On June 5, 2018, the world lost an icon in the fashion industry. Kate Spade, born Katherine Noel Brosnahan, was found dead in her Manhattan apartment at the age of 55. Her sudden death, confirmed to be by suicide, shocked millions and sparked an international outpouring of grief and remembrance for a woman who redefined modern American style.
The Day the Fashion World Stopped
Kate Spade was discovered by her housekeeper around 10:20 a.m. in her Upper East Side home. Reports from the NYPD confirmed that she had hanged herself, and a note was left behind addressed to her daughter, Frances Beatrix Spade. In the note, Spade assured her daughter that her death was not her fault. While no criminal activity was suspected, the emotional weight of the message left a nation mourning not only the loss of a designer but a mother, a wife, and a creative force.
A Life of Elegance and Color
Kate’s story began far from the glossy pages of fashion magazines. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, she started her career in fashion journalism at Mademoiselle magazine in New York City. But it wasn’t long before she pivoted from writing about fashion to designing it.
In 1993, alongside her husband Andy Spade (brother of comedian David Spade), she launched her namesake brand, Kate Spade New York. With just a few handbags and a vision of functional, fashionable accessories that combined crisp colors with clever design, she quickly made waves in the fashion world.
The brand became synonymous with playful sophistication — think polka dots, bold hues, and punchy quotes. By 1999, Neiman Marcus purchased a majority stake in the company for $33.6 million. In 2006, the Spades sold their remaining shares and stepped away from the brand, though its legacy continued to grow.
Beyond Kate Spade: Frances Valentine
After a break from the spotlight, Kate returned to fashion with a new venture: Frances Valentine, launched in 2016. The brand, named partly after her daughter, focused on footwear and accessories and carried her signature whimsy and elegance. Due to trademark reasons, the designs couldn’t mimic those of Kate Spade, but her fingerprint was unmistakable.
Kate even legally changed her last name to Valentine to fully embody the new brand — a testament to her passion and personal connection to her work.
A Creative Mind Behind the Scenes
Kate was known for much more than her stylish creations. She had a vision of a life filled with art, color, fun, and celebration. Many of her most famous quotes reflect her lighthearted but purposeful worldview:
- “She who leaves a trail of glitter is not ever forgotten.”
- “Think that playing dress-up begins at age five and never truly ends.”
- “We believe in celebrations both big and small.”
Her love for personal style, storytelling, and joy resonated with women worldwide, and it made her brand more than just a fashion label; it became a lifestyle.
The Hidden Struggles
Despite her success, Kate Spade battled mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. Her husband, Andy Spade, later revealed that she had been actively seeking help and that her death came as a devastating surprise. The couple, though separated at the time, were still very close and co-parenting their daughter.
Her sister, Reta Saffo, spoke out after her death, saying Kate may have had undiagnosed bipolar disorder and had resisted treatment out of fear it would damage her cheerful brand image. Whether accurate or not, these statements brought renewed attention to how the stigma surrounding mental health can lead to tragedy.
The World Responds
The news of Kate Spade death hit hard, not only in fashion circles but across society. Celebrities, fans, designers, and former clients took to social media to express their condolences. Among them:
“My grandmother gave me my first Kate Spade bag when I was in college. I still have it. Holding Kate’s family, friends, and loved ones in my heart.”
— Chelsea Clinton
In a touching tribute, Kate Middleton wore a Kate Spade dress on World Mental Health Day — a symbolic nod to the brand’s enduring influence and the urgent need to address mental illness openly and compassionately.
A Legacy That Lives On
Today, Kate Spade’s legacy remains firmly intact. Her original brand continues to thrive under new ownership, while Frances Valentine is carried on by her business partner and best friend, Elyce Arons, with Kate’s niece, actress Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), serving as the face of the brand.
Beyond fashion, Kate’s legacy includes a vital reminder: success, style, and smiles do not always reflect the struggles within. Her story has led to greater awareness and advocacy around mental health, helping to reduce stigma and encourage others to seek help.
Final Thoughts
Kate Spade was more than a designer. She was a visionary who added joy, color, and whimsy to women’s lives around the world. Her tragic death left a void, but her legacy — and the conversations her life and passing inspired — continue to shine brightly.
