By Her Own Design

Content Warning: This section discusses racism, rape, verbal abuse, and deaths of family members.

Ann is the story’s protagonist who changes from a naive, mistreated, and loyal girl into a savvy, determined, and prestigious designer. Her constant character traits include determination, boldness, creativity, and vibrance. Ann’s main essence revolves around being a fashion artist, as sewing and designing are her passions, which highlights the theme of The Evolution of American Fashion): “Sewing was my way of seeing the world, of feeling the world. I had to get back to it” (98). As a child, Ann is already a talented seamstress who invents her popular cloth flowers and dreams of being an expert seamstress. Because she wants to grow up to be a successful seamstress like Mama and Grandma immediately, she makes the mistake of marrying Lee far too young. When she decides to flee with Arthur to Tampa, Ann showcases dynamic growth because she’s braver and more committed to putting Arthur’s safety, her own safety, and her calling first, learning to never compromise her self-worth, dreams, or well-being again.

Ann takes her work seriously, always working hard on every garment and saving money for her shop.