By Her Own Design
Book Feature - By Her Own Design By Piper Huguley
HBL Note: Can you name the designer of Jacqueline Kennedy’s wedding gown? History lovers surely can picture the iconic dress she wore for her 1953 wedding to future President John F. Kennedy in their minds. But I bet few can name the woman behind the gown. That is exactly why you need to read Piper Huguley’s novel, BY HER OWN DESIGN, the story of Ann Lowe, a Black woman and granddaughter of slaves, and the designer of one of the most iconic wedding gowns in recent history. This is the type of book I live for: bringing to life the story of a little-known woman who contributed to society, especially in the arts and particularly In fashion. Scroll down to read more about BY HER OWN DESIGN by Piper Huguley.
Book Feature - By Her Own Design By Piper Huguley
Book Feature - By Her Own Design By Piper Huguley
From the publisher:
1953, New York City
Less than a week before the society wedding of the year where Jacqueline Bouvier will marry John F. Kennedy, a pipe bursts at Ann Lowe’s dress shop and ruins eleven dresses, including the expensive wedding dress, a dress that will be judged by thousands. A Black designer who has fought every step of the way, Ann knows this is only one struggle after a lifetime of them. She and her seamstresses will find the way to re-create the dresses. It may take all day and all night for the next week to accomplish the task, but they will do it.
1918, Tampa
Raised in Jim Crow Alabama, Ann learned the art of sewing from her mother and her grandmother, a former slave, who are the most talented seamstresses in the state. After Ann elopes at twelve with an older man who soon proves himself to be an abusive alcoholic, her dreams of becoming a celebrated designer seem to be put on hold. But then a wealthy Tampa socialite sees Ann’s talent and offers her an amazing opportunity—the chance to sew and design clothing for Florida’s society elite. Taking her young son in the middle of the night, Ann escapes her husband and embarks on the adventure of a lifetime.
Based on the true story of one of the most famous designers of the twenties through the sixties who has since been unjustly forgotten, By Her Own Design is an unforgettable novel of determination despite countless obstacles and a triumph celebrated by the world.
Book Feature - By Her Own Design By Piper Huguley
