'End of an era': Canadian clothing brand Horses Atelier to close after 14 years

TORONTO - Canadian clothing brand Horses Atelier says it's closing after 14 years and expects its final collection will quickly sell out online.

The founders of the Toronto-based brand, Claudia Dey and Heidi Sopinka, say in a social media post that is has become "near impossible" for them to continue their vision as an independent business.

Horses Atelier says its clothing has been worn by actors, artists and authors such as Sarah Polley, Nadia Litz, Leslie Feist and Margaret Atwood.

The brand's website says Dey and Sopinka created the label in 2012 and their first design – a slip dress – was featured in Vogue just months later.

It says Horses Atelier clothing, which includes the popular field suit and alchemical coat, has also been featured in other fashion magazines and worn in film and TV shows, as well as on red carpets for major events like the Toronto International Film Festival.

The brand's farewell message thanks all customers who purchased the clothing over the years.

"It's the end of an era ... We make this announcement with heavy hearts," the message posted on Instagram says. "Our entire and final collection is now online. Quantities are very limited and not expected to last."

"For us, it has become near impossible to continue to make what we want to make in Canada as an independent business," the message reads.

Fans of the designers expressed disappointment Wednesday, including restaurateur Jen Agg who commented "I hate this so much, not just for you but for all of us," and author Teri Vlassopoulos who said the brand is "who I turned to when I needed a power outfit."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 8, 2026.