Mae Makes a Way: The True Story of Mae Reeves, Hat & History Maker

Mae, a Black female designer, pursued her dream of creating unique hats despite the challenges faced by Black women in the fashion industry. She left her segregated home in the South to study at the Chicago School of Millinery and later became the first Black woman to own a business on South Street in Philadelphia. Mae’s hats made women feel special and confident, from renowned performers like Lena Horne and Ella Fitzgerald to local residents. As a mother, successful entrepreneur, and community advocate, Mae led the way. 

Acclaimed author Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich and award-winning illustrator Andrea Pippins bring Mae Reeves’s life to the page in a collaboration with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. After reading, visit Mae’s store and styles at her permanent exhibit at the museum.

(This book may contain a sharpie mark on the top or bottom edge and may show mild signs of shelfwear.)