I purchased the raspberry for casual dining but quickly realized how versatile it is. I used it formally for Christmas with red charger plates, I used the square solid accent plates for salad plates and the flower accent plates for desert. All of the pieces look great together and with the mugs. My Christmas centerpiece was designed with red and raspberry and I had an awesome table. I will do something similiar for Valentine's and July 4th. On a daily basis, I change place mats to reflect a casual table for daily use and casual entertining and well as formal dining. I have not used my formal china (I have 4 complete sets) but once since I purchased this pattern. This is a "feel good" pattern every time I use it.