Kate Spade
Launched in 1993, Kate Spade may be best defined as a brand where American classic meets retro quirky…with a dash of debutante. What started with simple nylon box totes in three basic hues has today flourished into a vast collection of Handbags, Shoes, Accessories, Apparel, Jewelry, Baby Items, Fragrances and Glasses, as well as Paper and Home designs. Kate Spade creations are revolutionary in that they possess high appeal factor, while foregoing trendy character. Kate, who began the company with her husband Andy, best sums up her philosophy by stating “if it will be out of style tomorrow, it won’t be added to the line today.”
Perky pops of primary and candy colors against gleaming white back-drops and floors first greet you at a Kate Spade shop. Handbags and shoes are primly displayed in back-lit, geometric-shaped insets along walls, while interior glass cases-that you can actually reach into yourself-behold sparkly baubles and unique accessories. Dark wood shelving and built-ins are a rich contrast and showcase other popular items like whimsical paper goodies.
Handbags and shoes are what make Kate Spade the must-have accessory to a gorgeous life. Charming yet sophisticated purses, clutches and totes boast brights like lime, peony and lemon cleverly combined with cotton canvas, adorned wicker, woven jacquard and pebbled leather. Accents like bold zebra linings, 14K gold-plated hardware, bejeweled butterflies and raffia fringe make for an unexpected play. Wallets, Cosmetic Cases and Small Goods pleasantly coordinate with these preppy-chic designs. Jewelry dazzles with brilliant-colored rhinestone, cool graphic and bitty bug designs, while accessories like dramatic, oversize sunglasses-even chic readers-make magnificent impact. Paper products include Invitations, Stationery and Organizers, and fanciful items such as place cards that read, “Playing footsie is encouraged.”
Originally introduced in 1999, Jake Spade is the company’s line designed for men and the busy lives they lead. Messenger Bags, Utility Bags, Travel Bags, Small Goods and Accessories are stylish and sturdy, featuring both mod and traditional colors and textures. These witty collections are available in various Jack Spade shops, as well as online.
Kate Spade values connecting with the community and has supported various women’s and children’s organizations including Women for Women International, a group that supports women of war-torn countries, and Publicolor, which helps perk up schools and communities with imaginative paint projects. A most personal collaboration was with the Make-A-Wish Foundation when Ms. Spade co-designed a handbag with Yali, a 15-year-old girl battling cancer. As a contribution, 50% of the retail price of the “Yali” bag was given back to Make-A-Wish.
A long way from 1996 when the first shop opened in New York City’s Soho, Kate Spade is now available via its namesake shops, as well as specialty retailers, across the globe. With a self-described “modern classic” look that epitomizes style, Kate Spade has aced fashion excellence.
For more information, visit www.katespade.com
By Suzanne Petrizzi
