Stepping into a postcard...
In 1974, thirteen-year-old Katja travelled to Ibiza for the first time, together with her childhood friend Ino and her family. The island never let her go. “It was as if I had stepped into a postcard.”

The simple life on Ibiza
Ino’s family lived in a small fisherman’s cottage on the hill above Cala d’Hort, without running water or electricity. They lived off nature, fishing and bartering. And friendship. Katja was touched by this simple, pure way of life. “I fell in love with Ibiza’s rugged landscape and the simplicity of life.”

The first handmade creations
Katja returned to the island every summer. She made her own jewellery, skirts and accessories from suede, shells and lace, which she sold on the beach. Creative craftsmanship was in her blood. Her father was a tailor. “Making my own clothes and trading have always been great passions of mine.”

A unique style born from different cultures
On Ibiza, everyone was free to dress as they pleased. A mix of beads from India, fabrics from Guatemala and shells from the island. “It was an inspiring fashion culture, something you didn’t see in the Netherlands.”
Katja dyed and tie-dyed dresses and lingerie, and wore them with chunky Indian boots. Free, unpretentious, full of character.

The first boutique
In 1981, at the age of 20, Katja opened her first boutique in Voorburg, Babelou’s Kinderboetiek. Here she sold her own designs as well as sweaters made by her Ibizan friends. What followed were years of inspiration, travel and the development of her own distinctive style, a mix of romance, vintage influences and edgy 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 start her own label: Isla Ibiza Bonita. With gypsy skirts full of beads and feathers, leather cowboy boots, corsets, roses, bows and charms. Each item recognizable and with soul.
“I have always associated the style of Ibiza with vintage and romantic lingerie combined with edgy 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 beloved brand with an extensive collection of women’s and men’s clothing and accessories. Katja is still the driving force behind the design of the collections. In 2025, Isla Ibiza Bonita joined the family business Brands of Ibiza. Her son Scott is now part of the sales team.
“We were, and still are, a true family business, and I believe 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, the founders of ibizamode and Brands of Ibiza, we toasted the collaboration. Isla Ibiza Bonita is now proudly part of the Brands of Ibiza family.
A collaboration that feels like coming home, which we share with you with love. 🤍