Although it may seem counterintuitive, having the table set year-round can be a great practice. Why? For gathering at the ready. Ease in pulling up an extra seat. And keeping practical pieces (that are equally as beautiful) on display—every day.
This is one of the many reasons we created our Core Collection. Made up of tried-and-tested pieces that have consistently earned their name as favorites, these are the essentials you'll always want around.
Having a steady set of high-quality tableware makes it easy to weave in different flourishes throughout the year while celebrating each season as it comes. At their core, these classics open up more styling possibilities. Below, we’re sharing how versatile these pieces can be in every season—whether it’s winter, spring, summer, or fall.
Lay the Foundation
When choosing foundational pieces for your table, it’s important to consider durability and timelessness. What will serve you well in all four seasons—and play well with existing decor? Quality dishware is a worthy investment, so we recommend opting for a neutral set that can go with anything, like our French Grey Plates.
For glassware, we like a classic tumbler—one ideal for holding your morning glass of juice or a festive mocktail. Our Atlas Tumbler has playful ribbed detailing around the exterior and comes in two sizes, making it functional and deserving of year-round display. (If cabinet space is limited, try our stacking version for easy storing!)
Lastly, flatware. Utensils are something you’ll reach for every season, every meal. Opting for eclectic flatware can add charm to an otherwise simple aesthetic. Our Vintage Flatware Set is entirely unique, marked by ornate handles and wear earned over time.
Once you have the staple pieces, you can build the seasonal story. Everything else on your table (like linens, table decor, centerpieces, and the meals to accompany) can be easily refreshed to reflect the time you’re in.
WINTER
Styling notes: Oh, what fun… With winter comes all things red and green! A neutral base makes it easy to play up personality during the most wonderful time of the year without going overboard. To give color centerstage, try laying a holiday table napkin between the dinner and salad plate. This makes space for a flourish on top—like a cedar stem, pinecone, or ornament that pairs back to your centerpiece. Opting for wooden chargers along a patterned runner can ground each place with warmth and natural texture.
Tip: To add a little extra flavor to your holiday tablescape, consider keeping your salt & pepper shakers on display!
SPRING
Styling notes: As the days grow warmer and life springs forth, new beginnings can be best represented by a clean slate. In other words, this season is a good time to go back to the basics. Linen placemats make for a classic base, offering a hit of easy texture around the perimeter. Using neutral napkins (we like green for springtime!) imparts a subtle hue without being too overpowering. A sprawl of faux florals in a white vase can lend a fresh feel to the scene.
Tip: Add an intentional element to everyday dining with DIY place cards or a sweet note. Try making your own with cardstock paper, a little twine bow, and bloom clippings. This is also a great way to tie in flatware and napkins.
SUMMER
Styling notes: Cue sweet summertime! To ready the table for slow breakfasts, lazy lunches, and dinners with the windows open, consider adding cheery table linens and a centerpiece highlighting the darlings of the season: dahlias. A patterned napkin with the same color story as your runner is a great way to achieve a lighthearted, yet cohesive, tablescape. Natural wooden rings also pair nicely with raffia placemats—each offering a sense of movement to reflect summer’s casual feel.
Tip: A serving board can double as a riser for your centerpiece arrangement, elevating it all season long.
FALL
Styling notes: Fall is all about layering, both clothing and decor. Mixing and matching warm colors, patterns, and textures can create a cozy feel that’s always welcome in cooler months. We like styling our braided placemats with an imperfectly folded napkin to highlight natural drape and texture. A little asymmetry just adds more character. In preparation for this season’s comfort food, we also added our French Grey Fire Reduction Butter Dish—sided by a vase of golden stems dotted with fall’s harvest.
Tip: To make everything feel cohesive, consider laying corresponding clippings in the center of each place. Bonus points they pair back to your centerpiece!
The heart behind these Magnolia mainstays is this: classic pieces you’ll reach for time and again. Here’s to fully embracing each season with decor that reflects the present moment—and the many memories shaped along the way.
