Not a Handbag (Kate Spade New York 'Kari' Patent Bow Loafers)
Slip-on Loafer / Smoking Slipper (Footwear, not a handbag) · Kate Spade New York (Tapestry, Inc.); Premium/Contemporary level; recognized for playful, feminine aesthetic.
Collection: Kate Spade New York Footwear Collection; likely from a seasonal Fall/Holiday or 'Madison Avenue' inspired line.
Style
Slip-on Loafer / Smoking Slipper (Footwear, not a handbag)
Brand
Kate Spade New York (Tapestry, Inc.); Premium/Contemporary level; recognized for playful, feminine aesthetic.
Material
Black patent leather upper with a glossy finish; Grosgrain ribbon fabric 'bow' detail in a striped pattern; cement construction with a synthetic outsole.
Dimensions
Standard US women's shoe sizing (Length approx 24-26cm depending on size; sole height 0.5-1 inch).
Description
These are not handbags, but a pair of iconic Kate Spade patent leather loafers. They feature a high-shine black finish and a signature oversized striped bow across the vamp, embodying the brand's 'preppy-chic' identity. They are paired with the original pink and orange Kate Spade shoe box.
Key Features
Oversized striped grosgrain bow; glossy patent leather finish; signature red insole with gold foil branding; slightly rounded almond-toe silhouette.
Material & Construction
Black patent leather upper with a glossy finish; Grosgrain ribbon fabric 'bow' detail in a striped pattern; cement construction with a synthetic outsole.
Color & Pattern
Black gloss patent; the bow features a monochromatic black and silver/grey horizontal 'Regatta Stripe' pattern.
Hardware Details
No functional metal hardware present; the design relies on textile embellishment (ribbon) rather than metallic accents.
Interior Description
Deep red (oxblood) leather or synthetic lining with gold-tone heat-stamped 'kate spade NEW YORK' branding on the insole heel area.
Closure Type
Slip-on design; open throat for easy entry without zippers, buckles, or laces.
Strap & Handle Details
N/A (Footwear does not feature carry straps or handles).
Craftsmanship Details
Clean, tight machine stitching along the collar; neatly folded ribbon ends; centered branding logos; consistent sheen across the patent leather surface.
Authentication Indicators
Correct typeface on insole and box; high-quality edge stitching on the welt; crisp printing on the retail box; signature Kate Spade color palette (pink/red/gold).
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Made in China or Vietnam, as per standard contemporary manufacturing for Kate Spade footwear lines.
Era & Period
Contemporary (circa 2015-2020); fits the brand's 'whimsical preppy' era popularized under various creative directors.
Age Estimate
Circa 2016-2018 based on the insole font style and the specific use of the striped grosgrain bow motif common in that era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Tumblr Pink' and 'Preppy Revival' trends of the mid-2010s where feminine, graphic accessories were highly sought after in the contemporary market.
Condition Notes
Pristine/New with Box; internal tissue packing remains; patent shows high luster with no visible creasing on the vamp or scuffing on the heels.
Value Estimate
Original Retail: $198 - $250; Resale Value: $45 - $95 depending on size and demand.
Care & Maintenance
Wipe patent leather with a soft damp cloth; do not use heavy oils as they can cloud patent; store in the provided dust bag or box with tissue to maintain shape.
Similar Handbags
N/A (For similar footwear, see Ferragamo Varina flats or Ted Baker bow loafers); for matching handbags, the Kate Spade Cedar Street or Cameron Street lines.
Interesting Facts
The 'Kari' and similar bow-accented flats are staples for Kate Spade, often appearing in variations of glitter, velvet, and leather to match their seasonal handbag collections.