Iconic designer Kate Spade has died at the age of 55 from an apparent suicide.
Her housekeeper discovered the fashion designer’s body at her Park Avenue home on Tuesday after she apparently hung herself with a red scarf.
According to police sources, Spade left a note for her daughter Frances which said she should not blame herself for her suicide.
“This has nothing to do with you,” the note reads in part, according to sources. “Don’t feel guilty. Ask your dad.”
Sources say Spade’s husband, Andrew, was home when the suicide was discovered while Frances was at school.
No criminality is suspected, NYPD Chief of Detectives Dermot Shea said at an unrelated press conference.
“At this point, there was a note left. The contents of that note, as well as the physical state of the apartment and the comments of the witness, led to the credibility that it is an apparent suicide,” he said.
The designer’s family released a statement requesting for privacy as they came to terms with her death.
“We are all devastated by today’s tragedy,” it said.
“We loved Kate dearly and will miss her terribly. We would ask that our privacy be respected as we grieve during this very difficult time.”
Celebrities have taken to social media to pay tribute to the prolific designer.
My heart and prayers go out to Kate Spade and her family. What a wonderful, talented woman who will be dearly missed.
— Reese Witherspoon (@RWitherspoon) June 5, 2018
I am heartbroken about the news of Kate Spade. I have worn her clothes many, many times. They were colorful, bold, cheerful, and encouraged women to find the twinkly person inside them. You couldn’t walk into her boutiques and not smile. Rest In Peace, Kate.
— Mindy Kaling (@mindykaling) June 5, 2018
Here we are in happier times, I’ll miss my dear friend Kate. My thoughts are with her family? pic.twitter.com/OcvjLlXi8e
— Cynthia Rowley (@Cynthia_Rowley) 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
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 New York released a statement calling the news “incredibly sad”.
“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,” the statement said.
“Kate will be dearly missed.”
Spade and her husband started their design company, Kate Spade New York, in 1993.The brand first sold handbags before expanding its range to clothing, jewellery, bedding, legwear and fragrances.
Spade sold her company in 2007; she took time off to raise her daughter.
In 2016, the couple launched Frances Valentine, a new fashion brand which sells footwear and accessories.
We at Beauty News are saddened over the death of Kate Spade. A talented designer who will be missed.
If you are experiencing mental health issues or suicidal feelings contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or BeyondBlue 1300 224 636. If it is an emergency, please call 000.
Stay tuned to Beauty News for more updates.
