Philadelphia - July 09, 2007

Service with a Smile

Melamine Plates

Where shoes are concerned, white is still a viable option for at least a few more weeks.

But when it comes to your picnicware, it’s never too soon to ditch those soggy, white paper plates.

So impress pals with the Confetti line from Zak Designs, a way better choice for your next outing.

Each piece is sold separately and comes in cheery colors (orange, kiwi, turquoise, magenta), so you can mix and match to suit your motley crew’s various needs.

The tumblers disguise illicit beverages and are durable enough to withstand your tipsy friend’s antics. The divided plates will appeal to your OCD buddy who can’t stand to let her macaroni come in contact with her baked beans.

Remember to tell your crunchy friend they’re made of recycled melamine, so you won’t be contributing to any environmental waste.

You can bet they’ll be in style way past Labor Day.

Available at Kitchen Kapers, 213 South 17th Street (215-546-8059); online at kitchenkapers.com.