The fashion mogul has left behind a shining legacy, that boasts over 175 stores internationally.
I was shattered when the news broke. The Associated Press reported on Tuesday that Kate Spade, 55, was found hanging by a scarf by her housekeeping staff in her Manhattan apartment at 10:20 A.M; and that prima facie it looked like an apparent suicide. The Hollywood Reporter added that she left a note. It was a moment of immense sadness, as the legendary fashion icon has inspired women all over the world.
Kate Valentine was born in December 24, 1962 and was known professionally as Kate Spade. She was an American fashion designer and businesswoman and was the beloved founder and former co-owner of her eponymous designer brand Kate Spade New York (She sold all her shares by 2006)
Over the years Kate has crafted a special place in all our hearts. Her lively, loving personality influenced her many creations, some of which encouraged us to enjoy the smaller things in life- like a tumbler that urged us to ‘Eat Cake For Breakfast’ and many other epithets like ‘Sparkle & Shine’; that represented her joie de vivre! Spade even told Glamour magazine in 2002 that she hoped people remembered her not just as a good businesswoman but as a great friend — and a heck of a lot of fun- an ebullience that shone through in every one of her designs!
And like many of you, I have my own story to share. Growing up in the 90’s I was more of a tomboy, someone who cared more about tennis games and basketball matches and getting my knees dirty than carrying an elegant purse. Till the summer of ’95. My fashionable older sister bought me my very first Kate Spade New York ‘Weekender Bag’ in 1995. I remember the nylon fabric, soft against my skin, the shiny fabric and even the ‘new bag smell’ – and my lifelong love story with Kate Spade blossomed! I carried a Kate Spade tote to my first job interview and even wore Kate Spade shoes for my engagement party. I associated the brand with infinite happiness.
Kate’s designs were vibrant, full of love and bursts of colour. Just owning even a single bag from her dramatic collections made women feel happy, mature, sophisticated and ready to take on the world. The brand, a brainchild of Kate and her husband Andy Spade largely loved for its colour -pop look has grown exponentially, and is world renowned for its handbags, clothing, shoes, jewelry, accessories, kid wear as well as home décor accents.
Over the years Kate’s mantra remained to surround yourself with the things you loved and to discard the excess. So, to know that the very same person who encouraged a life of rainbows, butterflies and all things nice committed suicide, has left me feeling incredibly crestfallen. Kate Spade will never be forgotten, but her passing is a serious reminder to us all to take mental illness seriously. Call your loved one’s often and check in on them regularly.
Our prayers go out to Kate’s family, friends and loved ones. May they stay strong through it all.