Kate Spade introduced the Sam bag in 1993 as a simple nylon handbag.
The Sam became an important early design for Kate Spade, a New York label founded by Kate Spade and Andy Spade. Its clean, boxy shape and practical nylon construction matched the brand’s early emphasis on colorful, functional accessories.
The bag is often discussed as part of the label’s original identity, before Kate Spade expanded into shoes, clothing, jewelry, home goods, and other products. Its understated silhouette also helped distinguish the young company from heavily logoed luxury handbags.
A common mix-up is confusing the Sam with Kate Spade’s later satchel and tote styles. “Sam” identifies a particular early handbag design, while Kate Spade is the brand. The 1993 date refers to the bag’s introduction, not the company’s founding date.