Extend fashion from the runway to the tabletop...

Fashion is generally associated with apparel but true fashionistas and entertaining gurus know how to take the latest style trends and colours from the fashion runway to the tabletop. This year, Botanical Safari, Riviera and Victoriana stormed the runways. To add a fashionable flare to your next dinner party or get together, take some creative advice from Food is Fashion guru Susan Niczowski, President, Summer Fresh, a Canadian manufacturer of fresh dips, soups and salads.

Botanical Safari: Think floral prints and earthy colours, such as red, chocolate and nude-tones for the overall theme. Introduce natural materials with wooden salad bowls, woven placemats and metallic centrepieces. Complete the look with a sand-tone or floral-print tablecloth. Play with finger foods: Summer Fresh offers easy solutions with its award-winning Roasted Red Pepper, Artichoke & Asiago, Hummus or Baba Ghanouj dips in seasonal hues that can be served with breads, used as spreads or dips. For dessert, offer tropical fruits like mango and papaya.

Riviera: Inspired by the upscale resorts of the Riviera with a nautical twist, bold colours and sleek lines. Dress up your next patio gathering by layering striped patterns with crisp whites in soft breezy fabrics like cotton - white table cloth, blue placemats, white dishes and red napkins. Serve meals that are light, breezy and easy to prepare. Grill your favourite meats or seafood and serve Summer Fresh soups cold in shot glasses.

Victoriana: Re-emerge with a modern feel, but still embrace its heritage – de-constructed ruffles, lace and frills are an ideal look for formal occasions. Achieve Victoriana with soft pastels and nudes, and a lace or linen tablecloth. Pull out your best dishes and stemware – but stay modern by using asymmetrical shapes and clean lines – avoiding the antique china. Serve delicate foods like canapés; top your favourite Summer Fresh dips on mini-breads or mix into bowtie pasta for a flavoured, ruffled dish.

Entertaining trends change as fast as runway looks. Host style is just as individual as personal style. "Food fashion introduces of-the-moment styling to your dining experience. Look at the season's hottest colours and shapes and incorporate elements into your next dinner party," adds Niczowski.