Kate Spade

Kate Brosnahan was born in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1962. She majored in journalism at Arizona State University (ASU), where she met her future husband, architect Andy Spade. After college, she worked in the accessories and art departments of Mademoiselle, eventually becoming senior fashion editor and head of accessories. In 1991, she left Mademoiselle to start a line of stylish and sensible handbags, and Andy and Kate launched the design company "kate spade handbags" in 1993. Today, Kate Spade also sells stationery, personal organizers, address books, shoes, beauty products, perfume, raincoats, pajamas, eyewear, and a home collection of bedding, bath items, china, and wallpaper. The company, now owned by Neiman Marcus, reports annual sales of around $200 million. It has won numerous fashion awards.