‘The Matrix’ Meets Corporate Chic: Jane Wade FW25 ‘The Merger’
Each piece depicts the hierarchy of work roles in the corporate world, from interns to CEOs.
Image Courtesy of Jane Wade and A Brooks Consulting
From the first look that emerged from Jane Wade’s FW25 show, The Merger, one expression came to mind: “Don’t dress for the job you have, dress for the job you want.” Why? You’re destined to land the job if you’re wearing any piece from this collection. Awaiting the middle of the circular runway is a boardroom where the models murmur amongst one another as a hypothetical larger company acquires the Jane Wade brand. Along the walls of the venue project work documents, DocuSign face identification of the models, and multiple angles of a live stream of the show—personifying hybrid work.
Each piece depicts the hierarchy of work roles in the corporate world, from interns to CEOs. Wade continues her signature silhouettes, linking corporate chic, avant-garde, and utilitarianism, including metal hardware with hints of Victorian elements, such as corsets, long gowns, and exaggerated shoulders in both menswear and womenswear.
“This show examines how we perform corporate theater across both physical and digital spaces,” Wade says. “Every element, from the circular runway to the streaming cameras, reflects how we navigate contemporary professional life through multiple lenses simultaneously.”
Image Courtesy of Jane Wade and A Brooks Consulting
This season, we see a new component of Wade’s distinguished motifs: surveillance. A camera looks down into the boardroom, models wear tech accessories and film as they walk down the runway, and they communicate through earpieces. The vigilante element taps The Matrix, with slick Y2K haircuts and retro yet futuristic sunglasses by BRU Eyewear. The Merger also emphasizes the importance of movement and functionality and the evolution of comfort in the workplace. She pairs high-end couture looks with Nike sneakers and knee socks.
Wade reworks classic workwear into sharp, structural pieces distinct from the Jane Wade brand. She transforms essential button-up shirts, cardigans, trench coats, multi-piece sets, and dresses into architectural designs. Whether the garment contours to the body or drapes along the floor, The Merger shows Jade’s evolution and sophistication in conforming every piece to everybody, fitted or loose, in and out of the office.
The epochal Lisa Rinna closes the show, strutting into the showroom to step up to the plate—looking like the intimidating badass boss everyone fears yet is envious of. She has her eye on the prize; ready to acquire Jane Wade. Her intentions with the brand are unclear, but one thing we know for sure: The Merger is bound for success.
