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When it comes to after-dinner coffee, chipped mugs emblazoned with a company logo or Forever Friends teddy bears really won't do. If you fancy something a little off the wall, Revol has a range of ceramic cups that resemble the crumpled plastic cups you get from vending machines. Odd, but good. The cappuccino variety come in black with a red interior and cost £11.50 each. Stocked by ICTC: 01603 488 019, ictc.co.uk

Spend

I'm not saying mugs are wrong all the time, it's just that you've got to get the right ones. These oak- leaf-patterned coffee mugs from Meltons are traditional without being dull or boring. There's something a bit glamorous and Neo-Classical about them. Made from English fine bone china, they cost £14.95 each and are available in blue, pink and yellow. Meltons: 020-7629 3612, meltons.co.uk

Splurge

OK, so this is strictly a teacup, but who's going to quibble when it's just so pretty? Only the finest Italian coffee for this Polka Rose cup from Royal Doulton, none of your instant rubbish. Again, it is deeply traditional, while retaining lots of charm. It's an original design from the 1930s, part of the “100 Years of Royal Albert” collection. For £30 you get a matching cup, saucer and cake plate. Stockists: 01782 404042 royaldoulton.com

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