Anna Sui

by Susan Muaddi Darraj

Published 1 January 2009
Growing up in an academically successful Chinese-American family, Anna Sui was not destined to make her mark as a fashion designer. When Sui left for New York City, America's fashion capital, her mother lamented that her only daughter was wasting her brains in a career that required none. Almost 30 years later, Sui has one of the most sought-after labels in fashion world. Blending rock and roll, bohemian culture, and pure girlishness in her designs, Sui has created a devout following of famous fans, including Madonna, Paris Hilton, and supermodels Linda Evangelista and Christy Turlington. Find out how this girl from suburban Detroit pursued her dream, even when few believed it could come true.