The Bar Cart is Back

{example of an early brass bar cart with wheels}

and this one

a Mid-century modern bar cart without wheels.

Bar carts evolved into bar cabinets in the ’60’s and ’70’s and then into the huge “basement” bars of the late ’70’s and ’80’s.  (Think pleather padded sides, paneling, and Formica tops.)

{a modern bar cabinet from the ’70’s)

I have also seen this:

{we know this is really a television stand}

and this

which is a baby changing table.  I think if the middle shelf were removed it might look more like a bar cart.  What do you think?

You don’t have to use your vintage bar cart just for alcohol either.  It can serve as a beverage cart, coffee cart, or a tea cart and can be decorated and styled for just about any
occasion.  So with the holidays coming up, be on the lookout for vintage bar carts at your favorite antique stores, garage sales, and flea markets.  Sometimes all they need is
a gentle cleaning, or you can be creative and totally transform your cart into something modern with paint.

I found a great one at Wayfair that looks vintage and is very reasonably priced:

You can purchase it here.

I also like the idea of using the unconventional as a “bar cart”.  I have an old painted dresser that I am going to style as my bar cart this holiday season. (will post pics later!)

 I love this old farm table made into a bar cart.

You can get really creative with your existing furniture and transform a table or dresser into your own bar or beverage serving cart.  All you need to do is add some pretty vintage glasses and/or bar ware, colorful linens (paper works best in this case), pretty straws and bar accessories, add some flowers, and you are set!

Here is is a round up of some of my favorite bar carts found on Pinterest; some old, some new, all styled and ready for a party or just a drink for two.

Enjoy!