Cloth Napkins for an Elegant Table

No formal table setting is complete without cloth napkins. They impart a polished look to the table, but that's not the only reason to use them. Dinner napkins made from cloth are eco-friendly because there's no waste as with paper napkins. Simply wash, dry and reuse.

Decorating with Cloth Napkins

Williams Sonoma has a wide range of napkins and napkin sets in various colors and prints to coordinate with your table setting. Here are some tips for creating a stylish look with dinner napkins:

• To give your table the look of a fine restaurant or luxury hotel, choose crisp white napkins. They go with everything and have a clean look that's timeless.
• Colored napkins are a great way to accent the colors in your dinnerware or on your tablecloth. They can also be used to enhance your seasonal table decor. Pastels are always fashionable for spring, while summer is a great time for vibrant colors. Consider rustic hues of brown, orange and yellow in the fall, then transition to festive red and green during the winter holiday season.
• If you're using understated dinnerware in a solid color and want to add more visual interest to the table, opt for a napkin with a pretty print. Impart a Tuscan ambiance with a napkin featuring citrus fruits or invoke the beauty of the French countryside with a floral-print napkin.
• Most of the napkins at Williams Sonoma are crafted from a linen-cotton blend fabric for durability and a soft texture. They're strong enough to resist rips and snags but are also lightweight and have a delicate appearance.

Napkin Rings for Dinner Napkins

Napkin rings are an essential accessory for dinner napkins. They provide an elegant way to display the napkins and come in many different styles. Some of the options for napkin rings include:

• Copper
• Faux Marble
• Wicker
• Ceramic
• Cloisonne

There are even napkin rings that look like winding leaves, and those that resemble fruits and vegetables. Some of the napkin rings are simple in design, while others are ornate. Simply by changing the rings on your napkins, you can give your table a fresh look. To use a napkin ring, simply roll the napkin lengthwise and tuck it into the ring.

Check out the selection of cloth napkins and decorative napkin rings at Williams Sonoma to find plenty of stylish options. There are pieces to dress your table up for special occasions, and those that are great for everyday use.