Did you know?
Jacqueline Kennedy's iconic wedding gown was designed by an African American?
Fashion designer Ann Lowe was born in 1898, and was the great-granddaughter of a slave and a plantation owner and the granddaughter of a slave and a free man of color.
How did Ann get to design history's most famous wedding gown?
Recently, I spoke to Julia Faye-Smith author of Something to Prove, a biography of Ann Lowe, America's forgotten designer. Ann came from a long line of talented seamstresses and designers. According to Ms. Smith, "Ann refused to let the circumstances of her birth keep her down. She didn't preach; she didn't give up. She allowed a dream to be born in her heart and in her own personal way she overcame all obstacles."
MACARONI KID: How did Ann Lowe land the gig?
JULIA FAYE SMITH: Although Ann was virtually unknown to most of the world, she was known to a few of the very rich society ladies of America. Before Jacquelyn Bouvier’s wedding to JFK, Ann had already designed gowns for the young debutante, and her sister and mother. Jackie’s mother wanted Jackie to have a fairy tale dress so she turned to Ann.
Did she ever get the credit she deserved?
In all the worldwide stories about the wedding, only one reporter identified Ann Lowe as the designer, so for many years she was unknown outside a small circle of women. In fact, the ladies who did know her didn't like to share her name with others. She was special to them and they didn't want others to find her. In the early 60's there were a couple of magazine articles about her. She was interviewed on one TV show.
Are people just starting to recognize her talent?
Slowly her talent is being recognized. When I started my research there were only a few mentions of Ann, probably less than 12 that I could find. These were usually on African American or fashion blogs. There was no book. Now I find Ann is gaining recognition.
How has the book been received?
The book has been well received. I wrote it as a tribute to Ann and I've found that she was universally loved, so people enjoy reading about her. I get personal letters from many of the readers. Ann and the book have been used as the subject for many papers and several history fair projects. Her family is pleased with the book and they encourage me to keep Ann’s legacy alive. Also, I have signed a contract for film rights, keep your eyes and ears open for news on this front.
Do you think her story mirrors so many other stories of African Americans that flew under the radar due to segregation?
Oh, yes, I'm sure there were many more who achieved great things that we still don't know about. At the same time, I'd like to say that many probably gave up the struggle to achieve, but Ann never gave up. She had a dream, and she had the talent it took to make that dream become a reality. Even in the face of a devastating disaster with Jacquelyn Bouvier's wedding dress, and as her eyesight failed her she didn’t give up. I think Ann’s lesson to us is that circumstances might seem overwhelming, but we should strive to make our dreams our reality.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I think Ann's story is extremely relevant today. I think our young people, both male and especially female, need to have role models. Ann's story proves that determination, hard work, and talent or education along with perseverance, are key ingredients for success. It was not always easy, but it was always her dream.
Ann's resume is impressive, she designed for a first Lady of Alabama, an Oscar winner, and for the socially elite of America including Jacqueline Bouvier.
To purchase a copy of Something to Prove CLICK HERE
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