Erika Peña

Tell us your story – how did you get here?

My multi-cultural upbringing has helped shape all of my designs into culturally sound pieces of fashionable art, which has captured the attention of fashionistas worldwide. I’m the daughter of Dominican parents, but moved to Florida at the age of three. At 18, I relocated to New York City where I studied fashion design at Parsons Design School. Here, my skills were honed working and collaborating with fashion labels like Donna Karan and Josie Natori.

Using nothing but my love of culture and a dismantled shell lamp, I designed and handmade a pair of earrings that essentially launched what today is my jewellery and fashion empire, Erika Peña Designs. This empire also encompasses my partner Bielka Bevillard-Pena, who I joined forces with in 2006. Since then, it’s been nothing but stunning stone tribal necklaces, chic chandelier earrings, and ravishing rhinestone rings. Each piece blends my Latin roots and my bold fashion claim. And the results are luxurious, one-of-a-kind true works of art.

Now with twenty-five collections under my belt, my creations have graced the pages of VOGUE, ELLE, InStyle, Glamour, UsWeekly, HOLA, Harper’s Bazaar, and New York Times to name a few. Style icon’s like Beyonce, Jessica Alba, Kim Kardashian, and Paris Hilton are several of my clientele, and I sell worldwide in multiple prestigious showrooms.

Apart from my signature Erika Peña creations, I have also launched a platform to help grow awareness of a foundation close to my heart, Yayasan Membina Api Cinta Kasih (YAMACK). My Cinta Kasih jewellery features a signature helping hands necklace and bracelet with proceeds going directly to the YAMACK Foundation to build and run schools for disabled children in Bali.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

I’m most proud of my collaboration with Beyonce for the 2012 Obama Campaign – it’s the first time fashion has influenced politics, and was also seen on the Beyonce world tour.

What impact have you made in Bali?

Bali has always had a casual, hipster appeal when it comes to fashion, so I believe I’ve helped cater to the island’s high-end customers who are looking for more upmarket style and a luxury resort presence.

What does the future look like for you?

2022 looks very promising since we’re finally returning to Bali after being in Australia for two years. We’re also launching our Bridal collections this year, so that’s a dream come true.

What do you love most about Bali?

I love the Balinese people and the energy in Bali. “The Island of the Gods” is where I feel like a true Goddess.

In your opinion, what does the future of fashion look like?

Erika Peña Dresses! No but seriously, I could wear our Ella Duster dress over our Selma Dress for the rest of my life – it’s a luxurious Kaftan robe over a multi faceted wrap dress, which means I could recreate many different styles and looks with just these dresses.

Who is your Local Legend and why?

I would have to say my stylist, May and my social media manager, Laura. They are both beautiful women with great integrity and creators of style.