By Julia Szabo
Kate Spade, née Katie Brosnahan, passed too soon into fashion’s pantheon—the beloved designer’s untimely 2018 death is still mourned by her well-heeled-and-handbagged fans, who continue to sport the many timeless items bearing her name, from totes to eyeglass frames. Happily, Spade’s Golightly spirit and impeccable style live on in her final creative project: Frances Valentine, the label she co-created with her husband, Andy, and close friend Elyce Arons, who calls FV “a modern American lifestyle brand with a joyful perspective.”
Embroidered tunics, Mary Jane flats and a world of wicker bags—plain or embellished, structured or less so—all are destined to become required resort staples, on par with Lilly Pulitzer shifts or Jack Rogers sandals. The Delightful Caftan—essentially an elongated tunic, a peony print in white, navy or robin’s egg blue—is just the thing to pair with heels and a Buccellati parure for an East End evening. Sustainability is prioritized alongside style, with FV finery packaged in biodegradable and/or reusable packaging (including poly bags made from 70 percent cornstarch and 30 percent PLA/PBAT).
There was no more perfect summer home for this newcomer than Southampton: “We were thrilled to find a beautiful location in the heart of Jobs Lane for Frances Valentine,” says co-founder Arons. “It is such a beautiful street, perfect location and fun for people to explore the town. We have been so welcomed by all of our neighbors, and although my home is officially in Bridgehampton, I just love Southampton.” 42 Jobs Lane, Southampton; francesvalentine.com