Since 1993, we have known Kate Spade New York as the unapologetically feminine, whimsical, fun, and playful fashion line. 2018 marks the 25th birthday of her eponymous brand. To commemorate the 25-year milestone, celebrations and party planning are in the works. But instead, I, like others, am remembering fashion designer Kate Spade’s legacy.
Kate Spade’s designs transcended generations with her 1950s silhouettes, universal figure-flattering A-line dresses, and skirts, and coveted affordable and functional nylon bags in the late 1990s. The brand extended to clothing, jewelry, shoes, stationery, eyewear, baby items, fragrances, tabletop, bedding, and gifts.
Kate left a trail of tears on June 5, 2018, when we learned of her suicide. She had 25 years of “Living Colorfully.” It looked like she had everything: a successful brand with the power of a name. Kate and her husband Andy built an empire so tremendous that they sold 56 percent in 1999 to Neiman Marcus Group. 7-years later, the remaining 44 percent in 2006 for nearly $60 million.
KSNY is still widely famous under the umbrella of the multinational luxury fashion company Tapestry. Tapestry, formerly Coach, paid $2.4 billion for Kate Spade New York: Kate’s new venture, Frances Valentine, in 2016. The new line is luxury footwear and handbags.
We knew Kate, the brand, but did we know Kate, the person? The 55-year-old Midwesterner granted few interviews. Ms. Spade is neither the social butterfly nor has seen much over the last ten years. We assumed she had the bubbly persona displayed in the clothing. Usually, polka dots, glitter, bows, and bright colors are the things we love about the colorful brand.
The suffering, the pain, and or perhaps the turmoil. We are all vulnerable and subject to mental illness—some more than others. We must take precautions to keep our psychological fitness in check.
Suicide, unfortunately, as reported in a recent government report, has increased since 1999, especially among women. Celebrity suicides raise awareness. Many people die of self-annihilation daily. A local Central Pennsylvania psychologist says it’s a public health issue.
An emotion of shame and the stigma of mental illness can push someone over the edge. As a pharmaceutical sales specialist, for years, I sold a drug for a mental disorder. It is not easy to consistently detect the road that leads to suicide. However, there is a laundry list of signs and symptoms. We can do our part by watching out for the warning signs among family and friends.
Know Some of the Warning Signs:
♣ Talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, a burden to others, or wanting to die.
◊ Unusual mood swings or withdrawal from family, friends, and usual activities.
♣ Giving away important possessions
◊ Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
♣ Increased anxiety, sadness/depression, and isolation
◊ Buying a gun
To Get Help:
If you need help 24-7, call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. Most importantly, the hotline provides free and confidential support for people in distress and prevention and crisis resources, including pointing the person to resources in their community.
According to recent articles, to honor the late founder, the Kate Spade company announced a $1 million donation to mental health awareness, starting with a $250,000 donation to the Crisis Text Line.
The Crisis Text Line is a non-profit organization in the United States that provides free crisis intervention via SMS (text message). The organization’s services are available 24 hours a day by texting HOME to 741741.
Kate, your legacy remains. You built an extraordinary community of charm, personal style, and glamour. I pray you are at peace, and blessings to your daughter, husband, and family.
Thank you for reading. Have a fabulous week!
