Kate Spade (55) has been found dead in New York in an apparent suicide

Fashion designer Kate Spade (55) has been found dead in her New York apartment by an apparent suicide.

Details are unclear but The New York Times report she was discovered unresponsive at a Park Avenue apartment by her housekeeper. She was pronounced dead at the scene. She left a note, but the official did not comment on the contents. A police spokesman did not know the whereabouts of Ms Spade’s 13-year old daughter, Frances Beatrix Spade. Ms Spade’s husband was at the scene.

Kate Spade, (born in Kansas City, Missouri)  was an American fashion designer and businesswoman best known for her characterful handbag, clothing and accessories line. Her namesake company rose to fame in the 1990s and was sold in 2007. Last year the company was bought by New York designer Coach in a deal worth €2bn.