Celebrities, fans and the fashion world pay tribute to designer Kate Spade

Kate Spade
Tributes have poured in for designer Kate Spade [Photo: Getty]

Touching tributes have poured in for fashion designer, Kate Spade, who sadly passed away yesterday in a suspected suicide.

Fashion insiders, celebrities and politicians have taken to social media to share fond memories of the “wonderful” designer.

Her namesake company – which was sold back in 2007 – was one of the first to lead the tributes, as the American label released a statement which read: “Although Kate has not been affiliated with the brand for more than a decade, she and her husband and creative partner, Andy, were the founders of our beloved brand. Kate will be dearly missed.”

Kate co-founded the fashion empire with her husband, Andy Spade, back in the 1990s before opening her first store in 1996.

Famed for her handbags, there are now 140 stores across the United States alone and more than 175 on an international scale.

Kate Spade
Kate Spade photographed alongside her husband Andy back in 2017 [Photo: Getty]

The likes of Lena Dunham, Reese Witherspoon and Chelsea Clinton shared nostalgic memories of the late designer via Twitter and gave their condolences to her family.

Actress Lena Dunham wrote: “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.”

While fellow actress, Reese Witherspoon, called the designer a “wonderful, talented woman” and sent her “heart and prayers” to Kate Spade and her family.

Chelsea Clinton also took to Twitter to reflect on her fondest memory of Kate Spade, as she wrote: “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.”

Former ‘Sex and the City’ star, Kristin Davis, took to Twitter to write: “I’ve worn Kate Spade for as long as i can remember, I’m thinking of her family.”

Meanwhile, fans of the brand shared their own personal memories of Kate Spade with candid stories on when they purchased their very first handbag.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, you can call the Samaritans anonymously on 116123.


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