Jose and Jennifer Velazquez have been quietly restoring the James Lee House on Adams Avenue to its original Victorian Italianate splendor, and they opened its magnificent doors to Memphis magazine for our February fashion story. The vastness of its rooms and moody-colored walls dictated the overall vibe of the fashion. The clothing is classic and sparsely styled to reflect the grand surroundings. We had lots of help from Holliday Flowers and RS Antiques & Art in creating an ambience that will surely be de rigueur soon when the bed and breakfast opens to the public later this spring. This exquisite mansion is a success story and perfect example of a renovation done well. Romance is alive at the James Lee House once again, thanks to its new owners.
Just the Two of Us
An old romantic building with modern renovations provides the perfect setting for this young couple. On her: silk dress by Adam Lippes, $1,250; cuff, $315; necklace, $465; patent-leather logo embossed clutch by Gucci, $495; nude patent pumps by Stuart Weitzman, $340; all from Joseph in Laurelwood. On him: blue pinstriped suit by Giorgio Armani, $2,195; dress shirt by Eton, $255; polka-dot pocket square, $55; leather shoes by Magnanni, $395; all from Oak Hall. Leather belt, $65, from Lansky 126.
A Plum Choice
Guests enjoy beautiful bathrooms updated in marble from floor to ceiling. Lingerie from Soma in Laurelwood, $45. Multicolored Baroque pearl and diamond with yellow- and rose-gold necklace from James Gattas Jewelers. Call for price.
Golden Age
Ladylike looks never go out of style. Gold and black woven dress by Ivy & Blu, $105, Lanksy 126. Diamond and white-gold moon necklace, $2,000; diamond and white-gold star necklace, $1,900; all from South House Fine Jewelry in Laurelwood. Lucite bracelet by Alexis Bittar from Oak Hall, around $275.
Moody Blues
This powerful suit is relaxed with a white undershirt and cozy sweater. Navy slim suit by John Varvatos, $685; Robert Talbott wool half-zip sweater, $298; silk pocket square, $55; all from James Davis in Laurelwood. Diamond engagement ring from James Gattas Jewelers.
Recipe for Romance
Say, “I do," over breakfast in this cozy nook in the East Wing. On her: Navy leather and stretch fabric dress by Halston Heritage, $645, from Oak Hall. 14-karat-gold bamboo bracelet; diamond engagement ring, diamond stud earrings; all from James Gattas Jewelers. Call for prices. On him: Grey sweater, $68; navy chinos, $88, both by Bonobos; blue and white plaid button-down, $99.50; leather belt, $65; both by Southern Tide; all from Lansky 126. Spring bouquet by Holliday Flowers. Small oval French dining table, $850, from RS Antiques and Art. All china and utensils styled in-house. Croissants from La Baguette.
Special Thank You
Jennifer, Jose, and Elena Velazquez | Adam and Madison, models from COLORS Agency | Kendrick Simpson, makeup artist | Lucy Hadskey, hairstylist from Secret Services Salon | Sara Harrison, wardrobe and production assistant | Tim Regenold, photography assistant | Susie Reuter, digital artist | Annie Murff, intern | RS Antiques & Art | Holliday Flowers
Larry Kuzniewski, photography | Augusta Campbell, fashion stylist
