FOR EVERY WOMAN, EVERY DAY
Dyrberg/Kern is a unique international brand from Copenhagen, with a real focus on quality, affordable fashion accessories. The brand has a 20-year history in Merivale Mall and has a focus on a wide range of accessories and brands, such as Joidart jewellery from Spain, Sweden’s Edblad jewellery, Bella Ballou scarves and Markberg quality leather bags and gloves from Denmark.
Owner Penny Wilson bought the rights to the brand three years ago, but initially, the brand started off as a shop within a shop and was located inside a local clothing store. The quakes meant the crew quickly established a kiosk in the middle of the mall (operational all within 24 hours, no less) and, after a couple more moves, established their own branded store in the centre in 2018. The feedback from their customers is they love the fashion focus, the style, and the quieter feel of the mall. It makes it a really intimate shopping experience.
Penny made the smart decision to expand the reach across a range of products and to establish a real presence in the mall with the store.
“We are not a chain store, so Merivale Mall is one of only two destinations in New Zealand that is dedicated to the brands we offer. We also distribute the product to a number of fashion and department stores around the county. But it is only Merivale and Wellington where you can experience the unique ‘DK experience’.”
Penny says her team are ‘fabulous’ – and they’re often long-serving staff members.
“Our legendary retail guru is Sandra McCann, who has been with the brand as long as it has existed in New Zealand. She is as passionate about the brand now as she was when she started and is a world authority on Dyrberg/ Kern, having seen the changes over the years.”
Sandra recalls how Dyrberg/Kern was the only brand around 20 years ago that put a real emphasis on quality costume jewellery.
“Over the years, I’ve seen the brand’s popularity grow with the Merivale locals. I often fondly reminisce on the friendships and bonds I’ve developed with customers over the years. Particularly after the earthquakes, where the Mall was one of the few places still open. It became a destination for people who could come into a warm, welcoming environment, even if it was just for a chat.”
Fashion changes and Dyrberg/Kern is right up to speed. Sandra reflects that the styles have become ‘less ostentatious and more refined’. The strength of Dyrberg/Kern is that their designers understand trends and colours. The use of gold plating, stainless steel, and Swarovski crystals is affordable but looks like a million dollars – for every woman, every day.
Penny, Sandra, and the team love to see new people and regular customers.
“We have a motto that our customers are our family. We pride ourselves on taking the time to listen and talk with you about jewellery and accessories, or anything else at all.”