Ina Garten's spring dining table challenges design conventions – she's mixed 'things up thoughtfully' (and it's so easy to recreate)

Tablescaping is a skill, but it is one that can be mastered with some simple styling techniques – while elaborate ones can be intimidating, mixing and matching items can create a delightful display. Take Ina Garten's table as an example.

The Barefoot Contessa recently shared a photo of her spring-ready tablescape to her Instagram page, and we were struck by her gorgeous arrangement, featuring a linen table runner, striped napkins, mixed wine glasses and dinnerware, and floral arrangements. It's giving us some major spring tablescape ideas.

'People think that in order to have a beautiful table setting, everything needs to match perfectly,' Ina captions the post. 'I actually think it’s much more interesting to mix things up - but you need to mix them up thoughtfully. For this table, I chose a simple palette like blue, orange, and cream and I have lots of different glasses and napkins - even different chairs! It all goes together and looks effortlessly chic!'

Shop the eclectic tablescape edit

Mixing and matching items is a fantastic way to make a tablescape look visually interesting; while uniform table settings are pleasing to look at thanks to their tidiness and cohesion, variety can contribute to an eclectic and stylish table.

According to experts, mixing different materials and accessories is key for styling a spring or summer table in particular.

'Essential items for tablescapes for me include curated linens (they can truly set the mood, whether whimsical or elegant. and everything in between), well-thought seating options (don't just reach for your same old chairs), and an interesting floral display, which could be one big arrangement, multiple individual vases or a seasonal garland of greens down the center of the table,' suggests Annemarie Schumacher, founder of Make Every Day an Event. 'The key is to truly embrace the season and its wealth of treasures.'

Mixing different materials is a great method for adding some subtle contrast to a table – we love how Ina has opted for a mix of natural materials, such as her linen table runner and napkins and stone fruit bowls, alongside her classic wine glasses and candle cases. The blend of materials makes the space feel at once relaxed and contemporary.

Tapping into seasonal accessories is also fantastic for adding texture and volume to a table; as spring approaches, consider introducing seasonal flowers, such as tulips and daffodils to your table.

When creating your next tablescape, consider experimenting with different materials, colors, and textures for a truly unique table setting.