Born in 1898, Ann Lowe grew up surrounded by creative people. Her mother and grandmother, talented dressmakers for Alabama’s elite, passed their skills and passion for fashion down to Ann. These early influences laid the foundation for Lowe's impressive career in couture.
A chance encounter brought Lowe to Florida, where she built a reputation and clientele. She then enrolled in sewing classes in New York City, where she had to sit alone in a room separate from the white students.
Lowe was renowned in the fashion world for her unique design aesthetic. Her intricate detailing set her creations apart, earning her a reputation for unparalleled craftsmanship and elegance. In 1953, Jacqueline Bouvier hired her to design the gown she would wear for her wedding to Senator John F. Kennedy.
As a Black woman in a predominantly white and male-dominated industry, Lowe faced more than her share of prejudice and discrimination. Despite being in high demand, clients often haggled over prices, eventually leaving Lowe in crippling debt. By the time of her forced retirement in 1972, she was largely forgotten, but her influence remains.
Ann Lowe's designs showcased her skill as a designer and her ability to navigate an industry that often marginalized Black women. Her legacy goes beyond her groundbreaking designs. Her resilience and determination continue to inspire aspiring designers worldwide.