One of things I always mention to brides when they are registering is to add white dishware and serveware to their registry list. Oftentimes couples pick patterned dishware that doesn’t end up matching their new apartment or that just doesn’t fit their taste years later.

White dishware never goes out of style and is so versatile. These tablescapes below show how a white plate can be a simple building block for a beautiful table. It doesn’t take much to make the white pop — many times just a bright leaf, a patterned tablecloth, or a beautiful napkin does the trick perfectly.

design by Phoebe Howard, featured on House Beautiful

design by Victoria Amory, featured on House Beautiful

design by Martha Angus, featured on House Beautiful

A fall leaf provides a pop of color to white dinnerware; featured on Celebrations.com

this fall tablescape featured in Country Living uses white dinnerware as a foundation