Following the death of American fashion designer, Kate Spade which prompted an outpouring of grief among fans and her company’s customers across the globe.
The lady behind the iconic, accessible handbag line that bridged Main Street and high-end fashion, hanged herself in an apparent suicide Tuesday at her Manhattan apartment, according to New York Police Department.
In 1994 she started the fashion brand Kate Spade Handbags, which went on to become a global empire. It became one of the biggest names in female accessories, worn by stars including the Duchess of Cambridge, Anne Hathaway and Anna Kendrick.
— kate spade new york (@katespadeny) June 5, 2018
Tributes have poured in for the designer from both the fashion fraternity and the global community.
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 (@ChelseaClinton) June 5, 2018
Kate Spade’s tragic passing is a painful reminder that we never truly know another’s pain or the burden they carry. If you are struggling with depression and contemplating suicide, please, please seek help. https://t.co/eruSexNoGj
— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) June 5, 2018
Correction: My* heart goes out to Kate Spade’s family. May we all take note that we never know what goes on in someone’s life. Be kind to people today, even those you think have it all. https://t.co/1UW8SkshI8
— Maria Shriver (@mariashriver) June 5, 2018
Very saddened to hear about the passing of Kate Spade. Mental illness does not discriminate and can happen to anyone with any circumstances. I hope she has found peace ❤
— Lucy Hale (@lucyhale) June 5, 2018
Kate Spade was more than a designer. She had a quirky visual language that captivated Bat Mitzvah girls and artists alike. She was also a staple of NYC who spread good will. My heart breaks for her family. Thank you, Kate, from one of the millions you made feel beautiful.
— ? Lena Dunham ? (@lenadunham) June 5, 2018
Depression does not discriminate and comes without warning. RIP Kate Spade. Love to her family.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
— josh groban (@joshgroban) June 5, 2018
Grieving for the family of Kate Spade, breakthrough designer and woman of style and substance. Pls write down this number and use it if you or someone you love is in danger. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
— Cindi Leive (@cindi_leive) June 5, 2018
RIP Kate Spade – the world will remain colourful thanks to you pic.twitter.com/dGAXNMwubE
— Melissa Stephen (@melissastephen) June 5, 2018
This is my wife’s favorite bag and her closet full of Kates. And our towels too. Money does not buy happiness. #shocked #katespadenewyork pic.twitter.com/MgoEJGlkrA
— Tweety McRanterson (@MiggiNiad) June 5, 2018
The passing of Kate Spade is a stark reminder that we never know the struggles of a person regardless of their outward persona. If you or anyone you love is struggling, there is help. You don’t have to be alone.
The Natl Suicide Prevention Hotline is 1-800-273-8255 #RIPKateSpade— Nikki Haley (@nikkihaley) June 5, 2018
A year into being an attorney, my first splurge on myself was my (still) perfect #KateSpade black purse. Functional, crisp, professional, gorgeous. It takes a beautiful mind to design beautiful things. #RIP pic.twitter.com/NieF3sS7uI
— ℂ???? (@ChayaBaliga) June 5, 2018
I was 22 when I moved to NYC and got my first real job and it even paid overtime. My first check that had OT hours in it, I set aside that money and bought myself a @katespadeny bag. It was 1998 and I felt so proud and successful. #RIPKateSpade ♥️
— alyssa mastromonaco (@AlyssaMastro44) June 5, 2018