Wanting to do al fresco?

I am looking (actually yearning) for some new summer dinnerware. So why I am having so much trouble finding the perfect set? I am noticing there is not an abundance of patio or melamine dinnerware out there…..I even checked our usual suspects like Pottery Barn, William Sonoma and I have to saw I am not impressed.
Pottery Barn has gone very basic and very Americana….and WS has a lovely coral motif but still not what I am looking for.
So I started to surf and found a few other options that are nice – but have I become this picky that I still haven’t found the set I am looking for?
Macy’s
Crate & Barrel
Jonathan Adler
Smith and Hawken – really nice and they’re a heavy, durable melamine!!! Close but they look similar to the china I want to replace…..

While all of these are lovely, I am still looking for a sophisticated, stylish set of melamine dishes. I wish I made it to Target in time to get the Orla Kiely collection….If anyone has any suggestions let me…..

Oh and by the way, check out working class studio for these “fashion plates” great for a girls night in! Chat again soon from…..desperately seeking nice summer dinnerware

Target - here I come

Apartment Therapy, a great place for ideas and inspiration just posted some great news!

Orla Kiely (you will know who she is once you see her stuff) will be launching a collection for Target scheduled to hit the stores in February!

The collection is typical Orla Kiely, with bold colors and girly patterns. They've created dinner and serving pieces, storage boxes, closet organization, table and kitchen linens and even an apron — I am hoping this will mean affordable access to Orla Kiely designs cause her stuff is expensive. These would be perfect for a little summer vacation spot we own!!! HINT-HINT-HINT!

PS: I gotta have that pear tiered serving tray!!!

Also new at target…

Umbra just came out with a fabulous new line at Target called Umbra Loft - and lucky for us, this bold, modern-meets-elegant collection is just as affordable as it is stylish.

Here are a few pieces that stand out in the collection:
Wacky shaped decorative vases
Photo tray

Set of 3 candelabras
Piggy bank
Salad bowl and servers

So…. I think I need to make a trip down south of the border…..