Dinnerware

Whether you host casual gatherings or formal parties, contemporary dinnerware is a must-have for your dining table. While it's fun to mix and match dishes and drinkware, a tableware set is a good investment – and it gives you pieces that will lay the groundwork for a beautiful table setting. If you frequently dine alfresco, don't feel like disposable plates are the only option. Casual and formal tableware alike can function as outdoor plates, too. Depending on the size of your family or the number of guests you host on a regular basis, a dinner set for six is a great starting point when shopping for contemporary dinnerware sets. Read on to discover the different types of dinnerware below.

Types of Dinnerware

There are many different kinds of dishes, including stoneware, fine china, ceramic, melamine, and porcelain, among others. Notable for its organic look and feel, stoneware dinnerware is durable and long-lasting. Fine china or bone china dinnerware is often used for formal occasions. This type of dishware often features hand-painted patterns and gilded details, which makes it delicate and not ideal for daily use. Ceramic dinnerware is functional, durable, and usually dishwasher safe. Melamine dishes are lightweight. These are great for outdoor dining since they're less prone to breaking if they're dropped. Finally, porcelain dinnerware is elegant yet functional. An ideal choice for daily use, it can easily be dressed up or down.

How to Choose Dinnerware for Entertaining

Shop HAY for some of the best porcelain dinnerware. HAY's porcelain rainbow plates come in a range of soft, muted hues. Combine the yellow or light pink dishes with a set of color-coordinated rainbow bowls. Complete the table setting with HAYs colorful spoons crafted of glass. HAY's everyday porcelain dinnerware can be used for quick and casual family meals or elegant gatherings. Or opt for HAY's enameled steel dishes with a marbled pattern for a unique table setting. For more inspiration, read about how designer Laila Gohar created her Sobremesa Collection for HAY.