The eponymous Kate Spade label was founded in the 90s with a range of handbags the designer's debut fashion collection. Since then, the upscale brand has grown to include a complete range of womenswear, but her line of handbags remains the label's flagship item. Her shoulder bags, totes, satchels and cross-body bags come in high quality leather in simple palettes that make them stylish closet staples, while the occasional bursts of bright colors and patterns reflect the latest trends and fashions. Classically chic, these handbags are designed to last season after season, making them true closet investment pieces.
The Kate Spade Shoulder Bag Buying Guide
Kate Spade’s wide selection of shoulder bags balances functionality and fashion. The brand has created iconic accessories such as the elegant Polly, Romy and Margaux bags and designed coveted contemporary styles, like the Francois, Cabana and Nicola styles. Expect bags that combine thoughtful details, modern, sophisticated colors and elegant silhouettes. Read on for our Kate Spade shoulder bag buying guide, which will help you decide on the style to invest in and tips on how to care for it properly.
The Most Wanted Kate Spade Shoulder Bags
Kate Spade’s Hailey Shoulder Bags
Displaying the brand’s eye for craftsmanship, Kate Spade’s Hailey Shoulder Bag has been made from soft pebbled leather and packed with functional details. A zip pocket, slip pocket and three compartments keep all your essentials organized, while the spade bar link hardware on the handles adds a jewelry-like finishing touch. Finished with a pinmount logo and spade floral-jacquard lining, the Hailey bag comes in a range of colors.
Kate Spade’s Taylor Shoulder Bags
Crafted from durable woven nylon, Kate Spade’s Taylor Shoulder Bag is a functional and pared-back everyday option. The understated design features a spacious interior, which comes with a zip and slip pockets for your receipts and phone. A zip fastening keeps your belongings safe during your commute, while a high-shine enamel spade detail introduces the label’s signature motif. The Taylor is available in different hues, from bold purple to classic black, and also comes in backpack and belt bag versions.
Kate Spade’s Nicola Twistlock Shoulder Bags
Kate Spade’s Nicole Shoulder Bag is easily identifiable thanks to its structured silhouette and striking spade and heart twist stud closure at the flap front. Available in small and medium sizes, the brand’s Nicole design features an adjustable strap for styling versatility and is made from premium Italian leather. An invisible scratch-resistant coating helps protect it from wear and tear, and the convenient slip pocket at the back makes it easy to access smaller essentials. Whether you prefer simple block-colored styles or prefer glitter-embellished, two-tone, polka dot, leopard print, snake effect or wicker options, you will find a Kate Spade Nicole Twistlock Shoulder Bag to suit.
How To Care For Your Kate Spade Bag
All Kate Spade bags come with a green care card, which outlines how to properly clean and maintain the product. Tips on how to care for your bag will depend on the material it is made from.
Classic nylon: Use mild soap and a damp cloth to wipe clean. This should remove any dirt and stains, and should be followed with a dry cloth to prevent any water spots on the fabric. Avoid immersing your fabric bag in water, which can ruin the effect of the lining and the leather trim.
Fabric: The brand recommends cleaning fabric bags with a clean cloth with warm water and mild soap. It is advised to test on an unseen area first, to ensure the material’s color and finish is not affected. Kate Spade’s evening bags are often made with delicate fabrics and details, and cleaning only by dry clean specialists is advised.
Straw: Any Kate Spade bags that are made from straw will usually wear more quickly, and are considered to be seasonal pieces. Store the bag in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Fill with tissue to maintain its shape and ensure it is kept in a dust bag when it is not being carried to prevent delicate straws from breaking.
Leather: The leather used in the brand’s bags is sourced from the finest Italian and Asian tanneries, and has been treated to be water and scratch resistant, If your leather bag gets wet, dry immediately with a soft cloth. To clean, use a damp cloth and a specialist leather cream.
- How can I tell if my Kate Spade bag is real?
You can expect authentic Kate Spade bags to be made to the highest standard, from the neat stitching and premium materials used down to the brand name being correctly spelled. There are other ways to know for sure:
You’ll find two types of labels on Kate Spade bags. An embossed or stamped label can be found at the front side of leather bags, or Kate Spade’s fabric label will be directly stitched onto the bag.
The brand’s logo will appear in lowercase letters and in the same font across all Kate Spade bags.
All bags that were made after 2000 will have ‘New York’ in uppercase letters below the brand’s moniker.
New and authentic Kate Spade bags will come with all tags attached and a care card.
Most Kate Spade bags are stamped with a serial number on the inside. However, some of the smaller purses do not come with a serial number and that is not a sign your bag is a fake.
Authentic Kate Spade bags are sold by Kate Spade retail and outlet stores, as well as authorized department stores, retailers and specialty stores.
- Where are Kate Spade bags made?
Most of the brand’s leather, suede, and calf hair bags are made in Italy. However, there are certain styles that are made in the USA, China, Taiwan, Dominican Republic, Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines. There are also some authentic limited edition Kate Spade bags that are made by local artisans in Masoro, Rwanda. Designed with longevity in mind, Kate Spade’s bags are crafted from either canvas, nylon, leather or suede for durability.
- Are Kate Spade bags good?
Kate Spade bags are renowned for their effortlessly chic style and expert construction. The brand offers some of the best options when it comes to bags that are practical, luxurious and accessibly priced.