versaTYle! Dressing your table to fit your personality

Setting your table for special dinners with family and friends, holiday gathering, or just
to give yourself a visual boast when you sit down to dine are great ways to express
your decorating personality. Tabletop is an extension to a larger fashion or
decorating statement and it doesn't matter if your style is exotic or eclectic, you
have endless options for dressing your table to fit your personality.



(above: for a personal addition to the table setting, make place mats from black and
white copies of snapshots printed on tabloid-size paper)



These images from Ty Pennington shows us that with the right basic pieces you can
design any table setting as the mood strikes. The right pieces can enhance a casual
setting or soften a formal atmosphere. But one mistake can throw off the whole look,
so when setting your table, look to coordinate, it will keep the mood right and the tone interesting.



(above: just-cut fronds make awesome place mats and bring a bit of nature to the table;
their color plays well off of the earthy tone dinnerware. Orange linens tie into other
hints of orange in the room).



(above: a new twist on takeout - create a centerpiece by slipping a vase of flowers or a
small potted plant in a to-go box. When dinner is over, it can double as a parting gift
for guests).



So, whether you're decorating your house or putting plates on the table discover
fashion-related looks that go with your personality. Dressing a table is a lot like dressing
yourself. For instance, casual-chic style pairs jeans with a dressy blouse, or a pair of
boots with a cocktail dress. It's all in the way you put it together. The same goes for the
table.

source: Ty Pennington at home, Pointclickhome.

Design LiFE! Nicole Sassaman’s table setting

Celebrity designer Nicole Sassaman has been featured on The STYLE Network’s "Area",
Fine Living’s “Lulu’s House” and HGTV’s “Designer’s Challenger”. She has a fresh, sassy
approach to design and has a keen eye for redesigning spaces that are beautiful and functional.



Nicole’s signature style shines through when she teamed up with Viking to create the table
setting at DIFFA”s Dining by Design. Using tableware from West Elm she incorporates
creativity, practicality and timelessness to create a sophisticated but accessible design.



West Elm is known for creating trendy, modern tableware with sleek lines, fresh colors and
exotic foreign nuances. I love the use of the aluminum and white square dinnerware. Nicole's
serene table design appeals to those who gravitate toward calming, neutral spaces or to those
with more modern tendencies -- people who like to live with subtle neutrals and fewer objects
cluttering their lives would love Nicole Sassaman’s style.



I’ve just ordered Nicole’s new book “Design Life”. Nicole knows how to create rooms that
are beautiful and functional, so, whether I’m decorating my kitchen or putting plates on my
table, I’m sure I can use this book to obtain decorating ideas.

Dining by Design 2008: Ralph Lauren Home

Black has always been chic; white is, well, white-hot right now. The cominbation of the two
makes a dramatic statement on the table and offers a sophisticated counterpoint to the
abundance of florals used for the table designed by Ralph Lauren Home.

Black is a key direction and it's very mysterious, yet very elegant. To have an edge,

you may want to soften it with a color combination to incorporate yellow.

One of the most novel ways to add a black accent is with lighting that features black

candles. It creates a very dramatic look like a shadow or a negative space.

With the classic look we've seen in furnishings, where traditional is strong but

it's refined, black and white tableware really seems to make the lines pop and with

the use of the silver trays it also goes well with the mirrored look that's all around.

Isabelle De Borchgrave's Fiesta Collection at Target: Reader Question

Q: Sarah, the Fiesta collection is EXACTLY what I have been looking for! Thanks so much
for posting this! One question, though.... Do you know when it will be available? The only
items on Target's site right now are from the Botanical collection.
Thanks!
Mara, The Simper Things

A: Hey Mara, great question! The collections designed by Isabelle De Borchgrave are
extremely popular at Target and they tend to sell-out very rapidly. I've just confirmed,
that the Festive collection will only be available from March 23 - May 23.
ACT FAST this collection won't be there long. Enjoy!

Dining by Designer: Isabelle de Borchgrave’s launches new tableware collections at Gien and Target

Isabelle De Borchgrave is a world-renowned Belgian artist recognized for her elegant
and classic artistry, and for her intricate paper-designed creations. De Borchrave's
creations can be seen in exhibits and fine hotels throughout Europe.

Isabelle De Borchgrave's new tableware collections at Gien and Target are bursting
on the scene with spring and summer goodness. These floral patterns may hint at
the traditional, but lean toward retro and modern designs, with bursts of bright tones
that will surely please your tabletop design palette.


(above: Gien Jacinthe collection, available at TableIdeas)
Gien is the most prestigious maker of earthenware, "Faience," in France. The
history of Gien dinnerware dates back almost 200 years. Gien tableware takes
inspiration from many sources and this spring they will be taking inspiration from
Ms. De Borchgrave’s love of art, entertaining and travel. The new collection, Jacinthe,
designed by Isabelle De Borchgrave has a garden inspired motif. Set your table
with warm colors and bouquets. This collection will blossom on your table like
a sunny summer day.


(above: Isabelle Party, Fiesta Collection, available at Target)
Isabelle De Borchgrave brings her hand-painted artistry and her love of celebrations
to Target in her beautiful collection, Isabelle Party. This spring, she continues to expand
her Isabelle Party collection of artful paper party décor with the Fiesta and Botanical
collections. Everything from paper plates and napkins to disposable chair covers
and tablecloths are sure to liven up any bash.


(above: Isabelle Party, Botanical collection, available at Target)
De Borchgrave, who began painting at age four, believes that entertaining is an art and
art is entertaining. She views every occasion as a blank canvas and feels that vibrant colors
and bright patterns are all that are needed to create a celebration like no other.
De Borchgrave's new collections can be summed up by her motto "Que la fête commence!"
"Let the party begin!"

DINING BY DESIGNER: Ralph Lauren’s new Mayfair collection is simply glamorous “daahling”.

Fashion designers rely on reviving styles from bygone years and the late 1940's look is one of
the most enduring. This post-war period was about originality, innovation, sophistication
and understated glamour. Design, cut and details were priorities and for Ralph Lauren to
take his influence from this period is testament to its legacy of style.



Ralph Lauren’s new Mayfair collection is fashioned with modern elegance and
undertones of 1940s glamour, the sophisticated tableware collection is layered with
silver and pewter metallics, natural woven materials and black, white and cream accent
pieces.



When decorating your tablescape with a glamour theme - - - don’t hold back. As long
as the table is dressed up, rather than down, it’s bound to succeed. There are many
ways to interpret this style to suit your taste and budget. Your table can either dazzle
with color and quality, in a layered luxury look with a eye-catching chandelier. It can
feature pretty, feminine boudoir details that have a subtle, soft approach with delicate
flower patterns, lace, embroidery and jewels; or it can echo a chic, contemporary
monochrome with bold printed textiles and oversized mirrored chargers.



Your tablesetting shouldn't be a slave to current trends; it should just be inspired by them
and then decorated. Your tablesetting should always be set to suit your own personality and lifestyle.

Dining by Design: "And the Oscar goes to..."

Whew, the February fashion marathon is over. The two most recent shows -- New York
International Gift Fair and Mercedes Benz Fashion Week--- brought to market the season's
best wares from tabletop manufactures and fashion designers.



"Oscar's fall show was, in a word, divine. We swooned over the sleek, graphic--gold
column gown, glam little floral print skirts, and the flurry of fur trimming. Whether he's
belting a cardigan or covering sheepskin with beautiful sequins and embroidery,
Oscar defines modern elegance." - Glenda Bailey, Editor in Chief, Harper's Bazaar.



After conquering fashion, renowned designer Oscar de la Renta turns his multiple
talents to tableware. But great patterns don't necessarily translate directly from
the runway to a plate. The products must convey the lifestyle feeling the designer's name
connotes to consumers. Oscar de la Renta china is designed by the renowned creator
of couture himself and what does translate is the essence of good design and good taste.



The bold colors and patterns of Oscar de la Renta dinnerware are characteristic
of the Dominican-born and world-renown designer. These stunning china patterns
were originally hand painted by Oscar de la Renta himself. First ladies, modern women,
and fashionable persons across the globe wear Oscar de la Renta clothing, and your
table will look just as fabulous adorned in his designer dinnerware.



Source: Oscar de la Renta tableware can be found at Michael C. Fina.

Dining by Designer: Farewell Valentino Garavani

Valentino Garavani, always known by only his first name, held his last show in
Paris last week. Considered one of the most influential designers of the late 20th
century, he waved good bye to the fashion industry for good. A perfectionist with
an unparalleled sense of fit and fabric, he has dressed royalty, first ladies and movie
stars in his signature scarlet dresses and tasteful couture.



Valentino is the king of chic. His fascination is always with elegance and beauty
and his tableware is no exception. Valentino dinnerware is vibrant and fashionable,
lending a stylish flare to your table. This selection of Valentino china is decorated
with delicate flower patterns and lace. His signature reds and distinctive "V" logo
proclaim that this tableware is unmistakably Valentino.



So with his iconic red dresses at his side, Valentino bowed out of fashion. Alessandra
Facchinetti, a former Gucci designer who is considered better suited to lead the
group's expansion into new markets and product lines will replace Valentino at
the couture house.



source:
Valentino Spring, Michael C. Fina, Five piece placesetting, $288.00
Valentino Red & White, Neiman Marcus, dinner plate, $85.00
Valentino barware, Neiman Marcus, DOF glasses, $75.00

Dining by Designer: Thomas O'Brien

Forget about Ralph or Calvin, and don't even mention Tommy - - - it's Thomas. Yes,
he may look a bit like Ferris Bueller's older brother in tortoiseshell horned-rimmed
glasses, but the engine behind the New York shop Aero and design firm Aero Studios
is well on his way to becoming a recognized national brand in his own right.



Not since partnering with Ralph Lauren has the esteemed silver house of Reed & Barton
teamed up with a boldfaced design name. Thomas O'Brien is helping catapult one of
the most prestigious tabletop and giftware companies into the 21st century. With
hundreds of items across all tabletop categories, Thomas O'Brien's collection includes
dinnerware, stem and barware, flatware, accessories and gifts.



O'Brien's take on classic styles - which he calls warm modernism - is familiar but fresh,
casual but elegant, masculine but feminine, new but old, sensual but simple. Stylistically
and practically, this thoughtful, well-designed collection has it all.



Dinnerware ($90 to $130, five pieces), flatware ($60 to $65, five pieces), stem and
barware ($12.50 to $50 a glass), and giftware ($35 to $150) bear O'Brien's warm
modernism signature.

All tableware available at Bloomingdale's.

Dining by Designer: The Martha Stewart Collection with Wedgwood

Homemaking was a dreary chore until she made it an artisanal pursuit. And built
an empire! Distinguished by inspiring ideas, rich how-to information, and iconic
images, Martha Stewart has elevated the familiar elements of daily life. With
all of her products, whether it is a sheet set from Martha Stewart Collection at
Macy's, a special tool from Martha Stewart Crafts or a holiday card from Martha
Stewart designed digital photo products with Kodak. No matter how you look
at it, she has influenced the way Americans think about, organize and manage
our homes.



It is no surprise that Wedgwood has collaborated with Martha Stewart to create
a thoughtful, beautiful line of tabletop items. From the simple to the elaborate,
artful details and distinctive Martha Stewart palette and patterns allow for a
traditional display or can be intermixed to create a personalized look.



Inspired by some of Martha Stewart's favorite pieces of china - modernized for the
needs and tastes of today's discerning bride and entertainer. Each china pattern
is available in 5-piece place settings, ranging in price from $99-$159. Each of the
six stemware patterns offers Wine, Goblet, Flute, and Iced Beverage styles and
range from $30-$37 per stem. The flatware ranges from traditional to modern
and ranging from $45-$60 for a 5-piece place setting.

"I have always been an avid collector of fine china, crystal and silver, and my
personal collection includes many Wedgwood pieces I am very proud to own. Our
new line with Wedgwood offers a range of beautiful and timeless pieces that can be
collected and enjoyed for years to come just like my antique pieces"

- Martha Stewart

The Martha Stewart Collection is exclusive to Macy's.

Dining by Designer: Ralph Lauren - A Christmas theme where you can put your best face forward.

There was a time when clocks served one purpose: to let you know what time
it was. Today, clocks do much more than that. They make a decorating statement
by complementing, even enhancing, the look of a room. And they can make a
statement about Christmas.



With their bold graphics, nostalgic charm, and center holes for hanging, old
clock faces make inspired ornaments.



Clock faces add an interesting theme to holiday decorating. Extend the clock
theme to the table with this set of four charming brunch plates by Ralph Lauren.
Whimsical clock theme varies with each plate for a unique and stylish table setting.



Use vintage clock faces tied with pretty ribbon as ornaments. Match your clock
themed tree with your gift wrap and choose from the same color palette. All it
takes is a collection, or even an idea for one, to spark an exciting theme for your
holiday decorating.

Source: Country Living magazine, Assorted Clock Brunch Plates, $79.99,
Polo Ralph Lauren.

Dining by Designer: Happy, Happy Holidays from Jonathan Adler

Long before he made his debut as head judge on "Top Design", he made a
splash with his own hand-thrown pottery. America "hearts" Jonathan Adler.
The potter-turned-designer has created a complete Jonathan Adler Home
Environment, an upbeat and groovy universe he envisions as "happy,
handcrafted, and luxe".



He can put breasts on a vase and we'll buy it; turn a turtle into a ornament,
and we want if for our Christmas tree; needlepoint the ace of spade on a pillow,
sell it for $165.00, and we all sigh, "J'adore".



Adler is a riot of fun! He is Jewish and from New Jersey and can be found
speaking Franglais - - - it’s all about “a soupcon" of this and "moiself" that.
His official aesthetic is "happy chic," and this means Jonathan Adler is always
chipper, never dressed in all black and eternally encouraging his followers to
put clown art on the wall.



As a living icon of modern design, his work is at the forefront of style. His
unconventional approach to ceramics has single-handedly taken pottery from
hippie to hip. If your holiday décor calls for something clean, modern and
“happy”, like this skyline menorah, look no further than Johnathan Adler.

Designing by Designer: Make waves and a big splash with Nautica’s dinnerware collection

Using the Latin word for ships, David Chu started his menswear company, Nautica,
in 1983 and proceeded to build an empire based on all things attached to the sailing
mentality. The Nautica lifestyle is a casual, relaxed approach - - - whether that is
in apparel or home collection.



The newest addition to the dinnerware collection is Yacht Club and as the name
implies, its elegant and refined look is taken from the days spent on a yacht in
the French Riviera. The collection features fine white porcelain pieces accented
with light blue striping, plaid and chain link patterns.



The nautical decor doesn’t stop with tableware; many couples opt for a nautical
theme wedding. "Ahoy mates! If your adventurous heart belongs to the sea, a
nautical theme wedding is just right for thee."



Some couples opt for a nautical theme if they are having a wedding near any type
of water, including oceans, seas, rivers, even large lakes. Of course, another good
reason to have a nautical theme is if you’re going to be setting all or part of your
wedding on a boat. You don’t even have to go anywhere on the boat to have a
great wedding or wedding reception on a sea faring vessel.



Your nautical theme wedding invitations, like these designed by Ceci New
York, can be the start of the fun.



Your wedding attire, flowers and color scheme can reflect the gold, yellow, blue,
black and red colors, which are used in the international signal code flags used by
mariners. Roping epitomizes the look.



It's a very successful theme. Your nautical theme will result in smooth sailing for
all who will share your special day and provide a memorable theme that embraces
your love of the sea. Carry the nautical theme to the table with the On Deck
collection.



images sourced from: Brides.com, The Knot.com and Rebecca Thuss