The stylish coupe glass was designed in the mid 17th century in England by a Benedictine monk. Champagne coupes quickly became fashionable in France in the 1700s and were the cocktail vessel of choice for many years. Later, shortly after prohibition ended in the United States, the coupe became a symbol of style and a glamourous way to enjoy Champagne for high society New Yorkers.
There was (and still is) something ultra-luxurious, and even a little nostalgic about the coupe – Hollywood’s most adorned actors graced the big screen in iconic films like An Affair to Remember and Casablanca, with coupe glasses in hand. They were seen at elaborate soirees and grand balls where guests were treated to Champagne fountains made from pyramids of coupe glasses – all this only adding to the allure of this drinking vessel, while creating an intriguing and even magical history.
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Today, we are seeing the return of the coupe and they are more stylish than ever, fitting perfectly into our home and our cocktail carts, as well as in upscale restaurants and bars. Here are a few of our favourites:
Timeless yet modern
- Modern Optic Coupe Glasses
- Available at Williams Sonoma / Williams-sonoma.ca
Why we love it:
The ribbed vertical band accentuates the modern silhouette. This is a purchase that will stand the test of time and compliment any décor.
The details:
Crafted of mouth-blown, fire-polished glass. Set of 4, $115.95
Glamorous and elegant
- Pryce Gold Coupe Glass
- Available at Crate and Barrel / Crateandbarrel.ca
Why we love it:
This coupe is right on trend, while giving a little nod to the past, with a little glamour in the design while remaining elegant and understated. Plus, it is made from blown glass in wooden molds, each handpainted with a band of gold along the rim.
The details:
8 oz. $21. 95 each
Playful and whimsical
- Estelle Coloured Champagne Coupe
- Available at estellecoloredglass.com
Why we love it:
If you follow some of North America’s biggest design trend setters, then you would have seen the outpouring of love for Estelle Coloured Glassware. The founder of Estelle Colored Glass has named the collection in honor of her grandmother, Estelle, who she describes as “a jewel of a person that instilled in me an appreciation of the pastime of treasure hunting for beautiful finds – especially for the kitchen which was the heart of her home.” We couldn’t possibly present a glassware list without Estelle’s colourful coupes.
The details:
Hand crafted and available in a rainbow of colours. $95 for two glasses.
Mid-century chic
- Muse smoked couple cocktail glass
- Available at Cb2 / Cb2.com
Why we love it:
Mid-century chic, smoked, tapered and perfectly delicate – this glass is simple stunning and beautifully understated. It’s also one of our most affordable picks for an extremely stylish coupe.
The details:
Glass Set of 4, $67.80
Romantic and nostalgic
- Rocco Bormioli America 20’s Cocktail Glass
- Available at Bradshaws & Kitchen Details in Stratford Ontario / Bradshaws.ca
Why we love it:
it’s design is right out of a 1920’s American jazz bar. It’s ultra-elegant and feels like a piece of really beautiful history. The delicate facets create intriguing and beautiful sparkle.
The details:
7 3/4 oz. Set of 4, $49.95
Luxurious and statement-making
- Mixology Mixed Coupe
- Available at Waterford.com and where Waterford is sold
Why we love it:
This exceptional crystal glass features a stunning pattern and embodies the spirit of celebration. This in an investment piece that will be adored for decades to come, passed down and cherished. Set is presented in a signature grey Waterford box.
The details:
Small, Set of 4, $598
