“Kate Spade was a true fashion icon who brought joy to the lives of women around the world and inspired women to live life to the fullest. We are dedicated to carrying on her legacy,” said Anna Bakst, brand president and chief executive officer of Kate Spade New York. “The outpouring of love on social media and in our shops from customers of all ages has been overwhelming and moving, It is such a beautiful reflection of how much Kate was loved.”
Baskt poignantly added, “Mental health does not discriminate; it is complicated and difficult to diagnose and can often be life-threatening. We hope that our support will shed even more light on the disease and encourage those who suffer from mental health issues to seek help. Collectively, we must all do more.”
The handbag giant will begin by donating $250,000 to the Crisis Text Line. Not only that, but the company will match public donations made, up to the amount of $100,000. Donations can be made from June 20 – 29 through crisistextline.org/katespadeny.
Kate Spade was known for her utilitarian shapes and colourful palettes, making women all over the world fall in love with colourful handbags. She and her husband Andy walked left the company in 2007, and after just a year it was acquired for $125 million by Liz Claiborne Inc. and was later sold to what is now Tapestry, Inc.
Held in the same location where her grandparents wed, Kate’s funeral took place on Thursday, with many mourners clutching their Kate Spade bags in tribute.
