Imari with Hot Pink

Another feature of Tory Burch's site is "Tory Entertains." On these pages she shares ideas for various social gatherings like Girls' Night or Buffet Supper, complete with suggested playlist, menu, decor, invitations -- oh, and of course her thoughts on what to wear. One scenario includes hot pink hydrangeas mixed with Imari.

I was anxious to try deep pink flowers with Imari plates but all I had handy were fuchsia azaleas and an Imari bowl, plus a few pictures from my digital files. Still, this is clearly an inspired combination. The mix of hot pink with rusty orange and navy blue is so invigorating, and so Tory.

The pretty place setting shown above is Jane Scott Hodges' own. Her china pattern is "Traditional Imari," one of several Japanese-inspired designs from Royal Crown Derby. (eDish has a range of Imari-influenced patterns by Spode and Royal Crown Derby.)


Imari is actually a Japanese harbor located near the Arita kiln. In the West, the term "Japanese Imari" has become the trade name of a Japanese ware with a decoration usually in underglaze blue with added red, gilt and occasionally green enamels. The Eastern name for this style of decoration is aka-e (red painting) and was first produced around 1640. Brits fell in love with these colors and patterns and have been copying and reinterpreting "Imari" for centuries. Visit Gotheborg to learn more.

BTW: Royal Crown Derby's "Old Imari" is also available at Michael C. Fina