Houston, Texas – In August of 1981, Elyce Arons moved into her freshman dorm at the University of Kansas—and fate stepped in. That same afternoon, she met fellow journalism student Katy Brosnahan, who would later become known worldwide as Kate Spade. The two quickly bonded over style, creativity, and friendship, laying the foundation for what would become two iconic fashion houses.

Together, Arons and Spade co-founded Kate Spade New York, a brand that grew into a global fashion powerhouse before being sold in 2006. A decade later, they teamed up again to launch Frances Valentine, a vintage-inspired luxury accessories and apparel brand. Following Kate Spade’s passing in 2018, Arons has continued to honor her friends vision while leading Frances Valentine as CEO, keeping their spirit of

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