Fashion designer, Kate Spade has been found dead in her New York apartment aged 55.
The discovery was made this morning.
Officials say the body of the 55-year-old businesswoman was found by housekeeping staff inside her Park Avenue apartment this morning. They say she left a note at the scene.
It is not known when she died, and the city’s medical examiner will perform an autopsy.
Tributes to the designer and her signature jaunty but practical bags began flooding on to social media almost immediately after the news became public, many from women who recalled poignantly how her distinctive style had brightened their youth.
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 â¤ï¸
— Lucy Hale (@lucyhale) June 5, 2018
My heart hurts hearing about Kate Spade. Such a creative and inspiring woman. Please remember you are never alone, no matter how lonely you may feel in the moment.
The National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
— Andrea Russett (@AndreaRussett) June 5, 2018
Kate Spade’s tragic passing is a painful reminder that we never truly know another’s pain or the burden they carry. If you are struggling with depression and contemplating suicide, please, please seek help. https://t.co/eruSexNoGj
— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) June 5, 2018
Kate Spade taught me about how colorful life can be. She was an inspiration to so many, and she will be missed so greatly. We lost an iconic woman today, Rest in Peace, Kate Spade â¤ï¸ @katespadeny pic.twitter.com/ni9pQK47Jl
— Jeannie Mai (@jeanniemai) June 5, 2018
Spade created a line of sleek handbags in the early 1990s that created a smash on the world fashion scene.
Her brand, Kate Spade New York, has more than 140 retail shops and outlet stores across the US and more than 175 shops internationally.
