Trends In Table Linens

What are today’s trends when it comes to table linens (tablecloths, table runners, placemats, napkins, etc.)?

In today’s more casual dining environment, have tablecloths been relegated to banquet use?

Are most hotel restaurant tabletops now free of linens outside of placemats and/or napkins?

Do white tablecloths say high average check and in turn scare away guests?

What do you as F&B directors or banquet managers look for in your table linens?

Should they ooze luxury or feel more like what guests have at home? Or does it all depend on the environment (banquet versus high-end restaurant versus casual cafe) and atmosphere?

What do your clients expect or demand these days?

Is color in or out, and what colors make up today’s hot palettes?

I’d like to start this discussion/debate, and I’d like to hear opinions from around the globe. I look forward to receiving thoughts and insights from all of you in the comments section of this posting, and then perhaps following up with you via phone or e-mail to further discuss this topic, which I’m currently writing about.