4 Ways to Dress Your Holiday Table

Hosting a get-together for family and friends this holiday season? Try these special touches to make your holiday table a memorable one. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving for ten or planning a festive dinner for two, a gorgeous table setting can make the occasion all the more memorable. In need of some fresh inspiration? Check out four tabletop looks we’re loving this season—and get ready for the oohs and ahs to roll in. Glimmer and Glamour Make your next holiday fete sparkle in tones of silver, white, and gold. Like a winter wonderland fantasy, this medley of metallic dinnerware, mercury-glass accents, vintage silver, and beaded table linens could make even takeout feel indulgent. Why it works: While this setting is decidedly over-the-top, its neutral palette keeps it from overwhelming. The variety of finishes adds visual interest and dimension, while playful animal ornaments contribute a welcome dose of whimsy.

Merry and Bright This preppy, poppy twist on a holiday spread is sure to delight any dinner guest. The pink-and-green palette and gold bamboo accents would be right at home in Palm Beach—but we think the combo could be just the dose of sunshine you need during winter up north. And don’t forget the retro-chic details, including lettuceware serving pieces, bowls of vintage ornaments, and maybe even a festive pink flamingo or two. Why it works: Skipping a printed tablecloth or patterned napkins in favor of solid textiles helps ground the bold spread and gives the eye a place to rest.

Wintry Warmth If rustic and relaxed is more your speed, try this unfussy setting: a raw-linen runner, richly grained wood accents, beeswax candles, and simple white dishware. The combination of organic shapes, natural materials, and earthy textures pays homage to the beauty of the season—and projects a welcoming warmth that’s sure to put guests at ease. Why it works: A dash of formality in the place settings—the layering of charger, dinner plate, salad plate, and cloth napkin—helps elevate the look, making the table feel special despite its simplicity.

Classic Cheer With its red-and-green palette, tartan accents, and evergreen motifs, this setting hits notes of nostalgia, merriment, and charm. This is your pick when only a traditional holiday spread will do. Why it works: Glamorous gold place mats and bold red glassware give this timeless mix a touch of the unexpected. And in place of a formal flower arrangement, a loose garland accented with eucalyptus and pomegranates feels easygoing—just what you want a holiday gathering to be.