Buying Guide
Choose Dinnerware for Everyday and Holidays
James Whitfield · 2026-01-22

For daily meals, prioritize chip-resistant materials and shapes that stack easily in your cabinet. Rimmed plates help contain saucy dishes, while coupe shapes suit modern minimal tables. Save delicate pieces for gatherings, but still pick items that can go through a gentle dishwasher cycle when possible. Buying open-stock plates lets you replace one piece instead of an entire set, which saves money as your household grows.