I have had my Kate Spade bags for a little under a year now, and the soft pebbled leather has a sort of "chalky" feel that makes it appear that the bags will stain and scuff easily.
The stitching is also awkward enough that the Makayla and Elowen do not fully open up for a good view to the bag. The opening of the bags will eventually lose their shape if you do not take care to stuff this bag whenever it is not in use. To avoid this, I consistently and immediately stuff my bags quite full when not in use. Leather wrinkles from forced stitching at awkward angles is not uncommon on KS bags.
Hardware has not tarnished yet, but I feel like I need to test this over a 5 year period instead of 1.
I also feel like KS should consider removing the plain leather hangtags as they have absolutely no branding. The hangtags are cheaply made and stiff, and detract from otherwise adorable bags.
Overall, the KS retail boutique bags are worth their price for their middle-of-the-road craftsmanship and unique and whimsical design when on sale. There are very few KS bags, charms or accessories for which I would like to pay suggested retail price, unfortunately.
