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Libby Wadle

Chief Executive, J.Crew

The executive has led J.Crew’s resurgence and helped the Madewell brand become a leader in mass retail.

Libby Wadle

Libby Wadle is the chief executive officer of J.Crew Group. Wadle brings over 30 years of experience to the role, where she oversees J.Crew, J.Crew Factory and Madewell brands, as well as serving on the board of directors. During her tenure she has led J.Crew’s resurgence and was a founding member of the Madewell team, where she helped the start-up brand become a leader in denim retail. Wadle has been named Fortune 40 under 40, Rivet 50 for denim leadership, and one of Fast Company’s Most Creative People in Business.

VITAL STATISTICS

NATIONALITYAmerican
LOCATIONUnited States
Latest News & Analysis
News & Analysis

Gemma D’Auria, Regis Schultz, Libby Wadle and Patrick Chalhoub: The State of Fashion 2026

You can view the BoF VOICES 2025 on-demand video below.


Retail

J.Crew: How to Build an ‘Ageless’ Brand

As the four-decade-old American retailer projects record sales this year, CEO Libby Wadle unpacks how she and her design team were able to win back alienated customers for the BoF-McKinsey State of Fashion 2025.

Retail

J.Crew: How to Build an ‘Ageless’ Brand

As the four-decade-old American retailer projects record sales this year, CEO Libby Wadle unpacks how she and her design team were able to win back alienated customers for the BoF-McKinsey State of Fashion 2025.


Retail

The Year Ahead: Consumers to Reboot Wardrobes for Post-Pandemic Life

Consumers will reallocate wallet share across fashion categories as pent-up demand for newness intersects with more social freedoms. Companies should prepare for this shift by honing data-driven product development and adjusting their inventory mix.

Retail

The Year Ahead: Consumers to Reboot Wardrobes for Post-Pandemic Life

Consumers will reallocate wallet share across fashion categories as pent-up demand for newness intersects with more social freedoms. Companies should prepare for this shift by honing data-driven product development and adjusting their inventory mix.


Retail

Inside J.Crew’s New Look

The retailer’s latest womenswear collection marks chief executive Libby Wadle and designer Olympia Gayot’s attempts to revitalise its brand.

Retail

Inside J.Crew’s New Look

The retailer’s latest womenswear collection marks chief executive Libby Wadle and designer Olympia Gayot’s attempts to revitalise its brand.


Technology

Is a New Model for Manufacturing Finally Here?

Ethical denim-maker Saitex’s automated facility in California is a sign that localised, just-in-time manufacturing may be poised for widespread adoption.

Technology

Is a New Model for Manufacturing Finally Here?

Ethical denim-maker Saitex’s automated facility in California is a sign that localised, just-in-time manufacturing may be poised for widespread adoption.


Retail

Struggling J. Crew Replaces Another CEO

Jan Singer, who only joined the ailing retailer in February, will be succeeded by Madewell chief executive Libby Wadle.

Retail

Struggling J. Crew Replaces Another CEO

Jan Singer, who only joined the ailing retailer in February, will be succeeded by Madewell chief executive Libby Wadle.


Retail

In the Age of Yoga Pants, Madewell Finds Strength in Denim

While sister line J.Crew and rival retailer Gap shuttered dozens of locations, the millennial-centric apparel brand opened four new stores this year.

Retail

In the Age of Yoga Pants, Madewell Finds Strength in Denim

While sister line J.Crew and rival retailer Gap shuttered dozens of locations, the millennial-centric apparel brand opened four new stores this year.


Retail

Will the Launch of Madewell Men's Boost J.Crew?

President Libby Wadle breaks down the fast-growing label’s dual-gender strategy.

Retail

Will the Launch of Madewell Men's Boost J.Crew?

President Libby Wadle breaks down the fast-growing label’s dual-gender strategy.