History
We've been in this business since 1946, when Alex Harrison opened a small friendly tailoring store in Wellingtons Vivian Street. Our mission is to dress you well – with exceptional quality, value and service from the New Zealand experts. Italian fabrics and limited runs underpin our approach to making you look good at every occasion.
our process
STEP 01
concept
Each season our design team travels the world visiting the very best fabric and garment suppliers, discovering the latest fabric and style innovations first-hand.
step 02
design
Our collection is refined over a period of several months. We see the design process as a collaboration between our designers, retail and customers.
step 03
production
Our suppliers and manufacturers have been selected because of their expertise. They follow the Rembrandt’s code of compliance, and we meet regularly.
Our Story
1946
The business of Bert Churchill Tailors, located in Vivian Street, Wellington, was bought by Alex Harrison, a cutter and registered as a company at the start of 1946.
1952
A brainstorming session to create a name for the company’s new line of suits and Rembrandt was chosen (apparently beating off a strong challenge from Michelangelo).
1953
The company name was officially changed to Rembrandt Suits Ltd.
1975
Paul Veltman sold Rembrandt to Alliance Textiles Ltd, who simultaneously bought James Brown and Oxford Clothes Ltd. The three businesses were then amalgamated into one, under the Rembrandt name and management.
1987
One week before the share market crash, the management team bought the company from Alliance Textiles. In hindsight they probably should’ve waited a little longer. The company remains owned by the same two families to this day.
1989
After apparel was included in the CER Free Trade Agreement with Australia, Rembrandt began exporting. The launch was held in Melbourne in November 1989.
1998
Rembrandt is sold for the first time in Australia’s David Jones department stores.
2008
The Wayward heir label is launched.
2009
The first Rembrandt store opens in Sydney, there are now three Rembrandt stores in the city.
2011
Rembrandt Hire is launched.
2012
The first Rembrandt store opens in Newmarket, Auckland, New Zealand.
2014
Rembrandt's online shop opens for business.
2016
We open two more Auckland Rembrandt stores; on Shortland Street and in Westfield St Lukes.
2017
70 years after opening a small bespoke tailoring business on Vivian Street in 1946, we opened our Wellington store on Johnston Street.
2018
The Aspiring collection was launched as a solution to customers who wanted a high quality ethical choice. Every Aspiring piece is made from ZQ certified, sustainable, 100% New Zealand merino wool.
