Do you have a set of china that you inherited from a dear relative or registered for years ago but never use because it seems passé? We consulted the experts at Replacements, Ltd., to find the most popular patterns, and then we picked our five favorites to showcase: The Rutledge by Lenox, Noritake’s Colburn pattern, Lenox’s Versailles and Brookdale patterns, and the Runnymede pattern by Wedgwood. We’ll show you how to update those pieces with a little mix-and-match magic.
The Inspiration: The Rutledge china pattern by Lenox features a fluted rim with sprays of spring flowers.
Floral Fusion
Bright orange-and-white chevron-patterned napkins rejuvenate this Lenox pattern. Choose a serving tray with thin stripes in the same color palette as the china’s design, then pull out the hue of the deep-blue flowers, using a quilted place mat.
The Inspiration: Soft-gray and pale-blue blossoms on
a true white background compose Noritake’s Colburn pattern.
Pattern Play
This pretty pattern by Noritake with its soft-blue and aqua floral design was popular from 1960 until it was phased out in 1988. Bring new life to this old favorite by placing atop light-blue ceramic chargers and adding patterned napkins and place mats that bring out the muted aqua. For a centerpiece that pops, choose blue’s color-wheel opposite, and go with bright-yellow tulips.
The Inspiration: Heavy gold flourishes and floral bouquets form a six-point star on the Versailles pattern from Lenox.
Modern Splendor
The Versailles pattern from Lenox was a cherished choice for several decades. The beautiful gold-rimmed china still shines with gilt-trimmed linen place mats and gold-banded crystal, and it looks especially stunning when paired with bold blooms.
The Inspiration: Lenox’s Brookdale pattern is adorned with garlands of white flowers with yellow centers.
Fresh Mix
Delicate laurels of white flowers encircle another Lenox pattern that debuted in 1963. It pairs well with creamy ceramic dinnerware and woven whitewashed mats. Napkins with graphic floral prints offer a modern note.
The Inspiration: A center medallion and a navy rim with shells and flourishes distinguish the Runnymede pattern by Wedgwood.
Pretty Reprise
Wedgwood’s Runnymede pattern was the choice of many couples after its introduction in the early ’70s. It bears an ornate center medallion and a navy border incorporating scallop shells—a popular motif through the ages. Shirred loops on the napkins mimic the flourishes adorning the border, as do the gold-edged place mats.