A few lucky women have been born with style -- think Diana Vreeland and Jacqueline Onassis -- but for most of us, style is something that comes with time and experience. Above all, style begins with a sense of who you are and your self-confidence. Style comes from opening yourself to the world around you -- to books and movies, art, music, travel, and especially to other people. In this upbeat and engaging book, designer Kate Spade talks about the many people and experiences that have inspired her. For Kate, movies as varied as The Swimmer and The Red Balloon have influenced her vision of style, as have such places as Mexico (where she and her husband, Andy, vacation each year), Napa Valley, and her hometown of Kansas City. In the pages of Style, you'll find a large section devoted to the colors Kate most loves and suggestions for combining them. Accessories, which are the backbone of her wardrobe, are given full treatment here, including shoes, handbags, hats, gloves, and jewelry; and a portfolio of Kate's personal favorites from her own closet is showcased. Style in the office, evening style, even ideas for style when you travel and when you play are all featured here. The last section of Style focuses on maintaining your wardrobe, including tips on organizing your closet, caring for vintage clothes, and keeping your jewelry in good condition. Style, with 230 watercolor illustrations, is a wonderfully personal and friendly book intended for readers of all ages and style temperaments. If there's one rule Kate espouses, it's that true style comes when you follow your own rules. Moreover, as the writers William Strunk, Jr., and E. B. White once wrote, "To achieve style, begin by affecting none."

Kate Spade and her hudsband and partner, Andy, created kate spade in 1993. In addition to hand-bags, the world of kate spade now includes a line of tabletop, bedding, and other accessories for the home; shoes; glasses; social staionery; and a beauty collection.

In 1996, the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) honored Kate Spade's classic designs with the Perry Ellis Award for New Talent in Accessories Designer of the Year. In 1999, her handbags were exhibited at the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum for the first National Design Triennial, celebrating excellence in American design.

This self-styled midwesterner lives in New York City with Andy and their dog, Henry.