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You’ll invest in rugs, lighting, and even sectionals that are specifically made to go outdoors, so why not your dinnerware, too? A fresh pitcher of lemonade is great and all, but melamine plates are the real secret to successful alfresco entertaining. If a guest catches their heel on the edge of the grass or a kid excitedly knocks over their snack by the pool, you don’t have to stress about any potential smashing of plates: melamine is difficult to break, chip, or scratch. Another stellar quality? The dishwasher-safe, lightweight designs are seemingly endless. Melamine is so versatile that it can be made to look like your favorite stoneware and china. Get ahead of your first BBQ of the year with our current favorite melamine plates.
The One Designed by Shea McGee
McGee & Co.’s 2025 outdoor collection just landed and there is no shortage of classic melamineware. While you could scoop up a super similar scalloped design from the firm’s Target line and save $40, these ones have an extra border detail on the inside that make them a smidge more special.
The One Everyone Will Think Was Handmade
Stare all you want—we promise you these plates are in fact bamboo melamine and not from a small-batch ceramics studio. The Espresso color feels fitting, as we very much expect everyone’s love of brown to hold strong this spring, but there’s also a dark aqua option that’ll look chic poolside.
The Affordable John Derian One
When you realize just how much more budget-friendly melamine plates are to porcelain or earthenware, you’ll be tempted to use them as your everyday, year-round dishes. Case in point: A glazed terracotta plate by John Derian goes for around $160, but this floral beauty is just $16.
The One That’ll Remind You Melamine > Paper
Perhaps even more charming than the stallion illustration is the fact that this one looks like a utilitarian paper plate (peep the rippled edges). In reality, the pieces are made from the brand’s heaviest quality melamine, so you can take them on a picnic or to the beach without fear they’ll blow away.
The One That’ll Inspire a Creative Tablescape
Drawing on vintage Indian textiles and antique pewter plates, this set is begging for a pattern-heavy tablecloth to go underneath it.
The Solid Ones with a Punch
If a solid is what you’re after, scoop up some of the last tangy hues that are available from Hester & Cook’s rainbow assortment.
The One That Beckons Easy Summer Living
This Target find is a fitting platter to serve grilled sole and shrimp tacos this summer.
More Melamine Plates We Love
