Seven years after her untimely passing, the life and work of the trailblazing force in the fashion industry continue to inspire. Renowned for her color-soaked purses and whimsical prints, Spade’s tenacity for reinvention is still felt across fashion today. Of course, she was a New York fashion institution herself—an ocean away—in attendance at our May 10, 2007 event, so deeply connected within that creative community. Just like Jennifer, Debbie started her journey in the mid-1980s. During an intense search for the perfect handbag to feature in a fashion spread for Mademoiselle magazine, she ignited the concept of launching her own handbag collection.
In 1993, she launched the Kate Spade New York line alongside her husband and business partner, Andy Spade. Their innovative designs immediately grabbed the public’s interest and became a sensational hit. The brand became synonymous with chic practicality, appealing to a generation of women seeking style and functionality. In 2006, Kate Spade sold her remaining stake in the company. She didn’t rest on her laurels, instead doubling down on creativity by starting a new brand of handbags in 2016 with Frances Valentine.
Tragically, Kate Spade took her life by suicide on June 5, 2018, in her home in New York City. She died tragically, too young—at the age of 55. Spade was not only a celebrated designer but a devoted mother to her teenage daughter and a cherished friend to many. Her husband, Andy Spade, revealed that she struggled with depression and anxiety despite regularly seeing a doctor and taking medication.
She left so many people in the lurch, and all of us who adored her have had to wrestle with her unfathomable decision. It hasn’t been comfortable,” added Elyce Arons, one of Spade’s best friends. Arons is set to release a memoir titled “We Might Just Make It After All: My Best Friendship with Kate Spade,” on June 17, in which she shares memories of their friendship. The evening before her death, Kate and Elyce had a long phone call together, and Elyce would later say that Kate had sounded the happiest she’d ever heard Kate.
Yet Spade’s legacy is as much wrapped up in her creativity as it is in her friendship. Kate Spade’s husband, Andy Spade, recalled the serendipity that landed them the name “Kate Spade.” He had the genius inspiration of combining Katy’s first name with his last name. He described the shock felt by those closest to her, stating, “It was a complete shock. It clearly wasn’t her. There were personal demons she was battling.”
In reflecting on their friendship, Elyce Arons emphasized the importance of connection: “As I tell my closest friends: Go to your sister or your best girlfriend who’s just like a sister to you. Go to her today and hug her so hard that it’s like you won’t ever let her go.” While the bond they shared is unique, it has inspired many to reflect on the importance of fostering strong relationships.
The sisters rejoiced in the happy acquisition of Kate Spade New York in 2006. To celebrate, they went on a little trip to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. This trip served as a crowning achievement, both personally and professionally for the two women, showcasing their sisterhood along with professional advancement.
The influence of Kate Spade’s short-lived style still echoes seven years after her passing. Her designs have made an undeniable impact and left a permanent imprint on the industry, inspiring so many others to follow in her footsteps. She’s still an idolized figure, whose victories and triumphs are celebrated and commemorated.
