Plates and Placemats: How to Choose and Match Shapes and Colors for a Perfect Tablescape

Setting a table that is both eye-catching and functional is an art that combines aesthetic taste and practicality.

The first element to consider is the plates themselves and, consequently, the placemats : shapes, colours and materials can transform a simple lunch into a more refined experience .

In this article we will focus in particular on two highly popular materials, melamine and ceramic.

Each section will contain helpful tips for best pairing different types of dishes, so as to achieve a flawless table setting.

Why choose melamine plates?

Melamine is a highly durable and lightweight plastic, often chosen for its practicality and chip-resistant properties . It's perfect for those who want a touch of design without sacrificing ease of use.

• Impact resistance : Ideal for everyday use, but also for outdoor environments such as gardens or terraces.

• Easy maintenance : It can be easily washed by hand or in the dishwasher, keeping the colours and decorations unchanged.

• Style Versatility : Available in a wide range of colors and finishes, from glossy to matte.

Recommended melamine products

• Turquoise Pancale Plate, Mario Luca Giusti collection

Dishes inspired by the Italian Renaissance , with its workshops specializing in refined workmanship, but also by the sophisticated and meticulous chiseling that designs Moorish palaces as if they were embroidery.

Turquoise brings freshness to the table , ideal for a summer lunch or brunch with friends.

• Coral Pattern Plate, Mario Luca Giusti Collection

A dish that captures attention with its intense red color and texture inspired by coral branches . Perfect for those who want to add a maritime touch or a bold accent to the table.

• Saint Tropez Model Plate, Mario Luca Giusti Collection

With its bright, sunny hue, this plate is ideal for informal events or outdoor dinners . A trendy item that adds personality and cheer to your table setting.

• Saint Pierre model dinner plates, Au Bain Marie Paris collection

With their 28 cm diameter, the Saint Pierre plates combine the practicality of melamine with a design that recalls French elegance . Perfect for larger dishes or for chic everyday use.

The advantages of ceramics

Ceramics are synonymous with tradition and warmth . Each ceramic plate may feature slight variations that demonstrate its artisanal nature or attention to detail, making the table even more exclusive.

• Timeless elegance : Ceramic is perfect for formal dinners, special occasions or simply for those who love a more classic style.

• Variety of shapes and decorations : From minimal white to more elaborate finishes, ceramic offers endless possibilities for personalising the table.

• Durability over time : If well cared for, ceramic can last a long time, maintaining its beauty intact.

Recommended ceramic products

• Papavero fruit/dessert plate, Virginia Casa Ceramiche collection

This plate combines functionality with an original design: the poppy shape lends itself to adding a touch of creativity to your table setting, ideal for serving dessert or fruit with a touch of luck!

• Ceramic plates from the Preta line

The lilac shade makes these plates particularly suitable for a spring or romantic table.

A must-have for those who want a touch of soft and refined colour .

How to match shapes and colors

The basic rule for a harmonious table setting is to maintain a common thread between color choices and shapes.

• Tone on tone : If you choose a dinnerware set in a bright color (for example, orange or red in melamine), you could coordinate placemats and tablecloths in lighter or darker shades of the same color.

• Contrast : For those who love to dare, combining colored melamine plates with white ceramic placemats (or vice versa) creates a beautiful mix & match effect.

• Different shapes : Playing with round plates and square placemats (or particular shapes, like the Quadrifoglio model) adds dynamism to the table.

The importance of placemats and other accessories

Although the plates are the protagonists, the placemats and accessories complete the overall picture of the mise en place:

• Rattan or metal charger plates : If you've chosen brightly colored melamine plates, a rattan charger plate could evoke the idea of ​​an al fresco lunch . If you prefer an elegant table setting, you could opt for gold or silver charger plates, perfect for pairing with sophisticated ceramics.

• Runners and tablecloths : Choose textiles that don't overpower the colors of your dishes, but rather enhance them. Neutral linen or cotton tablecloths are always a guarantee of style.

• Cutlery and glassware : For a Mediterranean-style table, you could incorporate cutlery with colored handles and clear or pastel-colored glasses. For a more formal table setting, however, it's best to opt for stainless steel or gold-finished cutlery and crystal-clear glass stemware.

Maintenance tips

• Melamine : Wash in the dishwasher at low temperature or by hand with non-abrasive detergents. Avoid placing very hot pots or pans directly on melamine plates to avoid damaging them.

• Ceramics : Although many high-quality ceramics are dishwasher safe, to preserve the decorations, it's best to wash them gently. For stubborn stains, soak them in warm water with a little vinegar.

Choosing the right dishes is the first step to creating a table that speaks to us and our style. Melamine offers practicality and vibrant colors , while ceramic represents elegance and tradition . Beauty lies in the skillful mix of shapes, colors, and materials, paired with fabrics and accessories that enrich the table setting without overwhelming it.

Do you want to bring these products to life on your table?

Explore the specific links in this article and discover how to best combine them to create the tablescape of your dreams!

If you want further inspiration or want to complete your service, visit the entire collection dedicated to plates and placemats

Happy staging!