How to Choose Which Color Charger Plates to Use

Instead of using traditional place mats to accent your table, you should consider charger plates. Charger plates are a great way to add some style and a splash of color to your table setting and can be used for special occasions or even on a daily basis. There are a number of different colors and styles to choose from when deciding on charger plates for your table. By following some simple rules of thumb, you should be able to easily select the best type of plate for your dining space and occasion.

Instructions

1. Consider the color of your dishes when selecting your charger plate as you will want the chargers to be complementary. If you have neutral-colored plates, the sky is your limit, as any colored charger will enhance it. If you have colored dishes, choose contrasting colored chargers to enhance the look; for instance a sapphire blue charger will enhance a pale blue plate. For an even bolder look, choose charger plates on the opposite end of the color spectrum such as yellow plates with purple chargers.

2. Choose a charger of a similar quality to your plate type. If you will be using the charger with your fine china, then you will want a fine china charger to go with it. Fancy sterling silver or platinum chargers as well as crystal and glass will pair well with fancy china dishes. On the other hand, if you will be using chargers with your simple, everyday plates, less fancy chargers will suit you better. Many times plate sets such as the ones sold at Bed, Bath and Beyond will have plate chargers. If your dish type is sold at Bed, Bath and Beyond, consider visiting the store to check out its selections.

3. Select a pattern that suits your plate type. If your plates have colorful decorative patterns on them, you will want a plain-colored charger so that your table setting does not look too busy. Likewise, if you plates have a simple design with little detail, you may want a charger with a more vibrant pattern to enhance the color of your plate and make it pop.

4. Decorate for the holidays using your colored plate chargers. If you are hosting a Christmas dinner, why not purchase red- and green-colored chargers? You can alternate the chargers by using red and green in an alternating pattern. For Thanksgiving consider chargers in dark browns, rust, burnt yellows, green and orange. Additionally, use red and blue chargers to accent your Fourth of July table.

5. Dress up your everyday table for an elegant evening by choosing gold-, metallic- or black-colored chargers to accent your candlelit table.