Bamboleira Designer Spotlight
Nicole is the founder of Bamboleira, a brand that beautifully blends bold minimalism with rich colors and intricate patterns. I had the pleasure of meeting Nicole at Colombia Moda Miami 2025, where I explored her stunning collection and learned more about the stories behind each piece. Here’s a quick snippet of what makes her—and Bamboleira—so special:
What materials or cultural traditions are most present in your designs, and how do you connect them to a modern style?
We work with werregué palm fibers, sustainably harvested and handwoven by Wounaan artisans. Our designs incorporate traditional motifs—crabs, turtles, and geometric patterns—that reflect the land and the cultural imagination of the community. More than mere adornments, each piece is a living story and a deep connection to the earth.
To modernize this legacy, we fuse traditional weaving with minimalist finishes in gold- or silver-plated bronze. The contrast between the warmth of the fiber and the purity of the metal results in lightweight, geometric, and versatile jewelry that complements any look.
What story does each piece tell, and why do you believe that story is relevant today?
At Bamboleira, each piece of jewelry tells a story that bridges the past and the present:
Clarté Animal, inspired by the richness of Colombia’s Pacific coast, celebrates the vitality of marine life—crabs, turtles, starfish—and the resilience of coastal communities. It’s a tribute to the harmony between people and the ecosystem.
The Juaca Bracelet was born from the union of Wounaan tradition and a contemporary design crafted for everyday wear.
These stories are more relevant than ever, as they speak to the growing desire for authenticity and meaning. In a fast-paced world, conscious consumption and connection to our roots have become essential values. Our pieces not only beautify—they carry narratives of sustainability, empowerment, and tradition, strengthening the commitment of those who wear them to a more human and responsible lifestyle.
What is your most popular piece among U.S. customers, or what feedback have you received from that market?
Two pieces stand out, not only in the United States but globally:
The Bonelia Earrings, one of our earliest designs (launched in 2015), have barely changed since their inception. Their clean, versatile silhouette pairs effortlessly with any style or season.
The Juaca Bracelets, with their vibrant werregué fiber weave and adjustable bronze clasp, are praised for being both comfortable and adaptable to any wrist.
These pieces share three key attributes that make them favorites outside Colombia: versatility, lightness, and cultural meaning. When customers wear them, they’re not just choosing a beautiful accessory—they’re carrying a story of tradition.