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Kate Spade (born Katherine Noel Brosnahan), the legendary American fashion designer and businesswoman was found dead in her New York City apartment on Tuesday.

Sources from the New York Police Department (NYPD) confirmed to media outlets that Kate Spade was found dead of an apparent suicide.

A housekeeper discovered her hanged by a scarf tied to a door knob at around 10:30 a.m. Eastern Time. Kate Spade left a suicide note telling her 13-year old daughter that it was not her fault. Her daughter was at school while her husband Andy Spade was in the apartment at the time, according to the Associated Press.

In a statement, a spokesman for her family said, “We are all devastated by today’s tragedy, We loved Kate dearly and will miss her terribly. We would ask that our privacy be respected as we grieve during this very difficult time.”

Immeasurable impact on American fashion

Following the sad news about Kate Spade, Diane von Furstenberg and Steven Kolb issued a statement on behalf of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA)

"The CFDA is devastated to hear the news of our friend, colleague, and CFDA member Kate Spade’s tragic passing. She was a great talent who had an immeasurable impact on American fashion and the way the world viewed American accessories.”

"We want to honor her life and her major contribution to the fashion business and express our most sincere condolences to the family," according to the statement.

Kate Spade was a two-time recipient of the CFDA International Award, which is considered the counterpart of the Oscar for the fashion industry.  She won the award in 1996 and 1998.

In January 1993, together with her husband Andy Spade, founded Kate Spade New York. The company’s handbags became a big sensation in the fashion industry during the 1990s.

Since its establishment, Kate Spade New York became a global lifestyle brand. It has nore than 140 retail shops and outlet stores across the United States. It has also over 175 stores overseas.

In a tweet, the company wrote, “Kate Spade, the visionary founder of our brand, has passed. Our thoughts are with her family at this incredibly heartbreaking time. We honor all the beauty she brought into this world.”

More than a fashion designer

Better Middler and Chelsea Clinton are among the celebrities who expressed sympathy to Kate Spade's family and friends.

#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.

— Bette Midler (@BetteMidler) June 5, 2018

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

 

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