If you spent time at the mall in the 1990's or early 2000s, you probably remember stopping by Claire’s—the bright, accessory-filled shop known for ear piercings, scrunchies, mood rings, and sparkly hair clips.

For many shoppers, it was the place to go for birthday gifts, back-to-school accessories, or a little browsing fun with friends.

Now, the beloved mall retailer is facing its second major financial crisis, and the news isn’t good.


Claire’s Holdings LLC has filed for bankruptcy again and plans to close hundreds of stores across the country, including locations under its Icing brand.

For bargain hunters, that also means clearance sales of up to 75% off as stores prepare to close.

What’s happening at Claire’s?

According to recent court documents, Claire’s Holdings LLC is carrying about $500 million in debt, with assets and liabilities that could total up to $10 billion.

The company, which operates around 1,300 Claire’s stores and 190 Icing stores worldwide, has reportedly fallen behind on rent and missed multiple payments in recent months.

CEO Chris Cramer has cited several contributing factors: growing competition, shifting consumer spending toward online retailers, and the weight of the company’s debt.

These pressures have led to tough decisions, including large-scale store closures and major clearance events.


Also read: A beloved mall staple is filing for bankruptcy—what it could mean for longtime fans

Which stores are closing?

So far, 13 Claire’s stores and 5 Icing stores have been confirmed for closure, with more expected soon.

If a buyer doesn’t step in, up to 700 stores could close in the coming months.

Even the 300 Claire’s mini-locations inside Walmart stores will shut down, ending a partnership that began after Claire’s first bankruptcy in 2018.

Confirmed Claire’s closures:

• Eastland Mall, Montgomery, Alabama
• Newpark Mall, Newark, California
• Ford City Mall, Chicago, Illinois
• Market Street at Lynnfield, Lynnfield, Massachusetts
• Bay City Town Center, Bay City, Michigan
• Northtown Mall, Blaine, Minnesota
• Livingston Mall, Livingston, New Jersey
• Uniontown Mall, Uniontown, Pennsylvania
• Pinnacle at Turkey Creek, Knoxville, Tennessee
• Shops at Highland Village, Highland Village, Texas
• Junction Commons, Park City, Utah
• Provo Town Center, Provo, Utah
• Woodinville Plaza, Woodinville, Washington

Confirmed Icing closures:

• Galleria at Tyler, Riverside, California
• Woodland Mall, Grand Rapids, Michigan
• Greece Ridge, Rochester, New York
• Mall of Abilene, Abilene, Texas
• University Orem, Orem, Utah

Also read: A beloved burger chain may close more stores—tension with a franchisee is heating up

Big sales before closures

If you’re looking to stock up on accessories, gifts, or seasonal items, now’s the time.

Clearance sales with up to 75% off are already happening at many closing locations, and markdowns on Claire’s products in Walmart stores are also available until their last day of operation.

Most sales are expected to continue through at least September 7.



Also read: Popular plus-size chain to close 180 stores—Here’s how shoppers are reacting

What’s next for Claire’s?

The company is still searching for a buyer, though retail experts are skeptical about a rescue deal.

If no buyer emerges, closures will continue, and a brand that defined a generation of mall culture may soon be only a memory.

Claire’s also operates 21 “shop-in-shop” locations inside Macy’s department stores in the US, which remain open for now.

Industry analysts have noted that this Macy’s partnership has been one of the brand’s bright spots, introducing younger shoppers to department store experiences.


Also read: Is your go-to diner shutting down? America’s beloved chain to close more locations—here’s what’s happening

A sign of the times

Claire’s is one of many retailers hit hard by shifting shopping habits, rising costs, and competition from online sellers.

In recent years, numerous well-known brands have filed for bankruptcy or drastically downsized, signaling the ongoing transformation of American retail.

If you have fond memories of visiting Claire’s, now may be the time to stop by one last time.

Whether you’re shopping for nostalgic keepsakes or taking advantage of the deep discounts, the brand’s final sales mark the end of an era for many mall-goers.

As the retail landscape continues to change, these closures serve as a reminder of how quickly even the most familiar stores can fade from view.

Read next: Big Lots prepares for major store reopenings across the US


Do you remember visiting Claire’s for ear piercings, a special accessory, or just a fun mall trip? Share your stories and favorite finds in the comments!