There is something undeniably classic about a bistro table setting. It has a charm, a certain thrown-togetherness that doesn't need to try hard, yet still comes off as effortless. But for what it lacks in over-the-top ornamentation, it needs to make up for in the design details of each individual piece. And for that, H&M Home has just released a bistro-inspired tableware range that's blown-up the Livingetc team Slack channel.
Though the French aesthetes who made it stylish in the first place would likely scoff at the thought, the bistro aesthetic is by no means a new table setting trend. But it has that perfectly imperfect, texture-driven, storytelling quality about it that we're all drawn to right now.
There's a nostalgia to it. Nothing feels too matchy-matchy or overstyled, but it feels collected, lived-in, quality. Ready to start your own collection? These are the pieces from H&M's new range that I'd recommend.
I've had my eye on chrome coupes for a while now, and this is the most affordable price I've come across so far. Adding eight to cart.
Livingetc's editor Hugh Metcalf introduced me to the concept of an oyster plate only recently, which makes this a new must.
Can you ever have enough stainless steel platters? The answer is no. Plus, I like how this one is a more modern interpretation.
Bistro cutlery perfectly balances pretty and practical. This 16-piece set has everything you need, and there's a matching butter knife and salad servers, too.
It's a sculptural stainless steel carafe for your ice cold water, sure, but I would also use this to style a florals in the center of the table.
Embroidered tablecloths are it this season, and this one feels like your waiter has casually scribbled the menu across your table. J'adore.
Reminiscent of enamelware, there is nothing so quintessentially bistro as a class striped-edge plate. The red just elevates it.
Everyone needs an ice bucket, or somewhere to keep your natural wine cool. This style taps into the silverware trend, but feels completely modern.
If there is one thing the French know best, it's that you can never have too much butter. Do you have a dedicated knife or two?
This metal wall shelf would look right at home in a French bistro, in your home bar, or even beside a stainless coffee machine, styled with mugs.
Those who know, know that the shape of your wine glass changes how your wine tastes While, admittedly, I don't know how, I do know that this shape looks chic.
I've developed a bit of an obsession for egg cups lately, and I can't be alone — everyone is designing style options, and this chrome one is *chefs kiss*.
Want the bistro-style but with a bit more of a modern twist? Check out Jonathan Adler's Le Dinnerware range.
