La Maison Simons (aka Simons) opens its first store in the GTA on March 17, St. Patrick’s Day at Square One Shopping Centre in Mississauga. This 175 year old Quebec-based department store (and oldest still-running family business in Canada) is truly a store for EVERYONE, with price points ranging from affordable to higher end. On Tuesday, I had the opportunity to attend a preview at a warehouse downtown. From the little I saw, the store seems more like a Nordstrom type – with pieces ranging from more budget-conscious to high end. And like more “traditional’ department stores, it has something for people of a wide range of age groups (no kids’ clothes, from what I saw, however).
Le ICONE styles – various budget-friendly, yet stylish brands
Not only does the store carry items appealing to nearly everyone, it also seems to nurture up-and-coming designers, giving them a space to make themselves known. These up-and-coming designers, who are often edgier (e.g. Paskal) are paired in the same section as Vivienne Westwood. Of course, not everyone is looking for $1,000 dresses. For something budget-friendly, there are items in the ICONE category – contemporary, yet stylish pieces more in the H&M price point. There are also pieces for women who want something more “traditional” – classic, office-appropriate looks like trenches, solid, knee-length skirts and blouses.
Edgier looks offered at Simons
The men’s side is no different. My personal favourite is from their Le 31 (le trahnt-eh-en – the “thirty-one”) – looks for the “well-dressed man.” The number, 31, comes from the number representing fine wool construction. There, you will find stylish suits as well as basics for guys just looking for something to wear on weekends or to a casual office.
Some guys’ looks from their Le 31 section
Simons is a good addition to the GTA, and while they will be opening in the 416 soon (Yorkdale and Scarborough Town Centre, from what I read online), I have not heard of any downtown (or downtown-ish) locations. Perhaps they want to stay more suburban for now. I don’t mind – style, after all, needs to be spread out a bit. Not everything has to come to the Eaton Centre or Yonge and Bloor. However, for now, it’s just Mississauga. I guess I’ll have to wait a bit. It’s a bit far for me to get to. At least Simons sells online. And in addition to fashion, Simons also has a home section with items for the bedroom, living spaces as well as kitchen and dining. I do not see a registry on their website, however. Perhaps it isn’t a Quebec thing.
