Last month, Fashion crowds of eager shoppers swarmed Pop Mart locations nationwide, eager to snag the latest Labubu release. The excitement was so intense that Pop Mart’s website crashed within hours. But what exactly is behind this craze? Why has a small, creepy-cuddly toy become the hottest accessory of the season?
The Origins of Labubu: A Mischievous Collectible
Labubu is a creation of Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, introduced in 2015 as part of Pop Mart’s Monsters series. Described by Emily Brough, Head of Licensing for Pop Mart North America, as “tiny devious elves with nine teeth and pointy ears,” these figures embody a playful and chaotic spirit. Canonically female, Labubus hail from Nordic forests and are known for their mischievous antics.
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Key characters include Zimomo, the leader; her special friend Mokoko; and Tycoco, a shy, skeleton-like boyfriend. The collection spans figurines, cups, and keychains, but it’s the plush Labubu keychain pendants that have captured the imagination of fashion enthusiasts.
From Toy to Trend: Labubu in the Fashion World
Labubu pendants have become a beloved accessory, particularly among the fashion crowd, who attach them to luxury handbags and belt loops. This trend echoes past toy crazes like Monchichi and Tamagotchi, bringing a nostalgic yet fresh vibe to high fashion.
Influencers and content creators, such as Anna Bediones, even dress their Labubus in miniature (albeit fake) designer outfits, further blurring the line between toy and fashion statement.
The Perfect Storm: Timing, Celebrity Endorsements, and Viral Fame
According to Emily Brough, the surge in Labubu’s popularity wasn’t accidental. While the Monsters collection has had loyal fans for years, 2024’s spring and summer “fandom wave” propelled Labubu into the spotlight. Celebrity sightings amplified visibility—Lisa of Blackpink, Kimora Lee Simmons, and Rihanna have all been photographed sporting Labubu pendants on iconic designer bags.
The playful trend coincided with a broader fashion movement embracing quirky bag charms, creating a perfect environment for Labubu’s meteoric rise.
The Resale Boom: Scarcity Fuels Demand
Labubu’s popularity on resale platforms like StockX highlights its collector’s appeal. Limited availability and intense demand have caused prices to skyrocket, with rare secret-edition Labubus fetching nearly $400—far above their $27 retail price.
Rachel Makar, StockX’s Senior Director of Merchandising, reports that the latest Labubu launch is the platform’s number one collectible release, with over 8,000 sales recorded shortly after release.
Why Fans Can’t Get Enough: Playfulness Meets Nostalgia
Fashion strategist Raz Martinez describes the trend as a “slow burn” that eventually captivated him and his clients. The appeal lies in the toys’ playful design and vibrant colors. For influencers like Samantha Purnell (aka Sammy Spice), Labubus represent fun and experimentation—a welcome blast of nostalgia reminiscent of earlier bag charm trends.
In a turbulent world, these toys offer adults a chance to embrace their inner child, tapping into the long-standing human desire to collect and find joy in small things.
What’s Next for Pop Mart?
With the Crybaby series and Skull Panda charms gaining momentum, Pop Mart shows no signs of slowing down. The brand’s upcoming launches are highly anticipated, especially among TikTok Shop users, signaling that this trend could continue evolving.
But for now, the best move is to ride the wave—Labubu in tow—and enjoy the playful charm of this unexpected fashion phenomenon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Labubu?
Labubu is a collectible toy created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung in 2015. It’s part of Pop Mart’s Monsters series and features small, mischievous elf-like characters known for their playful and chaotic nature.
Why has Labubu become so popular recently?
Labubu’s popularity surged in 2024 thanks to a perfect combination of celebrity endorsements, viral social media attention, and a growing fashion trend of attaching quirky charms to luxury handbags.
Where can I buy Labubu toys?
Labubus are sold at Pop Mart retail locations and their official website. However, due to high demand and limited stock, many collectors turn to resale platforms like StockX.
How much do Labubu toys cost?
The retail price for Labubu pendants is around $27, but rare editions and resale prices can reach up to $400 or more.
Who are some celebrities spotted with Labubu?
Celebrities like Lisa from Blackpink, Kimora Lee Simmons, and Rihanna have been seen accessorizing their luxury bags with Labubu plush pendants.
Are Labubu toys just for kids?
No, Labubu toys have become popular among adults, especially fashion enthusiasts, who use them as playful and nostalgic accessories.
Conclusion
Labubu’s transformation from a quirky, slightly creepy collectible to this season’s must-have fashion accessory is a testament to the power of timing, community, and cultural trends. With its playful design, rich backstory, and endorsement by celebrities and influencers alike, Labubu has captured the hearts of both collectors and fashion enthusiasts around the world.
As Pop Mart continues to innovate with new releases, the craze for these charming creatures shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re a dedicated collector or simply looking for a fun accessory to brighten your day, Labubu proves that sometimes the most unexpected toys become the hottest trends.