What Happened to Sympli? Plus 3 Canadian Brands We Love Just as Much

What Happened to Sympli? Plus 3 Canadian Brands We Love Just as Much!

by Three Wild Women – Your Go-To Ottawa Clothing Store for Fashion Over 50

Yes, the rumours are true — Sympli is closing its doors after 23 years in business. If you've been wondering what happened to Sympli, you're not alone. As one of our most beloved brands here at Three Wild Women, we're sad to see them go too! But we wanted to share a little light on the subject, so here we are.

Why Is Sympli Closing?

According to their website, a combination of supply chain issues, the aftermath of COVID-19, and therefore the closures of many of their wholesale partners made it difficult to keep the business going.

As the owner of a clothing store myself — and someone who's been in Ottawa's business scene for over 20 years — I understand these challenges all too well. At seventy years old, I’ve watched the retail landscape change dramatically. People don’t shop like they used to... and in many ways, they don’t need to.

Fashion for Women Over 50 Looks a Bit Different Now

When I first started Three Wild Women in the Glebe, there was no Instagram. No online shopping. Just me, my little shop, and the local community. Even when my husband and I moved across the country, the shop came with us — My shop served an in person community and I was able to meet their needs by being part of the community. 

Fast forward to today, and you’ll find me dancing around on Instagram (still not ready for TikTok — that might be a step too far!). But this is the reality of retail now. To stay in business, you have to keep evolving. And while some changes are tough, others open doors to new beginnings.

Which brings us back to Sympli. So no, they weren't able to master the fast changes of this world, or maybe they didn't want to. 

They’ve been a customer favourite for years. Known for their easy, wrinkle-free basics, Canadian-made quality, and sleek designs. We’ll miss them dearly — but we're also excited to introduce you to three brands we carry at the shop that offer similar quality, style, and comfort.

1. Pure Essence — Effortless Fashion with a Canadian Heart

If you loved Sympli, you’ll want to try Pure Essence. This Canadian brand creates clothes with comfort and movement in mind — designed especially for us older gals.

Made in small batches with ethical production practices, their pieces are effortless, comfortable, and easy to wear. Think flowy silhouettes, soft fabrics, and breathable materials that move with you.

While Sympli often stuck to a neutral palette, Pure Essence loves colour. If you’re open to trying something a little brighter, this is a great place to start.

Pure Essence - available at Ottawa Clothing Boutique, three Wild Women  Pure Essence - available at Ottawa Clothing Boutique, three Wild Women

 

Pure Essence - available at Ottawa Clothing Boutique, three Wild Women

2. Habitat — Comfortable, Artistic, and Made for Layering

Though technically an American brand, Habitat pieces never touch U.S. soil before arriving at our shop. Everything is distributed from a Canadian warehouse, making it feel closer to home.

Habitat offers mix-and-match staples for women “of a certain age”, with easy care fabrics like cotton, jersey, and textured knits. Their styles are designed for layering and comfort, with a more artistic vibe than Sympli.

If you appreciated Sympli’s versatility but prefer more natural fabrics, you’ll love what Habitat has to offer.

 

Pure Essence and Habitat fashion styles for mature women, available at Ottawa’s Three Wild Women boutique Pure Essence and Habitat fashion styles for mature women, available at Ottawa’s Three Wild Women boutique Pure Essence and Habitat fashion styles for mature women, available at Ottawa’s Three Wild Women boutique

3. Joseph Ribkoff — Sleek, Canadian, and Here to Stay

One of the most iconic Canadian fashion brands, Joseph Ribkoff has been around since 1957 — and they're not going anywhere. Like Sympli, they focus on wrinkle-free basics, sleek cuts, and ultra-comfortable styles that work for both travel and everyday life.

Some Ribkoff pieces offer a bit more structure than Sympli, but their comfort and quality are undeniable. If you loved Sympli’s polished look and Canadian roots, Joseph Ribkoff is the closest match.

Canadian-made Joseph Ribkoff outfit, a Sympli alternative at an Ottawa fashion boutique for women over 50 Canadian-made Joseph Ribkoff outfit, a Sympli alternative at an Ottawa fashion boutique for women over 50  Canadian-made Joseph Ribkoff outfit, a Sympli alternative at an Ottawa fashion boutique for women over 50

Visit Our Ottawa Clothing Store & Try These Brands for Yourself

Not sure which brand you’ll love most? Come into the shop and try them all on! At Three Wild Women, we specialize in fashion for women over 50, and we carry all three of the brands listed above.

And if you’re still holding out hope for a Sympli piece you missed — you’re in luck.

Final Call: Sympli Sale – 30% Off While Supplies Last

 

Sympli clothing display at Three Wild Women, an Ottawa clothing store for fashion over 50

We’re offering 30% off all Sympli items in-store. Pop by and pick up one last piece from this beloved brand before it’s gone for good.

Three Wild Women
Your Ottawa clothing store for fashion over 50
Shop online or visit us in person — we're here to help you find clothes that feel like you.

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