Legendary Fashion Designer Kate Spade Dies At 55 After Apparent Suicide

An icon was lost today, as American fashion designer and businesswoman Kate Spade was found dead in her New York City apartment this morning, in what was deemed an apparent suicide. According to early reports, Spade's body was found by a housekeeper in her Park Avenue residence around 10 AM ET. Law enforcement officers claim Spade's body was found hung by her bedroom door knob using a ligature, which was reportedly a red scarf. There was also a note reportedly accompanying her as well. She will undoubtedly be missed, and her fashion legacy will always be legendary. The 55-year-old designer is survived by her husband and her 13-year-old daughter.

Once a former accessories editor for the women's magazine Mademoiselle, Kate Spade started designing handbags in 1993 under the name Kate Spade Handbags, and she began to build her monumental fashion empire with her husband, Andy Spade, the brother of David Spade, throughout the '90s, expanding into clothing and jewelry. They were married in 1994, and the couple worked together and remained together until her untimely death this morning. As recounted by TMZ, the first store made its appearance in 1996. Spade sold the company to the Neiman Marcus Group (which was known then as Liz Claiborne Inc) in 2007 for $125 million.

Kate Spade returned in 2016, however, when she launched her newest fashion line, Frances Valentine, which was named after her daughter. Coach planned to buy Kate Spade's company for a massive $2.4 billion deal last year, although the stock in the company pummeled down 9 percent in first quarter estimations. Kate Spade New York housed more than 140 retail shops and outlet stores across the country. It held 175 stores internationally. She is undoubtedly seen as one of the most famous and iconic women in recent American fashion.

What was transcribed on the note is unknown. On social media, Kate Spade is mourned by many fans today for her life, legacy and tragic death.

Some people wanted to discuss the dangers of depression.

Others took this opportunity to remember their own experiences with Kate Spade's life work, and how her products made such an impact on their lives.

We wish to remember Kate Spade by her own words, transcribed from an interview in 2002 with Glamour.

If you or someone you know have thoughts about suicide, reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK, which is available 24/7 across the United States.