Ann Lowe: Stitching Stories of Elegance
- Delaney Bowman
- Apr 28, 2024
- 2 min read
The forgotten story of famous African-American fashion designer, Ann Lowe, who was known as "Society's Best-Kept Secret.”
Ann Lowe was born on December 14th, 1898 in Clayton, Alabama. She grew up in a family of seamstresses, inheriting a passion for dressmaking, design, and fashion from her mother and grandmother. Despite facing racial discrimination and financial challenges, Ann's talent and determination propelled her forward.
During her childhood, Ann learned the art of sewing and design from her family. She honed her skills and eventually attended the S.T. Taylor Design School in New York City, where she further developed her craft. At first, she was turned away from the program due to her race, and when she was finally allowed to participate, she was segregated from her classmates because of the teacher's prejudice. After completing her education in half of the time the program allotted for, Ann returned to Alabama and opened her own dressmaking business, catering to wealthy clients in the area.
"All the pleasure I have had, I owe to my sewing."
She married her husband, Lee Cohen, in 1912, and they had a son, Arthur Lee, who went on to become Ann's business partner in the 1930's up until his passing in 1958. Ann married her second husband in 1942, Caleb West, which also ended in divorce due to the difficulties of her successful career, and as a singe woman, Ann decided to adopt a daughter, Ruth Alexander.
One of Ann's most significant achievements was creating Jacqueline Kennedy's iconic wedding gown in the 1950's. This commission she earned brought her into the spotlight and solidified her reputation as a top-tier designer. However, despite her talent and contributions to the fashion industry, Ann faced numerous obstacles due to her race. She often had to navigate discriminatory practices and was not always given the recognition she deserved.
Despite these challenges, Ann continued to break barriers in the fashion world. She became known for her exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, earning her a loyal clientele that included many celebrities and socialites, like actress, Olivia de Havilland and businesswoman, Marjorie Merriweather. Ann's work was celebrated for its elegance and sophistication, and she became a trailblazer for African American designers in an industry dominated by white designers.
Throughout her career, Ann Lowe remained committed to her craft, creating timeless designs that transcended trends. Her legacy continues to inspire aspiring designers, showcasing the power of talent, perseverance, and resilience in the face of adversity. Ann Lowe's contributions to fashion history are undeniable, and her story serves as a testament to the importance of diversity and inclusion in the industry.
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