Kim A. Walker

The firm recently assisted fashion accessory manufacturer Schifter & Partners in its deal to manufacture several lines of accessories to be designed in collaboration with music, fashion and film celebrity Gwen Stefani.  Ms. Stefani will help design cosmetic cases, messenger bags, totes, wallets, iPod cases and other accessories under her labels L.A.M.B. and Harajuku Lovers.  Last November, Willkie represented Tim Schifter, Chairman and CEO of Schifter & Partners, in the high-profile sale of  LeSportsac Inc., the well-known manufacturer of utilitarian nylon ripstop handbags.  Mr. Schifter was CEO, President, and founding family member of the 31-year old brand.  In the current deal, Mr. Schifter reunites with Ms. Stefani, who previously designed several highly-successful lines with LeSportsac.  As part of the deal, Ms. Stefani will be a significant minority partner of Schifter & Partners.  The transaction was handled by partner Daniel Rubino (corporate), special counsel Kim Walker (intellectual property), and associate Kelly Sutherland (corporate).