How to Choose a Fine China Pattern

Start with the dinner plate — it anchors the table and shows the pattern at full scale. Hand-painted porcelain from Herend and Limoges china from Bernardaud and Haviland hold their look for generations, while Gien faience brings relaxed French color to everyday meals.

Most patterns are open stock, so you can begin with a few place settings and add serving pieces over time. Mixing works too: a bold accent plate over a restrained dinner plate is the classic approach. Browse every pattern we carry in the A–Z pattern index, and hand-wash gilded pieces to protect the trim.