

Originally, the business started out with the Sam handbag. Kate Spade New York started after a suggestion from Andy when Katherine was unsure about her next career move after working six years at Mademoiselle. Kate Spade New York was founded in 1993 by Katherine Noel Brosnahan and her husband/business partner Andy Spade.

The team slowly worked their way up the social ladder until they were able to create a company that would be noticed by the public. She also researched the styles, fabrics, and potential production costs of making her own handbags. To get inspiration, Kate browsed local flea markets and secondhand stores. It was in New York that Katherine worked as a style editor for Mademoiselle, but left in 1991 (with the title of senior editor/head of accessories) to start her own handbag line. In 1986, after completing their education, the couple moved to New York City. Katherine majored in journalism, while Andy majored in architecture. It is there that she met her future husband, Andy Spade. Eventually she moved to Arizona, where she attended Arizona State University and graduated in 1985. She grew up in Kansas City and went to an all-girls Catholic high school. Katherine Noel Brosnahan (later known as Kate Spade) was born on December 24, 1962, in Kansas City, Missouri.

Temporary shop in New York Prior to company creation
