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Only the Best: The Story of Fashion Designer Ann Lowe
Chronicle has acquired world rights to Kate Messner and Margaret Powell's first collaboration, Only the Best: The Story of Fashion Designer Ann Lowe, a picture book biography of a little-known African-American designer who learned to sew from her grandmother, a former slave, and grew up to become a 20th-century fashion pioneer. Messner is the author of more than 25 books for young readers; Powell is a debut author and decorative arts historian.
68 pages, Hardcover
Published October 10, 2022
1 person is currently reading
161 people want to read
About the author
Kate Messner
131 books1,656 followersKate Messner is an award-winning author, TED 2012 speaker, and former middle school English teacher. Her books for kids include THE BRILLIANT FALL OF GIANNA Z.,SUGAR AND ICE, and EYE OF THE STORM (Walker/Bloomsbury Dec. 2010) the MARTY MCGUIRE series (Scholastic), SEA MONSTER'S FIRST DAY, and OVER AND UNDER THE SNOW (Chronicle, Books). Kate also wrote SPITFIRE and CHAMPLAIN AND THE SILENT ONE, both Lake Champlain historical novels published by North Country Books.
Kate lives with her family on Lake Champlain, where she loves to read, write, hike, swing on birch trees, and eat chocolate. She also hangs out in various places online.
Visit Kate's website: http://www.katemessner.com
Find Kate on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/KateMessner
...or follow her on Twitter - @katemessner
Kate lives with her family on Lake Champlain, where she loves to read, write, hike, swing on birch trees, and eat chocolate. She also hangs out in various places online.
Visit Kate's website: http://www.katemessner.com
Find Kate on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/KateMessner
...or follow her on Twitter - @katemessner
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
December 29, 2023
A stunning picture book bio for young readers 5-8 about African American fashion designer Ann Lowe, who created Jackie Kennedy's wedding gown but was not given credit for her work until years later. Inspiring and compelling!
October 18, 2022
It is a golden age of picture book biographies. This non-fiction picture book about the fashion designer Ann Lowe is remarkable. Beautifully written by the prolific Kate Messner and Margaret E. Powell. Powerful, inspiring and magnificently illustrated by Erin K. Robinson. A definite must have!
February 4, 2025
See my full review at http://michelleardillo.com/2025/02/04...
March 25, 2023
I'm an adult. Sometimes I read children's books for fun. This book is quite lovely. There's only one problem I noticed. Ann Lowe was light-skinned not dark-skinned. As a Black woman who's also a historian, one pet peeve of mine is when historical figures are depicted inaccurately. This is a reoccurring problem amongst Black historical figures. It is common for Blacks to be depicted much darker than they actually were, which has a way of diminishing the contributions of lighter skinned Blacks. If you're going to illustrate someone, please strive for accuracy.
March 15, 2025
The young granddaughter of an enslaved woman grows up playing with fabric scraps, and learning to sew, in her mother's and grandmother's sewing shop. Orphaned at age 16, she takes over the dressmaking business, an event which is described in this book as follows:
Any person with a heart and brain will do a double-take at this callous description of what must have been a traumatic and terrifying event in a young woman's life. No time for grieving! No time for sleep! Get to work, Ann: the ladies are fretting! (The author could at least have mentioned the dire economic necessities that would have forced a poor young orphan to fold up her feelings and tuck away her tears, rather than making this seem like some kind of benevolent transaction.)
Never mind the casual way in which the entire book glosses over the myriad ways in which Ann Lowe was exploited, erased, and discriminated against her entire life. A woman with such extraordinary talent, skill, and work ethic should have lived a life far different from the one she had. But no: the racism and sexism continues even decades after her death, in this whitewashed presentation of her life. She deserves better, we all deserve better.
As an aside, the writing style is atrocious: twelve sentences start out with but, and that's just one of many stylistic issues with the text.
I'm giving a second star because the illustrations are gorgeous and dignified, though likely entirely unrealistic.
There's no space for grief in a room filled with unfinished dresses. It's nearly New Year's Eve. The ladies are fretting. Will their gowns be finished on time? -- Ann folds up her feelings and tucks away her tears. She works day and night, the way her mother taught her. Only the best will do.In this and other ways, the book uncritically presents Lowe's biography in the style of a triumphant fairy tale -- I was half expecting a flock of turtledoves to come fluttering in, and help her finish those festive gowns!
Any person with a heart and brain will do a double-take at this callous description of what must have been a traumatic and terrifying event in a young woman's life. No time for grieving! No time for sleep! Get to work, Ann: the ladies are fretting! (The author could at least have mentioned the dire economic necessities that would have forced a poor young orphan to fold up her feelings and tuck away her tears, rather than making this seem like some kind of benevolent transaction.)
Never mind the casual way in which the entire book glosses over the myriad ways in which Ann Lowe was exploited, erased, and discriminated against her entire life. A woman with such extraordinary talent, skill, and work ethic should have lived a life far different from the one she had. But no: the racism and sexism continues even decades after her death, in this whitewashed presentation of her life. She deserves better, we all deserve better.
As an aside, the writing style is atrocious: twelve sentences start out with but, and that's just one of many stylistic issues with the text.
I'm giving a second star because the illustrations are gorgeous and dignified, though likely entirely unrealistic.
March 9, 2025
I came across this title in a February Black History Month listing of children's books. I was fascinated by this story of Ann Lowe. I am not very into fashion, but still like to learn about influential people in history. I was especially fascinated by the fact that she created Jacqueline Bouvier's dress for her wedding to John F. Kennedy. And when you look at the painstaking way she created all of those individual decorations, you cannot help but be blown away. I don't know how she did it all and so quickly!
Ann's tenacity and drive are inspiring, even to this middle-aged woman. I would love to recapture some of that drive and passion in my own life. I can see children being inspired by her story, wanting to become fashion designers in their own right. You could use this book for Black History Month or Women's History Month. Of course, I am a fan of learning about both of these topics on a year-round basis.
You'll be able to touch on American history and oppression, as it talks about how Ann created designs, but her employers would take all of the credit. She had to sit by herself in a room while taking classes, because no other Black woman had ever been at that school before. Ann serves as inspiration for standing up for yourself, such as when she is at first denied entrance into the senator's home via the front door. She serves as inspiration for regrouping and pushing through tough times, like when a flood ruined several pieces right before the wedding. And those who are interested in art can take a deeper dive into her creations as well as the stunning illustrations by Erin K. Robinson. In a time of mostly computer-generated art flooding the children's book world, it's refreshing to see original, painstaking work using a variety of media.
I would recommend this for kindergarten and older. And as always, have conversations with the children as they are reading it.
Ann's tenacity and drive are inspiring, even to this middle-aged woman. I would love to recapture some of that drive and passion in my own life. I can see children being inspired by her story, wanting to become fashion designers in their own right. You could use this book for Black History Month or Women's History Month. Of course, I am a fan of learning about both of these topics on a year-round basis.
You'll be able to touch on American history and oppression, as it talks about how Ann created designs, but her employers would take all of the credit. She had to sit by herself in a room while taking classes, because no other Black woman had ever been at that school before. Ann serves as inspiration for standing up for yourself, such as when she is at first denied entrance into the senator's home via the front door. She serves as inspiration for regrouping and pushing through tough times, like when a flood ruined several pieces right before the wedding. And those who are interested in art can take a deeper dive into her creations as well as the stunning illustrations by Erin K. Robinson. In a time of mostly computer-generated art flooding the children's book world, it's refreshing to see original, painstaking work using a variety of media.
I would recommend this for kindergarten and older. And as always, have conversations with the children as they are reading it.
March 20, 2023
Gorgeous writing, full of floral imagery, connecting the love and mentorship of Ann Lowe’s flower-loving mother to her daughter’s design work. The language is just ravishing; young fashion fans will salivate. As always, Messier provides extensive back matter, though I wish this book offered a timeline and perhaps more context in the afterword about racism in America. The book’s tone is more triumphant than angry about the barriers and thousand indignities Lowe faced (right down to Jackie Kennedy saying of her headline-making wedding dress only “a colored dressmaker did it,” — and then her family trying to keep the press from printing even THAT much! a story that doesn’t appear in the book, btw). I respect the choice to spotlight Lowe’s perseverance and determination…but? Erin Robinson’s art is textured, layered, snazzy and luscious.
DIGRESSION! Shortly before the Oscars last week, designer Christian Siriano had a huge flood in his workroom after a pipe burst. He still managed to deliver his clients’ gowns (and Harvey Guillén’s stunning frock coat and trouser suit)…tho most folks agree that Melissa McCarthy’s was in the end not exactly everything one might wish. I didn’t know Lowe had a flood in her workroom in 1953 that ruined Jackie Kennedy’s wedding dress, which ALSO had to be recreated at the last second. Just a fun fact.
Also, designer Samantha Pleet’s iconic rose appliqués? I wonder if they’re a tribute to Ann Lowe’s super-similar ones! (I hope so.)
DIGRESSION! Shortly before the Oscars last week, designer Christian Siriano had a huge flood in his workroom after a pipe burst. He still managed to deliver his clients’ gowns (and Harvey Guillén’s stunning frock coat and trouser suit)…tho most folks agree that Melissa McCarthy’s was in the end not exactly everything one might wish. I didn’t know Lowe had a flood in her workroom in 1953 that ruined Jackie Kennedy’s wedding dress, which ALSO had to be recreated at the last second. Just a fun fact.
Also, designer Samantha Pleet’s iconic rose appliqués? I wonder if they’re a tribute to Ann Lowe’s super-similar ones! (I hope so.)
October 29, 2022
There are still two huge trunks filled with fabric. This fabric is richly spun and colored in an array of breathtaking motifs. Some have been used to fashion gifts for newborns or lifelong friends. Others await to be paired with collected patterns for clothing, interior home decor, or quilts. A few, a very few, are there simply because of their beauty.
Two recent publications feature extraordinary women; women who were drawn to fabric and what can be made from fabric. Both harnessed their passion, their talent, for design to rise to the top of their respective artistic realms.
Sometimes, we become our best selves because we are enveloped by it for as long as we can remember. It is a part of every moment of our lives. It is fostered by those we love and who love us. Only the Best: The Exceptional Life and Fashion of Ann Lowe (Chronicle Books, October 18, 2022) written by Kate Messner and Margaret E. Powell with illustrations by Erin K. Robinson chronicles the growth of Ann Lowe into a remarkable talent. Her hard work, in the face of unjust odds, sets her apart and cements her place in history.
My full recommendation: https://librariansquest.blogspot.com/...
Two recent publications feature extraordinary women; women who were drawn to fabric and what can be made from fabric. Both harnessed their passion, their talent, for design to rise to the top of their respective artistic realms.
Sometimes, we become our best selves because we are enveloped by it for as long as we can remember. It is a part of every moment of our lives. It is fostered by those we love and who love us. Only the Best: The Exceptional Life and Fashion of Ann Lowe (Chronicle Books, October 18, 2022) written by Kate Messner and Margaret E. Powell with illustrations by Erin K. Robinson chronicles the growth of Ann Lowe into a remarkable talent. Her hard work, in the face of unjust odds, sets her apart and cements her place in history.
My full recommendation: https://librariansquest.blogspot.com/...
November 7, 2022
Ann Lowe was the first nationally known African American designer. She designed stylish, unforgettably beautiful gowns for ladies of society and debutantes. AND she designed Jacqueline Kennedy’s wedding dress and bridesmaid gowns. This is her remarkable story of success.
The stunning illustrations captivate and capture the mood of the story and the poetic and beautiful language sparkles throughout the biography. You can almost see the yards of taffeta and tulle; feel the velvet, the satin and the petal-soft silk. You can imagine the tiny stitches in the gowns, see the roses created by hand and the shimmer of the pearls. You can understand Ann’s devotion to her profession and her determination to finally be recognized for her work.
ONLY THE BEST is being added to my collection of picture book biographies of strong, inspirational women for my baby twin granddaughters. One day, I’m certain they’ll be as enchanted as I was by Ann Lowe’s story of courage and determination. Thank you @chroniclekidsbooks for a truly remarkable book.
The stunning illustrations captivate and capture the mood of the story and the poetic and beautiful language sparkles throughout the biography. You can almost see the yards of taffeta and tulle; feel the velvet, the satin and the petal-soft silk. You can imagine the tiny stitches in the gowns, see the roses created by hand and the shimmer of the pearls. You can understand Ann’s devotion to her profession and her determination to finally be recognized for her work.
ONLY THE BEST is being added to my collection of picture book biographies of strong, inspirational women for my baby twin granddaughters. One day, I’m certain they’ll be as enchanted as I was by Ann Lowe’s story of courage and determination. Thank you @chroniclekidsbooks for a truly remarkable book.
April 14, 2023
Oh how I adore this one because it talks about fashion-- and while it's fashion from a different era, it still is fashion. Ann Lowe had a vision and she wasn't going to let anyone get in the way of that- discrimination be damned. I want to know more about her life than this picture book biography. The woman designed Jackie Kennedy's wedding dress and the bridal party's dresses!
She overcame the death of her mother and being put in another room at college to learn more about the craft of fashion design ONLY to be used as the exemplar in class where they started learning from her. She stood up for what she believed in and she conquered the corner of her universe that made her feel powerful and creative.
She overcame the death of her mother and being put in another room at college to learn more about the craft of fashion design ONLY to be used as the exemplar in class where they started learning from her. She stood up for what she believed in and she conquered the corner of her universe that made her feel powerful and creative.
June 12, 2023
Ann Lowe started sewing with her grandmother and mother. She was extremely talented and became the first nationally-known African American fashion designer. But she had to deal with racism every step she took. When she was in design school the other students did not want to be in the same classroom she was in - until they noticed the intricate flowers she could embroider; then they all wanted to learn from her! Jackie Kennedy’s wedding dress was made by her: quite a move up from a young woman who had to sell her dresses under the name of others (due to the fact that no one thought that African American women could possibly know what kind of dresses high society women would want). Again I am shocked: had to learn about her by reading a book for children.
September 16, 2023
While I think the book was very good and the illustrations were terrific, I was disappointed that the authors and illustrators were not more direct in the text about the fact that Ann’s grandmother was enslaved and that this is the context in which her dressmaking skills she passed on to her daughter and granddaughter came from. This is pertinent history and this is the kind of story that could have dealt with this in a powerful and moving way but glossed over it save for the historical at the end. Other than that, I liked this book and I am glad to see Lowe’s story amplified for young readers.
May 15, 2023
Ann Lowe was particular about her fashion designs leading her to become the first nationally known African American designer, especially due to making Jacqueline Bouvier's wedding dress. Despite her talent, she was still told to use the servants' entrance because of her race when she delivered the dress, but she refused. Messner captures Lowe's eye for detail with descriptions of her work throughout the book. I wish there were a few photos in the back matter of her dresses, at least Jackie Kennedy's dress.
December 15, 2024
Why don't they teach more about Ann Lowe? Why isn't she taught a long side the works of Chanel and Dior? (You can probably guess why.) This is a situation that should be remedied, and this childrens book is a great way to introduce kids to the works of this exceptional American Couturier (and us adult readers can enjoy the story and the beautiful illustrations just as well!)
I will be reading more about her in future, for sure.
I will be reading more about her in future, for sure.
February 13, 2023
Fascinating and informative picture book biography of a remarkable woman. The whole family enjoyed this book. My daughters only compliant is that while there are photographs included with the author's note, there was not a photo of the design most prominent in the story (the dress Lowe designed for Jackie Kennedy's wedding).
May 21, 2023
5/21/2023 ~ Stunningly illustrated biography of Ann Lowe, seamstress, dress designer, and fashion icon.
Use this text when discussing perseverance!
My only wish: A timeline, or at least the inclusion of Ann's birthyear in the text.
Use this text when discussing perseverance!
My only wish: A timeline, or at least the inclusion of Ann's birthyear in the text.
January 26, 2025
4.5 stars - I love the story of Anne Lowe. I learned about her early in my fashion career and a lot of people still don't know about her amazing work so I'm so pleased to see a children's book bringing her story to life and introducing her to a younger generation!
July 10, 2025
I loved this book about fashion designer, Ann Lowe. Since she was Black, she was not given credit for early work but all that changed once she designed the wedding party's dresses for Jacqueline Bouvier.
November 13, 2022
4 stars for this biography of an incredible designer
November 29, 2022
So beautiful!!!! I'm so glad I learned about her!
Read
December 27, 2022a truly delightful bio sketch of a
tenacious & talented woman!
tenacious & talented woman!
December 27, 2022
Wow!! I now love her
January 9, 2023
A solid picture book biography of pioneering Black fashion designer Ann Lowe.
Themes: Art/artists, Fashion, Black is Beautiful
Age range: Elementary
Themes: Art/artists, Fashion, Black is Beautiful
Age range: Elementary
February 22, 2023
Gorgeous picture book history of the African American fashion designer/icon Ann Lowe.
April 21, 2023
4+
picture book biography
picture book biography
May 31, 2023
Perfect picture book biography for young fashionistas!
July 15, 2023
A lovely picture biography of the dress designer and seamstress who overcame discrimination with her skill and confidence.
I wish that photos of her dresses had been included.
I wish that photos of her dresses had been included.
September 14, 2023
Ann Lowe is a fascinating woman with a remarkable life story! This book does a great job introducing her and her work to young readers.
August 9, 2024
Not well written. Good pictures.
August 23, 2025
The illustrations enhance this biography of the African American fashion designer, Ann Lowe.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews