How to Style a White Tablecloth

In an age of maximalism - pattern upon colour upon more pattern and yet more colour, which is not to say it isn’t spectacular when done well - I find myself returning, again and again, to the white tablecloth. Not as a retreat, but as a deliberate choice. A discipline, even.

There is a skill in setting a beautiful table on white or ivory cloth, and I believe it is one every hostess should master and keep firmly in her back pocket. For the impromptu dinner. For the moment when your usual rotation of tableware suddenly feels a little tired. For when you want the table to feel effortless but considered, and you don’t want the effort to show.

So let us begin.