Appetite for Al Fresco

Because dining al fresco allows you to connect with nature, incorporate natural touches such as a bowl of seasonal fruit and a recycled glass bottle filled with fresh picks from the garden. Multihued utensils create a laid-back mood along with twine-tied baguettes.

Say goodbye to Old Man Winter. Get into the swing of spring and throw a garden party!

Whether at your favorite restaurant or in your own backyard, there’s something about dining in the fresh air that makes everything taste better—especially on beautiful plates that elevate the dining experience.

So as the flowers begin to bloom, days become longer and the warm temperatures return, why not fill a picnic basket with some of your favorite things and take the party outside? Though a garden landscape provides its own ambience, here a vintage-inspired linen tablecloth on a weathered makeshift table is all it takes—coupled with Spode’s iconic Blue Italian dinnerware—to create a simple, springtime luxury.

GLASSWARE | Elegant stemless wine glasses add colorful flair to any occasion. Set of four, $39.99. Also available in stemmed wine, flute, double old fashioned and highball versions. SERVING BOWL | Square serving bowl, $99.

Just as there’s no need to mess with Mother Nature, the same can be said for the enduring appeal of Spode’s Blue Italian dinnerware. First introduced in 1816, the collection has graced countless tabletops with its quaint country scene and traditional Imari Oriental border in classic blue and white. Perfect for a casual, elegant picnic or dressed up for any occasion, Blue Italian works alone or with pops of orange, green, yellow or pink. Crafted for modern day living, it’s also dishwasher, microwave, freezer and oven safe.

DINNERWARE | The five-piece place setting includes dinner, salad and bread-and-butter plates (perfect for appetizers or small sweets) plus a teacup and a saucer. $79.80. Like the little black dress, Blue Italian can be dressed up for special occasion dining. It also works with pops of color.