The fashion industry was shaken when designer Kate Spade was found dead from an apparent suicide on June 5. Her women’s lifestyle brand, Kate Spade New York, which featured everything from handbags and clothing to jewelry and stationery, was more than just a collection of cheerfully bright-colored accessories — it paved the way for affordable luxury goods.

In honor of her legacy, we remember how the designer left her mark on the fashion world.

Accessible luxury
With handbags priced between $200 to $400, Kate Spade New York was one of the first to make luxury items affordable and accessible. Spade stuck with classic designs that were never too trendy to ensure it’d never go out of style.

Intended to make you smile
Anyone who’s walked into a Kate Spade New York store knows what we mean. Her bright and bold colors are intended to leave you feeling good inside and out.

Made for women by women
As one of the first fashion-accessory-turned-lifestyle brands, Spade designed each piece for the modern working woman (think office-friendly designs!).

xx, The FabFitFun Team

If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression, please refer to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.