A SIMPLE, MUTED TABLE SETTING FOR SUMMER

As I’ve grown older, I find myself seeking out the simplicity in everything and that, most definitely, includes my table settings. I can certainly appreciate a beautifully set table with all the bells and whistles like napkin rings, elaborate centerpieces and a million pieces of silverware but when it comes to setting the table for my own family and friends, simple always reigns supreme for me.

I set this table in anticipation of the 4th when my family would be in town and I loved the muted red, white and blue palette that could really be used all summer long! Red isn’t typically a color I use in my decor, but I found this oversize muted striped throw at Home Goods a couple summers ago and have been using it as a tablecloth ever since! It’s the perfect pop of color, compliments all the texture so beautifully and the white dinner plates look so crisp!

I kept the rest of the table simple with three handfuls of chamomile from Trader Joe’s, simple white dishes, gold painted oyster shell salt cellars (read how I made them here) and lots of texture through my favorite water hyacinth placemats, woven drinkware, bamboo silverware and vase and topped it off with a simple blue and white striped napkin. I’m always talking about investing in some beautiful basic entertaining pieces that you can use all year long and dress up or down with the seasons and I think this is a great example of that; the only thing I purchased for this table was the flowers!

Below are a few pieces that are similar to what I used for this table; if you’ve been around here for a while, you know my French wine glasses, woven drinkware and bamboo flatware get used constantly. I was so disappointed when putting this post together to learn that the rectangular water hyacinth placemats that I use all the time are now discontinued, but it looks like the round ones are still available! I’m also including a faux version of my bamboo flatware since a lot of you have asked about being able to put mine in the dishwasher (answer – you can not!). This is an affordable alternative that can be put in the washer and not have to think twice! What are some of your favorite pieces for a beautiful summer table?

French wine glass / Woven drinkware / Faux bamboo flatware / Similar beaded dinner plate / Water hyacinth placemat / Striped table runner / Wicker salt and pepper cellar / Blue and white striped napkin / Woven vase