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red plates
(Image credit: Anthropologie/Target)

Red tableware is not just for Christmas. Although we may associate this color with Santa and the holiday season, red plates can create a beautiful tablescape all year round.

In our edit of the best red plates, we've picked those that are great for outdoor dining, as well as those with elegant trims and playful patterns for special occasions and everyday dinners, lunches or breakfasts.

Whether you're looking for the best dinnerware sets with red plates, or just a set for general use, see our selection from the best home decor stores.

Best red plates for outdoor dining

Best red plates with a pattern

Best red plates with a trim

Best plain red plates

What is the best color plate to eat from?

White is the popular choice for plates, as it is unlikely to jar with any food served on it, so it's a safe bet. However, other colors, such as red plates, can flatter certain foods.

'While most food looks good on a white surface - contrasting the colour of your food against the plate will always create a striking and appetising visual,' says Micaela Philippo, global director F&B development at Carte Blanched. 

'Tomatoes on pastel blue will brightly stand out and a green sauce on a red plate or bowl will pop. Colourful ingredients look great on dark surfaces too – like black.' 

Jacky Parker is a London-based freelance journalist and content creator, specialising in interiors, travel and food. From buying guides and real home case studies to shopping and news pages, she produces a wide range of features for national magazines and SEO content for websites


A long-time contributor to Livingetc, as a member of the team, she regularly reports on the latest trends, speaking to experts and discovering the latest tips. Jacky has also written  for other publications such as Homes and Gardens, Ideal Home, Red, Grand Designs, Sunday Times Style and AD, Country Homes and Interiors and ELLE Decoration.