Beautiful basics: Dinnerware

Classic pieces that will last the style distance - by Vera Klein

Plates, bowls and cups or mugs are something we use and touch every day so it makes sense to have pieces that are a pleasure to use and hold. Simple white or ivory hits the right style notes, won't date and always makes food look good. The best part is that classic pieces don't have to break the bank - and we've scoured the shelves for dinnerware that suits all budgets.

Above is the Royal Doulton 1815 White 16-piece set, $249. All pieces are also available individually for those who would like to build a collection slowly or add to the original 16 pieces. The 1815 mug is $15.95.

The Freedom Series collection, above, ranges in price from $8.95 for the mug to $12.95 for the 27.5cm dinner plate.

Above is the beautiful Aria porcelain 24cm entree plate with a matt glaze finish, $28.95, from Papaya. Add the dinner plate, $32.95, side plate, $26.95, soup/dessert bowl, $22.95, as needed.

New from Ikea is the Vardagen range of just-the-right colour bowls, plates and dishes. Above is the 12cm bowl, $1.99, that's perfect for cereal. The 26cm dinner plate is just $2.99 and there's also a cute milk jug, $4.99, among other things.

Finally, we can't go past Maxwell & Williams 27cm Cashmere Coupe dinner plate, $14.95, for its fine bone china composition and simple fine rim.