Who Is Kate Spade? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Kate Spade, born on December 24, 1962, in Kansas City, Missouri, was not just a name in the fashion industry but a pioneer, renowned for her modern and sophisticated handbag designs. She made a significant mark on the world of fashion before her untimely passing in 2018. As of 2025, Kate would have been 62 years old, and her influence continues to thrive within the fashion world. Known for her bright colors and playful sophistication, Kate Spade’s legacy lives on through her collections and various brand collaborations.
Occupation | Fashion Designers |
---|---|
Date of Birth | December 24, 1962 |
Age | 55 Years |
Birth Place | Kansas City, Missouri, U.S. |
Horoscope | Capricorn |
Country | U.S |
Date of death | 5 June, 2018 |
Died Place | New York City, U.S. |
Popularity
Kate Spade's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific measurements can vary, Kate Spade was known for her petite stature, standing at approximately 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm). Her weight fluctuated throughout her life but was generally maintained around an average range for her height. The iconic designer was often celebrated for her chic style, which reflected not only in her fashion designs but also in her personal wardrobe choices.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Kate Spade was married to Andy Spade, the brother of comedian David Spade, from 1994 until her passing in 2018. Together, they had a daughter named Frances Beatrix Spade, born in 2005. The couple was often seen as a supportive partnership in both their personal and professional lives, collaborating on various projects. Unfortunately, details about her relationship status are now outdated, as Kate Spade is no longer with us, but her family continues to honor her legacy.
She was of mostly Irish descent. After graduating from St. Teresa's Academy, an all-female Catholic high school, Spade attended the University of Kansas. She later transferred to Arizona State University. She joined the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority and graduated with a journalism degree in 1985, thinking she would go into television production.
While in college, she worked in sales at Carter's Men Shop, a men's clothing store in Phoenix; her co-worker was Andy Spade, who later became her husband and business partner.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of her untimely death, Kate Spade's estimated net worth was around $200 million. Her brand, Kate Spade New York, contributed significantly to this figure, showcasing her success in creating a globally recognized fashion company. In the years following her passing, her brand has continued to grow under the management of licensing partners and has expanded its product offerings, further solidifying her financial legacy.
After Spade's death, her sister, Reta Saffo, told the media her suicide was "not unexpected". She believed Spade had suffered from bipolar disorder throughout her life, aggravated by the fame and wealth she achieved in her 30s.
On several occasions, Reta had tried to convince her sister to get treatment, but Spade feared the stigma of mental illness would hurt her brand. Saffo suspected her sister had been contemplating suicide since actor Robin Williams hanged himself in 2014, media coverage of which, she claimed, captivated Spade.
The last time the two had talked, she said, Spade had asked her to come to her funeral, even though she knew Saffo did not like going to those events. She insisted to Saffo that she was not considering suicide.
Career, Business, and Investments
Kate Spade co-founded her namesake brand, Kate Spade New York, in 1993, focusing on handbags that combined style and functionality. Her innovative designs quickly gained popularity, and she branched out into clothing, accessories, and home goods. After selling a majority stake in her brand in 2006, Kate remained actively involved until 2017. She also co-founded another brand, Frances Valentine, named after her daughter, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and adaptability in a fast-paced industry.
Katherine Noel Valentine Brosnahan Spade (born Katherine Noel Brosnahan; December 24, 1962 – June 5, 2018) was an American fashion designer and entrepreneur. She was the co-founder and co-owner of the designer brand Kate Spade New York.
Social Network
Kate Spade was not just a designer but also a trendsetter in the world of social media. While she might not have been as active on today's platforms, her legacy lives on through the millions of followers her brand garners on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. The brand continues to engage with fans and fashion enthusiasts, celebrating Kate's spirit and creativity through social media campaigns and lifestyle content.
Education
Kate Spade graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in Journalism before venturing into the fashion industry. She began her career in fashion journalism, working at Mademoiselle magazine. Her experience in journalism and passion for fashion laid the foundation for her successful career as a designer. She later honed her skills at the fashion house of Ellen Tracy, which further propelled her into her own brand.