The new essentials

'We don't need complete dinner services any more,' says Wedgwood design and creative consultant Francesca Amfitheatrof. 'Attitudes have changed and we can be adventurous with a less formal mix-and-match approach.' Instead, it's all about customising your crockery, so compile your ultimate wish list before investing in some good-quality basics. Space and storage limitations make today's kitchen essentials work harder and, as a result, you're more likely to need flexible items and dishes that can double up. Don't waste your funds on cups and saucers just because tradition dictates if you know you won't use them. On the other hand, if you're a coffee lover, proper espresso cups will be a good investment if they make your morning shot that much more enjoyable. Above all, it's essential to think about your particular needs and cooking style when choosing crockery.

• Large dinner plates will give food room to breathe. According to John Lewis, the size of tableware has increased over the last few years, and many plates are now 30cm whereas the standard is 27cm. Also think about pieces that can work for starters, sides and desserts.
• The experts agree that multifunctional, medium-sized bowls are an essential. A favourite with foodies everywhere, they can be used to serve anything from soups and salads to pasta and puddings, with deep versions being ideal for casual eating when food is balanced on laps.
• 'Go for some supersized serving dishes so that everyone can tuck in,' suggests Thomasina Miers, Masterchef winner 2005 and author of Cook (Collins, £16.99). 'Bountiful plates and bowls are becoming an absolute must for people cooking at home'. Choose porcelain serveware that can go straight from oven to tabletop.

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