Let’s talk about table settings — and how the rules have seriously changed in recent years. You could even say they are gone altogether — because a fresh perspective, personal style, a touch of boldness, and a willingness to break the mold are welcomed now.
What’s become especially popular is using high-end dinnerware: whether you’re serving your husband’s favorite pancakes, welcoming friends with a juicy steak, or plating foie gras at a fancy dinner party. And you’ll definitely want our steps to make the most of luxury dinnerware collections for just that kind of experience.
Which Brands Define Luxury Dinnerware
To choose the right luxury dinnerware, you first need to know who the real stars of the table are. When it comes to high-end dinnerware, Limoges porcelain is, without a doubt, the gold standard. The French region is the heart of all European dinnerware production, because this is where flawless, durable, snow-white clay masterpiece collections are born.
The most iconic Limoges houses:
- Bernardaud is without a doubt one of the most respected manufacturers in Limoges, known for creating both timeless classics and bold, modern designs in plates and cups. What sets it apart is the generous use of gold and the exceptional level of handcraftsmanship.
- Haviland is one of the founding brands of this artisanal region. Its pieces stand out with signature shapes and distinctive decorative styles. Each collection feels like a work of art made to live right on your table.
- The minimalist and elegant forms of J.L Coquet fit just as effortlessly into a cozy home kitchen as they do on a banquet table or in fine dining service. What makes this brand stand out is the purest expression of Limoges porcelain — its natural white glow and a refined, understated take on luxury.
- The renowned French brand Raynaud is celebrated for its pieces that are thoughtfully designed down to the tiniest detail and perfected by hand with true precision. Warm colors and graceful shapes define the style of this house, often brought to life through collaborations with well-known artists.
- A standout of the German school, Sieger by Fürstenberg creates bold, striking, and avant-garde collections — detailed with precious metals and refined watercolor accents. This kind of dinnerware makes it effortlessly easy to impress your guests and show off your unique sense of style.
- Another icon of German style, Rosenthal brings together refined aesthetics and lasting reliability. The brand always stays in tune with the market, offering everything from century-old classics to fresh, modern designs.
- The Wedgwood brand is pure English classic — winning over both collectors and design lovers with its aristocratic charm and refined decorative styles. Clean lines and elegant, time-honored patterns are the unmistakable signature of this iconic porcelain house.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting a Table With Luxury Dinnerware Set
Buying beautiful dinnerware is just the beginning. Setting the table in a way that highlights each piece and lets you truly enjoy the meal — that is an art in itself. So, where do you start?
Step 1
Start with the right foundation. For a formal setting, take some beautiful tablecloth of natural fabrics, with a delicate rim, maybe with embroidery or an imprint. Napkins and other fabric accents should match the tablecloth (for example, many design houses now offer collections of handcrafted, elegant home decor). For everyday meals at home, you can go with an elegant placemat made of heavy linen, pressed or perforated leather, or even handwoven rattan.
Step 2
Always prefer the layered table setting. If your meal includes more than one course, be sure to layer a soup plate on top of the dinner plate, as it works well for appetizers, salads, and even some warm starters, while the dinner plate is perfect for the main course. By the way, high-end brands offer designs with Course-By-Course positioning in mind, so the combination looks artistic, elegant, and helps create that fine dining atmosphere. If you’re planning to serve high-end cuisine, consider using gourmet plates, as they can highlight the beauty and detail of each dish.
Step 3
Dessert plates, cups, and saucers should be set separately—either just before serving sweets and coffee, or arranged ahead of time on a dedicated table. The exception is breakfast or lunch—during those meals, a full setup can actually look quite charming and well-balanced.
Step 4
Take a moment to choose your glassware and cutlery thoughtfully—they should echo the style and feel of your plates to keep harmony and high style. And don’t forget about the food and drinks you’ll be serving—your glasses and utensils should match them just as thoughtfully.
Step 5
Add a touch of personalized décor. For example, if the table is set for a special occasion, name cards placed on each plate or a small personal bouquet can make a beautiful impression. But if it’s a cozy family gathering, even a single flower placed near the cutlery can look perfectly charming and grow the whole luxury vibe.
Step 6
If you’re planning to serve more than two courses, take the time to think through your table setting carefully. Make sure you have enough proper plates and utensils for each course. Here’s a little tip: you can mix in plates from other sets for certain dishes, as long as they match the overall style of your main dinnerware.
Extra Tips
As simple as it might seem at first, choosing a luxury dinnerware set that truly meets both your practical needs and your aesthetic tastes isn’t always that easy. The best advice is to consult a curator—someone who can help you choose the right brand, pick the perfect collection, and even come up with thoughtful table setting ideas.
A short list of extra tips to help guide you along the way:
- Luxury doesn’t always mean flashy crests or gold and platinum accents: high-end brands also offer modest and minimalist designs that are just as meaningful and refined, often even more so in terms of concept and style.
- Think beyond beauty—focus on functionality, too. Every plate should feel just right—comfortable to hold, lightweight, roomy enough, and stable on the table. Design matters, of course, but so does the balance of proportions—it’s all about blending beauty with everyday ease.
- Make sure your dinnerware is good for the dishwasher and microwave—it’ll save you time and hassle in the long run. Today’s luxury dinnerware sets are designed to meet modern-day needs and lifestyles. Many of them feature durable finishes that, despite their luxurious look, are made to be used every day—so you can enjoy your collection without holding back.
Final Thoughts
We like to think of every table setting as a kind of bold little experiment. Never feel like you have to repeat yourself—stay inspired and get creative. Add your personal touch, and enjoy every moment around the table. Creating that kind of atmosphere isn’t hard at all—with the right approach, even a beginner can host a dinner that feels truly high-end.