‘Tis the season to be jolly… and generous! We all love finding the perfect gift for those we love, but sometimes figuring out just what to give can be tricky. That’s why we’ve put together our Official Lee Alex Gift Guide! Read on for suggestions for you favorite folks, and get gifting in mid-century style!

                                                     *     *     *

THE WINE LOVER

We all know this bubbly individual. They love a party- especially with good company and a good bottle of vino. So make them smile with a wine related gift! Wine chiller bags and bottle stoppers are best offered with their favorite flavor vintage. Wine glass sets are perfect for the wine lover who loves to share, while a wine rack is ideal for showing off those beautiful bottles.

                                                     *     *     *

THE HOSTESS

Some ladies are natural hostesses. They love to be the center of the party… as the one making sure everyone else is having a wonderful time! The hostess appreciates anything that helps her make her fete a success. Barware and serving sets are ideal gifts, as they allow all the hostess’ guests to eat and drink to their hearts’ content. Chip & dip sets or lovely carafes mean the party goers can serve themselves, while the hostess joins the fun. And, as an extra thank you, try candles to scent her home, or a sparkly bauble that lets her feel beautiful as she worries about everyone else!

                                                     *     *     *

THE SUNSHINE FAN

You know that person who can’t stand a grey day? They positively live for spring to come again, so they can get back outside. The best gifts for these sunshine lovers is anything that reminds them of their favorite season! Flip flop trinket dishes are pleasant reminders of springtime year-round. Green fish bottle stoppers, ocean blue glass bottles or a precious decorative turtle add warm weather whimsy to their home. From a driftwood mirror to a bright patterned bench, it’s a colorful, natural touch that will charm this outdoorsy type.

                                                     *     *     *

THE EXOTIC ENTHUSIAST

This person is an adventurer at heart. They love anything unique, textured, and of course, exotic. The best gifts for these individuals are those that feel one-of-a-kind, and speak of a far off land. Sake sets feature beautiful colors and patterns, and encourage trying new flavors. For decor, seek items made from rich hardwoods, like teak candlesticks and carved art. For those lovers of the exotic who also like a twist of kitsch, tiki gifts are ideal. They are quintessential mid-mod while featuring bamboo and wood details reminiscent of foreign lands. Any gift that feels straight out of an antique bazaar is perfect for the exotic enthusiast.

                                                    *     *     *

THE BOOKWORM

Bookworms love nothing more than curling up with good book. A gift of books to a book lover is always an appreciated choice. However, try breaking the mold with unique, unexpected titles! Assouline Publishing offers insightful books on singular subjects not found anywhere else. Or, try a set of vintage bookends to let them show off their favorite tomes in style. And, for the book fanatic who has everything, try a gift that helps them relax while they dive into one of their old favorites. A fun pillow, fuzzy throw blanket, or even a cozy chair and ottoman create a haven for the bookworm to burrow into and get lost in the pages.

                                                      *     *     *

MEN MEN MEN

Many of our earlier gifts ideas are perfect for the women and men on your gift giving list. However, there are some gift ideas that are simply made for men. So if you have a dapper fellow in your life, consider a cool, vintage find to show them you care. For the dashing “man about town”, try fashionable cufflinks, or even a slick flask to slip in their pocket. For the stay at home type you can’t go wrong with a poker set, masculine moose head wall decor, or a super retro chair for kicking back in style. Industrial finds suit a rough, tough type, while minimalistic decor like a deco clock appeal to a sleeker sort of guy. Men may be the hardest to shop for, but with these clever gift ideas you can’t go wrong!

                                                     *     *     *

We hope our Lee Alex Gift Guide helps give you some good ideas! Lee Alex Vintage Modern is proud to be your retro gift destination to cross off every “type” on your list, all in one stop. And should you find a little something for yourself, we won’t tell!

Here’s wishing you a very happy, very relaxing holiday season!

-Lee Alex Vintage Modern

Just a little reminder from your friends at Lee Alex Vintage Modern: daylight-saving time ends this Sunday, November 4^th, so don’t forget to roll those clocks back!

Now, I don’t know about you, but I get a little bummed when we “fall back”. Sure, you get an extra hour of sleep, but only for that first day… The rest of the season has the sun setting practically before your lunch is even digested! Fortunately, there is a solution to the gloom of early sunset. Brighten things up with awesome lighting! You’d be surprised at what a couple extra lamps can do for your spirits. Not only do they provide more mood-elevating brightness to your space, but a really cool fixture provides mood-elevating style, too! Check out a few of our favorite lighting options, and decide how you would light up your life!

                                                *     *     *

Architectural style fixtures offer “coolness” to spare, with bold shapes and clean lines. Plus, they provide plenty of light through multiple bulbs, diffusing fiberglass, or reflective chrome and glass accents.

                                                    *     *     *

Frosted globe lights are quintessential mid-century style. However, the classic simplicity of these fixtures works with a number of different decors. The spheres diffuse soft light in all directions, providing a subtle, warm glow to your space.

                                                  *     *     *

This Brutalist style chandelier is an impressive way to add stylish illumination to your home. Light glows from within the brass cage, as well as from the charming candelabras around the outside.

                                                       *     *     *

Industrial fixtures offer a unique twist on home lighting. Commercial lights are unexpected, and often come in fun colors that help to brighten your space just as well as the direct light they provide.

                                                     *     *     *

Of course, the simplest way add light to your home is with table lamps. Lamps come in an endless variety of styles, sizes, colors, and shapes- so you can always find the perfect fit for your décor. And the best part is, you can easily swap out table lamps whenever your tastes change… say, every autumn around daylight-saving time? :)

So, if you’re like me and the dark gets you down, fear not! There’s a light at the end of the tunnel, with chic lamps and fixtures ready to get you through to spring. So this Sunday, enjoy that extra hour of sleep, then head on down to Lee Alex Vintage Modern and treat yourself to a little light!

It’s been three months since we started our consignment program. You may remember our post in June and how excited we were to be giving this a try. Well, three months later, the program is in full swing. We must admit, it’s going really well! We’ve had some impressive, unique, and exciting items in the store, and the options just keep coming. Check out a few of our most recent additions!

                                                     *     *     *

Mid Century Dresser: $350     Framed Horses Print: $139

                                                      *     *     *

Burke Oval Table w/ Two Leaves: $299    

Captain’s Chairs $199 each     Dining Chairs $149 each

                                                     *     *     *

Leitmotiv Exposed Bulb Multi-Socket Light Fixture: $199

                                                      *     *     *

Deco-Style Mirrored Room Divider: $349     Pole Mount Desk: $299   

Ornate Wood Art Easel: $400

                                                    *     *     *

Molded Acrylic and Glass Side Table: $349    

Clear Acrylic Phone $18.95

                                                   *     *     *

Ekornes Style Black Leather Chair and Ottoman    

Black Hairpin Chairs: $69 each     Kidney Coffee Table $200               

Smoked Glass and Wood Coffee Table

                                                    *     *     *

Kem Weber Bench: $600     Early Vintage Stools: $89 each      

Metal Sign: $49                  Arthur Umanoff Wine Rack: $69

Industrial Cart with Red Firestone Wheels: $249         

                                                     *     *     *

Roman Head Bookends: $60    

Oversize Butterfly Shade Lamp: $120

Orange Pitcher: $18.95     Blue Glass Vases $3.95 and up

                                                     *     *     *

Milo Baughman Rosewood Dining Table

Felix Chairs by Bontempi Casa: $195 each

                                                    *     *     *

As you can see, our consignment program is going strong! Discounts on furniture are 20%, 30%, and 50% off at scheduled intervals— though you might not want to wait for those markdowns, or you may miss out on some truly special finds. Come see what’s new in store, and what discounts you can score!

It’s official, Lee Alex fans! The leaves are changing, the nights are cooling… fall is here! Celebrate the new season and bring autumn into your home with these fun ideas. Adding seasonal flair is easier than you might think!

                                          *     *     *

Fashion is the easiest and most obvious way to embrace the season. Vintage boots are practical and unique, while wood jewelry adds warmth to your style. Try whimsical designs like a bit of vintage ruler on a chain, for a play on “back to school”.

                                           *     *     *

Seasonal scents set the mood. Try warm and woodsy scents for a cozy vibe, or fall fruits for a fresh autumn feel. Our favorites are Woodland Solitude and Evening Bonfire for those cool nights. For a sweeter take, Hillside Orchard is like crisp, autumn apples, and Vanilla Bliss reminds us of something yummy in the oven. Or try any one of the clever wood scents, like Aspen Pine, Mountain Birch, or Majestic Oak, for quintessential fall.

                                          *     *     *

Cooler weather calls for a little something to warm up at night. Sure, you could throw on a blanket… but we’ll take a delicious drink instead! Copper cups add autumn color and are essential for the perfect Moscow Mule. Glasses with golden wheat and wine from a woodsy rack add subtle fall fun when you entertain.

                                          *     *     *

Speaking of entertaining, dishware is one of the easiest and best ways to showcase the season. Don’t serve toasty drinks from any old pot- use vintage teapots and pitchers to serve in style. Brass chargers and a cute pumpkin jar (filled with candy, perhaps?) add shine and charm to your fall table.

                                        *     *     *

Charm is the name of the game when it comes to seasonal decor. Beautiful glassware in autumn colors sparkle in the low light of the season. Or add charm with owls, Thanksgiving turkeys, or cute jack-o-lanterns. Fall style can be luxe or fun! (Or both!)

                                         *     *     *

We always recommend switching out your wall decor. It’s an easy way to freshen up a space and give different pieces their chance in the spotlight. For this season, we recommend wood tones, autumn shades, and fall subjects. We love the wood wine rack or driftwood mirror for woodsy effect. Or try burlap art! With unexpected texture and warm tones, they fit the season perfectly.

                                           *     *     *

We would be remiss if we didn’t recommend furniture for embracing the season! We’re not saying you should buy an entire room of furniture every season (though if you want to, we are only too happy to oblige!) Instead, use the season to look at furniture differently. If you’ve been hunting for a new coat rack or bench, let autumn inspire you to look at rustic wood pieces. Or, showcase a fall appropriate piece you already have, by placing it center stage, or highlighting it with art, pillows, or new lighting.

                                           *     *     *

Any excuse to brighten up your style is a good excuse! Let the new fall season encourage you to branch out and try something different. And the best part is, love it or hate it, you can switch it all up again come winter!

Some items may have already sold. But we add new, exciting options every week- so come in and find your perfect treasure!

From kids to pets, with Colorado’s unpredictable weather, and even from sexy stilettos: everyday life can be rough on our beautiful flooring. That’s what makes a quality rug invaluable to the spaces in your home. Area rugs offer stylish protection for your floors, while pulling your whole room’s décor together.  

                                             *   *   *

                                            *   *   *

The truth is, vintage rugs are hard to find— especially clean, attractive and in good condition. And let’s be honest, you may love mid-century style, but you’re not trying to make a mid-century museum! New rugs let you add a personal twist to your classic furnishings. That’s why we’re excited to now carry Surya rugs! Surya offers thousands of rugs, in different styles, sizes, shapes, colors, and textures. In short, if you can think of it, they likely have it- not to mention a price point for just about every budget.

                                          *     *     *

                                          *     *     *

Surya was established in a small village in India in 1976. Since then the company has grown into a global source for top-quality rugs. Surya takes pride in providing well-made rugs at affordable prices, in beautiful styles. They regularly seek partnerships with notable designers, such as Candice Olson, Bob Mackie, and even the Smithsonian, to create a wide range of unique and exciting designs that suit any home’s décor. Every style comes in a number of sizes and many have additional color options.

                                          *     *     *

                                          *     *     *

When you are ready to select your new rug you have two options. The first is to start the shopping process at home. On the Surya site you can search by size, designer, color, weave style and more. Every rug includes a description, size and color options, and an approximate price point. When you’ve narrowed down your favorites, come down or contact us for pricing, shipping- even just a second opinion!

Your second option is to come in to the store where you can check out (and feel) our in store samples, get pricing and sizing information, as well as plenty of advice on how to pick the best rug for your room and your lifestyle. In our new Design Center, we have catalogs, samples, and even a touch screen computer, ready for you to have fun playing “designer” as we help you find the perfect rug solution.

People often ask us where we find our great selection of mid-century furniture and décor- (click here for the answer)… But we feel that just as important as where the items come from is what goes into getting them ready for your home. Most vintage fans know that something 50 to 60 years old is not always in ideal condition. So in order to bring our stock up to your ideal we put a lot of love and attention into each and every piece. From research to repairs to revamps, we work hard to bring you quality vintage.

——————————————————————————

Sometimes all an item needs is minor TLC. This lamp had a great, classic style, but wasn’t in perfect shape. We cleaned it, reattached and oiled the wood details, and tweaked all the hardware. Heck, we’ve been known to completely rewire a lamp, if the base is beautiful (a step this lamp didn’t require). After these few steps, the finished lamp was retro chic, ready for a new home.

                                           *     *     *

With furniture, the issue is often more than cosmetic, affecting the functionality of the piece. We do everything from tightening joints or replacing hardware on wood furniture, to re-strapping upholstered chairs and sofas.

                                              *     *     *

We know a cosmetic issue can be just as hard to live with as a functionality issue. The frame of a chair may be in excellent shape, but the upholstery is damaged, tired, or painfully outdated. So when we see that special chair that needs a simple facelift we do our best to oblige.

                                            *     *     *

For those items that need repairs as well as stylizing, we tackle that too. This bench top needed tightening and cleaning, not to mention new legs. But why tack on any old legs? We added vintage legs in a fun, bright green to give both the top and the legs a new life.

——————————————————————————

 Whether it’s a good, thorough cleaning, a few minor repairs, or a complete aesthetic overhaul, every item that goes on our floor gets what it needs to be ready for you. We take pride in the quality of our stock, and the work that goes into making everything “floor ready”. When you want furniture and décor that has mid-century style, but like-new condition, we have what you need. From the finding to the fixing, Lee Alex Vintage Modern does the work for you, so you can relax and enjoy your new vintage treasure!

                                               *     *     *

Items shown may have sold. Click below for the latest selection.

                                 Lee Alex Vintage Modern

Unfortunately, due to the level of care we give all our products, we cannot offer refurbish services on items outside our own stock.

Our Anniversary Event is only three weeks away and exciting things are starting to come together. Our very own Lee Alex Design Group will be in-house with a sizeable collection of brand new pieces in never before seen styles. However, LADG are not the only artists gracing the event. Read on for a sampling of the amazing talent we’ll feature on August 25 and 26.

————————————————————————

We are excited to showcase two amazing artists, Aries and Missy Rhysing, from Sol Tribe Tattoo- one of our favorite neighbors on the Baker block. As husband and wife artists, each brings a singular flavor to their pieces, offering unique works with the edge found only in the tattooing community.

www.soltribetattoo.com

————————————————————————

Aries Rhysing

Tattooing for 12 years, Aries is co-owner of Talisman Tattoo in Taos, New Mexico. He is currently working at Sol Tribe Tattoo of Denver. He is a family man and an artist, and both commitments are reflected in his work, on paper or on skin. Aries’ tattoos feature striking depth and impact, while his artwork lets him create images beyond what tattooing allows.

www.ariesrhysing.com

Missy Rhysing

Missy has been tattooing for 10 years, and is co-owner of the Taos, New Mexico tattoo shop, Talisman Tattoo. She now works at Sol Tribe Tattoo in Denver, Colorado. Missy is a proud mother, artist, roller derby player, and Chihuahua whisperer. Her skill for creating fluid, dramatic designs translates seamlessly, from the canvas to the client.

www.missyrhysing.com

**Aries and Missy Rhysing are always interested in donating artwork for community causes and fundraising. They are also happy to take orders for commissioned art.**

Daniel Beahm

Dan is a musician, designer, and filmmaker in Denver, CO. He lives with his wife Erika (a dancer and filmmaker), Ezra (a baby and a force of cuteness and mischief to be reckoned with), and Luther (the snuggliest Boxer-Pit on the planet).

 From mundane, everyday objects to those teetering on the verge of bizarre, Dan squeezes his subjects through the lens like Play-Doh through the fun factory, crafting a reality shaped by cinematic ideas and ideals.

 “When people talk about being ‘moved,’ I think they are often talking about nostalgia.  Everywhere I look there is a story to be told and nostalgia to be mined.  Whether the picture is still or moving, or even if it’s a song, makes no difference.”

 ————————————————————————-

We are thrilled to be working with such gifted local artists. Be sure to come down and see all their works, and get yourself a truly special piece of art created by a local talent.

Stay tuned for more information about the upcoming Anniversary Event, including additional artists, special deals and sale offers, and our “lemon-aide” stand, benefitting local charities. Shop local, give local, support local!

See you at the Anniversary Event, August 25 + 26!

Sometimes, we are still surprised  at how much we’ve grown. Our current space is so much bigger and better than any location before. Of course, that means a few challenges too, like how to use the space so our customers have the very best experience when they walk through our doors. Recently, after a look around, we did a little restyle- just in time for our upcoming anniversary!

We’ve found that Lee Alex customers’ tastes are just a diverse ours. Some are serious, craving top-quality design for their home. Others are quirky, seeking funky vintage finds not seen anywhere else. Ultimately, everyone wants a full selection and a fun experience. So, in order to appeal to every side of you, we have shifted our layout just a touch, so you know where you can find exactly what you want.

 ——————————————————————————

Our main floor is pretty familiar. Here you’ll find your favorite, versatile pieces, from amazing sideboards and Lee Alex Design Group creations, to brand new Younger Furniture models just begging to be tried out. And, of course, our ubiquitous barware wall, full of fabulous vintage glassware. The most notable addition is what we affectionately call our “Book Nook”. In a cozy corner of main floor you’ll find all our fresh Assouline selections, plus a few eye-catching vintage titles. Flip through the pages while you try out that chic new armchair.

*                                                *                                                *

Upstairs in our mezzanine is now where funky flourishes! We’ve turned the loft into what we like to call the “Retro Lounge”. If you’re looking for color, kitsch, and just good old nostalgia, it’s all up here. Check out mod and atomic décor scores, and cruise through our hundreds of vintage vinyl titles— to set the mood right when you get home…

*                                                *                                               *

A few weeks ago we rolled out our Consignment Program, now located downstairs in the store. Pieces continue to roll in and the room is filling out nicely with one-of-a-kind scores not seen in Lee Alex Vintage Modern before. Our Sale Area is also down there, stocked with cool pieces at major discounts, all to make room for our next batch of amazing product!

 ——————————————————————————

Think you know Lee Alex Vintage Modern? Think again! Stop on by and see our new style. Serious or quirky, we have something perfect just for you.

*                                                                                                *

One of the biggest struggles with vintage furniture is finding high-quality, attractive upholstery that has survived the decades. Most new upholstery doesn’t have those great mid-century lines, or you’ll pay big time if they do! Fortunately, at Lee Alex Vintage Modern we carry Younger Furniture, an American company that provides cool, modern styles that are affordable, durable, and beautiful. Younger Furniture pieces feature kiln-dried hardwood frames, with no-sag springs, and a variety of fabric options, ready to be customized by you.

 *                                                                                               *

 *                                                                                               *

Younger Furniture has dozens of frames, but we have a few favorites, such as the James, the Michael, and the Lily. We love these styles for their clean, classic looks and superior comfort. Currently, we have one of each of these sofas, as well as a few chair styles, in store for you to try. Floor models are also available to purchase, which can mean a particularly good deal for you. If the floor model is not precisely what you had in mind, customize!

 *                                                                                               *

 *                                                                                                *

When it’s time to customize, Younger Furniture offers sofas, sectionals, loveseats, chairs, ottomans, and more. Choose any of their fabulous frames, the size that fits your life, and the fabric that fits your style. With all these options you are sure to find your perfect piece- at a price you can afford.

 *                                                                                               *

 *                                                                                               *

Our relationship with Younger Furniture means that custom furniture can be a reality for everyone, at almost any price point. We are happy to help you through every step of the process. Come down to try out the floor models and get started customizing your perfect furniture solution!

Learn more on our website! Leealexdecor.com

We have such exciting news, that we’re going to burst if we don’t tell you! First, we have rolled out our new website. It has more content, info, events and news, and tons of product pictures that will include descriptions and prices. Now you can check out what’s in stock at 3am… or sneak a peek at work? Not that you’d do that, of course… Head over to the website and see our shiny new look. While you’re there, you may spot our second piece of news…

Leealexdecor.com

Did you spot it? That’s right! Lee Alex Vintage Modern is now accepting consignment. That spells bonuses for sellers and customers alike. If you are interested in selling something we now offer our original “buy outright” program, as well as a consignment program. This means you can decide how you want to handle selling your items. Of course, there are stipulations, so check out the “Buying” page on the website for details.

What does this mean for the customer? More product, more selection, and more deals to be had! The entire basement will be converted into a consignment area, which will offer a wider selection than before. However, we will work tirelessly to insure all consignment pieces conform to the urban style and high standards you expect from us. We hope this will be a fun way to offer our customer interesting pieces at continuing low prices.

                                *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *

Since this is new for us, we want to know: what do you think about consignment? Anything you love or hate about it? Comment below!