Receiving your first ear piercing at Claire’s has become a cherished tradition for many adults, often viewed as a significant milestone. Whether you accompanied your mother to Claire’s for your piercing or faced her disapproval after venturing there with friends, the experience is likely a shared memory among your peers. This iconic brand continues to attract young customers today; however, with recent sales declines and a second bankruptcy filing in seven years, the opportunity for new generations to experience ear piercings at Claire’s may be at risk. Fortunately, a dedicated Biglaw partner has taken it upon himself to ensure that this rite of passage continues by literally putting his own skin on the line.
Kirkland & Ellis bankruptcy partner Joshua Sussberg recognized the importance of preserving Claire’s legacy and was willing to take bold steps to prevent its closure. The American Lawyer reported on the unexpected developments during the bankruptcy proceedings:
[L]The liquidation of the 64-year-old retailer was not the desired outcome for anyone at the hearing on August first. Kirkland partner Alexandra Schwarzman mentioned her own experience of getting her ears pierced at Claire’s, followed by the judge sharing that Shannon’s daughter also had the same experience. To add to the nostalgia, the Kirkland team presented a picture of Sussberg from 1995, showcasing his own ear piercing at Claire’s during his high school years.
“At the conclusion of the hearing, I declared, ‘Your honor, our priority is preserving jobs and keeping stores operational for everyone who wishes to get their ears pierced. If we can finalize a deal, I am open to getting my ears pierced,’” Sussberg shared. “The judge responded, ‘I’m holding you to that promise.’ He challenged me to follow through.”
Not only did Sussberg successfully locate a buyer for Claire’s, but he also humorously fulfilled his commitment by getting his ear pierced. During a recent court session, Sussberg had his left ear pierced by a seasoned Claire’s employee, all while sporting a festive Claire’s crown to celebrate the occasion. Click here to witness the piercing event firsthand.
Kudos to Joshua Sussberg for playing a crucial role in preserving the beloved tradition of youth ear piercings at Claire’s.
Kirkland Partner’s Ear Piercing Represents a Significant Moment for the Bankrupt Retailer [American Lawyer]
Staci Zaretsky serves as the managing editor of Above the Law, a position she has held since 2011. She welcomes your input, so don’t hesitate to reach out via email with tips, questions, comments, or feedback. You can also follow her on Bluesky, X/Twitter, and Threads, or connect with her on LinkedIn.
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