Though a major wedding registry essential, drinking glasses are one of those essentials that you don’t really think about too much (you just buy).
But, after weeks of research, we’ve realized that not one size fits all when it comes to drinking glasses and, in turn, there’s surprisingly an art and an aesthetic surrounding the daily used kitchenware.
“There are too many styles of drinking glasses to count, especially if you multiply styles and function,” Kelley Carter, home fashion director at Bloomingdale’s, told the New York Post. The “water tumbler, water goblet, high ball, double old fashioned, red wines, white wines, sparkling wine, champagne flute, coupe, your everyday café glasses that function as juice, water, and wine glasses when you’re feeling French” are just some of the options she lists.
As one of the most comprehensive edits we’ve ever put together, The Post is bring you almost three dozen incredible drinking glasses your money can buy right now — after exclusively interviewing Bloomingdale’s, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, Macy’s and Zola.
In short, this is a big-name retail smorgasbord of all the drinking glasses and glassware they’d recommend to their friends IRL.
Oh, and you’ll want to check out our in-depth FAQ section where our team of retail experts showcase their drinking glasses tell-all, including different types, styles, the proper etiquette to use each, how to properly clean them and more.
Click here to jump to a specific section:
- Best Drinking Glasses Overall
- Best Budget Drinking Glasses
- Best Drinking Glasses Worth the Splurge
- Best Acrylic Drinking Glasses
- Best Modern Drinking Glasses
- Best Colored Drinking Glasses
- Most Unique Drinking Glasses
Best Drinking Glasses Overall
Serax Surface Longdrink Glass
Out of the assortment of drinking glasses we interviewed a handful of popular retailers about, the Serax Surface Longdrink Glass grabbed our attention and never left. Its budget-friendly price, classic (yet elevated) silhouette and well-made design are what landed it a premier spot on this list.
“Designed by Sergio Herman, it’s a modern take on the classic café glass,” Carter said. “The ridges are on the interior while the exterior is smooth. It looks cool while it keeps your drink cool.”
Best Budget Drinking Glasses
Fortessa Jupiter Double Old Fashioned Glasses (Set of 6)
Kate Bellman, senior managing editor at Nordstrom and spokesperson for Nordstrom Home, recommends the Fortessa Jupiter Double Old Fashioned Glasses (Set of 6) as affordable options that don’t compromise aesthetics. Aside from clear, they come in a full suite of colored options — to make entertaining more fun — and have a lovely texture to them.
Additionally, they’re inspired by designs uncovered in Parisian flea markets, adding a touch of heirloom-worthy elegance to these beaded drinking glasses. They’re made of glass and are dishwasher safe, too.
Luminarc Ascot Cooler (Set of 4)
According to Craig Coleman, vice president and divisional business manager, home at Macy’s who has managed the buying of tabletop and glassware categories for more than 10 years, the Luminarc Ascot Cooler (Set of 4) are a suitable budget-friendly pick he consistently recommends.
Its contemporary design is universally appreciated by all, due to the each glass’ simplistic nature, and its subtle curvature adds a luxe-leaning pop. Each glass is dishwasher safe and we can’t believe this quality set is less than $10 right now, either.
Willow Park Chrissy Essential Collection
“The Willow Park Chrissy Essential Collection is crafted with state-of-the-art glass, but each set of four is under $50, so you’ll be taking these out of your cabinets on the daily,” Emily Forrest, registry expert and director of communications at Zola, told The Post.
Additionally, its mod appeal gives it a traditional yet art deco vibe that gives this budget-friendly set a best-in-class appeal.
Luigi Bormioli Classico Iced Beverage Glass (Set of 4)
“This is a no-fuss classic made from highly durable glass that will not get cloudy from repeated dishwasher cycles,” Carter over at Bloomingdale’s said. That said, they retain their clarity over time — making this particular option a worthwhile investment.
More, these Italian-made glasses have a subtly modern charm that perfectly pairs with any aesthetic.
Farmhouse Pottery Silo Water Glasses (Set of 6)
Bellman over at Nordstrom encourages you to pick up the Farmhouse Pottery Silo Water Glasses (Set of 6) — a budget-friendly set that’s less than $100. Its simplistic, “clean” look offers fresh versatility to them, and you’ll love using them for your morning juice (perhaps with one of the best juicers we reviewed) or evening cocktail alike.
Best Drinking Glasses Worth the Splurge
Baccarat Mille Nuits Red Wine Goblet
“Pull these out when you’re hosting your least clumsy guests or use them all the time to make your every drinking moment as glamorous as possible,” Carter over at Bloomingdale’s suggests, recommending the Baccarat Mille Nuits Red Wine Goblet (aka, the Celebrity of Drinking Glasses).
According to the product description, each piece in this collection is an “exemplary marriage of beauty and practicality.” And, rightfully so — its stunning crystal silhouette is one that will be passed down for generations.
The Vintage List Crystal Coupe Glasses (Set of 4)
According to Louie Higaki, general merchandising manager for AnthroLiving, Anthropologie’s home assortment, with more than 20 years of experience in the home space, The Vintage List’s Crystal Coupe Glasses (Set of 4) is at the top of her list for “their delicate, vintage aesthetic that lend a luxe touch to any tablescape.”
Though a splurge, they’re not as “splurge-tastic” as other drinking glasses. Its less-than-$100 price point is fairly priced, though a comparative investment.
Estelle Colored Glass Stemless Wine Glasses (Set of 6)
Simply put, the Estelle Colored Glass Stemless Wine Glasses (Set of 6) will add a fun flair to any dinner party — in the most elegant way possible. That’s why Bellman over at Nordstrom loves them and adds them to anyone’s wishlist without a second thought.
“Named for the founder’s grandmother who instilled in her a love of treasure hunting for beautiful finds, these wine tumblers are tinted with vintage charm,” per the product description.
Riedel Vinum Bordeaux Wine Glasses 8-Piece Value Set
Coleman over at Macy’s recommends the Riedel Vinum Bordeaux Wine Glasses 8-Piece Value Set as a splurge-worthy option to pick up for at-home date nights, entertaining and the like. Each glass features a large-bowl shape that helps highlight the unique qualities of Bordeaux, Merlot and other robust reds.
Not to mention, its high-quality crystal is both beautiful and functional (oh, and dishwasher-safe, surprisingly).
Waterford Lismore Drinkware Collection
“While they may be a splurge, high-quality crystal is a luxury that every newlywed couple would love to receive,” Forrest over at Zola said. “This collection includes highball glasses, beer mugs, ice buckets, and more, that will last a lifetime.”
What’s more, you can customize what type of glasses you’d like before checkout, allowing you to save a bit on this lifetime investment on the “Waterford crystal” everyone has been raving about for centuries.
Dolce & Gabbana Casa White Wine Glass
Carter over at Bloomingdale’s gives her 30-second elevator pitch for why you should invest in the Dolce & Gabbana Casa White Wine Glass ever so beautifully: “it’s color blocked and made from Murano glass — what could be more fashionable for your table or hand?“
If this stunning emerald green isn’t quite your style, red and blue hues are also available. More, its cup, stem and foot are designed in a multi-colored chromatic combination that is too divine and glamorous to pass up.
Ralph Lauren Home Remy Tabletop Collection
“This timeless collection of glasses and a decanter from Ralph Lauren may look like it was in your grandparents home,” Forrest over at Zola said, underscoring the traditional nature of the glassware.
More, the Remy Collection was made with crystal glass in an effort to promote sustainability and environmentally to eliminate their 24% leaded crystal collections.
Best Acrylic Drinking Glasses
Juliska Isabella Acrylic Tumbler
“This sweet classic is elegant and looks very much like real glass,” Carter over at Bloomingdale’s notes. “Serve with these at your garden party — your guests will love them.”
Additionally, the Juliska Isabella Acrylic Tumbler is top rack dishwasher-safe and are the Goldilocks of acrylic drinking glasses, per one reviewer: “not too small yet not too large.”
Anthropologie Lucia Acrylic Highball Glasses (Set of 4)
“We love these glasses because they come in great colors, and the durable acrylic makes them perfect for busy households with kids,” Higaki over at Anthropologie said. This tall, versatile vessel can be used to serve anything as well, from “highball” cocktails — including scotch and soda — to ice-cold water.
These acrylic drinking glasses are dishwasher safe though not microwave safe, and they’re durable enough to use outdoors.
TarHong Mesa Jumbo Acrylic Glass (Set of 6)
“These ribbed green highballs look like they could sit on any table, but being acrylic, they are outdoor-safe and worry free!” Forrest over at Zola said. The glasses are available in both clear and this stunning sage green color, the latter adding some earthy tones to your tablescape.
Because of its acrylic makeup, each glass is durable, shatterproof, and dishwasher safe. FYI: this gorgeous fluted pattern is add-to-cart worthy.
Mario Luca Giusti Lente Acrylic Tumbler Glass
“These are vibrant, fun, and unbreakable,” Carter over at Bloomingdale’s shares. Her pro tip? “Sip from them by the pool or even in the pool.”
Not to mention, the glass is a fantastic Amazon buy for less than $25, as its Florence-derived, versatile design is one of the most practical (and beautiful) options on this list.
Best Modern Drinking Glasses
Orrefors Intermezzo Gold Old Fashioned Glass (Set of 2)
“The clean silhouette with the matte gold dot makes these mouthblown glasses, modern and glamourous.” Carter over at Bloomingdale’s notes. “The size and weight make them feel lovely to hold.”
Uniquely, these drinking glasses are filled with Intermezzo’s characteristic bubble with golden pigment, encased in this handsome clear glass — “a matte drop shimmering like gold,” according to Bloomingdale’s.
Verve Culture Mexican Highball Drinking Glasses (Set of 4)
The New York Post Shopping team simply couldn’t resist — the Verve Culture Mexican Highball Drinking Glasses (Set of 4) have too modern and handsome of a look not to make the cut. Uniquely, each glass is made of handblown glass; neither one is identical, but that’s part of the charm.
For just $50, you’ll want to add this team of four to your bar cart, stat.
Anthropologie Ramona Wine Glasses (Set of 4)
“We adore the two-tone color and the architectural stem of these glasses makes the design truly unique,” Higaki over at Anthropologie said, recommending these Ramona Wine Glasses. Its mouth-blown glass and handcrafted nature makes them “elevated thrift store” chic, and we love them for that, especially.
Zwiesel Glass Schott Zwiesel Modo Red Wine Glasses (Set of 4)
Bellman over at Nordstrom adores the Zwiesel Glass Schott Zwiesel Modo Red Wine Glasses (Set of 4) — a collection that’s found internet-wide and one of the most photogenic silhouettes we’ve seen. Whether used for cocktails or for your after-work kombucha, we’re big fans of this fairly priced set, too.
Libbey Cafe Collection
According to Forrest over at Zola, “the clean thin lines of this collection look like they’d be on the table of any New York restaurant trending on TikTok” — and we wholeheartedly agree.
As one of the sharpest and sleekest in the industry, Libbey is a hallmark in anyone’s glassware cabinet. They make a wonderful presentation for entertaining just as much as they offer practicality during your cozy weekends.
Nude Glass Round Up Coupe Glasses (Set of 2)
“Optical glass is big trend in glassware at the moment,” Carter over at Bloomingdale’s tips off. “The vertical lines are a soft and elegant update to cleaner, simpler silhouettes.”
Fitting the bill is the Nude Glass Round Up Coupe Glasses (Set of 2) that she recommends. The style is available at a few online retailers and the duo makes a wonderful gift idea for less than $100, too.
Anthropologie Morgan Wine Glasses (Set of 4)
Swanky and fun, there’s nothing quite like the hip Anthropologie Morgan Wine Glasses — a set that comes in a wide suite of colors to add some chrome, color and modernity to your next dinner party.
“These are a personal favorite of mine, as these glasses feature a delicate stem with slim lines and come in a variety of colors and tones to choose from,” Higaki said.
Best Colored Drinking Glasses
HAY Colored Glasses (Set of 2)
As for Bellman over at Nordstrom, she loves the pretty-in-blue look of the HAY Colored Glasses (Set of 2). Its rounded silhouette adds a unique charm to any table and they’re made of tinted borosilicate glass that offers a stellar, refined aesthetic.
Godinger Modern Vintage Colored Glass Collection
Coleman over at Macy’s recommends the Godinger Modern Vintage Colored Glass Collection for anyone who’s looking to add a glitz of color to their otherwise clear-coated glassware collection. Not only is each piece reasonably priced, but you can mix and match styles to create an eclectic assortment of styles for any occasion.
Anthropologie Cinzia Coupe Glasses (Mixed Set of 4)
“These coupe glasses are beloved and recommended as they boast an ornate handcrafted stem and are adorned in hand-painted jewel tones,” Higaki over at Anthropologie said.
Specifically, the Cinzia collection showcases “an ornate handcrafted stem atop a lightly scalloped foot” in addition to its eccentric yet cohesive color palette. Behold: a vibrant pop to your next glass of bubbly.
Lenox Tuscany Classics Stackables (4-Pack)
“These stackable earth-hued glasses will save room in your cabinet and can save any colorless table-scape,” Forrest over at Zola said, recommending the iconic glassware brand Lenox’s Tuscany Classics Stackables.
They’re available at a catalog of online retailers to shop from and, the best part? Their stackable nature allows you to save space in apartment-sized spaces, especially. #Score.
Baccarat Harmonie Tumbler (Set of 2)
The original clear Harmonie glass is already a moment and, now, it’s available in these brilliant jewel tones
“I was left speechless by the beauty — I’m not being dramatic,” Carter over at Bloomingdale’s said, recommending this splurge-worthy option. Pink, orange and moss shades are also available.
Most Unique Drinking Glasses
Waterford Luther Vandross x Waterford 81 x Double Old Fashioned Glass (Set of 2)
“When Waterford told me they partnered with the Luther Vandross foundation for this collaboration, I was very excited,” Carter over at Bloomingdale’s said. “The single large X cuts are inspired by the line ‘a thousand kisses from you…’ from one of my and everyone else’s favorite song, Never Too Much.”
Though a splurge, these bold and deep hand-cut glasses are exquisite to any collector’s repertoire.
Chamberlain Flutes (Set of 4)
“We enjoy these unique flutes that marry a light scalloped texture with an elegant hand-pulled stem for a modern yet classic look,” Higaki notes, recommending the Chamberlain Flutes. Its mouth-blown soda glass adds a burst of bright color with a naturally muted undertone, too, allowing your guests to gloss over them all night long.
These glasses aren’t suitable for hot beverages and aren’t dishwasher safe. Per the manufacturer’s advisory, hand wash with a soft sponge and mild detergent using lukewarm water and then wipe dry with a soft cloth.
Georg Jensen Medium Cobra Glass Tumblers (Set of 2)
According to Bellman over at Nordstrom, the Georg Jensen Medium Cobra Glass Tumblers (Set of 2) are a duo that’s worth the grab if you’re looking for something a far cry away from the typical glass. Its fluid, serpentine profile was crafted from mouth-blown glass and has a rich look for any table setting.
Bormioli Rocco Florian Collection (Set of 4)
“These teal and transparent glasses are inspired by the famous Caffe Florian in Venice, and are sure to be a conversation starter at any Happy Hour,” Forrest over at Zola notes. Though ideal for warmer months, they’re equally as grand for dinner parties where you want to spice things up.
Plus, we love its delicate, romantic look — allowing them to be truly unique from others on the market.
Serax Eternal Snow S Stem Glass
“It’s petite size, spherical foot, and green chunky bowl remind me of the best vintage find,” Carter over at Bloomingdale’s said. “This will add personality in an impactful but quiet way to your setup.”
Additionally, the round shapes and soft colors (smoky grey for the foot and soft green for the chalice) are inspired by the colors of the night sky. Did someone say evening dinner party?
Anthropologie Valeria Coupe Glass
“This coupe glass adds a lovely twist to the classic design, featuring a wide brim saucer design while lending sophistication and fun to each sip enjoyed,” Higaki over at Anthropologie said. Not to mention, they’re a romantic, sophisticated take on your traditional glass.
FAQ on Drinking Glasses
You’ll learn from the best of the best below — where our team of retail experts uncover the secrets to shopping for quality glassware, along with different styles to look out for and how to properly maintain their sparkle.
What different types of drinking glasses can I order online?
While this may vary from one household to another, Higaki over at Anthropologie shares the following as staples to any household:
- Everyday go-to glasses for common use such as water, juice, etc.
- Wine glasses for wine enthusiasts; while red wine glasses tend to be larger to support aeration, white wine glasses are generally smaller. In recent years, however, the multi-purpose size has gained popularity.
- Champagne flute and coupe glasses for champagne fans; while experts often endorse the flute over the coupe to maintain the effervescence for longer, both styles are lovely.
- Beer stein or pint glasses are strongly recommended for beer aficionados.
- Cocktail glasses, including a martini glass, is fantastic and versatile as it can be used for a variety of cocktails and to serve dessert, as well.
- A tumbler is inherently nimble as the larger glass can be used for drinks over ice, while the low-ball glass is more commonly used for smaller drinks.
“Drinkware comes in all shapes and sizes and have become more ‘drink-specific’ overtime, which is great for wine, cocktail and coffee drinkers,” Bellman over at Nordstrom chimes in. “There are a lot of glasses now on the market that were made specifically to aerate wine or keep your coffee warm.”
From double old-fashioned to stemless to double walled and couple glasses, there is something for every drinkware need on the market, too.
How drinking glasses can be versatile, according to experts
Casual drinkware would be the most used type of glassware in a household — according to Coleman over at Macy’s — so a set should have enough pieces for each family member to use every day. “If you run your dishwasher a few times a week, a 16-piece set would do the trick for an average household,” he recommends. “A 16-ounce tumbler is the go-to glassware in my household.”
For stemware, you need to have enough glasses for however many friends or family you might host for a party. “A good all-purpose stem can do the trick for many; machine made is fine,” he adds. “A red and white wine glass with a more delicate profile is both needed if your more into vino, and European made glassware is perfect.”
If you are an aficionado there are a multiple of varietal specific shapes, mouth blown and hand pulled stemware is the pinnacle. “Fine stemware absolutely enhances the wine drinking experience, and it’s worth a splurge,” Coleman notes.
A high ball and double old fashioned are the two core shapes in barware. “These are both drinks, but the terms are more commonly used to represent the shape and size more than the beverage,” he offers. “Every household should have both; they can also be used as everyday drinking glasses as well.”
“There is a perfect glass for every drink – coupe shapes are great for that espresso martini. However, glassware is very versatile; that same coupe shape is also great for a desert.
Craig Coleman, vice president and divisional business manager, home at Macy’s who has managed the buying of tabletop and glassware categories for more than 10 years
Are drinking glasses typically dishwasher safe?
“I only purchase dishwasher-safe items, and every item [will say if it’s] dishwasher-safe or not,” Forrest over at Zola notes. “A hand wash is definitely the best route for delicate and sentimental items like champagne glasses you received as a wedding gift, but I am a dishwasher kind of person.”
Carter agrees — most glasses are now dishwasher-safe unless they have a hand-painted design. “Customers really appreciate the convenience,” she adds.
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