5 Awesome things from Jane by Design

Jane by Design was a ABCfamily show that went for 18 episodes and was recently and sadly cancelled. This post looks at 5 of the best things in no order that were in the show and reasons that this is a must see show despite its cancellation.



1. Erica Dasher
The main character of Jane Quimby couldn't have been cast better than Erica Dasher. The character is juggling the lives of a teenager and a fashion assistant and needed to be able to be believable in both these areas. Dasher is able to do this with ease as well as bringing both comedy and emotion to the character of Jane. As well as making the character come to life and making the personality and tribulations of Jane important to the viewer, Dasher is also able to have believable chemisty with all her main cast members. Be it with Andie McDowell as her boss, her many love interests or her brother it is clear that Dasher has chemistry with each and lights up the screen.


2. The many John Hughs References
The 80's saw the rise of John Hughs with hit mvies such as; 16 candles, Pretty in Pink, Home Alone and the Breakfast club. These movies and more are considered classic teen movies today and are watched by many. Jane by Design uses a lot of the ideas in general in the construction of the high school aspect of the show as well as using some direct links to past movies of Hughs. First and foremost is the similarity of Jane to Molly Ringwald's character Andie in Pretty and Pink. Both are fasionble outsiders with a male best friend. The show also has examples such as the time when Billy pretends to forget Jane's birthday which on screen is reminiscent to the film 16 candles and a dress that seems to be inspired by Pretty in Pink as well as others throughout.

 3. Billy and Jane

Whether you end up preferring the two as a couple or remaining best friends the two are still one of the most enjoyable parts of the show. As the show progresses seeing the two be there for each other and give up their own needs for each other shows the depth of their friendship and strengthens their individual characters. The two are both likeable characters on their own but it is when they are together that there are some great banter, emotional and comedic scenes.

4. Jane's Outfits
The show in general has some interesting fashion attire within the design house of Donovan Decker but it is Jane's ever changing outfits that can be convereted from school to fashion world that catch the eye. Jane will generally have at least 2 different ensembles each episode that are in her own distinct style.

5.  The catchy music and vibe
The show has pop songs throughout that match the type of show this is: a light hearted and earnest dramedy. The theme song is especially catchy and again works perfectly with the shows themes and plots.