Colored Glassware: A New Trend With Old Charm!

Once in a while, a fashion, design, or even architectural trend returns to the spotlight for another chance at recognition. Amazingly, some trends that re-emerge, we love; it’s like we’re seeing them for the first time once more! On the other hand, some trends come and go, and we’re thankful they do. I don’t think any businesswoman who experienced the 1980s is clamoring for shoulder pads to come back! However, sometimes a design trend or even a practical-use item that disappeared makes a glorious comeback, making you wonder why it ever left in the first place! There is one current trend that I hope is here to stay! 

Recently, I’ve noticed that interior designers and homeowners alike have taken a liking to colored glassware. Colored glassware was something I remember as a young girl, and it was on the dinner table and accompanying family breakfasts. Colored glassware had quite a dominant foothold in tableware culture in the 1960s and 1970s.

Of course, our colored glassware is healthier now than the glassware of the past, so I would not indulge in using older products. Since that era, colored glassware in a wider variety has returned significantly. However, I think it’s time we gave colored glassware its due credit and celebrated how much positive color- influence it can have when used appropriately! 

Colored Glassware – What’s So Special About It?

In alignment with my color philosophies, colored glassware is special because it is an easy yet highly effective way to inject some color inspiration into an otherwise mundane setup! Of course, as a color specialist, I must reinforce that balance and strategy are always needed to use color appropriately. Still, colored glassware is often overlooked, which is a shame because it can take an otherwise routine dining atmosphere and make it pop with energy and heart. From stemless wine glasses to tumblers and goblets, colored glasses are versatile for almost any dining occasion.

Colored Glassware – When Should You Use It?

I do have a rule for colored glassware; if the drinks you’re serving are visually appealing, colored glassware is not the best choice. Crystal and clear glass are best for wines with brilliant red hues, scotch with alluring ambers, and tropical mixed drinks with color arrangements plucked from a palm tree. 

Colored glassware is best used when the table arrangement and colors that lean toward neutral, bordering on flat arrangements. White linens, sterling silverware, and gold-brimmed serving dishes are highlighted and contrasted with colored glassware, and once you’ve experienced the “color pop” that it brings, it’s hard to go back!

• Let the Sunshine In

Undoubtedly, colored glassware shows its power when used on a sunny day against the backdrop of natural beauty. Whether the beach or the backyard, colorful glasses bring a whimsical element of fun and beauty to the setting. 

I love how colorful glassware looks contrasted against an exposed-wood picnic table or patio set. Picture some aqua-blue drinking glasses in the sun full of sparking water and ice on a hot summer’s day in the backyard. Or, some stemless rose-red wine glasses on the beach, filled with white chardonnay. There are endless possibilities and combinations to take advantage of! 

• It’s Not Just For Outdoor Dining 

Some people feel colorful glassware is only appropriate for days at the beach, picnics, outdoor brunches in the sunshine, and other outdoor dining occasions. While it’s true that colorful glassware looks stunning in the sunshine on a beautiful day, it can be the perfect choice for upping the look of an evening inside, dining with family and friends, or even at a festive holiday occasion. 

Picture a formal dinner occasion, like Thanksgiving or New Year’s Eve; warm candlelight, sparkling golds and silvers, and floral arrangements adorn the table. Now, on this type of occasion is not unusual to have more than one drinking glass. Each member of the table may have a dedicated wine or cocktail glass accompanied by a water glass – herein lies the color opportunity. Instead of adding another clear glass to the table, opt for warm golden hues or moss-green bubbled glassware! 

The earth-toned glassware adds a much-needed pop of color without being overwhelming or “cheapening” the visual arrangement of the table. Plus, there’s a retro-chic charm to colored glassware, elevating the whole aura of the dinner! 

How Do You Feel About Colorful Glassware?

I know that colored glassware won’t be for everyone’s tastes, but I suggest giving a set a try once more if it’s been some time since you last did. I remember my parents’ rich gold-colored water glasses on our holiday table, and it was the perfect choice against the navy and white place settings! The effortless ability of colorful glassware to bring personality and life to any dining occasion is well worth the revisit! 

Have you found colored glassware and don’t know what colors they will go with? That is where the color themes in the Color911 app can show you how to use the colors you’ve chosen. You can also look for different options to see what other colors you can use with your table decor. With a whole new set of features, including the ability to capture and create your own palettes and arrangements, it’s a tool that every color enthusiast will certainly enjoy!