Tableware by Colour & Theme
Whether you are matching one colour across the whole table or building around a character theme, the tableware is what carries the scheme. This is how to pick plates, cups and napkins that pull together, and where the plain-colour ranges beat themed ones.
Matching by colour
Plain-colour tableware is the easiest way to a coordinated table, because you can mix and match plates, cups, napkins and cloths in the exact same shade. It also lets you follow a party colour scheme that a licensed character range simply cannot.
- Lead colour on the cloth and main plates.
- Second colour on cups or side plates.
- Metallic accent (gold, silver or rose gold) on napkins and cutlery to lift the whole thing.
Popular schemes: black and gold for milestone birthdays, blush and rose gold for showers and weddings, and brights for kids. Keep it to two or three colours so it reads as designed rather than busy.
Matching by theme
Themed tableware does the coordinating for you, because every piece is printed to match. It is the quickest route for kids parties and occasions with a strong look.
- Kids: licensed character plates and cups, backed with a plain napkin in one of the character's colours to stretch the range.
- Hen and wedding: themed napkins and tablecovers with plain plates underneath.
- Party themes: Hawaiian, Hollywood, casino and decades ranges come as full tableware sets so the table matches the decorations and props.
A smart trick: buy the character or themed plates, then bulk out the numbers with cheaper plain-colour cups and napkins in a matching shade. You get the look without paying themed prices for every piece.
Frequently asked questions
Is plain-colour or themed tableware better?
Plain colour is more flexible and cheaper to scale, so it suits colour schemes and larger parties. Themed is quicker and does the matching for you, so it suits kids parties and strong occasion looks. Many people mix the two: themed hero plates plus plain cups and napkins.
How do I match tableware to my balloons and decorations?
Pick the colour scheme first, then buy every element in those two or three shades. Our colour theme pages group balloons, tableware and decorations by shade, so you can match the whole party from one place.
Match your scheme with plain-colour plates, cups and napkins. Building a full look? Shop colour themes or party themes.
More in the Party Tableware guide