About Gabrielle Johnson
When shopping finally becomes an Olympic event, editor Gabrielle Johnson is pretty sure she’ll take home the gold medal for Canada – after inquiring about the availability of other colours (lilac? chartreuse?) and politely requesting a discount. Every week, she shares a glimpse into what’s on her style radar.
Dish It Out
life/style Toronto
(Jul.13.10)
Last week, we featured the most sought-after wedding china patterns of 2010 (according to the experts at William Ashley), and I wasn't the least bit surprised to see that all five were elegant, sophisticated, tasteful — and white. Most people love white, and why not? It's clean and crisp and timeless, and it goes with everything. But I'm utterly devoted to colour: there's not a single white wall in my home, and you won't find any plain white dishes in my cupboard, either. So for those of you looking for something beyond classic white, here are my picks for the best dishes out there:
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Jasper Conran Chinoiserie for Wedgwood
I might be a little biased here, since this happens to be my own wedding china, but I can't get enough of the gorgeous green — somewhere between jade and emerald — of Jasper Conran's Chinoiserie collection for Wedgwood.
Jasper Conran Chinoiserie collection, from $40 to $350 per piece. Available at www.williamashley.com.
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Anthropologie Verdant Acres
The rainbow-hued poppies on these painterly plates lend a cheery, summery vibe to every meal, making them perfect for everyday dining.
Verdant Acres dinnerware, from $12 to $22 per piece. Available at www.anthropologie.com.
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Hermès Balcons du Guadalquivir
This stunning Hermès china is definitely an investment, but it's the kind of thing you can pass down to your (very lucky) kids someday — and in the meantime, you'll have the best-dressed table around.
Hermès Balcons du Guadalquivir collection, $378 for a 5-piece setting. Available at www.williamashley.com.
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Tord Boontje Table Stories dinnerware
Dutch product designer Tord Boontje is the whimsical spirit behind this utterly charming, fairytale-inspired collection of porcelain dishes (there are glasses, lanterns and textiles available, too).
Tord Boontje Table Stories dinnerware, from US $30 to $100 per piece. Available at www.dedeceplus.com.
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Missoni Home Margherita
Love the clothes, love the towels, love the fine bone china! No one mixes bold colours and patterns quite like Missoni, and the effect is dazzling. Add a stylish dose of fuchsia to your dining table and your closet will turn green with envy.
Missoni Home Margherita collection, from US $48 to $260. Available at www.fragilegifts.com.
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