With summer's return comes the welcome revival of picky bits. The hosting equivalent of 'girl dinner' is back, and Marks & Spencer's latest serveware collection is perfectly suited to the occasion.
Featuring rustic stoneware tapas dishes, wooden serving boards and versatile side plates, the range brings an effortless feel to relaxed summer entertaining, and everything's under £20.
Whatever your chosen 'picky bits', there's a serving solution for you. The small handled plates and bowls are perfect for serving up ricotta-stuffed bell peppers, marinated olives and chargrilled artichokes.
For those who prefer more of a French-style charcuterie spread, the paddle serve board makes a simple grazing platter for saucisson sec, a demi-baguette and perhaps a little brie.
Or, as they say in Spanish, ¿por qué no los dos? For a tapas-themed evening, the bowls are ideal for marinated anchovies, while the board is perfect for croquetas, pintxos and tortilla.
Pick of the picky bits
M&S Handle Serving Bowls
M&S Stoneware Handle Serving Plate
M&S Wood Paddle Serve Board
Small Handle Plates
Wooden Rectangular Serving Board
Picky Bits Side Plates
The simplicity of these pieces, crafted from stoneware and natural wood, makes them easy to style. A monochrome scheme feels effortlessly elegant with a rumpled linen tablecloth in a soft neutral tone to enhance the rustic feel.
Lean further into earthy shades with mustard yellow, chocolate brown or khaki napkins, and if you're dining into the evening, beeswax candles will bring warmth to the palette. For a more unexpected contrast, style them in polished chrome candleholders. Go pretty and dainty for your flowers; small posies of daisies in bud vases will add to the country flavour.
Designed to be layered together, the pieces make styling a table for gatherings feel uncomplicated - whether you're putting together a full tapas spread or simply serving drinks and snacks outdoors.
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The rustic tablescape edit
Picky Bits Round Platter
Mayumi Recycled Glass Bud Vases
Goldenrod Beeswax Dining Candles
Brass Candle Holder
