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In the hours after the tragic news that designer and fashion icon Kate Spade died unexpectedly at the age of 55, fashion lovers around the globe took to social media to share their memories of Spade, including what it felt like to buy her whimsical creations and what she meant to them. Plenty of fashion and entertainment’s famous names also shared heartfelt tributes to the beloved designer, including everyone from Anna Wintour to Chelsea Clinton.
It’s clear that Spade touched the lives of people everywhere, from her famous family members to magazine editors and everyone in between. “Kate Spade had an enviable gift for understanding exactly what women the world over wanted to carry. She launched her label at a time when everyone thought that the definition of a handbag was strictly European, all decades-old serious status and wealth,” said Anna Wintour, editor in chief of Vogue.
Some shared memories of their first Kate Spade handbags, or the many times they put on her vibrant designs over the years.
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
Others expressed their deepest sympathies for Spade’s loved ones in the wake of her passing.
I was so excited to be a part of her brand. Devastated for her family. RIP Kate Spade pic.twitter.com/gdAilsJuXZ
— Kat Dennings (@OfficialKat) 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.
— Bette Midler (@BetteMidler) June 5, 2018
Some expressed the painful reminder that you never know what a person is going through in their personal lives.
Heartbroken to hear about Kate Spade. I hope she can be remembered for her legacy of creating a world of whimsy and making simple things feel special and beautiful. If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health, please know you don't have to do it alone | 1-800-273-8255
— nicolette mason (@nicolettemason) June 5, 2018
But the most poignant tributes came from Spade’s family and friends, including former colleagues, her brother-in-law David Spade and her niece, Marvelous Mrs. Maisel actress Rachel Brosnahan.
The actor also posted a sweet shot of the two of them together, captioning the photo, “Fuzzy picture but I love it. Kate and I during Christmas family photos. We had so much fun that day. She was so sharp and quick on her feet. She could make me laugh so hard. I still can’t believe it. It’s a rough world out there people, try to hang on.”
Brosnahan shared a joyous video of her aunt and uncle dancing, writing, “Knowing Katy, this is how she would want to be remembered. She had a light that words can’t capture but touched everyone she came into contact with. She was exceedingly kind, beautifully sensitive, insanely talented, funny as heck and one of the most generous people I have ever known. She was effervescent. Hug your loved ones extra tight today.”
Spade will be forever missed by those who were lucky enough to know her and those who admired her beautiful designs and vision.
If you need help or know someone else who does, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. You can also text HOME to 741741 for free, 24-hour support from the Crisis Text Line.
(Photo via Brian Ach/WireImage)
