I maybe not be ‘normal’ on this one but table runners and place mats get me excited. Throw in some stripes and there may well be clapping, and apparently my clap is extraordinarily loud… (it’s all about cupping the hands very very slightly if you’re wondering).

So you want a simple and effective way to dress your wedding tables, decorate a birthday party or perhaps you just want to impress some friends who are coming round for dinner? Here’s the basics when using my friend stripes…

Table runners – a really quick way to completely change the look of your plain white table cloths. John Lewis have a few options here or if you’re crafty like me you can just buy material, some times I don’t even hem it (gasp).

As you’ll notice from these examples, black and white stripes work really well with brightly coloured flowers or neutrals…

Images – 1, 2, 3

Accessorise with stationery or ribbon – for a more of an ‘ooh stripes’ than a full on applause just add a few ribbons or stripey paper goodies. These little accents will just add a bit of modern style!

Images – 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Go all out with bold striped table cloths – if you’re brave enough?! Seriously though this look is so easy though as far as ‘tablescapes’ go as you don’t need much else, just add bright flowers in metallic vases and you’re there!

Images – 10, 11, 12

Use subtle stripes – gorgeous thin, pale blues, greys and beige look sooooo chic. To these add texture, solid colour napkins and huge peonies…. hmm, preppy, nautical heaven…

Images – 13, 14, 15

Use striped napkins – and I’ve saved the easiest option saved until last – just buy a set of striped napkins (Jamie Oliver does some navy and white ones here)! Team them with pops of colour, manilla paper and even use on top of a patterned tablecloth… I know!

Images – 16, 17, 18, 19, 20

Writing this blog means they’ll be no surprises at my wedding hey?!

Chloe x