The Inexpensive Update Set To Transform Your Summer Tablescapes
With Bank Holidays galore and al fresco dining coming into its own, has there been a better time to start planning those catch-ups and long lazy lunches? Well, the canvas to all this merriment is a well-dressed table, starting with a unique summer tablecloth. Think of it as setting the scene, so choose wisely. From playful florals to serene linens, we’ve picked out our current favourites…
The humble tablecloth used to be a piece our grandmothers stored in an airing cupboard, bringing it out for special occasions. Prior to that, due to the high expense of linen, they were used by the aristocracy. Again, in the Victorian era, tablecloths were a sign of wealth. However, today they are simply a sign of a love for interiors. Plain, embroidered or hand-painted, they couldn’t be more popular, despite them being out of favour only six years ago. Oh, how fickle we are.
Perhaps influenced by long periods at home during the pandemic and the need to be social again, we are loving bringing family and friends together around a perfectly dressed table. The summer tablecloth is key to setting the scene as it instantly elevates the look of your chosen tablescape. Plus, when achingly cool brands such as, Projektityyny, Atelier Raff and Cabana are creating pieces so beautiful, you’ll be hard-pressed not to fall for this homeware favourite.
Alex Head, CEO of Social Pantry, says, “The trick to a great tablescape is letting your tablecloth do the work. Opt for bright colours and patterns for maximum visual impact. Then pair with placemats and napkins in natural fabrics. This gives a relaxed, blissfully domestic feel and saves on ironing.” With small labels like By Hope and Table In The Sun designing such gorgeous coverings in stripes, florals and ferns, the array of choice is endless. If you’re after a soft, whimsical feel, look to Issy Granger; for something bolder head to Anna + Nina or Molly Mahon.
Dress your table with a touch of your own personal style much like By Hope founder, Hope Wyatt. Her carefully curated homeware brand is inspired by Hope’s love of the outdoors. The range is designed in East London with all prints being hand painted exclusively for the collection.
In researching this piece, I came across the touching story behind tableware experts, Summerill & Bishop, which truly highlights the beauty and even the importance of a well-laid table. Founded by friends, June Summerill and Bernadette Bishop, the brand was and is about creating a welcoming kitchen and buzzing dining experience with original homewares. Tragically, Bernadette passed away in 2014, but to commemorate her passing, the brand trademarked her flower design and designed a gorgeous line of linens featuring her signature flower, which launched in 2015.
The designs were so loved, that the team decided to focus on the tablecloth. They believe, “if people take the time to lay the table and present a meal beautifully, they’ll enjoy it all the more and create a lasting memory for those who share it with them. The table isn’t just a place to pass food, you pass tradition, memory, and love, too. The studies show it and of course, we all know by experience, that sitting down for a beautiful family meal has many social benefits. This is why we believe the tablecloth is so important and why we call it, The Fabric of Life.”
Scroll to shop the latest summer tablecloths…
Stripes are not only a classic, but a current favourite. Here stylist, Lucy Williams, opts for one from Eagle & Hodges for a striking finish to her tablescape. Look to Atelier Raff, Summerill & Bishop and Late Afternoon for other stylish options.
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