designer labels exclusively at the cupboard

diane burkhardt
Couturiere-owner Diane Burkhardt has been designing for The Cupboard for over a decade, and is renowned for creating The Cupboard’s signature style.

“I make clothes I love to wear myself, always styles that are comfortable, elegant and flattering. The joy of shopping at The Cupboard is that our range is unique. Exclusivity is the foundation of our culture,” she says.

Diane’s clothes are softly draped and feminine, in luxurious natural fabrics, with touches of Eastern mystique and Edwardian inspiration. The diane burkhardt label reflects attention to detail, often with beading, pleating or pintucking, and sometimes through the simple sophistication of a kimono type cross over.

Inspired by her own heritage which includes a Chinese great-grandfather on one side and Irish on the other, Diane reflects the past in a 21st century context. “As a child I was fascinated by handwork such as crochet my grandmother did. My mother’s own talent in sewing ballet costumes has also played a part. I loved the tulles and laces,” she comments.

Diane is one of an increasingly rare breed of designers – one who can pattern draft. She understands the way fabric drapes, and the way it can be cut.

Nowadays, she designs at home in a huge workroom. Often, she works with classical music or blues and ballads playing in the background. Diane’s styles are produced in New Zealand by a team of commissioned outworkers, overseen to Diane’s exacting standards.

“The essence of good design is to be able to wear a garment for years,” she says.

colleen behrens
At The Cupboard you will find Colleen Behren’s exquisite knitwear.These handknitted cardigans and sweaters are created with distinctive style using only high quality natural yarns of silk, wool and cotton.

Colleen’s innovative designs are detailed with her skill to complement the current trend – yet they are timeless.Colleen Behren’s handknits are an integral part in complementing The Cupboard’s style.

susie holland
Susie Holland has been designing for "The Cupboard" for over 30 years. She is inspired by vintage clothing for its intricate attention to detail. With specialised machines, Victorian stitching is incorporated into Susie's collection. Clients aspire to her passion for understated femininity which is evident in both Susie's formal and daywear. Incorporating rich fabric textures, she creates a unique sense of style.

Succhi Collection is traditional style which eloquently collaborates beautiful fabrics by layering with unexpected added touches and classic tailoring.

boutique labels - totally personal service
The Cupboard believes in helping a client tell a personal story with clothing. The Cupboard’s stylists will help clients choose an outfit or a seasonal wardrobe that is high quality, and affordable. This service is provided at no extra cost.

“We help a woman tailor for her personality,” says Diane. “We help her fulfill the look she suits and likes, as well as what is comfortable and delivers extra self assurance.” Experienced, long term staff are ready to advise clients seven days a week.

Also in store are complimentary designer labels from alistair trung and cannisse.