Kate Spade, the Iconic Designer Behind Handbag Empire, Found Dead of Apparent Suicide

Kate Spade has been found dead of an apparent suicide. She was 55.

The body of the celebrated fashion designer was found Tuesday morning by a housekeeper in her Manhattan apartment, according to multiple reports. 

A note was also found in the residence, The Associated Press reported.

Born in Kansas City in 1962, Spade rose to prominence in the '90s with her vibrant line of handbags. The accessories later extended to clothing, eyewear and bedding.

She sold her shares of Kate Spade New York in 2006. A decade later, she started a new company, Frances Valentine, which focused on shoes and handbags.

Chelsea Clinton and Ivanka Trump were among those commenting on Spade's death on social media.

Kate Spade New York has more than 140 retail shops and outlet stores in America and more than 175 shops overseas, according to The AP.

In an eerie coincidence, Spade was the answer to a "Jeopardy!" question on the night before her death in a "Designer Initials" category: “She made a name for herself in the 1990s with her handbags: K.S."

She is survived by her husband, Andy Spade, and 13-year-old daughter, Frances.

RELATED STORIES