Jane Wade, a 2024 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist, recently led a workshop at Google’s New York offices as part of the second edition of the CFDA x Google Fashion Fellowship, sharing an inside look at the systems and strategies behind building an independent fashion business. A former Alexander Wang designer, Wade walked the fellowship cohort through her end-to-end design and production process, demonstrating how she leverages Google tools to organize collections, streamline operations, and make informed business decisions throughout each season.

Using her own brand as a case study, Wade guided designers through the development of bill of materials (BOM) templates, cost tracking, pricing strategies, wholesale margins, and production timelines. She also shared how she organizes pattern development, sketches, colorways, production documents, stockist information, and order confirmations within Google Drive, creating a centralized workflow that improves efficiency from concept to delivery. The session emphasized the importance of understanding unit profitability, managing production costs, and building systems that support long-term business growth.

Looking ahead, Wade is collaborating with Google to explore how artificial intelligence can further enhance the design process, including automating monthly reporting, extracting data from order forms, and identifying opportunities to improve operational efficiency and increase margins. Through the CFDA x Google Fashion Fellowship, designers are gaining practical tools that empower them to grow stronger, more sustainable businesses while embracing the possibilities of emerging technology.

The CFDA x Google Fashion fellowship will run through fall 2026.

Photos courtesy of @Aana.Create.