Current Trends in Tableware and Fine China

Events these days range from the formal to the absurd, and tableware trends match that variety. That means that there's a new style out there somewhere that'll work for the way you serve. Tableware trends are going in two basic directions: a resurgence of elegance and a modern, sleek, colorful look.

Parties for young business people and twenty-somethings tend to feature lots of flashy tableware, which you can buy for your home. Consider oversize martini glasses or even acrylic versions that glow from the stem, illuminating your drink with color. If you love a modern look, but aren't into something this unusual, consider a more traditional tableware set, but in unusual shapes.

Rectangular and square porcelain plates and bowls, influenced by Asian styles, have been a big hit. Soft colors, drawn from this culture, like black, celadon green, and mustard, are striking and make food look delicious. Other modern styles include high tech looks, like glass plates that are completely clear. This style includes sleek, clean design, and may be made from glass, stainless steel, and similar materials. The basic idea is function over form, and no frills at all.

Of course, there are organic looking tableware lines following the modernist trend, too. Look for fused glass tableware in unusual colors and shapes, like cobalt, amber, forest and pewter. One glassmaker designed deep purple spiral charger plates for a restaurant.

Traditional tableware is popular, too, but there's usually a twist to make it special. Flashy is out, and old money looks are in. For instance, silver flatware, despite its high maintenance, commands an elegance that conventional steel can't manage. Austrian crystal is another popular trend, as are white plates with colored rims. You don't have to be completely traditional, though. Mixing up rim colors at the table can make your affair a little more casual, and avoid the stuffy feeling that might result from very traditional dinnerware.

White with a little bit of something different is extremely popular when it comes to fine dinnerware. Consider a silver or gold edge with matching glassware and flatware, but avoid bright, shiny metallics. Antiqued finishes are a lot more popular.

Mixing and matching is in, too. You can alternate classic looks with something a little bolder, which can provide interest. Place a conventional white plate on top of something a little more unusual to create more visual tension in your layout. Unusual chargers are very popular, like hammered aluminum and rattan.

Remember not to overdo things, however. An overly busy table won't work for you - keep things appropriate and clean looking, even if you're going for something striking. It's easy to get caught up in available trends without taking a look at the whole table. Making time to do so will help you get a look that will really succeed.

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