The only dinnerware you need, according to Martha Stewart |
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| Blake Cale for NYT Wirecutter; source photos by Martha Stewart, Michael Skott |
Legendary hostess Martha Stewart has a word of advice for anyone in pursuit of a stylish, timeless table: Keep it simple. “Get the best white dishes you can afford, and get enough of them,” she says.
Of course, Stewart has spent years amassing a collection of dishes and glassware for just about any occasion. But for everyone who doesn’t have a storage room stacked full of themed dishware, it’s still possible to create a beautiful spread with a complete set of neutral dinnerware.
Then, Stewart says, dress up the setting with tablecloths or placemats to fit the theme of your event — whether that be a family Christmas dinner, New Year’s Eve bacchanal, or whatever else finds itself on your social calendar this year.
More advice from Martha, including the best host gifts→
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Plus: Our ultimate guide to dinnerware |
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| Michael Murtaugh/NYT Wirecutter |
After testing 50 dinnerware sets, we’ve found 11 durable and timeless options, from all-white porcelain and bone china sets to colorful stoneware.
The best dinnerware sets→
Your daily deal: The best cordless stick vacuum |
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| Connie Park/NYT Wirecutter |
This powerful cordless vacuum can run on a single charge for nearly an hour and efficiently sucks up everything from Cheerios and birdseed to sand and dust. And it comes with a station that automatically empties the dustbin when it’s docked.
Our favorite cordless vacuum is $140 off right now→
One last thing: 6 more dinner party tips from people famous for their food |
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| Sarah Kobos/NYT Wirecutter |
Over the last year, we’ve spoken with a slew of professional chefs and well-seasoned hosts — and picked up a few cooking secrets, hosting hacks, and must-have kitchen tools along the way. Take, for instance, chef Samin Nosrat’s secret for easy cleanup: parchment paper on everything, including the entire kitchen countertop.
Plus, the key to perfectly cooked roasts→
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Happy hosting.
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