The Creative Charm Of Mix-And-Match Dinnerware

Mix and match dinnerware sets are a fun and creative way to style your dining table. Whether you're looking for a casual dinnerware setting or a fun picnic-style brunch, mix and match dinnerware offers a unique and personalised touch to your tableware presentation. From vintage stoneware to contemporary designs, mix and match dinnerware allows you to create a curated collection of plates, bowls, and chargers that reflect your style and personality. You can play with different colours, patterns, and textures to achieve a look that's perfectly imperfect. It's a great way to showcase your creativity and make your guests feel welcome. So, set your table with a mix of colours, patterns, and unique pieces that you've collected over the years. Happy hosting!

Colour combinations

Colour is one of the easiest elements to mix and match when it comes to dinnerware. You can choose plates in different colours that coordinate with each other or go for an eclectic look by choosing plates in contrasting colours. If you want to stick to one colour but vary the shades, opt for dinnerware in graduated tones of the same colour – this always looks chic!

• Start with a basic colour palette: Combine two colours, or add in three or four different colours. Some colour combination ideas include blue and white, and red and white.
• Include a plain neutral: Use a plain-coloured plate to make patterned plates pop.
• Don't worry if the colours don't match exactly: Having slight variations in colour makes the table setting more interesting and avoids a "matchy-matchy" look.
• Try reversing the colours: Combine plates that are mostly one colour with a little bit of a second colour, with plates that are mostly the second colour with a little bit of the first colour.
• Include unusual pieces: Look for unique side dishes such as butter plates, bread plates, milk pitchers, fruit bowls, demitasse cups, gravy boats, and soup tureens.
• Stick to a colour scheme: If you have a set of white dinnerware, add accents of other colours. If you have coloured dinnerware, stick to one or two colours for your accent pieces.

Remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to mixing and matching dinnerware colours. Experiment and have fun creating a combination that you love!

Plain neutrals

When mixing and matching dinnerware, it's important to have a plain neutral colour to make the patterns pop. For example, a set of plain dinner plates can be layered with other more glamorous plates. This gives the eye a place to rest.

If you're going for a mismatched look, it's a good idea to invest in a neutral charger set. Gold, silver, or wicker chargers can be paired with different dishes to completely change the look of your table.

You can also try mixing in some patterned plates or bowls in neutral colours for a bit of visual interest. For example, the LE TAUCI Dinnerware Set comes in a set of 12 pieces in an Arctic White colour, while the Sweese 18-piece set comes in neutral colours.

When mixing and matching neutrals, don't worry if the colours are exactly the same. In fact, it's better if they're not, as it will make your table setting look more interesting and collected over the years.

Textured dinnerware

Rustic Charm

For a rustic look, the Allegra 16-piece dinnerware set from Wayfair is a perfect choice. Crafted from durable stoneware, this set features a textured finish that will add a rustic charm to your table. The set includes dinner plates, salad plates, cereal bowls, and mugs, providing service for four. It is microwave and dishwasher safe, making it a practical option for everyday use.

Elegant and Timeless

If you're looking for something more elegant and timeless, consider the Pique Gold Rim 16-piece dinnerware set by Godinger Silver Art Co. This porcelain dinnerware set is adorned with a simple gold rim and a textured band, creating an understated and timelessly chic look. It includes dinner plates, salad plates, bread plates, and dessert bowls, also providing service for four.

Modern and Textured

For a modern take on textured dinnerware, the Annukka 32-piece porcelain dinnerware set from Wayfair is a great option. This set features square dinner plates and ribbed designs that add a modern and textured look to your table. It includes dinner plates, salad plates, cereal bowls, and mugs, providing service for eight. The set is also stackable, scratch-resistant, chip-resistant, microwave-safe, and dishwasher-safe, making it a durable and convenient choice.

Simple and Functional

If you prefer a simpler design, the Lior 12-piece dinnerware set from Wayfair might be the right choice. This set uses a vertical edge design and a unique brown speckled glaze to bring an eclectic atmosphere to your table. It includes dinner plates, salad plates, and cereal bowls, providing service for four. Made from high-quality stoneware, this set is also microwave and dishwasher safe.

Slightly Textured

For a more subtle textured option, you can experiment with slightly textured dinnerware and napkins. Even in subtle tones, the intricate designs can make for a polished presentation. You can also include a textured napkin ring for bonus points!

Novelty pieces

Choose a Colour Scheme

Start by selecting a colour scheme that complements your linens and existing dinnerware. You can stick to the colours in your everyday plates and glassware or choose a completely new palette. Don't worry if the shades are not exactly the same – these slight differences will add interest and charm to your table setting. You can also add flowers that bridge the colour gap to bring harmony to your table.

Mix and Match Colours and Patterns

Colour is one of the easiest elements to mix and match. You can choose plates in contrasting colours for an eclectic look or opt for plates with graduated tones of the same colour for a chic and stylish table. Patterns are another element that can be easily combined. Choose plates with patterns that share at least one common colour. For example, pair a floral plate with a striped plate that has some of the same colours as the flowers. If you want to keep things simple, look for plates with subtle patterns as they are easier to mix and match than bolder designs.

Play with Texture

The third element to consider when mixing and matching dinnerware is texture. Plates come in various textures, from smooth porcelain to rough stoneware. It is generally recommended to limit your tableware pairing to no more than two distinct textures. For instance, you can use a smooth plate for the main course and a textured plate for the salad. If you want each plate to have a different colour, opt for two different textures, such as one matte plate and one glossy plate.

Unifying Elements

Using unifying elements is a great way to create a cohesive look for your table setting. If you have both solid-coloured and patterned plates, you can use all white plates or plates with a scalloped edge as your unifying element. This will help tie your mix-and-match dinnerware together.

Add Contrasting Elements

To add an extra dimension to your table, choose placemats and napkins that contrast with the pattern of your dinnerware. If your placemats are plain-coloured, select multicoloured or patterned napkins. Similarly, if your table linens have a lot of texture, such as braided or jute mats, opt for simple and uncluttered dinnerware.

Include Accents

You can easily add colour accents to a set of white dinnerware. For example, use a charger plate in a bold colour as the base for your place setting and then top it with a white plate. You can also use colourful napkins or fresh flowers to add a pop of colour. If your dinnerware is coloured, try to limit your accent pieces to one or two complementary colours.

Remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to mixing and matching dinnerware. The most important thing is to have fun experimenting and creating a unique and personalised table setting that reflects your style.

Melamine plates and bowls

Durability and Ease of Care:

Melamine dinnerware is known for its durability, making it ideal for households with children or clumsy individuals. It is also typically dishwasher-safe, making clean-up a breeze.

Indoor and Outdoor Use:

Style Options:

Melamine dinnerware offers a variety of style options, from bold patterns and vibrant prints to neutral tones and classic colours. You can find melamine plates and bowls in various shapes, such as round, oval, or square, to suit your preferences.

Mix and Match:

Feel free to mix and match your melamine dinnerware to create a unique and personalised table setting. Combine different colours, patterns, and designs to make your table look thoughtfully curated. You can also layer plain plates with more glamorous or patterned ones to make the patterns stand out.

Specific Products:

• Botanical Bamboo Melamine Salad Plates, Set of 4 from Crate & Barrel—perfect for adding a natural touch to your table.
• Audley Grey Outdoor Bamboo and Melamine Dinnerware Set from Crate & Barrel—a stylish and elegant option for outdoor dining.
• Gibson Home Brela 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware Set, Service for 4 from Walmart—a highly-rated and affordable option for everyday use.
• Certified International Bee Sweet 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware Set, Service for 4 from Wayfair—a delightful set featuring busy bees and enchanting flowers, designed by renowned artist Susan Winget.
• Studio California Mauna 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware Set from Walmart—available in blue or green crackle-look decal, this set adds a unique texture to your table.

Frequently asked questions