The fashion world, celebrities and fans alike were shocked to learn that design icon Kate Spade died in an apparent suicide in her New York apartment.
The designer, best known for her brightly colored handbags, was found hanging by her housekeeper at around 10:20 a.m. on Tuesday, according to the Associated Press. She was 55.
Spade began her career in the early 1990s, co-founding Kate Spade Handbags, before branching out into clothes, shoes and other fashion accessories.
— kate spade new york (@katespadeny) 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
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
Damn Kate Spade ????
— Rah Digga (@therealrahdigga) June 5, 2018
Completely blown away about this Kate Spade news .. so sad ????????
— Spinderella (@Spindeezy) June 5, 2018
everyone remembers their first kate spade. rip.
— Kate Bennett (@KateBennett_DC) 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
#KateSpade, whose lively, colorful, and yes, joyous designs has died. My deepest sympathy to her family and friends, and her many fans around the world, who loved the wonderful illusions she created. I am stunned.
— bettemidler (@BetteMidler) June 5, 2018
I remember when I got my first Kate Spade bag in high school. It was my most prized possession. My current wallet ,covered in bees , makes me smile every time I see it- it’s by Kate Spade. My heart is just broken for her family and loved ones.
— Beth Behrs (@BethBehrs) June 5, 2018
Kate Spade and Co donated handbags to our scholars, so they'd show up at their internships looking great and feeling great. They always downplayed their gift, and maybe this sounds silly, but it was a big deal for our young women to show up to an important gig with a great bag. https://t.co/EbmpfSVhxZ
— Soledad O'Brien (@soledadobrien) June 5, 2018
The nicest woman, the first person to compliment me on Liz Lange Maternity when I first started. And the creator of the most iconic brand. I am heart broken by this news. https://t.co/teisqU6JK8
— Liz Lange (@lizlange) June 5, 2018
@DavidSpade – all my love to u dave –
— ROSIE (@Rosie) June 5, 2018
RIP Kate Spade. God damn.
— roxane gay (@rgay) June 5, 2018
Officials said she left a note at the scene, but said they were not authorized to share its details. The news of Spade prompted many to offer support to those in need of metal health treatment.
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
Sadly both Kate Spade and Avicii are reminders that ‘success’ does not equal happiness. So heartbreaking.
— Em Sheldon (@emshelx) June 5, 2018
Don’t give up. People love you.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
— Zach Braff (@zachbraff) June 5, 2018
Every suicide is awful news, whether we recognize the name or not. My heart goes out to Kate Spade’s family and friends.
If you’re struggling, please please please ask for help. You’re not alone. The storm will pass. Life is worth living. Stay and be loved.
— Jamie Tworkowski (@jamietworkowski) June 5, 2018
Saddened by the news of Kate Spade. Always come back to this quote:
“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.”If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
— Taylor Stern (@TayStern) June 5, 2018
After hearing about Kate Spade, please remember the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (1-800-273-8255) is a confidential, safe place free of judgement that’s here for you 24/7
— Candace Lowry (@TheCandaceLowry) June 5, 2018
A few folks I follow have shared these in response to the Kate Spade news, and I will too: the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number is 1-800-273-8255 and the Crisis Text Line is 741741.
— Wesley (@WesleyLowery) June 5, 2018