Remembering Kate Spade: A Friendship's Story
It’s been seven years since the tragic death of fashion icon Kate Spade, and the world is still feeling the loss. This month, however, a new light is shed on her life and legacy with the release of "We Might Just Make It After All: My Best Friendship With Kate Spade," a memoir penned by her close friend, Elyce Arons. This isn’t just another celebrity biography; it’s a deeply personal account of a nearly forty-year friendship, revealing a side of Kate Spade the public never truly knew.
A Bond Forged in College
Arons paints a vivid picture of their shared journey, starting from their college days at the University of Kansas. They were scholarship students with big dreams, a love for vintage finds (honestly, who hasn't spent hours digging through thrift stores?), and a shared desire to make it big in New York City. Their personalities, though different – Arons describing herself as a "farm girl" contrasting with Spade's polished prep style – created a dynamic that fueled their bond. They even bonded over their shared obsession with “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” which I think is pretty relatable.
The book details their contrasting backgrounds: a stark contrast to the polished public image Spade cultivated. It gives a poignant look into their evolving friendship, the shared ambitions, and the inevitable challenges of navigating life together. Their shared struggles and successes created a bond that spanned decades. I found that really touching.
Beyond the Handbags: The Private Kate
Arons’ memoir doesn't shy away from the complexities of Spade’s life. It explores the pressures of success, the demands of building a global brand (Kate Spade New York!), and the unspoken struggles that often accompany fame. While the book celebrates Kate Spade’s undeniable influence on fashion, it also serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness. Arons subtly conveys the emotional toll fame took on her friend. Losing her, as Arons writes, "is a permanent ache."
Key Takeaways: More Than Just a Handbag
- The memoir reveals a deeply personal and often humorous side to Kate Spade, contrasting sharply with her carefully crafted public image.
- It highlights the importance of supporting friends and loved ones struggling with mental health issues.
- Arons’ honest account encourages open conversations about mental health, helping to break down the stigma surrounding depression and suicide.
- The book beautifully captures a long-lasting friendship, showcasing its complexities, joys, and heartbreaking end.
A Legacy of Style and a Call for Empathy
“We Might Just Make It After All” isn’t just a story about Kate Spade; it’s a story about friendship, ambition, and the often-hidden struggles we all face. It’s a testament to the power of human connection and a powerful call for greater empathy and understanding. It leaves you with a profound sense of Kate Spade’s humanity and the lasting impact she had on those who knew and loved her. The book’s release is a reminder that behind the designer label, there was a real woman with dreams, flaws, and ultimately, a tragic end. It's a reminder to cherish our loved ones and reach out to those who might be struggling.
If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or go to 988lifeline.org.
