Our Story

BĀBEN is a women’s swimwear and lifestyle brand with an elevated take on the freedom of the California coast. Nostalgia meets modern edge like the rhythm of the tide. An interplay of classic silhouettes and eclectic details. Boundary-pushing swim merges with the raw energy of surf culture — a tribute to the refined yet untamed woman who stands out with ease. 

Designed in Laguna Beach and made in Los Angeles, California, BĀBEN brings a fresh, colorful perspective to the swim industry. Each collection is rooted in a love for design, meaningful details, bespoke prints, Western Americana, and timeless style. At the intersection of sport and femininity, BĀBEN creates versatile bikinis, boardshorts, and clothing made to mix, match, and live between beach and street.

In the spirit of childhood dreams that endured, BĀBEN celebrates women’s strength, reminds them that they can be everything under the sun and more.

 VINTAGE-INSPIRED DESIGN, LUXURIOUS RECYCLED FABRICS, HAND-DESIGNED PRINTS, PERFECT FIT

Laguna Beach based Mother - daughter duo Tamara and Hanna Dorman founded BĀBEN in 2021 with the intention of empowering and connecting to all women with their distinctive designs. Hanna graduated with her BFA in fashion design from Otis College of Art and Design and worked in New York City for notable luxury brands Coach and Ralph Lauren. Amidst her time there, she dreamt of bringing the same attention to detail she learned working in high fashion to the swimwear industry. Tamara, a USC graduate, built a career in real estate, but always had a desire to pursue a more creative path.

In the year of 2020, Tamara and Hanna were reunited in California, and as time slowed down they found comfort in looking at old family photos. The two were deeply moved by the feelings captured in photos of Tamara in the 70’s - moments basking in the sun, skateboarding with total freedom, and the nostalgia of summers gone by. Soon after, Hanna began sketching designs that shared this feeling of warmth, joy, and timelessness. With Hanna’s love for surfing and life centered around the beach she began to realize the need to create a brand for women who value fashion-forward, yet playful beach attire. Together, they began their entrepreneurial journey of starting BĀBEN.

Hanna says her mom has not only shaped her style, but her outlook on life. She always sees the light in every situation. It’s a special bond, and one that is unbreakable. As a brand, this sense of love shines through into everything they create. In our own words, “I love you, so I set you free to shine around all things like the sun.”