How To Set a Stunning Table

Splurge On Linens

The Champagne-colored cotton velvet tablecloth adds a luxurious feel. If you have even a little budget, spend it on the linens.

• How To Set this Sparkling Table

Mix Traditional & Modern

Monogrammed linens, crystal stemware, and silver flatware establish a classic tone while bold red chargers and graphic gold-trimmed china update this display

• How to Set a Distinctive Table

Pair Cool Colors with Silver

A French blue tablecloth highlights the cool undertones of classic silver while basic glasses glow in the candlelight of this setting.

• Outdoor Entertaining

Mix China Patterns

A pressed linen cloth provides a clean, crisp base for this mixed-pattern place setting. The purple geometric pattern charger coordinates well with the more flamboyant botanical print of the plates.

• Recreate this Thanksgiving Table  

Choose a Limited Palette

Various shades of green, from pale celadon to deep jade, shine out among the metallic neutrals of this setting. Napkin rings covered in hydrangea blossoms bring a touch of the lush centerpiece to each setting.

• Set this Grand Table

Layer China and Glass

Simple white china and clear glass look elegant but feel casual when paired together. It’s all in the details, so choose pierced and etched designs to add interest without distracting from the rest of the table.

• Relaxed Summer Table Setting

Mix Simple and Ornate

Select the basics and add embellishments for a look that is uniquely you. Use simple stemware to counter balance more decorative china.

• Set a Formal Southern Table

Balance an Elaborate Centerpiece with Basic China

Simple white plates paired with timeless flatware and thin stemware keep this more rustic centerpiece looking elegant. Bold orange napkins give the setting a pop of seasonal color.

• Create this Natural Table Setting

Use a Playful Pattern in a Sophisticated Way

These black-and-white confetti napkins have a sophisticated yet playful vibe. At 22-by 22-inch, they’re large enough to wrap up small party favors at each place setting.

• Set a Bold Holiday Table

Create a Glowing Place Setting

Add a glow to each setting with votive candles. A tiny candle floating alongside mums and sliced citrus highlights the sheen of the cloth napkin in this setting.

• Use this Timeline to Host a Memorable Dinner Party

Keep it Classic

A classic buffalo-check cloth sets off green glassware and terra-cotta accents in this tablescape. The tiny planter and seed pairings do double duty as both place card and favor.

• Host the Ultimate Backyard Pizza Party

Mix Small and Large

Playing with scale can create an interesting and unexpected tablescape. Large leaves make a big statement when juxtaposed with tiny shot-glass vases in this setting.

• Deck Dining Makeover

Get Creative with Materials

Who says you can only print on paper? This menu card is actually fabric. The designer cut pieces of thin linen and ran them through an ink-jet printer for menu cards. Do this a day or more ahead of time to allow the ink to dry properly.

• See How to Create this Simple Thanksgiving Table

Pair Glamour with Nature

Rich red, deep brown, and crisp aqua set off glowing gold accents in this setting. A gilded pinecone and an antler motif add organic elegance.

• Festive Table Setting Ideas

Mix Formal and Casual Pieces

If you have got more guests than fine china, combine your wedding china with casual dinnerware, like this pewter stoneware charger and cool blue salad plate. Silver and crystal stemware add a touch of tradition.

• Christmas Table Décor

Add Black for Big Impact

A black and white color scheme with rich purple accents is sleek and dramatic. Use a black place mat, napkin, and charger, but lighten the look with a white dinner plate.

• Create this Dramatic Table

Get Creative with Natural Materials

Found or purchased natural materials give texture to your table. Make your own custom napkin rings by spray-painting cedar roses (the opened cones of the deodar cedar tree) silver and gluing them atop 2-inch-wide red ribbon. Tuck in a sprig of boxwood for an extra flourish.

• More Christmas Decorating Ideas

Use Family Pieces

You can’t go wrong with a white and silver combination. This setting pairs modern pieces with family heirlooms for a casual yet classic look.

Layer Textures

Varying colors and patterns aren't the only ways to make your setting pop. A mix of interesting textures makes for a subtle and elegant look. Rope place mats layered with textured porcelain dinnerware and twine-tied utensils create a laid-back mood in this setting.

• Outdoor Dining Ideas

Keep Your Setting Neutral

For a table that makes a statement, set it with a single color. The food will take centerstage on this all-white table. White linens and candles pair prettily with a calla lily centerpiece.

Be Inspired by Your China Pattern

Use your china as the inspiration for your florals. This plate’s color palette is repeated in the lush centerpiece.

Think Small

Small touches make a big impact. Tiny fruits and a mini-flower arrangement inspired by the ribbon’s color palette add just the right touch to this simple setting.

Go Bold with Complementary Colors

Use a palette of complementary colors for a bold look on your table. Orange linens give blue patterned dishware added impact.

Say it with Flowers

A single yellow rose, symbolizing friendship, welcomes each guest to this table.

Look Outside for Table Decor

Lovely maple leaves in fall colors dress up this setting. Turn organic items into place cards by using a paint pen to write guests' names on them.

Spice Up Your Table

Add a light fragrance to your tablescape by integrating herbs into your decor. Rosemary napkin rings give a natural feel to this setting.

Skip the Tablecloth

Some dining tables are too nice not to cover, but this one is to pretty to cover up. This aged and distressed table is a beautiful, rustic backdrop for a simple setting.