When FSF introduced 2025 Tapestry x FSF Named Scholar Rachel Stauffer to her mentors, Alexandra Sabuda and Kristen Moss, the connection felt immediate. Alexandra oversees Wholesale Jewelry at Kate Spade, and Kristen serves as Senior Account Executive for Footwear on the North America Wholesale team. Both bring deep insight into the brand, its customer, and its evolving product vision.
Their mentorship began when Charlotte Warshaw, VP of North America Wholesale at Tapestry, connected the group through the FSF Mentoring Program. Their first in-person meeting took place at FSF’s annual gala, FSF LIVE. Shortly after meeting, Alexandra and Kristen arranged for Rachel to present her case study to members of the Kate Spade design team. That moment sparked a dynamic exchange that moved easily between formal guidance and informal connection, from preparing for the design-team presentation to grabbing lunch and navigating the realities of post-graduation life. The relationship has continued to grow as Rachel begins her first full-time role at Kate Spade.
In this conversation, Rachel, Alexandra, and Kristen revisit their early meetings, the creative ideas behind Rachel’s case study, and the role mentorship plays in supporting the next generation of talent.
Alexandra Sabuda: Your case study offered a new vision for the Kate Spade customer experience. Can you share the core concept and what inspired you?
Rachel Stauffer: I explored the intersection of digital and traditional textile printing. The goal was to merge modern technology with craftsmanship and show how femininity and strength can exist together. Because Kate Spade has such a strong foundation in women’s empowerment, the project felt like a natural fit. It allowed me to express those values through design and narrative.
“My concept blended technology and craftsmanship to show that femininity and strength can work together.”
Kristen Moss: When we met your mentors, we were so impressed by how clearly your case study captured the brand. Alex, what stood out most to you when you first reviewed Rachel’s work?
AS: Her understanding of the brand identity was remarkable. She articulated what Kate Spade stands for and brought it through in both her presentation and her designs. Her final statement, where she spoke about where she sees the brand heading, really stayed with me.
AS: Thinking about your first presentation to the design team, what did you take away from that experience?
RS: Presenting my FSF project directly to design leadership was incredible. It gave me a clear sense of the direction the brand is moving toward. Hearing their questions and insights helped me understand how day-to-day creative decisions support long-term brand growth. It shaped the way I approach design now.
RS: Kristen, from your perspective, what skills matter most for the next generation entering brands like Kate Spade?
KM: We stay very connected to Gen Z, so seeing that same engagement in early-career talent is essential. Their influence reaches both younger and older consumers. We also value curiosity around technology, especially AI. It’s an ongoing conversation at Kate Spade, and seeing young designers lean into it is exciting.
AS: You’ve started your first full-time role. How have industry expectations shaped your thinking?
RS: Designing for a customer changed everything. In school, I focused on my own vision. In the workplace, every silhouette, graphic, and fabric choice revolves around the customer and the research behind them. It’s made me more thoughtful and more intentional in both my professional work and personal projects.
RS: You both have guided me through my move to New York. What has been your biggest takeaway from our mentorship so far?
KM: Your perspective as a Gen Z Kate Spade fan has been refreshing. Hearing the story of your first Kate Spade bag from middle school stayed with us. Seeing you come into the office with vintage pieces reminded us of the brand’s heritage and how it continues to inspire new generations.
“Rachel’s connection to the brand brought us back to our own early memories of Kate Spade.”
RS: Alex, as someone building product and guiding teams, what advice would you offer emerging designers about staying creatively fulfilled while building a long-term career?
AS: Stay true to your creative identity but remain adaptable. Fashion requires flexibility. The best thing early-career designers can do is say yes to new opportunities. It builds relationships and opens doors you may not expect.
“Rachel understood the Kate Spade identity in a way that felt natural and confident. Her presentation carried the heart of the brand.”
AS: And you recently completed your internship at J.Crew. How did that experience influence your approach to your new role?
RS: It gave me a deep understanding of how design functions at scale. The cross-team collaboration taught me how decisions shape the business. It also helped me walk into interviews with more clarity and confidence. That foundation has been invaluable as I start my career at Kate Spade.
Follow their work:
📲 Follow Kristen’s journey: LinkedIn
📲 Follow Rachel’s journey: LinkedIn | Instagram
📲 Follow Alexandra’s journey: LinkedIn
