We have been told that it is a no-no to sport white before Memorial Day, but of course, there is an exception to every rule. Design Detroit supports owning, sporting, and loving white plates.  That’s right, white plates!  Whether you are someone who loves fine China from Touch of Lace or Neiman Marcus or someone that likes to pick up pieces along the way at Pier One or Ikea, white plates are a staple. The beauty in owning whites plates is that you have the ability to create table top looks that compliment an occasion, a meal, a season.

The starting point is up to you.  Pier One carries an open stock of plates (meaning the plates and coordinating pieces are sold individually making it easy to replace any pieces.) Buying open stock allows you to keep an inventory that works for you.  Maybe you host a family meal every year that requires 18 plates and with an open stock scenario, you can own 18 dinner plates, and 12 appetizer plates, and 8 salad plates….whatever works for you.

Hosting a spring brunch?  Check out the plates from Crate and Barrel, graphic, fresh and YELLOW.  And yellow is so trend on this spring.  A salad course looks awesome on yellow.  Greens look brighter and food looks tastier.

Having friends over to watch basketball?  The nautical plates from Anthropologie  are playful and gender neutral, and definitely a conversation starter.

Having the girls over to discuss upcoming wedding plans?  These pretty floral plates, sold in a set of 4 from Macy’s, are so pretty, and so appropriate to host the girls.  The plates are actually inspirational because they look and feel happy!

And of course, if an occasion requires a more formal setting, your white plate is the perfect backdrop for vintage plates that are both traditional and whimsical at the same time.

When shopping at your favorite stores, spend time looking at napkins and table clothes and napkin rings.  These accessories can help complete a look that will surely have your guests anxiously awaiting your next invite. Style your table with unique serving pieces and  floral arrangements. Mix patterns on plates and in your table top linens.

Let white plates serve as a back drop for unique, colorful and expressive small plates.

Design a perfect setting for your next get together.