Retro-Playful and Beach-Ready: Wave Babe’s Feel-Good Swimwear
Origins and Founding
Wave Babe was founded in 2020 by a group of Southern California creatives inspired by vintage surf culture, Y2K fashion, and body positivity. Designed for the girl who lives for beach days, road trips, and 35mm film photos, the brand blends sun-soaked nostalgia with bold colorways and cheeky silhouettes.
Ownership and Leadership
Wave Babe is independently owned and operated, with a tight-knit team handling design, production, and creative direction in Los Angeles. Known for its small-batch drops and cult-like community, the brand has become a social media favorite with Gen Z shoppers.
Aesthetic and Design Language
Wave Babe’s aesthetic is playful, retro, and sun-drenched. Signature styles include halter tops, ruffle trims, floral prints, and two-tone color blocking reminiscent of the early 2000s. Fabrics range from ribbed terry to shiny stretch Lycra, often styled with chunky jewelry, tube socks, and cowboy hats. Pieces are designed for styling as both swim and street—perfect for beach parties or festival weekends.
Notable Pieces
- The Malibu Set – A triangle top with ruched detailing and ‘00s-inspired string bottoms.
- Checkerboard Print Bikini – A fan-favorite in pastel hues with sporty contrast edging.
- Wave Babe Zip Hoodie – A cropped terry hoodie in punchy colors to throw on after a swim.
- Ruffle-Trim One Piece – A girly, open-back suit with high-cut legs and retro attitude.
- Wave Babe Beach Bags – Mesh totes and terry duffels perfect for day trips and styling pics.
Famous Fans
- Olivia Ponton
- Emma Chamberlain
- Madison Lewis
- Lexi Jayde
- Nessa Barrett
The Future
Wave Babe is expanding into matching coverups, terry loungewear, and nostalgic accessories like visors, charm necklaces, and beaded anklets. With a growing fanbase and digital-native energy, the brand is carving out space as the go-to swimwear line for playful style and coastal confidence.
