American designer Kate Spade’s shocking death at the age of 55 has left many stunned. Celebrities have taken to social media to share their condolences, as well as stories of how her designs impacted their lives.
Actor and comedian David Spade, who is also her brother-in-law, posted a moving tribute to her on his Instagram. He writes:
“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 cant believe it. Its a rough world out there people, try to hang on.”
The Council of Fashion Designs of America shared their tribute on Instagram by describing Spade as a "great talent who had an immeasurable impact on American fashion and the way the world viewed American accessories". Kate won a CFDA award early in her career, and has credited that moment as the start of her brand's success:
The Islamic Fashion and Design Council also tweeted out their sympathies:
Sending heartfelt condolences to the designer, #KateSpade's family, and loved ones. A striking reminder this #ramadan to always put your #health first. 🌸
— Islamic Fashion and Design Council (@ifdc_org) June 6, 2018
Image credit: @glamourmag pic.twitter.com/EFXha1b3J6
Hollywood was also left saddened and stunned by the news.
Actress Reese Witherspoon tweeted:
My heart and prayers go out to Kate Spade and her family. What a wonderful, talented woman who will be dearly missed.
— Reese Witherspoon (@ReeseW) June 5, 2018
Singer Bette Midler also shared her sympathies:
#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.
— bettemidler (@BetteMidler) June 5, 2018
Singer Carnie Wilson, of Wilson Philips, tweeted:
Rest In Peace #KateSpade ... just so tragic and hard to understand. I just hope that now she’s free from the pain she was feeling. I pray for her daughter, husband and family . So sorry.
— Carnie Wilson (@CarnieWilson) June 6, 2018
Girls creator and star Lena Dunham also shared what Spade meant to her:
Kate Spade was more than a designer. She had a quirky visual language that captivated Bat Mitzvah girls and artists alike. She was also a staple of NYC who spread good will. My heart breaks for her family. Thank you, Kate, from one of the millions you made feel beautiful.
— Lena Dunham (@lenadunham) June 5, 2018
As did Ocean's 8 star Mindy Kaling:
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
Actress Viola Davis wrote:
As "unfussy" as I am, I still loved my Kate Spade bags. Practical, classy, and elegant... Praying for her family...her husband and 13 yr old daughter.
— Viola Davis (@violadavis) June 5, 2018
Chelsea Clinton shared her story of her first Kate Spade bag:
My grandmother gave me my first Kate Spade bag when I was in college. I still have it. Holding Kate’s family, friends and loved ones in my heart.
— Chelsea Clinton (@ChelseaClinton) June 5, 2018
As did actress Olivia Munn, who wished the designer to "rest in love":
My very first designer purse was a black, shoulder strap Kate Spade. I treasured it and was obsessed with keeping the little white Kate Spade label clean. It’s funny how a purse can instantly make you feel like an adult. Rest in love. ❤️❤️❤️⛅️
— o l i v i a (@oliviamunn) June 5, 2018
2 Broke Girls star Beth Behrs also wrote about how her first bag was her most "prized possession":
I remember when I got my first Kate Spade bag in high school. It was my most prized possession. My current wallet ,covered in bees , makes me smile every time I see it- it’s by Kate Spade. My heart is just broken for her family and loved ones.
— Beth Behrs (@BethBehrs) June 5, 2018
The Today show host Savannah Guthrie tweeted:
I loved @katespadeny’s beautiful and whimsical fashions. So sad. Prayers to her family.
— Savannah Guthrie (@SavannahGuthrie) June 5, 2018
Singer Josh Groban tweeted about how "depression does not discriminate":
Depression does not discriminate and comes without warning. RIP Kate Spade. Love to her family.
— josh groban (@joshgroban) June 5, 2018
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Actress Lucy Hale, of Pretty Little Liars, also tweeted, urging those to reach out for help if they needed it:
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 ❤️
— Lucy Hale (@lucyhale) June 5, 2018
And if you struggle with mental illness, know you aren’t alone. There is power in asking for help. The more we talk about it, the more change we can see. Life is worth living and you are worth every second of it. 🙏🏼
— Lucy Hale (@lucyhale) June 5, 2018
Shameless and former Roseanne actress Emma Kenney also thanked Spade for "empowering so many":
my heart is so broken hearing the news of Kate Spade. i grew up rocking her dresses and clothing and feeling SO strong, confident, and beautiful. thank you for your timeless work and empowering so many. my heart and prayers are with Kate and her loved ones. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/NXrzcKiWqy
— Emma Kenney 🌹 (@EmmaRoseKenney) June 5, 2018
