Charger plates are one of the simplest ways to add a stylish and complete look to any table setting. They create a polished base under your dinnerware and help tie your whole table together. But with so many colors and styles available, many people ask, what color should charger plates be?
The answer depends on your event’s theme, color palette, and how you want your tables to feel. Here are five key tips to help you decide which charger plate color is right for your next celebration, whether it’s a wedding, party, or formal dinner.
1. Match Your Event Theme and Color Palette
What color charger plate should I get? Start by thinking about the overall theme and colors of your event. For example, champagne or gold charger plates could be a perfect fit if you’re planning a wedding with soft and romantic colors. For a formal black-tie event, silver or black charger plates can give a crisp and refined look. Charger plates should complement your main colors and support the theme you’re aiming for.
If you want to explore color options that fit your theme, charger plates are available in a wide variety of shades — from classic metallics to bold statement colors — making it easy to find something that works. Knowing what size are charger plates for each occasion makes a world of difference in terms of styling and decorating your event.
2. Coordinate with Dinnerware and Table Linens
Charger plates sit directly under dinner plates, so it’s important to think about how they’ll look together. If you’re using plain white or ivory dinnerware, colored chargers like gold, black, or jewel tones can add depth and interest. If your plates have busy patterns or bold colors, simpler chargers in silver, clear, or neutral tones may be better to avoid clashing.
Also, look at your tablecloth or runner when picking charger colors. A dark tablecloth, for example, looks beautiful with lighter or metallic chargers, while a white or ivory linen can be accented nicely with deep or rich tones. Adding coordinating placemats underneath chargers can also create an extra layer of style.
3. Complement the Mood You Want to Set
The mood of your event plays a big role in choosing the right charger plate color. Think about what kind of feeling you want your guests to have when they sit down: place setting.
- For formal, upscale dinners or weddings: Metallics like gold, silver, or clear glass chargers give a polished look.
- For romantic or vintage themes: Soft tones like blush, ivory, or muted gold work beautifully.
- For bold and modern events: Black, navy, or deep red chargers make a strong visual impact.
- For rustic or casual gatherings: Wooden-look or matte natural colors give a more laid-back vibe.
Adding candelabras or floral centerpieces that match or contrast with your charger plates can help enhance the mood of the table.
4. Balance with Other Table Decorations
When picking charger plates, don’t forget to think about the other elements on the table like centerpieces, candles, and table numbers. You want the chargers to complement these decorations, not compete with them.
For example, if you’re using bold, colorful floral centerpieces, go for neutral or metallic chargers that frame the place setting without drawing too much attention. If your centerpieces are minimal or feature lots of greenery, colorful charger plates or with rich texture can add that extra detail that makes the table feel complete.
For example, if you’re using bold, colorful floral centerpieces, go for neutral or metallic chargers that frame the place setting without drawing too much attention. If your centerpieces are minimal or feature lots of greenery, colorful charger plates or with rich texture can add that extra detail that makes the table feel complete.
5. Think About Season and Occasion
The time of year and type of event can also help guide your color choice. Here are some examples to consider:
- Winter events: Silver, white, and icy blue chargers work well for winter weddings or holiday parties.
- Spring and summer: Light gold, blush, and soft pastel chargers add a fresh and bright touch for warm-weather events.
- Fall: Deep reds, burnt oranges, and gold look stunning for autumn weddings or Thanksgiving dinners.
- Christmas or New Year’s: Red and gold, or silver and black chargers, are perfect for holiday celebrations.
Choosing what color charger plates to use for your event doesn’t have to be complicated. By considering your event theme, dinnerware, mood, table decorations, and season, you can pick chargers that pull your whole table together and make a lasting impression.
Whether you want classic gold and silver, bold black and red, or soft neutral tones, CV Linens™ has a wide selection of charger plates to choose from. To complete the look, you can also explore their matching placemats and candelabras for centerpieces. No matter what style you’re going for, there’s a charger plate color to fit your vision and wow your guests.
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