Jennifer Williams opens Red & Lee Vintage in Muscatine
by Margaret Hurlbert
June 22, 2020

MUSCATINE, Iowa–“Fashion has been in my blood since I was young; I have always walked to a different beat, never placing myself in just one box and always taking risks in fashion and in life,” said Jennifer Williams, owner of Red & Lee Vintage, a new clothing shop that opened in downtown Muscatine June 18. Though Williams’ passion has taken her around the country, she relishes reestablishing roots in Muscatine and providing a new kind of shopping experience.

Williams graduated from Muscatine High School and then pursued a career in fashion. Most recently, she worked in Brooklyn, New York for three prestigious fashion houses. However, Williams always dreamed of owning her own shop. After Williams moved back to Muscatine, her sister, a store owner herself, encouraged her to go into business on her own. Williams started out small, renting a space in The Wild Thing. She then decided to expand her shop to a storefront of her own. She called the store Red & Lee Vintage, honoring her parents by using her mother’s nickname and father’s middle name.

Red & Lee Vintage provides a unique selection of gently used clothing and home goods. Williams explained, “Red & Lee Vintage is curated, sustainable, eco-friendly, pre-loved women’s and men’s fashion, home decor, and gifts that showcases quality vintage pieces and current trends that inspire individuals to look at fashion and home pieces in a stylish, unique, eco-conscious way.”

A supporter of women business owners, Williams offers a selection of products, created by other women who run businesses. She will also help promote local artists through rotating monthly displays. “Once a month on a Tuesday, I will be open for a gallery style showing of their art, so guests can meet and discuss the pieces with the artist, enjoy good company and drinks,” she elaborated. This month, Williams looks forward to welcoming textile artist Lauren Lake.

Williams knows that her vision for quality, environmentally friendly fashion will resonate with the community and looks forward to inviting them in to explore her shop: “By investing in slow fashion and sustainable quality pieces, I am hoping it makes a difference. I believe my store is unique to the community–I am offering one of kind quality vintage pieces and pre-loved fashion and accessories for women & men, with a little spice of home decor.” She encourages you to come see the shop for yourself at 124 West Second Street, Muscatine.

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