Ended up in a postcard ...
In 1974, Katja traveled to Ibiza for the first time as a 13-year-old girl. Together with her childhood friend Ino and her family. The island no longer let her go. "It was as if I ended up in a postcard."

Pure Living in Ibiza
Ino’s family lived in a small fisherman's house on top of the hill near Cala d’Hort. Without running water or electricity. They lived on nature, from fishing and barter. And from friendship. Katja was touched by this simple, pure existence. "I fell in love with the rugged landscape of Ibiza and the simplicity of life."

The first handmade creations
Katja returned to the island every summer. She made jewelry, skirts and accessories from Suede, shells and lace, which she sold on the beach. The creative craftsmanship was in her blood. Her father was a tailor. "Making and acting my own things has always been a great love of mine."

A unique style born of cultures
In Ibiza everyone was free in how they dressed. A mix of beads from India, fabrics from Guatemala and shells of the island. "It was an inspiring clothing culture, something you didn't see in the Netherlands."
Katja painted and tie-dyed dresses and lingerie, and wore them with thick Indian boots. Free, unharmed, with character.

The first boutique
In 1981, Katja opened her first boutique in Voorburg at the age of 20, Babelou’s Kinderboutiek. Here she sold her homemade designs and sweaters from her Ibicenco girlfriends. What followed were years of inspiration, traveling and building your own recognizable style, a mix of romance, vintage influences and cool Ibiza Vibes.

1999: The beginning of Isla Ibiza Bonita
The love for the island and the hippie style of Ibiza always remained. In 1999, Katja decided to set up her own label: Isla Ibiza Bonita. With gypsy skirts full of beads and feathers, leather cowboy boots, corsets, roses, bows and charms. Every item recognizable and with soul.
"I have always associated Ibiza's style with vintage and romantic lingerie in combination with tough items."

Every design had to tell a story. Have its own character. "I always think in themes with a nostalgic atmosphere. Think of pirates, Indians or Western culture."

Isla Ibiza Bonita, a family story
Since then, Isla Ibiza Bonita has grown into a popular brand with a large ladies, men's and accessory collection. Katja is still the driving force behind the design of the collections. Since 2025, Isla Ibiza Bonita has been affiliated with the family business Brands of Ibiza. Son Scott is now part of the sales team.
"We were and remain a real family business and I think that is the power of our label."

2025: part of Brands or Ibiza
A new chapter was written in May 2025. Together with Roy and Tamara, founders of Ibizamode and Brands of Ibiza, the collaboration was found. Isla Ibiza Bonita is now proud part of the Brands of Ibiza Family.
A collaboration that feels like coming home and that we share with you with love. 🤍