The set is definitely smaller than what I was expecting due to the thick rim around each plate which effecrively steals from the center part. It also was not quite as white as it appeared in the pictures. The bowls are very shallow, as other comments noted, but are great for salads. I would not go as far as returning it since I got it for such a great price on Black Friday but the search for the perfect set is still on. I do love the shape and it arrived quickly with no breakages.