Solid

Start with one or two main colors that suit your theme or guest of honor, then add a neutral or metallic to balance them. Two or three colors total usually looks best. Solid tableware lets you match your palette exactly, then you can add one patterned piece as an accent for interest.

Choose one patterned piece as the star, like a plate or napkin, then pull a color from it and use solids in that shade for the rest of the setting. Mixing a pattern with coordinating solids keeps the table interesting but cohesive, rather than busy. Solids do the balancing work.

White, cream, gold, and black are the most versatile neutrals, working with almost any theme. Soft pastels suit showers and spring, while bold brights pop for kids' parties and summer. Stocking a few neutrals plus your favorite accent colors covers most celebrations.