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 would not let her go. “It was like being in a postcard.”

The pure life 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 from nature, from fishing and bartering. And of 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
Every summer Katja returned to the island. She made jewelry, skirts and accessories herself from suede, shells and lace, which she sold on the beach. Creative craftsmanship was in her blood. Her father was a tailor. “Making and trading my own stuff has always been a great love of mine.”

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

The first boutique
In 1981, Katja opened her first boutique in Voorburg, Babelou', at the age of 20.s Children's boutique. Here she sold her homemade designs and sweaters from her Ibicenco friends. What followed were years of inspiration, travel 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 is recognizable and has soul.
“I have always associated the Ibiza style with vintage and romantic lingerie in combination with cool items.”

Every design had to tell a story. Have your own character. “I always think in terms of themes”s with a nostalgic atmosphere. Think of pirates, Indians or Western culture.”

Isla Ibiza Bonita, a family story
Since then it has grown Isla Ibiza Bonita has become a popular brand with a large women's, men's and accessories collection. Katja is still the driving force behind the design of the collections. Since 2025 Isla Ibiza Bonita joined 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 strength of our label.”

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