ON TIME, INTENTION & CRAFT WITH — ILSE BOS
An honest conversation with our founder and creative director, Ilse Bos. In making space for stillness, she has found a quieter, clearer way forward. That same intention lives at the heart of House of NEBA, now six years in the making, a brand grown slowly and thoughtfully alongside the hands of local makers in Kathmandu, guided by a belief in natural materials, conscious creation, and celebrating quality over quantity. In this conversation, we reflect on the paths that led us here, the people who continue to shape what we do, and the small daily rituals that keep us connected to what matters most.
What have you simplified in your life recently?
I’ve recently prioritized 'stillness' as a way of simplifying my life. I found that the constant rush between meetings and family life created a sense of instability within me, and the constant 'presence guilt'. I am sure most working moms can relate.
By allowing myself time to just sit and decompress, declutter the noise. With this I’ve been able to show up more authentically in both my career and my home life.
I feel it makes me a better mom and a better professional because I’m finally operating from a place of calm rather than chaos. It actually makes me a more pleasant, present human being.
What does a perfect morning look like for you?
My perfect morning is a mix of caffeine and fresh air. Although I’m not a morning person, I’ve found that an early hike is the ultimate way to simplify the start of my day. Reaching a trail surrounded by nature always feels like a victory— it clears my head and gives me a sense of accomplishment before the first meeting even starts.
What first led you to start House of NEBA?
It started when I decided to quit my job in the fashion industry and pursue Yoga in Asia to find a deeper sense of life, and hilariously as it sounds, I ended up creating my own conscious fashion brand. It started with 2 kimonos which were sold in Ubud in a small boutique in the jungle. Life led me to Nepal and here NEBA truly got nurtured into a brand by being surrounded by the right people.
My motivation for creating my own designs started with the thought of creating more conscious, natural, quality garments. While working in the high end fashion industry, I felt that the fabrics used more often were, back then, basically “plastic” fabrics. As interesting as the technical process might be, the garments are toxic and end up in landfills.
Ilse wears the Modal Silk Kimono Shirt in Art Deco Blue.
Why is it important for you to work closely with local makers?
Honestly, NEBA wouldn't exist without our makers. I could never do this alone, and I’m so grateful for the incredible patience they show me. Sometimes we joke in the studio about what 'the Master' will think of my latest idea or how we’ll even begin to explain the construction! It wasn’t easy at first — our minimal, boxy silhouettes and specific stitching techniques were very different from what is common in Nepal. Finding the right machinery was a challenge, but our Master has been a true blessing. Their growth and ours are now completely intertwined.
How do you hope people feel when they wear House of NEBA?
When someone steps into NEBA, I want them to feel an immediate, grounding sense of confidence, connection with the earth through our materials. Not just the design but feeling the 'soul' of the garment— the love, precision and details.
I want our community to wear NEBA with a quiet grace, knowing their choice honors their skin, the earth, and the hands of the makers who brought it to life. It should make you feel good!
The Ikigai tote (size GM) // Ilse’s daily survival kit.
What are some of the inspirations behind your latest collection ss26?
Nature remains our starting point, but for SS26, we’re following a more whimsical path. This collection is a celebration of 'Sustainable Grandeur.' I was inspired by the idea of Marie Antoinette living a simpler life— reimagining her iconic volume through the lens of flowy, ethically sourced linen. We’re bringing a maximalist energy to our minimalist roots through big sleeves, bold collars, and intricate pleats. It’s a collection that feels both historic and contemporary, rooted in the earth but reaching for the spectacular.
What are your daily essentials - five things you can’t leave the house without?
I’m never without my laptop— it’s my portable studio. Everything else lives in my Ikigai Tote (size GM), which, if I’m honest, I tend to hoard things in! It’s my daily survival kit.
Inside, you’ll always find my essentials: a reliable lip balm, a bold lipstick for a quick meeting-ready transformation, and a versatile scarf for when the weather changes, layering is important in Kathmandu. It’s my entire world in one beautiful bag.