If you want to truly wow your guests with table settings worthy of a lifestyle photoshoot, investing in one of the most aesthetically pleasing dinner sets is where it’s at. I’m sure we can all agree that nothing beats a sunny afternoon filled with good food and drinks. But when it comes to hosting, it’s the little details – like stylish cutlery sets, elegant glassware, and fresh flowers – that truly make the difference.
Dinner sets are one of those things I never gave much thought to — until I started hosting around the stylish dining table I bought (my prize possession, and an altogether grown-up affair). Suddenly, those mismatched – and I’ll admit, sometimes chipped – dinner plates just weren’t cutting it. I needed something that looked chic but could still survive everyday life (because hand washing stacks of plates after a high-spirited dinner party is such a comedown).
From minimalist white dinner sets that can easily be dressed up for special occasions, to craft-driven pasta bowls that elevate weekday comfort food, your tableware says a lot about your hosting style. It’s worth investing in a good all-round dinner set that can handle both casual dinners and more formal gatherings without missing a beat. And plating up well is half the battle when it comes to making your meals look positively restaurant-worthy — even if they’re straight from a meal delivery kit.
The best dinner sets are as much about the aesthetic as they are about practicality. Do you go for something clean, contemporary and streamlined, or are you all about vintage-inspired, mix-and-match ceramics that bring instant personality to the table? If you’re after something timeless, The White Company and Le Creuset are always solid choices, but there’s plenty out there to suit every taste, and budget.
Of course, no one wants high-maintenance dinnerware. Microwave- and dishwasher-safe? Essential. Stackable if cupboard space is tight? Even better. The best dinner sets don’t just look good — they actually work in a real life setting. We’ve rounded up the best dinner plates and full sets, tested by GLAMOUR editors, that tick all the right boxes. Whether you’re finally upgrading from that random collection of hand-me-downs or looking for the perfect housewarming gift or wedding gift, we’ve got you covered. Now, who’s hosting?
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How we tested the best dinnerware: GLAMOUR’s review process
Finding the best dinnerware set is mostly about aligning with your taste and design preferences, but functionality should not be overlooked. In curating our selection of the best tableware, we prioritised features like dishwasher, microwave, and oven safety, while also considering factors like affordability and aesthetic appeal. Our edit features only the best dinner sets from brands we really love – and we’ve made sure to include a variety of styles we’ve tested first hand – from timeless classics to bold statement designs – to make your choice even easier.