Kate Spade, an iconic fashion designer, died on Tuesday in New York City. She was 55.
The NYPD confirmed today that Spade was found dead in her Manhattan apartment. The cause of death is an apparent suicide at this time.
Born in Kansas City, Missouri, Spade (maiden name: Brosnahan) attended the University of Kansas and later transferred to Arizona State University, where she graduated with a journalism degree in 1985. She first rose to fame as a designer in the ’80s, working for the accessories department of Mademoiselle magazine in the Big Apple. She left the outlet as a senior fashion editor in 1991 to work on her own fashion projects.
In 1994, Spade married Andy Spade, the brother of actor/comedian David Spade. Together, they launched Kate Spade handbags in 1993, which later launched into a clothing store and jewelry line. The first boutique was opened in 1996, located in Manhattan’s SoHo district. There are currently over 140 Kate Spade retail shops and outlet stores across the United States, and more than 175 shops internationally.
Spade sold the Kate Spade brand in 2006, but launched a new brand, Frances Valentine, in 2016. The brand features a collection of handbags and footwear.
In addition to her husband, Spade is survived by their only child together, daughter Frances Beatrix Spade, 13.
If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
SOURCE: ET
