For years... like 20, I used a mug my college roommate sent me for my 23rd birthday. It was from the Chicago Institute of Art and had a print of Ballerinas by Degas. I loved that mug! Then, 4 years ago, we remodeled our kitchen, and as a treat to myself, I purchased new Mikasa bone china dishes. Just plain white, but so perfect and pretty. I've started using the cups that came with the set. I love these cups, thin rimmed and pretty, and somehow, even though the cups are thin, they keep my coffee hot longer! Who knew!