A guide to buying dinner sets

 When we talk about setting a table, the dinner set is usually the first thing that comes to mind. Your choice of plates, bowls and accessories is a blank canvas for dining, setting the tone for the occasion, whether casual or formal; Traditional or modern.

Choosing the right cutlery is all about matching your cutlery to your preferred way of eating and entertaining. A good choice will provide the right balance of style and practicality for your family, and is appropriate not only for your dining table, but also for your kitchen and cooking style.

We've put together a simple guide to help you choose the right cutlery for yourself and provide some basic care tips to ensure you can enjoy cutlery for years to come.

Choose the right dinner package for you

tone

The first thing to consider is the tone of your dinner set. Traditionally, dinner sets are classified as "casual" or "formal". Do you want something solid that you can count on every day? Or do you want something stylish and memorable for a special occasion? The answer is usually a bit of both.

The modern tonal approach is flexible, as it is not always feasible to have a completely separate dinner just for entertainment. The Maxwell & Williams Dinner Set collection features a selection of everyday classic designs such as White Basics, which can be easily expanded into more formal dinner sets by adding more decorative pieces from other collections such as The Caviar Granite. Don't be afraid to mix and match.

style

The style of your dinner set will ideally reflect your personal tastes -- it should delight you every time you set the table.

From simple to decadent to fun and quirky, Maxwell & Williams has an unparalleled range of designs to choose from. Experiment with styles and textures, and consider your home decor and any accessories or diapers when making your decision.

The shape of

Choose the cutlery shape that best matches your style. Square, rectangular or oval plates have a edgier, more modern feel, while the round retains a classic appeal.

Coupe or trim

Many collections will come in different kinds of bowl, cup and plate shapes, whether it's a two-door coupe (brimless) or a band. Rimmed plates and bowls have a slightly more formal feel and are designed for meals with liquids/juices that may "spill out" when cutting or eating. Coupe plates and bowls are more casual and designed for dishes that can be eaten without further cutting, such as salads or stir-fries.

Tableware accessories and specialty tableware

Now that you've chosen your core dinner set, it's time to choose accessories and signature pieces that really add a touch of sparkle to your table.

Finding the right cutlery accessories is a very personal choice and should take into account how you serve and dine.

Plates and service bowls

If you like to entertain or serve a big meal, platters, platters and service bowls are a must on your table. Choose shapes and styles that complement your dinner set. Platters and serving bowls are a great way to spice up your environment with different colors and patterns.

A few simple guidelines can help keep your dinner in good shape for years to come.