How to Set a Table, for Everything From Holiday Parties to Casual Dining

"To help clarify, we've distilled this dizzying array of flatware, wineglasses, and plates of every size to the essentials for four different occasions: a formal table setting, a casual soirée, an everyday dinner, and a themed event. Then, you can add a dose of creativity by mixing and matching plates, using colorful glassware, or adorning the tablescape with elaborately folded napkins."

"When hosting formal events, which entail a multi-course meal, elegance is of the utmost importance. Supporting pieces, such as chargers, napkin rings, and place cards play a critical role in ensuring a table will shine. On that note, however, don't be afraid to add touches of personality to a more elevated gathering. "I prefer to use vintage water glasses to add some dimension and whimsy to the table," says Leah Ashley, of Living with Leah. "My go-to [glasses] are a mismatched set of vintage amber water glasses that I've collected over the years," adds the Austin-based interior stylist and vintage decor expert. Ashley also enjoys using vintage china on her formal tables. "There's no better way to spruce up a table setting than by adding interesting plates," she notes."

Well-appointed table elements—linens, china, glassware, and centerpieces—create a cohesive, chic atmosphere. Arrangements vary by occasion, so essentials are defined for four situations: formal, casual soirée, everyday dinners, and themed events. Creativity comes from mixing plates, colorful glassware, and elaborately folded napkins. Formal, multi-course meals prioritize elegance and supporting pieces like chargers, napkin rings, and place cards while allowing personal touches such as vintage water glasses or china for dimension and whimsy. Casual and everyday settings simplify flatware and glassware while themed events encourage playful combinations and decorative accents to enhance conversation and community.

Read at Architectural Digest