Kate Spade has died at the age of 55. The fashion designer was found dead in her New York City apartment, according to the New York Times.
Spade reportedly died by suicide. The New York Times reports that she “was discovered unresponsive at a Park Avenue apartment, where she had hanged herself. She had left a note, but the [police] official did not comment on what it said.”
The fashion icon, who was born Katherine Noel Brosnahan, started her career at Mademoiselle magazine in New York City, according to Biography, where she “eventually becoming a senior fashion editor and head of accessories, before leaving in 1991 to put her creative energy toward designing her own line” of Kate Spade handbags. She launched her brand of bright and colorful handbags and accessories in 1993 with her husband Andy Spade. The couple had not been part of the company since 2007 and had focused on other fashion projects over the years.
Many people paid tribute to the fashion icon on social media Tuesday. Take a look at the tweets below:
Social Media Remembers Fashion Icon Kate Spade
Devastated to hear the news about Kate Spade. Such a talented woman. My thoughts are with her loved ones.
— Niomi Smart (@niomismart) June 5, 2018
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
Shocked to hear of Kate Spade’s passing. She was a pioneer for women’s fashion, and to the outside world, a success in every way. But mental illness does not discriminate. No matter who you are. If you ever feel alone, know there is ALWAYS help. Love you.
— Jessica Vosk (@JessicaVosk) June 5, 2018
this kate spade news is so devastating. her designs have always made so many women feel their most confident and classic, and she as a person was a huge part of that.
— Chelsea Fagan (@Chelsea_Fagan) June 5, 2018
Shocking to hear about Kate Spade. She’s so inspirational. Enjoyed her feminine and fun designs. No matter how successful you are, you must be aware of your mental health. pic.twitter.com/erl1MpcFnf
— Amanda (@AmandaLovan) June 5, 2018
RIP Kate Spade. ☹️The first designer purse I ever saved up for and bought from a “fancy store” was yours. Your designs were whimsical, retro, and magical✨You will be missed. pic.twitter.com/WvFrYNWwJ2
— Karina "Crazy Blonde Smut Writer" Halle (@MetalBlonde) June 5, 2018
Devastated to hear the sad news about Kate Spade. My thoughts go to her friends and family. What an incredible woman
— Lily Pebbles (@lilypebbles) June 5, 2018
What absolutely dreadful news about Kate Spade. Her products were so filled with joy, colour and excitement – I really hope she knew how much love she brought to her customers.
— Kat Brown (@katbrown) June 5, 2018
“I think playing dress up begins at age five and never truly ends”
RIP Kate Spade
Thank you for creating such an iconic brand— Brynn Riveland (@BrynnRiveland) June 5, 2018
Just another one of those times when you realize you can't even imagine other people's pain. RIP Kate Spade.
— Maris Kreizman (@mariskreizman) June 5, 2018
RIP Kate Spade, a fashionista & timeless icon pic.twitter.com/TiVUqtWj5N
— (@AlexisLivesLife) June 5, 2018
Really saddened by the news of Kate Spade’s passing. I admire her work so much. ♠️
If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 pic.twitter.com/Bf4K9hqDjK
— Riley (@rmfickfack) June 5, 2018
When we see someone like Kate Spade who is so prominent, successful, seemingly exuding cheer through her creativity, we must remember, everyone suffers. Be kind. Be open.
— J. Dianne Dotson (@jdiannedotson) June 5, 2018
Depression doesn't care about your wealth, power, success, appearance, morality, or popularity.
Dismissing depression and its effects on someone because you envy what they have is a failure to understand depression. It is relentless and cruel and unforgiving.#KateSpade
— Charlotte Clymer️ (@cmclymer) June 5, 2018
Kate Spade was an entrepreneurial and artistic force, and all of us know that already. But what we don't tend to is what's going on behind the scenes. There's no shame in reaching out if you need it. You're not alone, no matter how alone you may feel.
— Anne T. Donahue (@annetdonahue) June 5, 2018
The passing of Kate Spade is a heartbreaking reminder that mental health concerns don't discriminate based on wealth, gender, or social status. For anyone affected by today's news, remember that you can always call the Nt'l Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 ❤️❤️
— Catherine McParland (@Cat_McParland) June 5, 2018
How are you remembering Kate Spade today? Let us know in the comments section below!
Photo credit: Kate Spade, Wikimedia Commons