Deck your table out

There’s no need to resort to paper plates and throw away cups when there are some beautiful, long-lasting tableware pieces to be had.

For days when the sun is beating down, there’s nothing better than some al fresco dining. We pick out some of our favourite things to lay the table with outside. There’s no need to resort to paper plates and throw away cups when there are some beautiful, long-lasting tableware pieces to be had. **Oignon Rouge** The ‘Tout Simple’ range from Oignon Rouge is made up of hand-crafted pottery made by artisans in Provence. The pistachio green oil dipper set, complete with a bowl for your olives and a wooden olive scoop, make for a stunning table centrepiece. Oignon Rouge is run by two Francophiles who have lived in the South of France for years. They have put together a hand picked range of products from design companies and French craftsmen. Some products are hand-made by French artisans, some are exclusive to Oignon Rouge and all are hand picked. For more information, visit http://www.onionrouge.co.uk/ to browse the whole collection. **Le Creuset** The company best known for its cast iron kitchenware has expanded its range to include a range of colours and accessory products. We love their oval serving dish in almond, perfect for presenting crisp, fresh salads. Priced at £28.00, available from Le Creuset: http://www.lecreuset.co.uk. **Boutique Provencal** For some French vintage chic, Boutique Provencal is great for adding a retro feel. Their wooden ‘Bistrot des Amis’ napkin holder is part of a range of retro designs from Natives - a family run business based just outside Aix en Provence. Priced at £16.00, available from: http://www.boutiqueprovencale.co.uk **tranSglass** Tord Boontje & Emma Woffenden's tranSglass collection is now a permanent exhibit at New York's Museum of Modern Art. Meanwhile, their carafes made from recycled glass are making it onto many a tabletop. Each carafe sports a sleek design and is ideal for serving water at the table or cooling refreshments. Priced at £39.00 per carafe, available from Plain Gorgeous: http://www.plaingorgeous.co.uk. **Tradecraft** The UK’s leading fair trade organisation has a great range of home ware buys. Help to fight poverty through trade with their ethically conscious products. We’re fond of their stripy runner set in bright pink, orange and aqua. Priced at £18.00, available from: http://www.traidcraftshop.co.uk. **Umbra** The suitably named Louise Tripod wine glasses from Umbra’s U+ range will catch the attention of anyone clasping one. The company’s modern take on design is unfussy but individual and will add a little kookiness to your table. Priced at £82.50 for a set of four, available from: http://www.amaroni.com/. **Kitchen Craft** When the champagne gets flowing on a hot summer’s day, Kitchen Craft’s handy unbreakable champagne flutes are the ideal way to serve up fizz. Eye-catchingly bright, they can be used countless times outside without the worry of chips or breakages. Priced at £17.99 (for a set of six), available from: http://www.drinkstuff.com.