Reese Witherspoon uses this 165-year-old trend to bring a sense of nostalgia and 'effortless charm' to her outdoor table

Reese Witherspoon could have her pick of designer glassware, but this summer, she's sipping her iced tea from something slightly more traditional. Her vessel of choice? A Mason jar – one of the most beloved and practical pieces we can introduce into our kitchen or outdoor table (as in the actress's case).

The classic Mason jar, named after its founder, John Landis Mason, is categorized by its glass body, screw thread mouth, and metal ring around its perimeter. Traditionally, when screwed down, the presses a separate stamped steel disc-shaped lid against the rim – though this is often used in the case of storage.

Since they first emerged in 1858, the popularity of Mason jars has ebbed and flowed, with peak usage during World War II, when the government rationed food (so growing and storing goods were essential). In contemporary times, jars are used as much for decoration and drinking as they are for storing non-perishable goods. Case in point: Witherspoon's lid-less jars.

Witherspoon's Mason jars may seem like a small detail; however, they haven't gone unnoticed. She uses them alongside pink napkins (Elle Woods would surely approve) on her wooden outdoor table – tapping into tradition but creating a sense of whimsy in her backyard. It's a look that hasn't gone unnoticed by Rachel Stringer, a design expert and professional real estate agent at Raleigh Realty, who says that these small details matter the most in space.

'With years of experience under my belt, I've learned that the little details often make the biggest impact when it comes to showcasing a home. Mason jars are a total win,' Stringer comments. Firstly, we owe its century-old appeal to its charm.

'Mason jars have this irresistible charm that just makes you feel good. They bring a sense of nostalgia and comfort, reminding us of simpler times. Whether it's a cozy farmhouse kitchen or a modern sunroom, mason jars add a touch of laid-back personality that everyone loves.' Plus, there's even more to them than their good looks.

'In our eco-friendly world, mason jars are a fantastic choice. They're reusable, cutting down on waste from disposable cups, and their timeless appeal means you won't be rushing out to buy the latest trendy glassware every season,' Stringer says.

Their versatility is also unmatched. At points of the year when drinking outside is not as possible, we can bring these glasses back to their original use (kitchen storage) or get crafty and create an indoor table decoration. 'Fill them with fairy lights or small candles for a warm, inviting glow that makes any space feel cozy and welcoming,' Stringer comments. We could also take cues from Joanna Gaines, who, last summer, filled her jars with dried flowers from her cottage garden.

If we're filling our Mason jars with candles or flowers, we recommend picking up a bundle, such as this set of 12 from Walmart. This way, we can fill some jars more than others and bundle some together for a unique addition to our shelves or tablescape. Alternatively, if we want to tap into our inner Witherspoon (in a spill-safe way), this Mason glass from Amazon is specifically made for the purpose. It features a leak-safe lid with a slot for a straw, so we can enjoy our beverages without encountering any accidents.

If we're thinking of selling, we can also learn from Witherspoon's table set-up.

'During the post-pandemic days, I was helping a young couple sell their first home. We used mason jars filled with fresh lemonade at the open house. Not only did it look adorable, but it also created a relaxed, homey atmosphere that made potential buyers feel right at ease,' Stringer comments. We'll raise a (Mason) glass to that.