Are Charger Plates Out of Style? 2025 Dining Trends

Are charger plates out of style in modern table decor? As modern dining spaces lean toward simplicity and sustainability, many homeowners are reevaluating traditional tableware. Once seen as a luxurious finishing touch, charger plates now spark debate—do people use charger plates anymore, or have new trends replaced them? In this article, Artera Home explores how charger plates are being reimagined and whether they still deserve a place in today’s design-forward homes.

What Are Charger Plates?

A charger plate is a large, decorative base plate used to anchor tableware underneath regular dinnerware. Traditionally placed beneath soup bowls, salad plates, or dinner plates, they never directly touch the food, but serve as an elegant backdrop that adds visual interest to the table setting.

These ornate placemats came to prominence in the early 20th century, especially at formal banquets and fine dining. They add a sense of opulence, texture, and color to otherwise plain tables. From gold-rimmed porcelain to intricate glass or woven designs, charger plates have become a symbol of luxury and ceremony.

For decades, they have been a favorite at fine restaurants, weddings, and homes with traditional or formal dining styles. But as design priorities evolve, so too has our approach to the table.

Luxury dining table with charges

Are Charger Plates Out of Style?

The answer is NO! Charger plates are far from outdated, they are a versatile and enduring element of table decor. Over the years, they’ve adapted to modern trends, making them an excellent choice for enhancing the look of any dining occasion. Whether it’s a formal wedding, a corporate dinner, or a relaxed gathering, charger plates provide a stylish foundation that ties together the entire table setting.

>> Read more: 15+ Unique Boho Table Decor Wedding Ideas.

The charger brings a cozy, luxurious feeling to the dining table

Why Charger Plates Are Still Not Outdated? 

1. Enhance Style and Organization

Charger plates remain popular largely because they add a sense of structure and elegance to any table setting. By framing each plate, they give the table a polished, coordinated look. Whether you’re using fine china or simple everyday dinnerware, charger plates add a layered, multi-dimensional effect that elevates the entire setting.

Charger plates come in a variety of materials from contemporary metals to rustic natural fiber finishes. They offer endless versatility, ensuring they complement everything from classic to modern table themes.

>> Explore more: The Best Natural Decorative Accents for Your Dining Table 

The charger brings a sophisticated and classy look to the dining table

2. Useful and Versatile

Beyond their decorative appeal, charger plates also play a key functional role. They act as a protective layer between your dinnerware and the table, keeping spills and crumbs contained. Additionally, they help maintain order during multi-course meals by providing a consistent backdrop as each course is replaced. Although food is never directly served on them, charger plates keep the table looking neat and organized throughout the meal.

For more casual gatherings, hosts are now pairing charger plates with disposable dishware. This clever combination gives off a chic, upscale vibe without the stress of post-event cleanup. As such, charger plates have evolved from being a luxury accessory to a versatile addition suitable for all types of events.

>> Read more: Can You Eat Off Charger Plates? Safety Facts Revealed

3. Innovative Designs Keep Charger Plates Trendy

While charger plates are often associated with formal banquets, their modern designs ensure they remain relevant today. Contemporary chargers come in a wide array of colors, such as matte black, soft blush, and transparent acrylic, with textures like beaded edges and woven rattan. These options make it easy to incorporate charger plates into modern, minimalist, rustic, or glamorous settings.

They also pair wonderfully with other modern table accessories, like napkin rings, helping to create a cohesive and thoughtfully styled place setting.

4. Effortlessly Elevate Simple Table Settings

Even the most modest table setup can feel elevated with the addition of charger plates. A touch of texture or shine beneath a white plate can make the entire arrangement feel intentional and thoughtfully curated.

Planning a wedding or important celebration? The Dark Brown Rattan Wicker Charger Plate Set adds a wow factor with minimal investment. Paired with quality napkins and a simple centerpiece, they help you achieve a sophisticated look without adding extra decoration to your table.

>> Related: Do You Use Chargers With Placemats?  

The dark brown rattan wicker charger plate set

5. Accessible for Every Budget

You don’t need a large budget to enjoy the beauty and functionality of charger plates. Affordable options abound, allowing you to create a stylish tablescape without breaking the bank. Many hosts mix and match chargers with disposable dishes to achieve a refined, high-end look while keeping costs low. For larger events, purchasing charger plates can be more economical than renting, especially when you can reuse them for multiple occasions.

How to Decorate the Dining Table with Charging Plates Trend 2025

In 2025, dining table trends are all about natural textures and casual elegance. Charging plates are timeless—they’re a stylish base to help set the tone for your dining space. Here’s how to decorate your dining table with charging plates in 2025

1. Start with an Organic Base

Choose charger plates made from natural materials like seagrass, rattan, or bamboo—materials that reflect both eco-consciousness and artisan quality. These earthy textures ground the table and create a warm, inviting ambiance. A round rattan charger, for instance, brings softness and depth to a crisp white dinner plate.

>> Read more: Rattan vs Cane vs Wicker - What’s Best for Your Home Decor?

Natural Charger brings a warm, natural texture to your dining table decor

2. Imbrace Earth-Toned & Neutral Color Palettes

Gone are the days of flashy metallics. In 2025, warm neutrals and muted tones are dominate dining decor. Think oatmeal, sand, terracotta, charcoal, and sage. Coordinate your charger plates with complementary dinnerware and napkins for a cohesive look.

3. Layer Thoughtfully

Charger plates act as your layering foundation. Place them beneath a dinner plate, salad plate, and even a folded napkin or place card for dimension. Add a sprig of herbs, a handwritten name tag, or a natural accent like a mini pinecone or dried citrus slice for seasonal flair.

>> Read more: 20 Stunning Modern Boho Dining Room Ideas.

4. Mix Textures, Not Just Colors

Texture is key in 2025. Mix charger plates with soft linens, ceramic plates, raw wood serving boards, and hammered metal flatware. This contrast adds richness and keeps the table dynamic without needing bold color.

5. Keep It Casual-Chic for Everyday Use

You don’t have to wait for a holiday to use charger plates. In 2025, more people are bringing style to daily meals by using charger plates as elevated placemats. They help define individual settings and make even a simple breakfast feel intentional.

>> Read more: How to Clean Woven Placemats Safely and Effectively

Charge is used in daily meals

Refresh Your Table With The Timeless Chargers From Artera Home

At Artera Home, we believe in timeless design rooted in craftsmanship and nature. Our handwoven chargers plates collection offers a fresh take on classic dining room decor—perfect for modern homes that value sustainability and style.

Each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans in Vietnam using eco-friendly and ethically sourced materials. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or creating a cozy everyday setting, our products are designed to bring warmth and soul to your dining table.

Explore our table decor collection and discover elegant alternatives to traditional placemats—carefully crafted, styled for the present.

Artera Home’s wicker charger

FAQs About Are Charger Plates Out of Style

1.  Do people use charger plates anymore?

Absolutely. Many homeowners are using charger plates more creatively and casually than before. They are no longer just for formal dinners—they now serve as daily placemats, layering accents, or decorative bases that help elevate everyday meals. With the rise of artisan and eco-friendly dining trends, people are embracing charger plates as part of intentional table styling.

2. What’s the point of using a charger plate?

Charger plates offer both style and function. They protect your table from heat or spills, create an organized setting, and serve as a visual foundation for layered plate presentations. Plus, they help define each guest’s place at the table, making the entire experience feel more curated and welcoming.

3. Can I mix and match charger plates with different dinnerware?

Yes, mixing and matching is encouraged! Charger plates are a perfect base for eclectic layering. Try pairing a woven charger with stoneware plates or vintage ceramics. Mixing shapes, tones, and textures brings a unique, personalized flair to your dining table that’s right on trend for 2025.

4. Are charger plates suitable for casual dining?

Definitely. Charger plates are no longer just for weddings or formal events. Many people now use them as part of casual everyday dining, especially when entertaining guests or simply making a regular meal feel special. Just pair them with simple dinnerware and natural linens for an effortlessly stylish look.

Charges can be used for special occasions and everyday meals

So, are charger plates out of style? Absolutely not. In 2025, they’re more relevant than ever—bringing style, warmth, and intentionality to modern tablescapes. Whether you're hosting a casual dinner or a special celebration, charger plates are a simple way to elevate your setting. Explore Artera Home’s handcrafted collection to find the perfect piece that reflects your unique style and transforms every meal into a meaningful moment.