Table linens aren’t just functional, they’re a core part of your event’s visual identity. The right colors and fabrics help set the mood, tie together your decor, and bring your entire theme to life. Whether you're planning a wedding, baby shower, gala, or backyard party, matching your linens to your event’s color palette can make a big difference.

Here’s how to do it right, without overcomplicating the process.

1. Start with Your Primary Color

Your primary color is the anchor of your event's color scheme. It could be your wedding color, brand tone, or the main floral highlight. Use this as the foundation for your linens:

‍Bold or dark colors (navy, emerald, burgundy) work well for formal events

‍Soft neutrals (ivory, champagne, blush) are ideal for romantic or airy settings

‍Bright tones (coral, teal, sunflower yellow) create a playful or seasonal vibe

You can use your primary color on either the tablecloths or the napkins—but not always both.

2. Choose a Complementary Accent

Once you’ve chosen your base, layer in an accent color to add depth. You can do this with:

Table runners

Napkins

Chair sashes or overlays

Centerpieces or plate chargers

Use the color wheel if you need help. For example:

Navy pairs beautifully with blush or gold

Sage green looks great with ivory and wood tones

Burgundy complements soft neutrals like cream or taupe

3. Match the Mood of the Event

Think beyond just color, think texture and fabric:

‍Satin adds glamour and shine (perfect for evening galas or upscale weddings)

‍Polyester offers a clean, versatile look and is great for any event

‍Textured linens (like pintuck or damask) add subtle detail without overpowering

Choose the material that reflects your theme: rustic, elegant, modern, vintage, etc.

4. Don't Overdo It

Too many colors or layers can make your setup feel cluttered. A good rule of thumb is to stick to:

One base color

One accent color

Optional metallic or neutral elements (like gold chargers or wood tables)

5. Ask for Swatches or Samples

If you're unsure how the colors will look together, request fabric swatches. Seeing the colors in person (under your venue lighting) helps avoid surprises and gives you confidence in your choices.

Need Help Choosing? We’ve Got You.

We’ve styled thousands of events, from simple backyard brunches to formal black-tie weddings. Let us know your theme or color palette, and we’ll help you choose the perfect linens to bring it to life, at a price that fits your budget.