mood.
• Maison 4-Piece Place Setting from Crate & Barrel: This crisp set has neither patterns nor colour, making it exceedingly appropriate for any and all situations.
• Vera Organza 5-Piece Place Setting from Wedgewood: This bone china set designed by Vera Wang has fabric-like folds along the edges, making it eye-catching yet understated.
• Open Kitchen 16-Piece Dinnerware Set by Williams Sonoma: This all-white set really gives us nothing to complain about. Our testing panel said it's the kind of set that it "doesn't feel like you could go wrong with".
• Fable Basic Dinnerware Set: This set has a simple, organic look that communicates high quality in an understated way. It includes generously sized plates and bowls in a range of colours that can be mixed and matched within the set.

Stoneware is durable, but porcelain is more scratch-resistant

Stoneware and porcelain are two of the most common types of ceramic used for dinnerware. While stoneware is more common, porcelain has some advantages that make it a more desirable option for certain consumers.

Stoneware

Stoneware is a type of ceramic that is commonly used for dinnerware and other kitchen utensils. It is made from refined clay with several types of coarse additives and fired at a lower temperature than porcelain, typically between 2150 and 2330 degrees Fahrenheit. Stoneware is known for its durability and affordability. It is heavier and thicker than porcelain, with a more rustic and unrefined appearance. Stoneware is also less prone to chipping and can withstand more wear and tear. However, it is more difficult to clean due to its coarse grain, and it can scratch other surfaces. Additionally, stoneware is more porous than porcelain, making it more susceptible to moisture absorption and bacteria growth.

Porcelain

Porcelain, on the other hand, is a composite material made from kaolin clay, feldspar, and quartz silica. It is fired at a higher temperature, typically above 2300 degrees Fahrenheit, resulting in a harder and more durable product. Porcelain is less likely to crack when subjected to high temperatures, making it safe for microwave use. It is also lighter and easier to manoeuvre than stoneware, especially when used in the oven. Porcelain has a finer grain, giving it a smoother and more polished finish. It is available in a wider range of colours and designs, including matte, satin, and glossy tones. However, porcelain is more expensive and more susceptible to chipping due to its rigidity. Lower-quality porcelain may also be coated with enamel or non-stick coating to compensate for poor craftsmanship.

Both stoneware and porcelain have their advantages and disadvantages. Stoneware is more durable and affordable, making it a good option for everyday use. Porcelain, on the other hand, is more scratch-resistant and has a more refined appearance, making it suitable for formal dinnerware or special occasions. Ultimately, the choice between stoneware and porcelain depends on the consumer's specific needs and preferences.

Bone china is elegant, durable, and often reserved for special occasions

Bone china is a type of fine china that was originally created for royalty over 200 years ago. It is made from a combination of bone ash, china clay, china stone, feldspar, and quartz. Bone china is considered to be the most refined and luxurious of tableware materials, adding a sophisticated classical or contemporary design to any table. It is also durable, lightweight, and strong, making it perfect for both everyday use and special occasions.

Bone china is known for its high levels of whiteness and its milky, almost translucent appearance. Its high strength allows it to be produced in thinner cross-sections than other types of whiteware ceramics. It is also mostly chip-resistant. The bone ash in bone china gives it a unique, creamy, soft colour. The percentage of bone ash in bone china can vary, but it should be at least 25% to be considered authentic bone china. The traditional formulation for bone china is about 25% kaolin, 25% Cornish stone, and 50% bone ash. The industry minimum for bone content is 30% or higher.

Bone china is typically more expensive than other types of dinnerware due to the cost of materials and the labour-intensive production process. However, it is worth the investment as it is built to last and can be passed down through generations. Bone china is also microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe, and oven-safe.

When it comes to choosing a dinnerware set, it is important to consider your lifestyle and how you plan to use it. If you are looking for a set that is both elegant and durable, bone china is an excellent option. It is strong enough for everyday use but also has a perception of elegance and sophistication that makes it suitable for special occasions.

• Durability: Bone china is known for its strength and durability. It is less brittle than other types of ceramics and is mostly chip-resistant.
• Lightweight: Bone china is lightweight yet sturdy, making it easy to handle and reducing the risk of breakage.
• Elegant design: Bone china has a creamy, soft colour and a translucent appearance that adds elegance and sophistication to any table setting.
• Versatility: Bone china can be used for both everyday meals and special occasions. It is also microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe, and oven-safe.
• Longevity: Bone china is built to last and can be passed down through generations.

Melamine is a good, affordable option for outdoor dining or families with kids

Melamine is a great option for outdoor dining or families with kids. It's a lightweight and durable plastic that's food-safe and shatterproof. While it may not be fancy, melamine dinnerware is perfect for casual meals or picnics. It's also a safe option for kids, as it's difficult to break.

There are many stylish melamine dinnerware sets available that will complement your outdoor dining setup or add a pop of colour to your table. Craft & Kin's 12-piece set, for example, features a rustic wood grain design, while the Gap Home Playful Patterns set from Walmart offers a fun and vibrant option. You can also find melamine dinnerware in elegant patterns, such as the Certified International Portofino set, which is perfect for a summer dinner party.

Melamine dinnerware is typically dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze. However, it's important to note that melamine is not microwave-safe. So, if you're looking for something that can go from fridge to microwave, melamine may not be the best option.

Overall, melamine dinnerware is a fantastic choice for those seeking an affordable, durable, and stylish option for outdoor dining or everyday use. It's a safe and practical choice for families with kids, and its lightweight construction makes it easy to transport for picnics and camping trips.

Dinnerware sets can be expensive, but some budget-friendly options exist

Dinnerware sets can be expensive, but there are some budget-friendly options out there. Here are some recommendations for affordable dinnerware sets:

• Gibson Home Rockaway 12-piece Dinnerware Set - a simple, unfussy design that is currently on sale for $38 (usually $40)
• Corelle Winter Frost 18-piece Dinnerware Set - a durable, no-frills set that is currently on sale for $38 (usually $48)
• Amazon Basics 16-piece Dinnerware Set - a basic, middle-of-the-road set that is currently on sale for $35 (usually $48)
• Gibson Home Soho Lounge 16-piece Square Dinnerware Set - a sleek, modern set that is currently on sale for $56 (usually $63)
• Stone Lain Brasa 16-piece Dinnerware Set - a beautiful, swirled set that is currently on sale for $68 (usually $90)
• Ten Strawberry Street Wazee Matte Stoneware Dinnerware Set - a minimalist set that is currently on sale for $36 (usually $50)
• Wayfair Basics Burkeville Stoneware Dinnerware Set - a simple, elegant set that is currently on sale for $35 (usually $50)
• Gibson Elite Soho Lounge Stoneware Dinnerware Set - a stylish set that is currently on sale for $56 (usually $63)
• Vancasso Bonita Stoneware Dinnerware Set - a textured set that is currently on sale for $45 (usually $60)
• Gibson Zen Porcelain China Dinnerware Set - a simple, elegant set that is currently on sale for $45 (usually $60)
• Siterra Artist's Blend 16-piece Dinnerware Set - a speckled set that is currently on sale for $35 (usually $50)
• Dakota Fields Whittier Stoneware Dinnerware Set - a rustic set that is currently on sale for $64 (usually $105)
• Gibson Home Oslo Porcelain China Dinnerware Set - a minimalist set that is currently on sale for $35 (usually $50)
• Andover Mills Annabelle Stoneware Dinnerware Set - a scalloped set that is currently on sale for $54 (usually $60)

Frequently asked questions