Tory Burch vs. Kate Spade: Which brand is better? [2026]

Tory Burch is known for its classic, preppy-boho aesthetic, ideal for those seeking sophisticated, polished investment pieces, often at a higher price point. In contrast, Kate Spade offers a playful and whimsical style using bold colors, quirky patterns, and charming details for a more accessible luxury customer who loves to express their personality.

Let's compare these two beloved brands to help you decide which one best fits your personal style and needs.

Tory Burch: The Definition of Preppy-Boho Chic

Tory Burch combines timeless American sportswear with a modern, eclectic vibe, creating a look that's polished and versatile. Founded in 2004, the brand quickly became famous for its signature T-logo medallion, which adorns many of its bestselling handbags, shoes, and accessories. The target customer is a confident, professional woman who values high-quality craftsmanship and a classic style that can easily transition from the office to a weekend brunch.

• Product mix: A complete lifestyle collection including ready-to-wear apparel, handbags, footwear (especially the iconic Miller sandals and Reva flats), accessories, and beauty products.
• Price point: Sits in the upper-mid luxury range. Handbags typically start around $300, while shoes are generally priced from $150 and up.
• Quality: Known for its great craftsmanship, using high-quality leathers and durable hardware that ensure the longevity of its products.
• Sizing/Fit: Footwear generally runs true to size, although some customers report that certain styles, like their classic flats, can fit slightly narrow.
• Return policy: Accepts returns of new, unused merchandise within 30 days of shipment.
• Sales: Holds seasonal sales events a few times a year, offering significant markdowns on popular styles.

Tory Burch is the go-to for durable, stylish pieces that feel both modern and timeless, making it a reliable choice for building a sophisticated wardrobe.

Shop Tory Burch: toryburch.com

Kate Spade: The Master of Playful Sophistication

Kate Spade New York is built on a foundation of optimistic femininity, vibrant color, and playful charm. The brand’s designs are instantly recognizable for their whimsical patterns, quirky motifs like spades and florals, and a cheerful spirit. It appeals to a woman who is not afraid to stand out and express her individuality through her accessories. Kate Spade makes everyday life a bit more fun and colorful.

• Product mix: Extensive range includes handbags, wallets, clothing, jewelry, shoes, and tech accessories. Especially known for its fun and uniquely shaped bags and vibrant small leather goods.
• Price point: Positioned as accessible luxury, making it a great entry point into the premium market. Handbags range from $150 to $400, providing great style without the sticker shock of higher-end brands.
• Quality: Uses quality materials like saffiano leather and durable nylon. While the focus is on fun designs, the products are well-made and hold up to daily use.
• Sizing/Fit: Shoes typically fit true to size and are designed with comfort in mind for all-day wearability.
• Return policy: Offers a 30-day return window for new, unworn merchandise with tags attached.
• Sales: Known for frequent promotions, surprise sales events, and a robust outlet presence offering deep discounts.

Kate Spade is the brand for anyone who believes fashion should be fun, bringing a dose of joy and personality to every outfit through its cheerful designs.

Shop Kate Spade: katespade.com

Tory Burch vs. Kate Spade Comparison

Price Comparison

There is a clear difference in price point between the two brands. Tory Burch is positioned more as a premium luxury brand, with its iconic handbags and shoes regularly retailing for $300 to $600. The cost reflects the emphasis on premium materials and more intricate craftsmanship.

Kate Spade hits a more accessible luxury sweet spot. Most of its handbags fall within the $150 to $400 range, attracting a younger demographic or anyone looking for a stylish piece without a significant investment. While Tory Burch offers a higher price barrier to entry, both brands participate in seasonal sales, providing opportunities to get their products at a discount.

Quality & Materials

Both brands deliver quality products, but their focus differs slightly. Tory Burch is often praised for its excellent craftsmanship and use of high-end materials like pebbled and smooth leathers. Hardware is typically heavy and durable, and the construction is built for longevity, making their bags and shoes true investment pieces.

Kate Spade also uses quality materials, including durable leathers and coated canvases, but its primary focus is on color and design. The construction is solid, but it's not always on the same level of refined durability as Tory Burch. Shoppers get a well-made product, but the brand’s main draw is its fun aesthetic over pure, long-term ruggedness.

Style & Aesthetic

Your choice will likely come down to personal style. Tory Burch embodies a sophisticated, chic, preppy-boho style. The look is polished, versatile, and classic, with clean lines and use of its famous logo. Colors are often more subdued, focusing on neutrals like black, brown, and navy, with seasonal pops of color. It's the perfect brand for a refined and put-together look.

Kate Spade is all about fun, personality, and optimistic femininity. Its aesthetic is whimsical, witty, and unapologetically colorful. Expect bold prints, playful shapes, and charming details. If you want your accessories to be a conversation starter and a source of joy, Kate Spade's cheerful vibe is a perfect match.

Fit & Sizing

For footwear, both brands are quite reliable. Tory Burch shoes generally run true to size. However, some specific styles, like the iconic Reva ballet flats, have been known to fit snugly, and it's sometimes recommended to go up a half size depending on your foot width.

Kate Spade shoes also typically fit true to size and often put a greater emphasis on everyday comfort. You'll find a wider range of heels, flats, and sneakers designed for wearability. For handbags, both brands offer a variety of sizes from mini crossbodies to large totes, with dimensions clearly listed online.

Shopping Experience

Both brands provide an excellent shopping experience, both online and in-store. Tory Burch boutiques have a luxurious, refined feel, while Kate Spade stores are bright, colorful, and inviting. Their websites are user-friendly, with detailed product images and descriptions.

Their return policies are nearly identical, typically offering 30 days for returns on unworn items with tags. Customer service for both brands is responsive and helpful, ensuring a positive experience from purchase to post-care.

Sustainability & Ethics

Both Tory Burch and Kate Spade have made public commitments to corporate social responsibility. Tory Burch is well-known for the Tory Burch Foundation, which focuses on empowering women entrepreneurs through access to capital, education, and digital resources.

Kate Spade, as part of Tapestry, Inc., follows a broader corporate sustainability plan focused on reducing environmental impact and promoting ethical manufacturing. While both are making efforts, shoppers focused primarily on environmental leadership might find that neither brand is at the forefront of the sustainable fashion movement just yet.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right choice comes down to your personal style, priorities, and budget.

Choose Tory Burch if:

• You prefer a timeless, classic, and sophisticated aesthetic.
• You are building a wardrobe of versatile, high-quality pieces that last for years.
• You're willing to invest more for premium materials and craftsmanship.
• Your style leans toward preppy, boho, or polished American classic.

Choose Kate Spade if:

• You love fun, colorful, and whimsical designs that make a statement.
• You want your accessories to showcase your playful personality.
• You are looking for a great entry-level luxury brand at a more accessible price.
• Your wardrobe is built around cheerful prints and optimistic femininity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tory Burch or Kate Spade more expensive?

Tory Burch is generally more expensive. Its products are positioned in the premium luxury space, with handbags and shoes often costing 30-50% more than comparable items from Kate Spade, which is considered an accessible luxury brand.

Which brand has better quality?

Both brands offer good quality for their respective price points. However, Tory Burch is often perceived as having a slight edge in terms of premium materials and overall craftsmanship. Its products are often seen as long-term investment pieces due to their durability.

What is the style difference between Tory Burch and Kate Spade?

Tory Burch features a classic, preppy-boho aesthetic that is sophisticated and versatile. Kate Spade is known for its playful, whimsical, and colorful designs that are fun, feminine, and express a lot of personality.

Do Tory Burch shoes run true to size?

Yes, for the most part, Tory Burch shoes run true to size. However, some specific ballet flat styles can be narrow, so customers with wider feet sometimes choose to size up by half.

Are Kate Spade bags durable?

Yes, Kate Spade bags are known to be quite durable. They often use materials like saffiano leather and sturdy nylon, which hold up well against daily wear and tear, making them a practical and stylish choice.

What are the return policies for Tory Burch and Kate Spade?

Both brands have similar return policies, typically allowing returns of new and unworn merchandise within 30 days of purchase or shipment. It's always best to check their websites for the most current policy details.

Which brand is better for a work bag?

For a traditional, corporate environment, Tory Burch is an excellent choice due to its structured totes and sophisticated designs. For a more creative or casual workplace, a colorful bag from Kate Spade can be a perfect way to add personality to your work attire.

Do both brands have frequent sales?

Yes, but their sale cadences can differ. Kate Spade is known for having more frequent "surprise" sales and a larger outlet presence. Tory Burch holds major seasonal sales a few times per year, where you can find significant discounts.