As a new year begins, I love turning to my favorite designers to see what’s ahead – what trends we’ll leave behind and what’s poised to surprise us. When it comes to entertaining, Shea McGee’s top design predictions for 2026 point to one thing: fancy tablescapes. I don’t know about you, but I’m more than ready to embrace a little extravagance this year.
'While I don't love the word "trend", I do think there are details that keep design feeling fresh,' explains Shea in a recent video. 'I've identified ones that are still rooted in tradition and are very much a part of our new heritage aesthetic.'
Plenty of design elements receive honorable mentions in the video, from dark wood to silver accents and blue tones – but tying it all together is the 'fancy tablescape' look, which Shea has named one of the biggest table decor trends of 2026. It's part of what she calls the 'Hollywood cottage' aesthetic, and it's about to bring plenty of old-world glamor to dining spaces this year.
My favorite designers aren’t just trend followers – they set the trends themselves. Shea McGee has done exactly that with the 'Hollywood cottage' look. It perfectly captures all of her 2026 predictions, creating what she calls an 'elegant and curated' aesthetic. Translated to tablescapes, that means antique-inspired pieces, paired with silver serveware and sumptuous linens, for a look that feels effortlessly luxurious.
Naturally, there's plenty of inspiration to be found at McGee & Co, from the vintage-inspired Artois silver flatware set to a wonderfully glamorous clamshell serving dish and 3-tier glass serving tray. It looks like the tableware in my hosting closet is about to get a Hollywood-inspired makeover – and I can't wait to channel the 'fancy tablescape' trend at my future dinner parties. If you're keen to do the same, you can shop a selection of my favorite McGee & Co pieces below.
Shop Shea McGee's 'Fancy Tablescape' Look at McGee & Co
Shea notes that 'all shades' of blue are 'coming back in a big way' this year – and if you want to lean into the trend without committing to color-drenching, I think this floral tablecloth is the perfect place to start.
Shea expects to see silver accents in all areas of the home this year – and when it comes to tablescapes, that means charming flatware sets like this one. Each piece is gently curved to create a subtly regal look.
Add a touch of country grandmother charm to your tablescapes with this botanical bowl. It effortlessly balances rustic warmth with refined elegance, while offering a fresh pop of blue to brighten any setting.
Add a touch of country grandmother charm to your tablescapes with this botanical bowl. It effortlessly balances rustic warmth with refined elegance, while offering a fresh pop of blue to brighten any setting.
To me, nothing embodies old-world elegance quite like a tiered serving tray (especially when piled high with canapes). This one is an absolute winner, and I’m equally obsessed with the delicate scalloped detailing.
Another silver essential: this elegant condiment bowl. Its ornate, Art Deco-inspired handles add a touch of glamour, instantly elevating any dining setup.
For those seeking further inspiration from leading designers, Shea McGee has also unveiled her top kitchen trends for 2026 – all focused on cultivating spaces that are timeless, inviting, and effortlessly sophisticated.
