BALANCING SIMPLE AND 
ORNATE DECORATION

A table set entirely with plain patterns lacks impact. But a table laid totally with ornate designs distracts the eye, and full appreciation of the table setting is lost. To reach a balance between simple and ornate patterns, keep the ratio two-to-one. Accent two showy patterns with one plain design, or contrast two simple designs with an elaborate motif. This does not suggest that one start over. Instead, use what you have, but accent plain tableware with ornate linens and a showy centerpiece, or contrast ornate tableware with simple linens and a plain centerpiece.

When the tableware is a mix of plain and ornate patterns, accent the simple design with two elaborate motifs.

Reverse the principal and accent two simple patterns with one ornate design.